Philadelphia Feby 3d 1776.
[Extract]
I have not been able to procure the draft of the ship till last night, shall send it as soon as possible and shall enclose in this letter some directions about building. I enquired of the Committee concerning the bigness of the masts; they say they know of no stated rule so it must be left to your and the carpenter's discretion. I sent you a contract with the Secret Committee for ten thousand dollars for importing sail cloth, blanks &c which I hope you have rec'd....
Our men of war fell down the river the fore part of last month but stopping about 30 miles down to take in supplies were stopped by the ice and have not yet sailed.
Col Gadsen [Christopher Gadsden] is returned home. The draft is so big, I cannot send it by the post. Mr. Hancock will send it with those for their Province in a few days. The dimension for the Pallas frigate is sent by Govr [Stephen] Hopkins desire; he says it may be of some advantage.
1. William Whipple Papers, Force Transcripts, LC.
