[Capt. Silas Talbot] Navy Department 28. May 1799 — Sir As soon after the receipt of this, as you can possibly make it convenient, you will please to proceed to Boston and take upon yourself the Command of the Frigate Constitution. — I send enclosed copies of all the Letters I have written to Cap^t Nicholson, Since his arrival such parts of which as are applicable, you will please to consider as addressed to yourself — particularly that on the Subject of recruiting a new crew — a business which I hope you will find on your arrival at Boston considerably advanced. — To a Gentleman of your understanding and energy, it will be [undecipherable] not I believe be employed in thus furnishing returns — Immediately on your arrival at Boston be pleased to inform me the exact state of the ship — her prospects — that nothing on my part may be omitted to expedite her departure. — Supposing that it may be convenient on your leaving home perhaps, for two months, I have directed an advance of $[undecipherable] Dollars to be remitted to you. I am Sir with respect &