[Secretary of the Treasury] W.O. Oct. 2. 1796 Sir I enclose you copies of two letters signed John Humphreys, and John Barry and Joshua Humphreys by which it would seem that an extension of the Jear is necessary to obviate injury being done to the Frigate in Survehoning. I have had the premises viewed by Cap^t Truxtun who has reported verbally this Morning to the same effect as M^r Humphreys. I request therefore that you will take order to have spars erected of the Dimensions related in M^r Humphreys letter. W.O. Decem^r 2. 1796 [M^r James Cheesman Bondyish —] Sir You are hereby requested to select out as soon as possible such of the Locus Therewith in the Navy Yard as is suitable for the Frigate Building at Portsmouth (N.H.) of the lengths & Sizes following Viz^t such as will make Sternwoids of 1½ & ½ when drawn, and from 12 to 20 Inches in length. As soon as they are Selected and you will cause them to be shipped for M^r James Hackett Portsmouth Newhampshire, taking a receipt of the Cap^t for the same. W.O. Decem^r 3. 1776 [Cap^t Truxtun] Sir At your instance and resting entirely on your opinion, I consent that the Diagonal riders be omitted.