[259] for W^o. July 23. 1797 You will be pleased to proceed forthwith to the Navy Yard at Baltimore in Maryland, and in conjunction with Cap^t. Truxton, and M^r David Stodder the Constructor, consult on the best Method to be pursued in launching the Frigate Constellation into the Water so as to [that] [strikethrough: that] without sustaining injury by the Operation. It may be proper for you to survey the State of the Ship as she stands on the Stocks, observe with what descent the Keel is laid, and also sound the water at several distances from the wharf; you will also examine the depth of Mud where she may come in contact with it, and ascertain whether its consistence be such as to endanger or injure the Ship in her progress thro it. I have also to request that you will be pleased to state to this Office as soon as possible whether it will be proper to completely copper the Bottom of said Frigate on the stocks, or to have her done afterwards; she is launched to perform that work. [Joshua Humphreys Naval Constructor] for W^o. July 23. 1797 [M^r David Stodder Naval Constructor Baltimore] It being an object of importance to avoid the expence of heaving down the Frigate for the mere purpose of coppering a small part of her bottom, and the President being desirous that the joint opinion of M^r. Humphreys, Cap^t. Truxton and yours should be obtained on that point, I have requested M^r Humphreys to repair to Baltimore for that purpose; I pray you to receive him with attention.