[p. 35] Extract of Stephen Higginson's Letter 1799 May 15 The Prisoners might be provided for and secured at the Castle, at less expence, and safer than common Jails; if the arrangements you had in view with the Secretary at War, should extend to the Barracks, for the sick Seamen. — The Prisoners, — the preparing & fitting the Marine Stores for the Ship, it would be very convenient and save expence. — There are Men belonging to the Garrison who understand the business, who have time and may as well be employed in that way, and there are buildings now there, which, if a little repaired will answer all the purposes wanted; this is the opinion of the commander of the Castle, who will readily arrange to meet these objects, and will see to having the powder and ammunition aired and put in order each cruise. 30^th A Guard ship is wanted, the expence of Storage hulk hire, loss of time, &Stores &c when ships want to heave down; besides many other great conveniences and saving would result from having one — At a little expence we can have excellent Stores, to receive articles from ships when repairing, with rigging & Sail Lofts, at Castle Island, by alterations and repairs of the buildings now there; and the situation is handy to the place where the ships of War ought to moor: — We have indeed improved them as they are for the Constitution now, it being more convenient & much less expence than any other way.