Philadelphia, 19^th April, 1799 Sir, Major Craig informs me the Gassy built at Petersberg is nearly completed, but a few articles not to be procured there is wanted before she can descend the River; these articles are Cannon Cartridge Paper, Juttings and Whipping twine, two Mariners Compasses, some Spare Blocks and Cordage and a Seven and a half inch Cable. — The Cartridge Paper is in Store, the other articles must be purchased in proportion as usual for a Vessel of the Gassy's tonnage. — I am, Sir, James McHenry esq^t. Secretary at War. your most obedient servant. Samuel Hodgdon — N.B. The articles should go forward immediately, or the Gassy may be detained by the usual fall of water after the month of May. — Philadelphia, 19^th April, 1799. Sir, To proportion the supplies in the public Store, it will be proper to procure Six thousand five hundred Packers and Brushes; Ten thousand Stone Primes, and Swi thousand five hundred Gun Worms for the Artillery, as early as possible. — A M^r. Lane, an experienced workman will supply all the Cannon Ball wanted for public use from three pounders to thirtyfire pounders, with a due proportion of the intermediate Sizes, made in the best manner at an average rate of 66¾ Dollars a ton; and provided the number wanted is great, he will deliver the four pounders at Rhode Island without any additional expense. He will ([if necessary]) deliver twenty Tons