Navy Yard 22 March 1796 Cap^t Truxtun Sir The first directions given from the War Office as to our deadwoods, was for them both forward & abaft to be of good white Oak — I cannot find any Counter orders I would wish for your opinion, as we know there was moulds sent to Georgia for live oak woods — we have the best of white oak in the yard that will answer — and partly work'd out I am with respect your ob^t Serv^t David Stodder [Letter from Mr Stodder to Cap^t Truxtun on the Deadwoods 1796] Thomas Truxtun Esq^r. Free