Sir,

This Board have paid every attention to your request for sending a proper person for constructing Navy de Frize [at New York], but have not in their power to send you the number of Workmen desired. The bearer Mr. Arthur Donaldson, is a person of Good character and has perfect skill & knowledge in constructing those kind of Machines. It will require Particular attention to furnish him with the best workmen you can procure, and we have not the least doubt he will give perfect satisfaction in the business. We have made no particular agreemt with Mr. Donaldson, or the Workmen he taken with him, but have assured him they will be fully & Generously paid & furnished With what money he may want. The Board will send you a suitable Person to rig the armed Boats, but as we are in constant apprehension of an attack it cannot be Lieut. [James] Allen or any other Officer of the Fleet.