[Capt. Nicholson] [see page 263] D^r Sir War Office August 9. 1797 The Secretary of War has this day wrote to General Jackson to procure two Five Engines made in Boston under your inspection which will enable you to fix on such Sizes as you may think Suitable for your Ship. On the 24 of May a requisition was made to the Secretary of the Treasury for two Engines but M^r Fenner could not get them in order on the receipt of your letter of the 24 Ult^o. I wrote the following note to M^r Fennert W.O. 29 July Josiah Fox requests M^r Fenner will be so kind as to inform him as early as possible if the Fire Engines are under way for the Frigate Constitution and when they may probably be finished; if they are not begun or engaged. It is the field of Work with they may be made in Boston. — Her answer — 29 July — 1797 o M^r Josiah Fox, Sir Having employed all the Engine makers in the City to make Engines for all the Frigates as well the a Nigerian Ships from their conduct I am led to believe that all their promises are not worth a single Cent and as I can with propriety refuse to receive the Engines were they this moment ready for delivery. I certainly can have no objection to your displaying the Boston Frigate from any quarter Signed F. Fenner I am Sir &c Josiah Fox