[104] Sir Philadelphia 30^th, May 1797 I am requested to send two hundred and sixty Barrels of Cannon, and eight Barrels of Musket Powder from your Magazine to the Frigate Constitution lying at Boston. I conceive the quickest and best mode of transporting it will be by water from Hartford. To ascertain this you will please to go down to Hartford as soon as you receive this letter, and enquire whether any Vessel can be found there bound to Boston shortly who will take it on and deliver it on board the Frigate. If one is found you will see that the Casks are in shipping Order, and put them on board without a moments delay. such freight as you may agree for may be paid by General Jackson the Ships Agent in Boston, or may be stipulated to be paid by yourself, on receiving the receipt of delivery, if more agreeable to the person with whom you Contract, and in this case I will place the amount in your hands for payment. If from any cause delay may be apprehended from this mode of transportation you will immediately inform me, and at the same time, whether suitable Waggons can be procured in your vicinity to transport it, and also the time and expence that will attend the land transportation. I am Sir Your most Obedient Servant Samuel Hodgdon Cap^t John Bryant