War Office May 16^th 1796 Sir Several of the Cannon designed for the Frigates cast at Cecil Furnace having been proved and M^r Hughes wish^g to have them examined and received by the United States, it may be proper that you should see them, and examine whether they are suitable, & fit for service. I have to request you will visit Cecil Furnace, and if possible set off tomorrow Morning, in Company with M^r DaCosta who is now in Town, and in conjunction with him and Cap^t Truxtⁿ or of them examine and pass receipt to M^r Hughes for such Cannon as have stood proof and are suitable for service The Contract (which no doubt M^r Hughes will shew you) stipulates for the Delivery of each the Cannon, further description [undecipherable] an [undecipherable] it each as an [undecipherable] and in every respect fit for service. I inclose you my instructions to M^r Da Costa for your information. Sir, War Office May 17^th 1796 I received your letter dated the 7^th instant and am very desirous that no time should be lost in getting the Rigging for your Ship in such forwardness as to be ready for [undecipherable] by the time she is launched. you will therefore take measures to procure a suitable person, or persons, as you may think necessary and competent for that business, to prepare the Rigging in the best manner — Your utmost attention will be necessary to be in that way [Sam^l Nicholson] [Barton] [Arthur Barry]