[Copy of Letters Sent to A Hamiltons] 17 4 War Office June 4.^th 1796 Sir, Congress having limited by a late act the number of Frigates to 3. built & in force; and made no provisions for the pay and subsistance of the Captains of those ordered to be suspended, which have been then in waiting forwarded &c It becomes my duty to inform you that your pay and subsistance as Captain of the Frigate that was to have been built at *Portsmouth will cease on the 30.^th instant: to which time you will be pleased to render your account for settlement. While I make you this communication, I mention with pleasure the hope of the President that should any future occasion require your services that they will be chearfully given. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect and esteem Your ob.^t Serv.^t Cap.^t Silas Talbot James McHenry New York Sec.^y of War [* meaning New York it is presumed.]