[Copy] Secretary of War War Department 7^th March 1799 Sir Meaning to have two of the 7th Gunships built in the Chesapeake, I wish to get the guns for those Ships, in that Bay. — You are I understand contracting with M^r Hughes for Cannon — I presume, the 800,000 Dollars appropriated, must supply the Navy; as well as the army &c, & that the contracts ought to be made under your direction, as that appropriation, I consider subject to your draft. — If you join me in opinion, I should be glad if you would include in your contract with M^r Hughes 56 Guns to carry a ball of 32 lbs — 56 to carry an eighteen pound ball & 36 to carry a nine pound ball. — The draft of the Guns and other particulars to be furnished by me. — The Guns to be delivered by Augusta 1800. — I have the Honor to be &