to wish that you Should retain two thirds of the raters originally proposed, which may perhaps, be sufficient to guard against the apprehended inconveniences, while it will encrease your room for stowage. Henry Jackson Esq^re War Office 3 November 1796. Sir I have received your letter of the 25^th ultimo. An order has been transmitted a few days ago of just to M^r Stray at Portsmouth directing him to forward to Boston, such white Oak Timber and himer as might be required for the Frigate building at that place. David Stodder Esq^re War Office 8 November 1796. Sir The general information I have received relative to the progress of the Frigate which you are building is flattering enough; at the same time the greater progress which I find has been made in the other Frigates enduces me to request that you will push on the work with more expedition, otherwise at the proposed of equal means, that in which you are engaged will be the last on the Stocks. Sir W O Oct 8 1796 [Secretary of the Treasury] The Beams at Portsmouth being prepared than little to answer to the public in having them used in the Frigate Building at Baltimore, you will therefore be pleased to take order to have them transported from thence to the Navy yard at Baltimore —