I am strongly inclined to give the preference to M^r Francis's Plan, as more effective for defence, if, it is to be executed, it will by the [undecipherable] prosecuted, carry the whole expence of works understood to be properly designed to the amount of thirty nine thousands nine hundreds and sixty eight Dollars and thirty four Cents. Will the Committee undertake to bind [undecipherable] their engagement to complete the works at Whetstone Point agreeably to M^r Francis's Plan [strikethrough: for the] for the same, on the conditions of the further sum of six thousands Dollars in addition to the twenty thousand already advanced them, being now paid to them by the United States, and on case themselves or the citizens of Baltimore, think alterations in the plan necessary or a different one indispensible to their full security to complete the same also in a substantial workmanlike and permanent manner. I am Sir with respect Robert Gilmor Esq^r C M Your obedient Servant Baltimore sign^d James McHenry Baltimore 18^th May 1799 We are honored with your letter of 10^th instant We agree with you on the sentiment that the protection of our city is [undecipherable] an object of considerable — both with the Government and citizens to be hazarded by imperfect works or those erroneously designed. Our trade is extensive and the duties pay into the public [undecipherable] a proof of the amount, the sum collected from one of the large [undecipherable], and generally we contribute half the exigences and demands of Government with a satisfaction resulting from a perfect confidence in the wisdom of their measures. Taking this view of our conduct, and attending [undecipherable] foes we must under no [undecipherable] claim to the protecting care of Government inferior to that of any other place. Happily our natural position admitted of an easy tho cheap defence and we shall regret exceedingly if any error in plans, inaccuracy in Estimates or misconception of private engagements should lead to retard the execution of the necessary works — We stated in a former letter the manner of our being interested on the present business, and on some