[The Hble Sec^t of Wars —] Report on the State of the frigate United States now building in the Port of Philadelphia— This Ship is all planked inside and out all the principal decks are laid, and caulked except a part of the Gun deck, also about one third of the bottom is caulked. the upper deck beams are in and apart of them kneed, and all the parts of the Ship in great forwardness, So that I shall have no difficulty in Launching in the beginning of next April, except it is a very hard winter— In answer to the Committee of the House Representatives, I have to observe, that a light frigate or a large Brig. would be as useful to cruise in the Mediterranean, for many of the cruisers of that Sea are Small and of easy draft of Water, and may take advantage of Shoal waters, for altho there is a peace with Algiers yet I am of Opinion a Show of force will be necessary to maintain it on moderate terms. If the United States expect to protect their commerce or Support their flag, they must apply the means, the only apt ones are a Respectable Navy, it will be a Strong negotiator, & if negotiations Should fail,