[Circular to the Naval Constructors and the Superintendants] [post date being absent his determination cannot be had] War Office January 23, 1796 Sir The Masting the Frigates now building having been submitted to several Gentlemen of considerable abilities and reputed skill in Naval Affairs for their opinions as to the best proportions for Masting the two Classes of Ships so as to answer all the purposes necessary for Ships of War, but a diversity of opinions having arisen as to the length of particular Masts and yards I am induced to propose, that the Captain and Constructor of each Frigate, shall have liberty to Mast and Spar their own Ships according to the best of their judgements You will therefore pay an immediate attention to this Subject, in which the Constructor or Capt. [----] will assist, and the result of your united opinions you will sign, that it may be transmitted to this Office as soon as convenient specifying very minutely, the exact length and diameter of each Mast, yard and Bowsprit — also the length and size of Mastheads and Yard Arms that they may be recorded in this Office —