Discussed cost of frigates mandated to be built to defend U.S. trade against Algiers and change in size of frigates (as ordered by the President). Advised that some ship construction should proceed immediately while materials and labor are still available/present. The remaining materials are authorized to be dispensed with and remaining money be used to dispense the public debt; noting a peace with Morocco could mean a peace with Algiers.
Hale sends his recruiting account, and hopes to pay the men their full bounties once mustered. He asks whether he should pay the full bounty on a deserter apprehended by men of the corps.
Simmons certifies that $3,369.23 is due the Officers, Non-Commisioned Officers and Privates of the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers at West Point, being their pay and forage up to Dec. 31, 1795.
Simmons certifies that $165.11 is due such men of Captain Blackburn's Company of the Corps of Artillerists and Engineers as arrived at West Point since Nov. 30, 1795, being their pay from their date of enlistment until that same date.
Letter to the Secretary of War, concerning various claims. Simmons responds that the office does not have any record of these individuals applying for claims, and that similar claims have been rejected by Congress.
Informs Kilty that the Treasurer will remit him the sum of 357 dollars for the compensation of Alexander De Leyritz, an assistant engineer of the fortifications at Baltimore.
Murray informs McHenry that the Senate has unanimously concurred in the President's nomination of McHenry as the next Secretary of War. Murray urges him to accept the nomination.
Simmons certifies that $84.80 is due George Gale, late Supervisor of the District of Maryland, being his commissions on receiving and paying monies from the Dept. of War from Feb. 11, 1793 to June 14, 1795.
Pickering orders naval agent Jackson to stop reducing the copper bolts. It is too expensive, is not necessary, and risks spoiling the temper of the bolts.
