Trenton. War Department 28 Aug^t 1799 Sir I have the honour to inclose the copy of a letter from M^r Jonathan Waldo, respecting the application of monies for the improvement of the defences of Salem, and an alteration in the name of the Fort, with my answer. The circumstances and time did not seem to admit of a previous communication to you had it been considered necessary in such a case. Generally forts have been named by the Engineers who constructed them or by the general commanding in the District, and often without the previous concurrence of the Secretary of war. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect, Sir, Your most Ob^t & most hble S^t James McHenry John Adams President of the United States.