Sir, War Office 20 March 1798 The House of Representatives having passed a resolution on the 9^th instant requiring information of what materials & apparatus may be left on hand after fitting out the Frigates United States Constitution and Constellation. To enable me to lay the necessary information before them, it may be proper that I should be informed as speedily as possible, of the exact quantity and description of Materials & that will be left in the Navy yard at Philadelphia after fitting the United States for sea. I am Sir with respect your Ob^d Serv^t James McHenry M^r. Joshua Humphreys. Naval Constructor. [War department] [Joshua Humphreys] [Letter from the Secretary at War dated 20 March 1798]