The Marine Committee brought in a report; Whereupon, Congress came to the following resolution: 

Whereas, it is expedient that a speedy enquiry be made into the causes of the loss of the Virginia frigate, and a competent number of officers belonging to the navy cannot, at present, be obtained for that purpose: 

Resolved, That the navy board in the middle district, with William Smith, Esq. of Baltimore, and Stephen Stewart, Esq. of West river, in the State of Maryland, or any three of them, be, and they are hereby appointed and fully authorized to make a strict enquiry and examination into the causes of the loss of the said frigate, and the conduct of James Nicholson, late commander of the said frigate; and that to that end they repair to Baltimore as speedily as possible, and call before them the said James Nicholson, and examine all persons, evidences and papers necessary, and make report of such their enquiry, together with the evidences, to the Marine Committee, to be laid before Congress.