[a must [undecipherable] June 18^th 1800 [undecipherable] for a boat for [undecipherable]] Israel Whelan Esquire Purveyor Philadelphia 18^th June 1800 Sir, It appears by a letter which I have received from Captain Meminger, that the public Boat attatched to his Post is no longer fit for service, being dangerous for the men, and destructive to the provisions and other articles usually transported in her. The late Secretary of War it seems on his representation directed an order for the purchase of a suitable boat to be made out, but owing to the hurry consequent on removal it was neglected. Under these circumstances, I conceive I am authorized to request you to furnish Captain Meminger with a Barge of about twenty two feet keel, Seven feet beam, with a forecastle, to ship, and unship, as occasion may require, two fore and aft Sails, and four Oars. A M^r Thomas Nailer, Boat builder in the northern liberties, will build her under Cap^t. Meminger's immediate direction for twenty eight shillings a foot, exclusive of iron work, painting and oars. Dear Sir, Your most ob^t. Servant [undecipherable] [undecipherable] [Israel Wheelen Esq^r. Purveyor]