By the Act of Congress passed the 21st April 1806 it is provided, that the whole number of able seamen ordinary seamen & boys, to be employed in the Navy, shall not exceed		925
We have at this time in actual service about	700.
The Chesapeake requires	292
The Wasp	120
	1112
Exceeding the limited number		187
		1112

You will hence perceive the impracticability of sending to the Mediterranean as has been proposed, the Chesapeake & Wasp, for the purpose of relieving the frigate & the schooner Enterprize now on that station.   We may besides from the letter of capt Shaw dated 29th. November 1806 presume that he has entered 400 additional seamen, in order that he might be the better enabled to aid in defending the city of New orleans against an apprehended attack.

The terms of service of the crews of the frigate Constitution, & the Schooner Enterprize, now in the Mediterranean, will expire in the month of April next.

I have the honor to be with great respect sir, yr. mo ob. st