Salem Gazette 1798

True lovers of the liberty of your country, step forth and give your assistance in building the frigate to oppose French insolence and piracy. Let everyman in possession of a White Oak Tree be ambitious to be foremost in hurrying down the timber to Salem, and fill the compliment wanting, where the noble structure is to be fabricated, to maintain your rights upon the Sea and make the name of America respected among the nations of the world.

Your largest and longest trees are wanted, and arms of them for knees and rising timber.  Four trees wanted for keel which will measure 146 feet and hew 16 inches square. Please call on subscriber who wants to make contracts for large and small quantities as may best suit, and will pay ready cash.

Next September is the time

When we shall launch from the stand

And our cannon load and prime

With tribute due to Talleyrand.

~ Enos Briggs