New York 23^d May 1796 Sir The Schooner despatch Peter Matter arrive here last evening with 2701 feet of Live oak from Georgia [strikethrough: the has on board 2701 feet] agreeable to your former orders the agent has ordered her to Philadelphia. the Wind [strikethrough: is also] at Present is unfavorable for [strikethrough: a] & the Capt is unwilling to go to Phil^a. [strikethrough: I [undecipherable]] It appears to me as possible that as there has been some arrivals of Live Oak at Phil^a Since your Orders above allude to, that you the cargo just arrived here may not be wanted at Phil^a and that you would deeme it best to have her onladed here and that such sticks as might be wanted should be [strikethrough: pick] out & Sent on with the others here already called for. I am informed that the despatch has not many Stick on board that will be wanted to complete the Tonnes of the Frigate at Phil^a. & I have thought it my duty to give you this information and hope it will not be deemed improper. Should it be your pleasure [strikethrough: that she be] to have her unladed here it is highly probable that your Orders in that respect may arrive before the Schooner will leave this Port. I have the honor to be with every sentiment of esteem & respect Sir your Obedient Serv^t &c Josh^a I. T.