[Philadelphia] August 27th 1777
Gentlemen
The Honorable the Marine Committee has ordered me to communicate their apprehensions for the safety of the Frigates now building by you for the Continental Service, should the enemy attempt to destroy them on their return or during their continuance in Chesapeake Bay. They request that you will give your opinion on this head, and should you think it necessary to form any plan for the preservation of those Vessels wherein their interposition or assistance will be required please to inform them thereof. I am Gentlemen [&c.]
By order of the Committee John Brown Secy
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 101, NA. Maxwell and Loyall were in charge of the construction of two Continental Navy frigates at Gosport, Virginia.
