[Copys of letters from the Sec.^t of and and to Jona. Frances Oct. 2 1797] [circular stamp] New Dominigs Town 31 Aug^t 1797 Sir, * I have your letter of the 28^th Inst. and am very happy to learn that the careening business is finished and the damage which the frigate had received in launching compleatly repaired — As soon as you get your ballast &c replaced I think it will be prudent 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 provided you will adress M^r Francis on the subject. Lieut. M'Crea with the men he has enlisted ought to go on board as soon as possible, and the present guard be sent to their company at Fort Mifflin. With 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 fourteen Dollars; but I leave the wages to be determined by circumstances and your own Judgement. You may order D^r Gillespy on board whenever you think proper. I am your most Obed^t & Humble Serv^t James McHenry D^r Sir — I have sent you a Copy of the Sec^t letter in order that you may make Provisions accordingly I am with Esteem yours &c John Barry — Jonch. [undecipherable: probable reading Francis] Esq^r. [address:] Cap^t John Barry Commander of [underline: Ship United States]