[Cap^t Nicholson] Sir War Departm^t 30 May 1797 In consequence of a letter from Gen^l Jackson, and the Impossibility of procuring the 12 Pounders for the Frigate in due Time, I have written to the Governor of the State of Massachusetts, to obtain on Loan, as many of the 12 or 18 Pounders, with a suitable Quantity of Ball, from Castle Island, as you may require for the upper Battery. As soon as you are apprised that these Guns will be loaned, you will select as many of them as you want, and use as possible Expedition in getting them mounted and in their proper Places. —