[Extract]
My Dear Sir,

Your favor of the 20th ultio came to hand yesterday. I think I mentioned to you in a former letter that I supposed there would be a considerable alteration in the wages of the officers in the naval service; the principal officers higher and the petty and warrant officers considerably lower; as there is the greatest probability that these alterations will take place, you no doubt will be careful of the encouragement you give those you engage. I told you in my last, that Congress was engaged in a conference with the General on the necessary operations for the present campaign; this business is not yet finished, nor do I think will be this week and Congress have determined to do no other business till that is completed; so soon as that is done naval matters will be attended to. I wish you had talked with some of those gentlemen you proposed for officers; my objection still remains to him you mention for first Lieut; it is merely on account of his unsteadiness that I object to him and that must remain until his nature is changed ー however if you are fond of having him appointed, I'll give up my opinion. R Parker I have a very good opinion of and should be very fond of serving him, but am something doubtful whether he would make a good subordinate officer, even if he would accept. I have a high opinion of [Peter] Shores, [John] Wheelwright and Follet as resolute enterprising men. I shall be glad you'll talk with them or such as you think will best answer the purpose; there will be time enough for you to answer this before it will be necessary to fill up the Commissions, as there is no guns yet and I fear they are still to be made; for my part, I have no views whatever in these appointments, but the public good; if there should be any worthy men who would be willing to enter into the service that cannot be provided for in this ship, I will do my endeavor to get such places for them as will be most agreeable in some other and no doubt some may be provided for in this way ー have not yet had an opportunity to send the money but have a prospect of one in a few days A brig in the service of the Continent arrived a few days since with some powder and arms ー several French vessels have also arrived here lately with sugar molasses coffee &c. The Agent is not yet appointed ー²