Gents:

Yours of Yesterday with copy of that to you from the marine committe at Philadelphia inclosed, came to hand. We advise you to proceed by all means to lanch the Frigates as soon as you can & then to proceed with the Vessels to the place most safe in Roundout Kill near Esopus Landing. We are sensible of the custom to give a treat to the workmen after lanching nor do we know that the sum of 100 Dollars for each is too much. We would rec- ommend to you to have it properly considered, that you may not be blamed of Extravagance & we of giving a sanction thereto. We are obliged to you for your invitation to see the Lancing but whether any of the Members will be able to attend we know not. There are so few members present that few if any can be spared.