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.