M^r Henry Philips Merchant S War Office 23^d April 1798 Sir, I am informed that a vessel of yours, called the America which arrived this morning in the Port of Philadelphia is calculated for an armed Ship and capable of being mounted with 16 nine or her pounders. Should I be inclined to dispose of the vessel alluded to, I beg the favor of you to inform me of the lowest Price you would require, and also a fair description of the vessel & Stores. — I am with great respect Sir, [left margin: Joshua Thompson Esq^r / The Thompson Est^r] War Office 25^th Apr 1798 Sir, You will be pleased to examine the Ship America, and report her age, the exact State of her Masts, Much & yards, rigging Sails and every the particulars by which a Judgement can be formed of her value also the number of Guns she can carry, [undecipherable] and her fitness for a rapid use — you will also State the alterations, repairs & articles which She will require to fit her for sea. The time in which she can be so fitted, and an estimate of the expence. —