APPENDIX. 



public defense, the nation may rejoice that the fact we have ascertained is of incalculably greater value than 

 the expenditure — and that if the present structure should perish, we have the information never to perish, 

 how, on a future emergency, others may be built. The requisite variations will be dictated by circumstances. 

 Owing to the cessation of hostilities, it has been deemed inexpedient to finish and equip her as for 

 immediate and active employ. In a few weeks every thing that is incomplete could receive the proper 

 adjustment. 



After so much has been done, and with such encouraging results, it becomes the Commissioners to 

 recommend that the steam frigate be officered and manned for discipline and practice. A discreet commander, 

 with a selected crew, could acquire experience in the mode of navigating this peculiar vessel. The supplies 

 of fuel, the tending of the fire, the replenishing of the expended water, the management of the mechanism, 

 the heating of shot, the exercise of the guns, and various matters, can only become familiar by use. It is 

 highly important that a portion of seamen and marines should be versed in the order and economy of the 

 steam frigate. They will augment, diffuse, and perpetuate knowledge. When, in process of time, another 

 war shall call for more structures- of this kind, men, regularly trained to her tactics, may be dispatched to 

 the several stations where they may be wanted. If, on any such disposition, the Government should desire a 

 good and faithful agent, the Commissioners recomfnend Captain Obed Smith to notice, as a person who has 

 ably performed the duties of inspector from the beginning to the end of the concern. 



Annexed to the report, you will find, Sir, several statements explanatory of the subject. A separate 

 report of our colleague, the honorable Oliver Wolcott, whose removal from New York precluded him from 

 attending to the latter part of the business, with his accustomed zeal and fidelity, is herewith presented. A 

 drawing of her form and appearance, by Mr. Morgan, as being like to give satisfaction to the department, is 

 also subjoined, as are likewise an inventory of her furniture and effects, and an account of the timber and 

 metals consolidated in her fabric. 



It is hoped these communications will evince the pains taken by the Commissioners, to execute the 

 honorable and responsible trust reposed in them by the Government. 



SAMUEL L. MITCHEL. 

 THOMAS MORRIS. 

 HENRY RUTGERS. 



159 



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