as appropriated to the particular defence of Baltimore. It appears proper, however, that every expense incurring to the execution of the projected works, not comprehended in either Friends ticket, and your engagement ought to be reimbursed to the Committee by the United States. For all such expenses therefore, the Committee will be duly reimbursed upon exhibiting vouchers to [undecipherable] them to the Accountant of the Department. I am Sir, With respect, Your obedient serv^t [signed] James McHenry Rob Holmes Esq^re C. N. C. Sir, War Department 17^th April 1799 The enclosed [is] left open for the information of the Marine Committee of Baltimore. After you have submitted it to the gentlemen of the Committee, you will be pleased to have it delivered to M^r Foncin to whom it is addressed. I am Sir with respect Your obedient serv^t [signed] James McHenry M^r Rob Holmes C. N. C. War Department 17^th April 1799 Sir, I have received your letter of the 12^th instant. The imperfections you represent, and the whole of the observation you make upon the proposed plan for a new fort at [undecipherable: Whetstone?] Point near Baltimore, appear to me to merit serious attention. It was & is my wish, that whatever may be undertaken shall answer the intentions of Government, and afford effectual protection to the harbor of Baltimore. As however, a certain plan has been agreed upon by the Naval Committee, and they have engaged to complete the works accordingly for a stipulated sum, it will be proper if any alteration are found to be [undecipherable]