War Office May 16^th 1796 Sir Several of the Cannon destined 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 named Survey 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 show you) stipulates for the Delivery of each the Cannon, further description thereof, as I consider it each an efficient 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 fitting by the time she is launched. you will therefore take measures to procure a suitable Person, a person, as you may think necessary and competent for that business to prepare the Rigging in the best manner — Your strict attention will be necessary to in this very [M^r John Barry] [Sam^l Nicholson] [Boston]