I was carrying a letter for you from my friends Messrs. Grand and Co. from Paris that I had kept since my arrival here last November with my family, as I awaited the chance to have the honor to deliver it to you in person.1 I had the honor of meeting your esteemed son at the home of Baron von Steuben. I handed him the letter so that he might be so kind as to forward it to you, and I will be pleased to learn that this recommendation by very dear friends reached you.

I understand, sir, that Congress has decided to arm some frigates against the Algerians. I brought with me the plan for a frigate of 26 cannons on the lower deck and 14 cannons on the upper deck that I had drawn up by one of the most talented engineers of the French marine, Mr. Forfait, who also 274 managed the construction of the finest ships.2 I expected to send this frigate to India. Circumstances stood in the way of my doing so. The wish to be useful to the nation that granted me asylum incited the idea to give the plan as a tribute, and thus I beg you, sir, to grant me the honor of remitting the plan to the president and senators of the United States. I would consider myself fortunate if it were deemed worthy to be executed.

I am, with infinite respect, sir, your most humble and most obedient servant