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Frederick Tudor

Autographed signed letter (ALS) dated 22 December 1812, Boston.
To Samuel L. Mitchell. Encloses a pamphlet, "Some Memorandums . . . (on) the construction of ships. . . ."

Boston Decr. 22d 1812

Honble Saml. L. Mitchell

Sir

I have for several years past
occupied myself at leisure in and endeavouring to ascertain the principles on which depend the swift sailing of ships. The circumstances of the tides have induced me to persue my researches & I think I have arrived at some just conclusions

The discovery which I think I have made consists in making a distinction between the part which gives
buoyancy & the Keel so as to give to each its separate power & take the greatest advantage of both – intending without any dangerous innovation actually to have in the water the shape of a Fish.

I have now the honour to inclose you a few printed sheets with drawings giving a popular view of the subject.

I have taken this liberty under the idea that if you should think my plans correct you may be willing to lend me your favourable opinion so that my improvement may be adopted in one or more of the U.S. Ships now to be built - for which purpose I have applied to Secretary of the Navy

I have the honour to be
Your very huml. sert.

Frederic Tudor

Published: Wed Apr 22 08:23:19 EDT 2015