Gentlemen, Philada. Novr. 20. 1776

I have before me yrs. of the 12t. Currt. & as you incline to make 12 pnds. & under before you make any larger ones, you are desired to make 52 12 pndrs. & 20. 4 pnds. & to make them 18 diameters long & let them be as light as will be consistent with their bearing proof. I think our Cannon made in America have generally been too much loaded abt. the Neck. You are also desired to cast 40, four pndrs. & 20. three pndrs. & let them be made about the same Numbers of diameters. You are desired to get these Guns done as soon as possible & transport them to Baltimore. As to the heavier Cannon they will be wanted quite as soon as you can make them & we hope you will not neglect to make every preparation to make them as soon as possible. There are in this Goverment some exceeding fine Guns which they got made in England last War. The 18 pnds. are 9 ft. long from the base ring to the muzzle & wt. 40 & 41 C. 24 lb. are also 9 ft. long & wt. 49C:2cn. & the 32 lb. are 9 f. long. These Seem to be Approved dimensions & if you can make as good ones it will be happy for us both. You may make preparation for Numbers of these Sizes. The perticular number you may be informed of seasonably enough. Give me leave to mention that Mr. Hillegas saith he has not recd. the Receipt which I desired you to send him for the Sum of money sent you by Mr. Gellispe. In my Letter by him was inclosed the form of the Rect. wch. you’ll please to sign & send either to the Treasurer or to me. Wishing you Success I am,

Dft. on same sheet as RTP to Daniel and Samuel Hughes, Dec. 7, 1776; internal address: “To Messrs. Danl. & Saml. Hughes at Antietam Furnace Maryland”; endorsed.