The supplements to the Message exactly meet my ideas. Only I do not understand precisely the limitation to the number of captains & lieutenants, which is intended by the words “to the number of frigates which were actually retained for service”. But if I understand it, it seems to me that the word vessels should be substituted to frigates and employed in that to retained for. Perhaps, however, I am mistaken in your intention of limitations.

The yellow fever part of the message will bring on you all the fever-importers & boards of health of the Union—

With respectful attachment Your obedient Servant