[22] [M^r Josiah Fox Philadelphia] [Norfolk March 27^th 1796 acknowledging the receipt of his Draft —] M^r Josah Fox Norfolk May 27^th 1796 Dear Sir I am favd with yours of 11^th I do not think it possible to obtain the Masts you mention in one piece perhaps they might be got in two as the Frigates are orderd The Plank or rather Scantling think may be had but the price would be very high as you say what oak is worth in Philad^a it is of a thickness never before heard of I hope for the Safety of the Country the Frigates will go on but I have my doubts should they be proceeded shall be very happy in seeing you here The draft is at hand for which am very much obliged I think it does great Credit to the drawer from what I can learn Cap^t Dale means returning to India which is more proffitable than attending the War Office I am with esteem Yours &c W^m Pennock