the building
of frigates early engaged attention, not only to protect commerce from
the ravages of the Algerines but from the aggressions of France as well
as from the violation of our neutrality by England.

The United States was without a ship.

Captain John Barry was prompt to offer his services to his country.

On March 19, 1794, he wrote President Washington:

"_Sir_:--Finding that the Government have partly determined to fit
out some ships of war for the protection of our trade against the
Algerines, I beg leave to offer myself for the command of the
squadron, conceiving myself to be competent, thereto assuring your
Excellency that should I be honored with your approbation, my utmost
abilities and most unremitting attention should be exerted for the
good of my country and also to approve myself worthy of the high
honor shown by your Excellency.

"To your Obedient, Humble Servant,
"March 19, 1794.
"HIS EXCELLENCY. [Signature: John Barry]"

A week later, March 27, 1794, Washington signed an Act declaring that
"the depredations of the Algerine Corsairs on the commerce of the United
States rendered it necessary that a naval force should be provided for
its protection."

This Act is the foundation of our present Navy.

Congress ordered the building and equipment of three frigates of
forty-four guns and three of lesser weight and tonnage.

On June 5, 1794, public announcement was made of the appointment of six
Captains to superintend the construction and to take command of the
vessels thus ordered. The notice sent to Captain Barry read:

"WAR DEPARTMENT, June 5, 1794.

"_Sir_:--The President of the United States, by and with the advice and
consent of the Senate, has appointed you to be a Captain of one of the
ships provided, in pursuance of the Act to provide a naval armament,
herein enclosed.

"It is understood that the relative rank of the Captains is to be in the
following order:

John Barry,
Samuel Nicholson,
Silas Talbot,
Joshua Barney,
Richard Dale,
Thomas Truxtun.

You will please to inform me as soon as convenient whether you accept or
decline the appointment.

"I am, Sir, etc.,

"To "HENRY KNOX,
CAPTAIN BARRY." _Secretary of War_.

Captain Barry at once accepted, saying:

"STRAWBERRY HILL, June 6, 1794.

"The honor done me in appointing me Commander in the Navy of the United
States i