[261] [Mr J.S. Hackett] for [undecipherable] W.O. August 16. 1797 I rec'd your letter dated yesterday; I have no objection to your making use of that part of the Navy Yard at Portsmouth in which the Algezine Frigate was built, for building on, provided, you are carefull that no part of the Timber or other Materials deposited in the said yard are injured thereby; but should any injury be sustained by the Publick by reason of this indulgence being granted you, it is expected that you will make good the same; — [Mr Tho. C. [undecipherable]] for [undecipherable] W.O. August 16. 1797 you are hereby appointed a Clerk of the Navy Yard at Philadelphia; your pay to commence from the fifteenth Instant at the rate of Two Hundred Dollars P^r Annum — For that Compensation it will be expected that you perform the Duty of Clerk of the said Yard agreeably to the Instructions which are now enclosed, and all such others, as may be from time to time given you by the Secretary of War for your exertions — [Capt. Tho. Thompson Portsmouth] for W.O. August 19.^th 797 Capt. Obrian having just returned from the Eastward reports that it will be proper to have the Quarters of the Frigate boarded up with thick stuff and fitted in with cask: The whole of the Beams, Knees and lower parts of the Decks to be painted Red. The Iron and Main Chains to be altered so as to reach and bolt in the Black Strake above the Wales, he also recommends that such of the Cordage as may not be necessary for spare Stores, to be re= landed [undecipherable] on board and to remain in Portsmouth — You will therefore be pleased to direct that [262] the above as recommended by Capt. Obrian, may be carried into effect as soon as possible. — [Capt. John Barry] Near Downingstown 30 August. 1797 Sir, I have your letter of the 28 instant and am very happy to learn that the Careening business is finished and the damage which the Frigate had received in launching completely repaired. As soon as you get your ballast &c replaced, I think it will be proper to Moor the Ship in the Stream, at a safe distance from the wharves. You will then take on board your Guns and such Articles to fit her for sea as the Purveyor has had orders to provide: and should there be any yet to be procured you will address M^r [undecipherable] on the subject. Lieu^t. M^cRea with the Men he has enlisted ought to go on board as soon as possible, and the present guard sent to their company at Fort Mifflin. With respect to Seamen to assist in fitting the Ship for Sea, I have no objection to your engaging for a Month at such Wages as will Obtain good Seamen, as many as may be wanted. If possible you will not give more than 14 dollars, but I leave the Wages to be determined by circumstances and your own judgment. — You may order D^r Gollaspy, on board whenever you may think proper —