[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 Pier is necessary to obviate injury being done to the Frigate in Strenosbourg. 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 a pier erected of the Dimensions related in M^r Humphreys letter. W.O. Decem^r 2. 1796 Sir [M^r James Chesman Bowlyfish —] You are hereby requested to select out as soon as possible such of the Lowest Timbers 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 Timbers of 1¾ & 1½ when drawn, and from 12 to 26 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 account of the Cost for the same. W.O. Decem^r 3. 1796 [Cap^t Truxtun] Sir At your instance and resting entirely on your opinion, I consent that the Diagonal ribands be omitted.