Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 9 September 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Messieurs
       La Haie 9 Sept 1778

      Je fus hier 2 fois chez le g—— F——, et 2 fois chez notre ami. Voici ce qui se passa hier matin à l’Assemblée d’Hollande. Amsterdam présenta son avis pour la non-augmentation de l’Armée, afin d’être inséré dans les Actes de la Republique, ajoutant, que puisque par-là-même il alloit être imprimé pour l’usage de chacun des Membres, qui pourroient le lire à loisir, on ne vouloit pas exiger de la patience de l’Assemblée, d’enécouter présentement la Lecture. Le g—— P—— insista, que puis qu’elle alloit être insérée, elle devoit être lue; et qu’il alloit le faire en sa qualité: on lui répondit, que si cela ne fatiguoit ni le Lecteur, ni le reste, cele ne fatigueroit point les donneurs de l’avis. Le g—— P—— lut, et ne put s’empêcher de marquer par de violentes contorsions sur son siege, les passages fréquents qui lui déplaisoient. Le Corps de la Noblesseécouta d’un air refrogné, et déclara, qu’encore que l’avis qu’il avoit déjà fait insérer, pour protester ne quid respublica detrimenti capiat, &c. fût suffisant, cependant il se proposoit de faire insérer un avis contrecelui d’Amsterdam. Dort alors prit la parole, pour se réserver de s’opposer à l’insertion d’un tel contre-avis, comme contraire à la constitution, et de permettre seulement l’insertion d’un nouvel avis sur la chose-même, mais non comme contre l’avis d’un autre membre de l’Etat. Harlem, à son tour, déclara, que sans s’embarrasser de se rien réserver pour ou contre la forme, elle adhéroit quant au fonds à l’Avis d’Amsterdam. Après tout, l’Avis d’Amsterdam est inséré, comme il devoit l’être. On va l’imprimer pour être distribué à tous les Membres. Il y en aura une centaine d’Exemplaires surnumeraires, dont j’en aurai un, que je me ferai un devoir de vous traduire et envoyer, Messieurs, en son temps.
      Notre Ami est tout à la fois content du succès, et irrité contre le g——P. Il m’a dit que sa conduite n’est point celle d’un homme d’Etats et fin Courtisan à la fois, comme on l’avoit cru: que s’il avoit voulu, faire ce dernier rôle tout en s’entendant sérieusement avec le Parti républicain, on lui auroit aidé à le faire: mais qu’il a perdu la confiance d’Amsterdam, qui est persuadée qu’il fait et fera, par complaisance, tout pour, &c. Que si on avoit encore quelques doutes là-dessus; je n’avois qu’a aller lui demander quelle réponse il avoit à faire à votre Lettre, Messieurs, et que je verrois ce qu’il me diroit. J’ai dit que je n’avois point d’ordre pour cela à produire ou alléguer. Eh bien, m’a-t-il dit, allez-y comme de vous-même. Je lui ai fait sentir que je ne pouvois pas me commettre ainsi, sans vous commettre aussi, Messieurs. Il m’a observé de son côté, en souriant, qu’il falloit donc croire ce qu’il venoit de m’en dire. J’ai tout de suite fait part de cette conversation au g——F——, qui m’a approuvé.
      J’ai l’honneur, Messieurs, de vous confirmer ma Lettre du 4 de ce mois, et d’attendre celui de votre réponse en conséquence. La partie de la Régence d’Amsterdam, que notre Ami se propose de tâter, c’est le Conseil entier de la Ville: car jusqu’ici il s’en est tenu aux Bourguemâitres seulement. S’il réussit, il pourra s’ensuivre des deliberations et de demarches importantes. Le Parti avec lequel vous allez de plus en plus entrer en liaison, Messieurs, par mon canal, c’est, comme en Angleterre, le Parti Whig ou républicain, avec cet avantage qu’il a sur l’opposition Angloise, que dans le sujet principal qui les divise présentement ici, la pluralité des suffrages ne peut rien contre lui. Nous sommes donc présentement sur la seule bonne voie qu’il y ait, pour arriver au point d’éloigner cet Etat de vos ennemis, et de le rapprocher peu à peu de la France et de l’Amérique.
      J’ajouterai historiquement, que Harlem et Dort ont pour Pensionaires Mrs. Van Zeeberg et Boschart, deux hommes de grande capacité, bons républicains, et amis de notre ami.
      Je suis avec mon respectueux dévouement, Messieurs Votre tré-shumble & trés-obéissant serviteur, &c.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 9 September 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 9 September 1778

      Yesterday I met twice with the Grand Facteur and twice with our friend.
      Here is what happened in the Assembly of Holland yesterday morning. Amsterdam presented its proposal, to be inserted in the acts of the republic, opposing an increase in the size of the army, adding that since it would be printed for the use of each member who could then read it at leisure, it seemed unnecessary to try the patience of the Assembly by reading it aloud at the present time. The Grand Pensionary insisted, however, that because it would be inserted, it should be read and that he would do so in his own capacity. They responded that if it did not fatigue either the reader or the audience it would certainly not tire the originators of the proposal. The Grand Pensionary read it and could not refrain from indicating, by violent contortions on his chair, the frequent passages that displeased him. The Corps of Nobility listened sullenly and declared that in addition to the proposal it had already inserted, which was sufficient ne quid respublica detrimenti capiat, &c., it intended to introduce another against that of Amsterdam. Dort then spoke and invoked its prerogative to oppose the introduction of such a counter-proposal as being contrary to the Constitution, and to permit only the insertion of a new proposal on the same issue, but not as against the proposal of another member of the State. Harlem, in its turn, declared that, without caring to pronounce itself either for or against this formality, it agreed with the substance of Amsterdam’s proposal. Finally, the proposal from Amsterdam was inserted as planned. It will be printed and distributed to all the members. There will be a hundred extra copies, of which I will have one that I will translate and send you, gentlemen, in due time.
      Our friend is both delighted by this success and irritated at the Grand Pensionary. He told me that the Grand Pensionary’s conduct was not, as we had previously thought, that of a statesman and shrewd courtier and that if he had wished to play the latter role while being in actual agreement with the Republican party, they would have aided him in his effort. But he has lost the trust of Amsterdam, which is now convinced that he is doing and will do everything out of complaisance for &c. He added that if one had any doubts about it, all that I had to do was to go and ask him what would be his answer to your letter, gentlemen, and I would see what he told me. I said that I had no orders that could be produced or even alleged in order to do so. Well, he said, go on your own behalf. I made him to understand that I could not thus commit myself without compromising you too. He observed, smilingly, that I would, therefore, have to believe him. I immediately reported this conversation to the Grand Facteur, who agreed with me.
      I have the honor, gentlemen to confirm my letter of the 4th of this month and await your reply. The part of the Regency of Amsterdam that our friend intends to approach is the entire council of the city, having until now limited himself to the burgomasters. If he succeeds, important deliberations and démarches may follow. The party with which you will, through me, have increasing contact, gentlemen, is, as in England, the whig or republican party, but with this advantage over its British counterpart: that in regard to the principal subject now dividing the parties, the plurality of suffrages can do nothing against it. We are, therefore, now proceding down the only route that can succeed in alienating this state from your enemies and, little by little, draw it closer to France and America.
      I will add, for the historical record, that Harlem and Dort have for Pensionaries Messrs. Van Zeeberg and Boschart, two very capable men, good republicans, and friends of our friend.
      I am, with respectful devotion, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant.


Title: The Commissioners to Caron de Beaumarchais, 10 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Beaumarchais, Pierre Augustin Caron de

      Sir
      Passi. September 10. 1778

     In a Letter We have received from the Committee of Commerce of the 16 May We are informed that they had “ordered Several Vessells lately to South Carolina for Rice, and directed the Continental Agents in that state to consign them to your Address.”
     In the Letter from Mr. Livingston to Us dated Charlestown So. Carolina 10. June 1778 he has Subjected the Cargo of the Theresa Thérèse to our orders.
     In your Letter to Us dated Passi 8. September 1778, you “demand that the Cargo arrived in your own proper Vessell should be sold and the Money remitted to you in Part for a Discharge of what is due to you by the Congress.”
     We are at a Loss to know how you claim the Therese as your proper Vessell, because Mr. Monthieu claims her as his, produces a written contract for the Hire and demurrage of her, part of which We have paid and the Remainder he now demands of Us.
     However, sir, We beg Leave to state to you, the Powers and Instructions We have received from Congress, and to request your Attention to them as soon as possible, and to inform you that We are ready to enter upon the Discussion of these Matters at any Time and Place you please.
     But untill the Accounts of the Company of Roderique Hortalez and Co. are settled for what is passed, and the Contract proposed, either ratified by you and Us, or rejected by one Party: We cannot think We should be justified in remitting you the Proceeds of the Cargo of the Therese.
     We will however give orders to our Agent for the sale of the Cargo, and that the Proceeds of Sale be reserved, to be paid to the House of Roderique Hortalez and Co. or their Representative, as soon as the Accounts shall be settled or the Contract ratified.
     The Powers and Instructions alluded to above are as follow.
     By a Copy of a Contract between a Committee of Congress, and Mr. Francy dated the 16th of April last, We perceive that the seventh Article, respecting the annual Supply of Twenty four Millions of Livres, shall not be binding upon either of the Parties, unless the same shall be ratified by Roderique Hortalez and Company, and the Commissioners of the United States at Paris.
     We take this opportunity to inform you, sir, that We are ready to confer with Roderique Hortalez and Company, or any Person by them authorized for this Purpose, at any Time and Place that they or you shall appoint.
     We have the Honour to be, sir, your most obedient and most humble servants.


Title: The Commissioners to Gabriel de Sartine, 10 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de

      Sir
      Passi September 10. 1778

     Captain Daniel McNeill of Boston in the State of Massachusetts Bay Commander of the American Privateer, which has been so successfull against the Common Enemy in the North seas and White seas had the Fortune to retake a French Vessell from a Guernsey Privateer, after she had been in the Enemy’s Possession more than three days, which Prize he has brought into Port Louis.
     He represents to Us that he has met with some Difficulties in disposing of her and her Cargo, which cannot be removed untill your Excellencys Sentiments shall be known upon the Matter.
     We have the Honour to recommend his Case to your Excellencys Consideration, and to request that such Relief may be afforded him, as may consist with the Laws of the State,his Majestys Interest, and the Treatys in Force between the two Nations. We have the Honour to be,


Title: The Commissioners to the Comte de Vergennes, 10 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de

      Sir
      Passi Septemr. 10. 1778

     By some of the last Ships from America, we received from Congress certain Powers and Instructions, which we think it necessary to lay before your Excellency, and which we have the Honor to do in this Letter.
     We have the Honor to enclose to your Excellency a Copy of the Contract made between the Committee and Mr. Francy, a Copy of Mr. Francy’s Powers, and a Copy of the list of Articles to be furnished, according to that Contract, that your Excellency, may have before you all the Papers relative to this Subject.
     We are under a Necessity of applying to your Excellency upon this Occasion, and of requesting your Advice.
     With Regard to what is passed, we know not who the Persons are, who constitute the House of Roderigue Hortalez & Company, but we have ever understood, and Congress has ever understood, and so have the People in America in general, that they were under Obligation to his Majestys good will, for the greatest part of the Merchandizes, and Warlike Stores heretofore furnished, under the Firm of Roderigue Hortalez & Company. We cannot discover that any written Contract was ever made between Congress or any Agent of theirs, and the House of Roderigue Hortalez & Co., nor do we know of any living Witness, or any other Evidence, whose Testimony can ascertain to us, who the Persons are that constitute the House of Roderigue Hortalez & Company, or what were the Terms upon which the Merchandises and Munitions of War were supplied, neither as to the Price, nor the Time or Conditions of Payment.
     As we said before, we apprehend that the United States hold themselves under Obligation to his Majesty, for all these Supplies, and we are sure it is their Wish and their Determination to discharge the Obligation to his Majesty, as soon as providence shall put it in their Power. In the mean time, we are ready to settle and liquidate the Accounts according to our Instructions, at any time and in any Manner, which his Majesty, or your Excellency shall set out to us.
     As the Contract for future Supplies is to be ratified, or not ratified by us, as we shall judge expeditious we must request your Excellencys Advice as a favor upon this Head, and whether it would be safe or prudent in us to ratify it, and in Congress to depend upon Supplies from this Quarter, because if we should depend upon their Resource for Supplies, and be disappointed, the Consequences would be fatal to our Country. We have the Honor to be with all Respect Your Excellencys most Obedient and very humble Servants

      B Franklin
      Arthur Lee
      John Adams


Title: Jonathan Williams to the Commissioners, 10 September 1778
From: Williams, Jonathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Honble. Gentlemen
      Nantes Sept. 10. 1778

     Monsieur Montaudouin has this Day received a Letter from Monsieur Kergariou Commander of the French Frigate L’oiseau off Bellisle, informing him that the Guernsey and Jersey Privateers which infest this Bay, obtain Provisions at Bilboa under the Flag of the United States, pretending to be Americans.
     I think it my Duty to give you this Information and hope some Means may be found to prevent further Imposition.
     I have the honour to be with great Respect Honble Gentlemen Your most obedient Servant

      Jona Williams


Title: The Commissioners to John Bondfield, 11 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Bondfield, John

      Sir
      Passi September 11 1778

     Yours of the fifth instant We have received. We wish better Health to Captain Ayers, and a safe Passage to his Vessell, which is at sea before now no doubt, if not however she is to sail forthwith, without further orders.
     Your Draughts for the Account inclosed will be duely honoured. But you must distinguish that Part of it, which belongs to Mr. Adams in his private Capacity from the other Articles of the Account, and from those which were advanced to him for his own Captain Palmes’s and Dr. Noels Expences at Bourdeaux and from thence to Paris.
     For the Articles Sent by you, to Mr. Adams’s Family in America, to the amount of Eight hundred and Eighty Eight Livres and twelve Sols, together with your Commissions on that sum, you will please to draw on Mr. Adams in his private Capacity who will honour your Draught at Sight. For the Remainder draw on the Commissioners, who will pay the Draught the same Respect.
     This however is not to affect a Question, which remains to be discussed between you and the other Continental Agents, concerning the Amount of your Commissions. Nor is this to be considered as a settlement of your Accounts. You have charged five Per Cent Commissions. But We apprehend this Commission is too high, and that many Persons would be willing to do the Business for Three Two Per Cent. or less.
     We are sir, your humb sert


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 11 September 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       M.

        11e Sept. 1778

      En me referant à mes deux dernieres du 4 et 9 de ce mois, je continue aujourdhui, que j’ai appris de notre ami, que demain, dans l’Assemblée d’Hollande, on s’occupera d’une matiere très importante, savoir des déprédations commises par les Anglois tout récemment sur nombre de vaisseaux hollandois; que tous les négociants d’Amsterdam en Corps vont incessamment faire présenter une adresse à LL. hh. pp., pour demander la protection qui leur est due de la part du Souverain; démarche, qui, si les Anglois ne se mettent pas à la raison, et en regle quant à la neutralité de la république, entraîneroit enfin necessairement des mesures et suites très sérieuses; comme de forcer la republique à user de représailles, et de la jeter entre les bras de La France et de l’Amérique &c. En attendant la Commerce est mort à Amsterdam, parce que personne ne veut assurer. J’attends, Messieurs, ce que je vous ai demandé par ma Lettre du 4; Voilà de bonnes conjonctures pour battre ce fer tout chaud. L’avis d’Amsterdam sera imprimé la semaine prochaine. J’irai à Amsterdam un peu après notre ami; et je l’y verrai.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 11 September 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Gentlemen

        11 September 1778

      In reference to my last two letters of the 4th and 9th of this month, I can add today some new information I received from our friend. Tomorrow, during the meeting of the Assembly of Holland, a very important matter will be brought up concerning the depredations recently made by the British on a number of Dutch vessels. All the Amsterdam merchants, as a body, will present an address to Their High Mightinesses, requesting the protection due them from their sovereign. This démarche, if the British refuse to behave reasonably and in accordance with the Republic’s neutrality, would ultimately and inevitably entail some very serious measures and consequences, such as forcing the Republic into reprisals, and throwing it into the arms of France and America &c. Meanwhile, all trade is at a standstill in Amsterdam because no one wants to give insurance.
      I am still waiting, gentlemen, to receive what I requested in my letter of the 4th; the circumstances seem favorable for striking while the iron is hot. Amsterdam’s motion will be printed next week. I will go to Amsterdam shortly after our friend, and will see him there.


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 12 September 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Sirs
      Bordeaux 12 Sept 1778

     I have receiv’d from every Forge from Angoulerme to Bayonne returns of their proposals and offers for the Cannon you Commission’d me to purchase. Not One of them will engage to compleat the delivery before February. The dryness of the Season deprives them of a supply of water nessessary to execute the Work in Less time. I have survey’d the Arsenals hoping to find there to Borrow and to replace, but the Armaments have drain’d from every quarter and I learn that the two New Frigates Launcht at St. Malo are obliged to wait for their Artillery. Thus circumstanced I have concluded to close with the Forges of Petigore where the quality of the Iron the extent of the Works and the Capital of the Concern’d to which add the inland Navigation to Bordeaux leaves no room to apprehend a disapointment at the time limitted. And we are allways certain of meeting with Vessels going from hence every ten or fifteen days.
     We have had strong westerly Winds the three days past without any Arrivals from America.
     I have the honor to be with due respect Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: To John Adams from William MacCreery, 12 September 1778
From: MacCreery, William
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Nantes 12 Sep. 1778

     I Received the Letter which you did me the Honor to write me under the 7th. Instant, by todays Post and observe with concern, that your many efforts to effect an exchange of Prisoners, hath heretofore proved ineffectual.
     It gives me much concern to find that my suspiscions of our Public finances being low in this country, were so well founded. It must render the situation of yourself and Colleagues very irksome. I am not less concern’d that designing men shou’d endeavour to create new embarrassments. I am disgusted at finding there are those who descend to unfair means of increasing them. A very recent instance of it has opened my Eyes a good deal, but as you justly observe, all such malevolence will be brought to light, and the real Freind to his Country appear in his just light, and reflect the disgrace due to these wicked and mistaken Men. I sincerely pray God that it may ever be the case with us, that truth and innocence may ever prove superior to deception and detraction.
     The next time that I shall have the Honor to Write you, will be, I beleive, from Bordeaux.
     I am allways Dear Sir very Respectfully Your obedient hble Servt.

      Will M.Creery


Title: The Commissioners to J. D. Schweighauser, 13 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Schweighauser, John Daniel

      Sir
      Passi September 13. 1778

     The Therese has arrived at Nantes and her Cargo is consigned to Us. We have determined to make Sale of this Cargo, and reserve the Proceeds for a particular Purpose. We therefore, hereby request and impower you, to demand and recive her Cargo, make sale of it to the best possible Advantage, transmit Us an Account sales as soon as may be, and reserve the Proceeds of Sale for our further orders.
     We have the Honour to be informed by His Excellency, M. de Sartine, that he has taken Measures concerning the Prisoners, and We have the Pleasure to inform you that We have, received from this Minister a Passport for a Cartel Ship to come from England to Nantes or L’orient, with American Prisoners, which ship we hope will take off, of your Hands and ours all the British Prisoners, now in France, which have been taken by American Vessells public or private. This Passport We transmitted to England, Yesterday. We are with great Respect, &c. We hope, at length that these unhappy People, both British and Americans, who have been so long in Captivity, will be restored in a very short time to their Liberty. If they are not, it shall not be our fault.
     We wish the Balimore to sail as soon as possible, having no particular orders to give concerning her.
     We take notice that you have charged five Per Cent for Commissions which we think too much, we are willing to allow you the Customary Commission, which we understand is two Per Cent.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 13 September 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       La Haie 13e. Sept. 1778

      Quoique ce ne soit pas aujourdhui jour de poste, je commencerai par vous dire, que l’Assemblée d’Hollande, après avoir duré longtemps hier, est enfin venue à la Résolution, de porter l’équipement de cette République, pour le temps qu’il y aura guerre entre la F—— et l’Angleterre, indépendamment de l’Escadre qu’il y a aux Indes occidentales, à 32 tant Vaisseaux de Ligne que Frégattes, et 8000 hommes d’Equipage, pour servir en Europe, principalement dans la Manche, et dans la Mer du Nord. Ces 32 vaisseaux seront prêts partie en Janvier prochain, et partie dans les cours de l’année prochaine.
      L’Adresse de toute la Bourse d’Amsterdam est arrivée, et fera le sujet des Délibérations suivantes. Cela fera que l’Assemblée se tiendra quelques jours encore.
      On a parlé au G p: que l’on s’attendoit à des démarches vigoureuses de la part du Gouvernement et d’un grand personnage, non seulement quant aux réclamations à faire, mais aussi quant aux voies les plus efficaces pour obliger les Anglois à laisser observer à la republique la plus exacte neutralité, et quant aux ordres qu’on donnera aux Capitaines des Vaisseaux de guerre à cet égard. Sur ce que le G p. biaisoit làdessus, on lui a dit tout rondement, que le Parti dans la Republique qui voudroit frustrer cette juste attente, se déclareroit par-là manifestement pour l’Angleterre, et seroit un Parti Anglois, prêt à sacrifier les Hollandois aux Anglois. Je tiens tout cela de source.

       15e. Sept. 1778

      L’Adresse a été lue, tant dans l’Assemblée de LL. hh. pp., que dans celle d’Hollande; et l’on continue de s’en occuper sérieusement.
      Ce n’est pas tout. Rotterdam s’éveille enfin aussi: il est arrivé une adresse pareille d’un certain nombre de Marchands de cette Ville. Ceux de Dort se plaignent aussi. On leur a enlevé, et restitué, à la vérité, quelques vaisseaux; mais ils y sont pour 300 Livres sterling de fraix, qu’ils réclament comme juste. L’Envoyé de la Republique à Londres a écrit ici les noms de 3 vaisseaux restitués par l’Angleterre; et parmi ces 3 s’en trouve malheureusement un qu’on ne peut pas dire restitué, puis qu’il a été repris en pleine mer par un Vaisseau de guerre Hollandois, Cap. Van Braam. Il a écrit aussi, qu’il avoit fait des représentations à la Cour de Londres contre de pareilles saisies, comme étant contraires aux principes du Droit de la Nature et des Gens; après quoi il fait entendre, qu’il suspendra ses démarches ultérieures à cet égard et sur ce ton jusqu’à-ce qu’il sache que ses Maîtres l’approuvent. On diroit qu’il a quelques doutes, que ceux-ci veuillent que le Sujet Hollandois soit traité par l’Anglois selon ces principes.
      Tout cela, Messieurs, embarrasse et désole le Parti Anglois ici.

       16e. Sept. 1778

      Je viens de recevoir, Messieurs, les respectables vôtres du 9 et 10 de ce mois. J’ai tout de suite été chez le G—— F—— (où j’ai entrée à toute heure du jour, come un Enfant de la Maison). Il est très content de la Lettre. En lisant le passage qui a rapport à votre précédente démarche, cela vaut de l’or, a-t-il dit, et notre ami en pourra tirer grand parti. Je vais en tirer Copie, pour la laisser à notre Ami, après lui avoir montré l’original.
      Outre l’adresse d’Amsterdam, il est arrivé ce matin une Députation du Commerce d’Amsterdam au Prince, pour le même sujet.

       17e.

      Il est arrivé une 2e. adresse de Rotterdam. Elle est d’un seul Marchand, nommé Dubbel de Mutz: mais c’est la plus forte de toutes, et curieuse d’ailleurs pour les particularités qu’elle renferme. Voici celle qu’on m’en a dite. Les patrons des Navires Hollandois conduits en Angleterre, doivent y subir, comme des criminels sur la sellette, des interrogatoires de 30 pages in folio, où on leur demande tout ce qu’ils ont fait chez eux et sur mer depuis leur naissance, les voyages qu’ils ont faits, et en quelles qualités; les marchandises ou cargaisons qu’il y avoit dans les vaisseaux où ils se sont trouvés pendant toute leur vie; et l’on prie LL. hh. pp. de faire entendre fortement au Roi d’Angleterre, qu’il n’a que faire de se mêler des affaires de leurs sujets. Demain on s’occupera sérieusement de la besogne touchant les captures, et les adresses auxquelles elles ont donné lieu. Si la Résolution qu’on doit prendre en conséquence n’est pas assez vigoureuse pour obliger les Anglois à respecter le pavilion Hollandois, Amsterdam aimera mieux qu’on n’en prenne aucune, plutôt qu’une Résolution molle, qui rende les Anglois encore plus insolents.
      Le g—— F—— desirant d’avoir l’Adresse du Commerce d’Amsterdam, je la lui ai procurée; et il l’a fait copier par ses Commis. C’est une piece de 15 pages in folio, forte pour les choses, et modérée dans la forme. Je dois la rendre dans une heure; autrement j’en ferois tirer copie pour moi aussi. Les principes sur lesquels on s’y fonde, sont le Droit de la Nature et des gens, l’équité naturelle, et le Traité entre l’Angleterre et la Hollande du 1/11 Dec. 1674 et 30 Dec. 1675, conclu alors pour la sûreté des Anglois-mêmes, pendant que la Hollande étoit en guerre avec la France; et l’on y demande à LL. hh. pp. de pourvoir promptement et efficacement à la sûreté du Commerce de ce pays, non seulement par les plus sérieuses représentations à la Cour Britannique sur les excès passés, et pour les faire cesser, mais aussi par une protection suffisante de vaisseaux de guerre, &c.

       18e. Sept. 1778

      La résolution prise aujourdhui aux Etats d’Hollande, pour faire de fortes représentations, et protéger le Commerce, est bonne. Voilà, ce que le temps me permet ajourd’hui d’ajouter. J’ai laissé ma Lettre ouverte jusqu’au dernier moment, pour pouvoir vous dire cette importante nouvelle.
      Je suis avec le plus respectueux dévouement Messieurs Votre très humble & très obéissant serviteur

       Dumas

       Tous, le Prince-même, Sont convenus que la conduite des Anglois est insupportable.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 13 September 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 13 September 1778

      Although today is not post-day, I will begin by informing you that, after a long session yesterday, the Assembly of Holland has finally resolved that as long as France and Britain are at war and in addition to the squadron in the West Indies, it would increase the Republic’s forces by 32 ships of the line and frigates, and 8,000 crewmen, to serve in Europe, mainly in the Channel and the North Sea. Of these 32 vessels, part will be ready by next January and the rest during the course of the next year.
      The address by the Bourse of Amsterdam has arrived and will be the topic of the next deliberations. The Assembly will thus be in session a few more days.
      They told the Grand Pensionary that they would expect some vigorous démarches by both the government and an important personage, not only on the demands to be made, but also on the most effective means of compelling the English to allow the Republic to observe the most exact neutrality and on the orders to be given to captains of warships in this regard. In response to the Grand Pensionary’s evasions on this head, they told him very frankly that the party that would frustrate this legitimate expectation would be declaring itself manifestly in favor of England and would be an English Party, ready to sacrifice the Dutch to the British. I heard all this from good sources.

       15 September 1778

      The address has been read, both in the assembly of Their High Mightinesses and in that of Holland, and continues to be under serious consideration.
      There is more. Rotterdam is finally waking up: a similar address was received from a number of merchants of that city. Those of Dort are also complaining. As a matter of fact, several of their vessels were seized and then returned, but they had to spend 300 pounds sterling which they demand as justice. The Republic’s envoy in London sent here the names of 3 vessels which were returned by Britain, but among those, one cannot properly be called restored since it was taken back by a Dutch warship, Captain van Braam. He also wrote that he had made remonstrances to the London Court against such captures as being contrary to the principles of the law of nature and nations, adding that he will suspend further action in that vein and tone until he is sure that his superiors approve. One could say that he has some doubts as to whether they wish the Dutch subject to be treated by the British according to these principles.
      All this, gentlemen, greatly embarrasses and distresses the English party here.

       16 September 1778

      I have just received, gentlemen, your letters dated the 9th and 10th of this month. I immediately went to the Grand Facteur (where I am received at all hours of the day, like a child of the House). He is very pleased with the letter. While reading the passage concerning your previous démarche, he said this is worth gold, and our friend will be able to make much of it. I am going to make a copy and leave it with our Friend, after having shown him the original.
      In addition to the Amsterdam address, there arrived this morning a delegation from Amsterdam’s Chamber of Commerce to meet with the Prince on the same subject.

       17 September 1778

      A second address from Rotterdam has arrived. It comes from a single merchant named Dubbel de Mutz, but it is the strongest of them all, and rather curious for the details it reveals. Here is the one I was told of. The masters of Dutch ships taken to England must undergo, on the spot and as if they were criminals, interrogatories of 30 pages in folio that ask them to tell everything they ever did, at home and at sea, since their birth; the voyages they have made, and in what capacity; the merchandise or cargo aboard the vessels they were on during their entire life. Their High Mightinesses are requested to let the King of England know in no uncertain terms that he cannot interfere in the affairs of their subjects. The issue of the captures will be seriously considered tomorrow, together with the addresses they have given rise to. If the resolution adopted is not strong enough to force the British to respect the Dutch flag, Amsterdam will urge that there be none, for a feeble resolution would only make the British even more insolent.
      Since the Grand Facteur wished to have a copy of the address of the Amsterdam merchants, I procured it for him and he had it copied by his secretaries. It is 15 pages in folio, strong in content, but moderate in form. I have to return it in an hour, otherwise I would have made a copy for myself. The principles on which it is based are those of the law of nature and nations, natural equality, and the treaty between Great Britain and Holland of 1/11 December 1674 and 30 December 1675, concluded at the time by the British for their own protection, while Holland was at war with France. It asks Their High Mightinesses to attend promptly and effectively to the security of this country’s commerce, not only through the serious representations to the British Court for past excesses in order to bring them to an end, but also through a sufficient force of men-of-war, &c.

       18 September 1778

      The resolution taken today by the States of Holland to make stronger representations and to protect the country’s trade is satisfactory. This is what time allows me to add today. I left my letter open until the last moment, in order to be able to report this important news.
      I am with the most respectful devotion, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       Dumas

       Everyone here, even the Prince, thinks that the British behavior is intolerable.


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 15 September 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Sirs
      Bordeaux 15 Sept 1778

     Referring to what I had the Honor to write you the 12th Current. Yesterday arrived from Virginia the Cutter Tartar Capt. Southcomb. He left York River the 29th July. Private Letters by him are dated the 21st of same contain no accounts other than them at hand. He reports a report of Comte d’Estaing having taken five English Frigates, that New York was closely blockt up and no doubt of the entire of the English Forces would fall into the hands of United Allied Forces.

     With due respect I have the honor to be Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servt

      John Bondfield

      I attended the last earthly services to Capt. Ayres the 13th instant who I had decently Interd as is allow’d to Protestants at this place.
      Mr. W. Franklins Commission will be forwarded this Week.


Title: Richard Grinnell to the Commissioners, 15 September 1778
From: Grinnell, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Guernsey Sept. the 15th 1778

     I would Inform the Honnourabel Board of Commisioners that I Took Passage with Capt. Barns as did Capt. Peter Collis and Sailed from Penbufe Paimbeauf on the 29th august and on the First of September Being in the Lattitude 46°:00′ and Longitude 9°:00′ we ware Taken by the Speedwell Cutter Belonging heare mounting twelve Guns and Commanded by Capt. Abraham Bushall who Treated me and Capt. Collis moore Like Brothers than Like Prisoners and Gave us Every thing Belonging to us. Two Days after wee war Taken wee fell in with the Schooner Spy Capt. Niles who had been taken by a Privateere Belonging to Jersey. Capt. Niles Toald me that all the Papers ware Thrown overboard as was all Capt. Barnses. Capt. Barns is Still on board the Privateer her Cruse not Beeing out yet.
     I would Inform your Honnours that a Number of Prizes are daly brought In heare and I thought my Duty to take the first Opertunity of Informing your Honnours of our misfortains and I make no Dout but you will Recive this as Mr. Dubery is So Good as Send it to his Son in Nants who will Take the first opertunity to Send it you.
     I am your Honnours much obliged humble Servt.

      Richd. Grinnell


Title: From John Adams to Leray de Chaumont, 16 September 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Chaumont, Jacques Donatien, Leray de

      Sir
      Passy Septemr 7 156. 1778

     As our Finances, are at present in a Situation, seriously critical, and as I hold myself accountable to Congress, for every part of my Conduct, even to the smallest Article of my Expences, I must beg the Favor of you to consider what Rent we ought to pay you for this House and Furniture, both for the time past and to come.
     Every part of your Conduct towards me, and towards our Americans in general, and in all our Affairs, has been polite and obliging, as far as I have had an Opportunity of observing; and I have no doubt it will continue so, yet it is not reasonable, that the United States should be under so great Obligation to a private Gentlemen, as that two of their Representatives should occupy for so long a time so elegant a Seat with so much Furniture and such fine Accommodations without any Compensations, and in order to avoid the Danger of the Disapprobation of our Constituents on one hand, for living here at too great or at too uncertain an Expence, and on the other the Censure of the World for not making sufficient Compensation to a Gentleman who has done so much for our Convenience, it seems to me necessary, that we should come to an Ecclaircissement upon this Head.
     As you have an Account against the Commissioners, or against the United States for several other Matters, I should be obliged to you if you would send it in as soon as possible, as every day makes it more and more necessary for us to look into our Affairs with the utmost Precission.
     I am Sir with much Esteem and Respect Your most Obedient & very humble Servant

      John Adams


Title: Gabriel de Sartine to the Commissioners, with a Contemporary Translation, 16 September 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       a Versailles le 16 7bre 1778

      J’ai recu, Messieurs, La Lettre que vous m’avez fait L’honneur de m’ecrire au Sujet du navire francois L’isabelle—que le Corsaire americaine le General Mifflin a repris Sur un Corsaire de Guernsey.
      Dans La these generale, vous connoissez les dispositions de L’ordonnance de la marine de 1681 que adjudge aux Capitaines preneurs les Batimens repris lorsqu’ils ont été pendant 24 heures en la main de L’Ennemi, et qui ne leur en accorde que le tiers, pour frais de Recousse, lorsqu’ils les ont repris avant les 24 heures. Les Corsairs Americains joüiront, en France Sans difficulté du benefice de cette loi, Si elle a été adoptée par les Etats unis, de maniere que les Corsaires francois Soient assurés d’eprouver le meme traitement pour les Reprises qu’ils pourront conduire dans les ports de L’Amerique Septentrionale.
      Les Loix angloises n’accordent, au contraire, aux Corsaires, qu’un huitième de la Valeur des Batimens repris pendant les premieres 24 heures; un Cinquieme pendant le Second Jour, un Tiers, pendant le 3e. et le 4e, et ensuite la moietié, ce qui laisse, au moins, dans tous les Temps, L’autre moietié, aux proprietaires perdeurs. Il est possible que les Etats unis preferent ces Loix, qui, moins avantageux pour les Corsaires, et plus favourables aux premieres Proprietaires des Batimens repris, peuvent meriter cette preferance Sur celles de France. Dans ces Circonstances Les Regles de la Reciprocité observé entre les deux Puissances Exigent qu’il Soit pris un arrangement pour adopter la Roy Loi de L’une des deux nations, et qu’il soit observé pour les Corsaires respectifs, et en Attendant, je Suis persuadé que vous pensées Comme moi, que le Corsaire Americaine, Le General Mifflin ne peut exiger, en france, que le meme Avantage que dans un Cas, semblable, un Corsaire francois, auroit obtenu dans L’Amerique Septentrionale.
      Cette discussion, au Surplus, n’aura peut etre pas lieu, dans L’affaire particulier dont il S’agit. Je viens d’Etre informé que le proprietaire francois reclame Son Batiment comme repris Sur des Pirates, en offrant de payer le Valeur du tiers au Corsaire americain, qui l’a delivré. C’est la disposition de L’article 10 du Titre des Prises de L’ordonnance de 1681 qu’il paroit juste d’appliquer a Ce Cas particulier. S’il Se trove que le Corsaire de Guernsey, Soit du nombre de ces pirates, dont les Depredations ont forcé Sa Majesté d’ordonner des Represailles generales, et qu’il n’ait pas été pourvu des nouvelles Lettres de Marque, que le Cour de Londres n’a fait expedier qu’au mois d’áoût pour courir Sur Les Batimens francois, ce qui est annonce par la Declaration du Capitaine de L’isabelle. Cette question Sera necessairement Soumise a la decision des Tribunaux, et je ne pourrois que veiller a Ce que la justice la plus prompte Soit rendue au Corsaire americain. Je vous prie, dans tous les Cas, de me marquer Ce que vous pensés, sur la question principale, en Supposant des Loix differentes chez les deux nations, sur le fait des Reprises ou Recousses.
      J’ai L’honneur d’etre avec une parfaite Consideration, Messieurs, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

       De Sartine


Title: The Commissioners to the President of the Congress, 17 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Laurens, Henry,President of Congress

      Sir
      Passi Aug. 29 Septr. 17th 1778

     The last letter which We have had the Honour to write jointly to Congress, was of the Twentyeth of July, and as We have Sent Several Copies of it by different opportunities, We hope one of them at least will come Safe to hand.
     Since our last there has been an important Action at Sea, between two very powerfull Fleets, in which, in our Opinion the French had a manifest and great Advantage, but as all the News Papers in Europe are full of this Transaction, and We have taken in our seperate Capacities, every opportunity, to transmit these Papers to Congress, We think it needless to be more particular, concerning that Event, in this Letter.
     The French Fleet, on the seventeenth, of this last Month, again put to sea but whether the British Fleet was out, or not We have not yet learnt, and on the twenty Second, Admiral Keppell Sailed.
     By the best Intelligence from England London, the Populace are amused, and the public Funds are Supported, by Hopes, given out, by Administration, of Peace, by an Acknowledgment of American Independance; but as the Credulity of that infatuated and abandoned Nation has no Bounds, We can draw no Inference from this General Opinion, that such is the Intention of Government. We suppose this Rumour to be a Consequence of the insidious, Determination of the Cabinet to propose Independance on Condition of a Seperate Peace.
     We are here, at this Moment, in a State of the most anxious and critical suspense, having heard nothing from the Compte D’Estaing, nor from America since the beginning Eleventh of July.

      This Suspense is unfortunate for Us, in our Negotiations for Loans of Money which we are very sensible, is a Subject of the last Importance.

     Congress will be informed by our Mr A. Lee, what success he has had in his Negociations at the Court of Spain.
     We have taken Measures in Amsterdam for borrowing Money of the Dutch but what Success We shall have We cannot yet say.
     We have also asked Leave of this Gouvernement to borrow Money, in this Kingdom; but having no answer, We cannot say whether We shall have Permission or not.
     We have, Yesterday applied for a Continuation of the Quarterly Payment of 750 thousand Livres. What the answer will be We know not. If it is in the Negative, the Consequence, must be very plain, to Congress and to Us. We must leave this Kingdom, if our Crediters and the Crediters of the United States will permit Us.
     It is at all Times wisest and safest both for the Representative and his Constituents, to be open, candid, and Sincere.; and We should think ourselves criminal, in a very high degree, if We should disguise, our just Apprenhensions. Congress will then be pleased to be informed, that all the Powers of Europe, are now armed or arming themselves, by Land or sea or both, as there seems to be an universall apprehension of a General War. Such is the situation of European Nations, at least, that no one can arm itself without borrowing Money. Besides this The Emperor and the King of Prussia are at actual War,—all this together has produced this Effect, that England, France, England, the Emperor, Spain, Prussia, at least are borrowing Money, and there is not one of them, that We can learn but offers, better Interest than the United States have offered. Can We reasonably hope to succeed? There can be no Motive then but Simple Benevolence, to lend to Us.
     Applications have frequently been made to Us, by Americans, who have been Some time abroad, to administer the oath of allegiance to the United States and to give them Certificates that they had taken such oaths. In three Instances We have yeilded to their Importunity. In the Case of Mr. Moor of New Jersey, who has a large Property in the East Indies which he designs to transfer, immediately to America—in the Case of Mr. Woodford of Virginia a Brother of General Woodford, who has been Sometime in Italy, and means to return to America with his Property, and Yesterday, in the Case of Mr. Montgomery of Philadelphia, who is settled at Alicant in Spain, but wishes to send Vessells and Cargoes of his own Property to America.
     We have given our opinions to these Gentlemen, frankly that such Certificates are in Strictness legally void, because, there is no Act of Congress which expressly gives Us Power to administer Oaths.
     We have also given two or three Commissions, by means of the Blanks with which Congress intrusted Us,—one to Mr. Livingston and one to Mr. Amiel, to be Lieutenants in the Navy. And in these Cases We have ventured to Administer the oaths of Allegiance. We have also in one Instance administered an Oath of Secrecy to one of our Clerks Secretaries and perhaps it is necessary to administer such an oath as well as that of allegiance to all Persons whom We may be obliged, in the extensive Correspondence We maintain, to employ.
     We hope We shall not have the Dissapprobation of Congress for what in this Way has been done: but We wish for explicit Powers and Instructions upon this Head.
     There are among the Multitude of Americans, who are scattered about the various Parts of Europe, Some, We hope many, who are excellent Citizens, who wish to take the oath of allegiance and to have some Mode prescribed by which they may be enabled to send their Vessells and Cargoes to America, with Safety from their own Friends American Men of War and Privateers.
     Will it not be practicable for Congress, to prescribe some Mode of giving Registers to ships, Some mode of Evidence to ascertain the Property of Cargoes, by which it might be made appear to the Cruisers and to Courts of Admiralty, that the Property belonged to Americans abroad. If Congress should appoint Consulls, could not some Power be given to them. Or would Congress impower their Commissioners, or any other?
     Several Persons from England have applied to Us to go to America. They profess to be Friends to Liberty, to Republics, to America. They wish to take their Lot with her—to take the oath of allegiance to the states and to go over with their Property. We hope to have Instructions, upon this Head, and a Mode pointed out for Us to proceed in.
     In Observance of our Instructions to inquire into Mr. Holkers Authority, We waited on his Excellency the Compte de Vergennes, presented him with an Extract of the Letter concerning him, and requested to know, What Authority Mr. Holker had. His Excellencys Answer to Us was that he was surprized, for that Mr. Holker had no Verbal Commission from the Ministry. But that Mr. Vergennes being informed that Mr. Holker was going to America, desired him to write to him from Time to Time that the State of Things and the Temper and designs of the People.
     We have given orders to Mr. Bondfield at Bourdeaux, to ship to America Twenty Eight Twenty four Pounders and 28 Eighteens, according to our Instructions. By his answer to Us, it will take some little time, perhaps two or three Months, to get these Cannon, at a good Rate and in good Condition.
     Our Distance from Congress, obliges Us very often to act, without express Instructions upon Points in which We should be very happy to have their orders. One Example of which is the Case of the American prisoners in England. Numbers have been taken and confined in Goals. Others, especially Masters of Vessells are set at Liberty. We are told there are still 500 in England. Many have escaped from their Prisons, who make their Way, to Paris, Some by the Way of Holland, others by Dunkirk, and others by means of Smuggling Vessells in other Parts of this Kingdom. They somehow get Money to give to Guards, in order to escape. Then they take up Money in England, in Holland, in Dunkirk and elsewhere, to bear their Expences to Paris. There they apply to Us, to pay those past Expences, and to furnish them Money to defray their Expences to Nantes, Brest and other seaport towns. When arrived there they apply to the American Agent for more Money. For this Besides this Bills of their drawing are brought to Us from Holland and other Places. All this makes a large Branch of Expence. We have no orders to Advance Money in these Cases. Yet We have ventured to advance considerable sums. But the Demands that are coming upon Us from all Quarters are likely to exceed, so vastly, all our Resources, that We must request possitive Directions, whether We are to advance Money to any Prisoners, whatever? If to any whether to, Masters and seamen of private Merchant Vessells, and to officers and Crews of Privateers, as well as to officers and Men in the Continental service. We have taken unwearied Pains, and have put the states to very considerable Expence, in order to give Satisfaction to these People, but all We have done, has not the Effect. We are perpetually told, of discontented Speeches, and We often receive peevish Letters, from these Persons, in one Place and another, that they are not treated here with so much Respect as they expected, nor furnished with so much Money as they wanted. We should not regard these Reflections if We had the orders of Congress.

      Signed by the three Commissioners


Title: The Commissioners to Gabriel de Sartine, 17 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de

      Sir
      Passi September 17 1778

     We have this Morning the Honour of your Excellencys Letter of the Sixteenth, relative to the french Brigantine the Isabella retaken, by the American Privateer the General Mifflin, from a Guernsey Privateer, after having been Eighty Hours in his Hands.
     We have the Honour to agree perfectly, with your Excellency, in your Sentiments of the Justice and Policy of the Principle of Reciprocity between the two Nations, and that this Principle requires that French Ships of War or Privateers Should have the Same Advantage in such in Cases of Rescues or and Recaptures, that the Americans Privateers enjoy in France.
     We are So unfortunate, at present, as to have no Copy of any of the Laws of the United States, relative to such Cases, and are not able to recollect with Precision, the Regulations in any of them: But We are informed by Captain McNiell, that by the Law of Massachusetts Bay, if a Vessell is retaken within 24 Hours, one Third goes to the ReCaptors, after twenty four hours, untill 72 hours, one half, after Seventy two Hours, and before 96 Hours, Three Quarters, and after Ninty Six hours the whole.
     All that We have Power to do in this Case, is to convey to Congress a Copy of your Excellencys Letter, and of our Answer, and We have no dout that Congress will readily recommend to the several States similar to make Laws giving to French Privateers, ether the Same Advantages that their own Privateers have in such Cases in their own Ports, or the Same Advantages that the French Privateers injoy in the Ports of this Kingdom, in such Cases, by the Ordinance of the King. And We wish your Excellency would signify to Us, which would probably be most agreable to his Majesty.
     If the Case of this Vessell must come before the public Tribunals, upon the Simple Question, whether she was retaken from a Pirate or not, that Tribunal We doubt not will decide, with Impartiality: but We cannot refrain from expressing to your Excellency, that We think the original owner, will be ill advised if he should put himself to this Trouble and Expence.
     We presume not to dispute the Wisdom of the ordinance of the King which gives to the Recaptor from a Pirate, only one third; because We know not the Species of Pirates which was then in Contemplation, nor the Motifs to that Regulation. But your Excellency, will permit Us to Observe, that this Regulation is so different from the general Practice and from the Spirit of the Law of Nations, that there is no doubt it ought to receive a Strict Interpretation, and that it is incumbent on the original Proprietor to make it very evident, that the first Captor was a Pirate.
     In the Case in Question, the Guernsey Privateer, certainly had a Commission from the King of Great Britain, to cruise against American Vessells at least. But admitting for Argument Sake, that he had no Commission at all. The Question arises, whether the Two Nations of England an France and England, are at War or not. And altho there has been no formal Declaration of War on either side, yet there seems to be little doubt that the two Nations have been at actual War at least from the Time of the mutual Recal of Embassadors, if not from the Moment of the British Kings, most Warlike speech to his Parliament.
     Now if it is Admitted that the two Nations are at War, We believe it would be without a Precedent in the History of Jurisprudence, to adjudge the Subjects of any Nation to be guilty of Piracy for any Act of Hostility committed at sea against the subjects of another Nation at War.
     Such a Principle would for what We see conclude, all the Admirals and other officers of both Nations, guilty of the same offence.
     It is not the Want of a Commission as We humbly conceive, that makes a Man guilty of Piracy: But committing Hostilites against human Kind, at least against a Nation not at War.

     Commissions are the best kind but one Species of Evidence, that Nations are at War: But there are many other Ways of proving the same Thing.
     Subjects and Citizens, it is true, are forbidden by most civilized Nations to arm Vessells for cruising against even Ennemies, without a Commission from the sovereign: but it is upon Penalty of Confiscation or some other perhaps milder Punishment, not on the Penalties of Piracy.
     Moreover, perhaps Prizes made upon Ennemies, by subjects or Citizens without Commission from their sovereigns, may belong to the sovereign not to the Captor, by the Laws of most Nations, but perhaps no Nation ever punished as Pirates their own subjects or Citizens, for making a Prize from an Ennemy without a Commission.
     We beg your Excellencys Pardon for detaining you so long, from objects of more Importance, and have the Honour to be


Title: To John Adams from William MacCreery, 17 September 1778
From: MacCreery, William
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Bordeaux September 17th. 1778

     I did my self the Honor to write you a few Lines from Nantes about 8 days ago, and left it on Monday last. On my arrival here the day before yesterday, I found several Letters from Baltimore for me—the latest dates were the 13th July. They contain nothing new but they—with some Virginia Papers down to the 17th. of the same Month give me much more pleasure and satisfaction than the Copy of a Letter which I saw ’tother day from Mr. Simeon D. to his Brother Silas which was intercepted by the English and publish’d in one of the London Evening Papers. I thank God that it does not seem in the least probably by my Accounts that we are to trust in any wise to “the Chapter of accidents for further successes.” On the contrary, the People are much more United in that Country than they ever were, the most obstinate Tory being now clearly convinced of the Wickedness and weakness of Great Britain. It is not to me surprizing that a few Men in whatever Station shou’d be call’d to account by Congress. It must be expected that some, out of our many and various characterised leaders will deserve it, and I hope that most Respectable Body will ever be forward in calling to account any and every Person whatever who is or shall be amenable for any Crime or supposed Crime, more espescially when it seems to concern the whole community. I assure you, that the Letter above refer’d to, has given me much uneasiness. It does however, afford me one comforting reflection, that the Americans will see it, and if there be any justice in what it contains respecting them, hope they will coolly reflect upon the impropriety of their conduct, and leave it no more in the power of Man to scandalize them so in Europe. If it be not so, hope the author will be sufficiently frightened to prevent his attempting a thing of the sort in future.
     There arrived here last Night a Brigantine with 140 hhds Tobacco from Baltimore. My Letters by her are dated the 20th. July and mention no news. I saw the Captain this morning who tells me they had a very long passage, and cou’d not tell me any thing whatever interesting to you or the Public. Another Prize of the Genl. Mifflin’s is arrived here last night from the Baltick. I saw two more of hers at La Rochelle and there is in all about 6 come in for her.
     I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Dear Sir Your very Humble Servt.

      Will M.Creery


Title: Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. to the Commissioners, 17 September 1778
From: Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. (business)
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Messieurs
       Amsterdam le 17 September 1778

      Nous avons reçu, la Lettre dont vous nous avez honnorés le 31 du Mois passé, et qui ne nous est parvenuë que le 15 du courant.

      Par nôtre précedente du 7 nous vous avons accusé la Reception, par M. Whitall, du Livre, contenant 205 Promesses des Etats Unis de L’Amerique de Courant F. 1000 chaque, payable au Ir. Janvier 1788, rêvetuës de 10 de 50 pour les Interêts, à 5 pour Cent par Année, le tout au Porteur, Sous vos Signatures formant un Capital de courant F. 205000, avec les Interets.
      Nous allons travailler à la Negotiation de ces Effets, avec tout le Zêle, et la Prudence, dont nous Sommes capables, en prenant les Prêcautions necessaires pour mênager le Credit des Etats, dans ce debut, nous y employerons tous les Moyens que 50 Ans d’Experience, nous ont acquis.
      Nous nous conformerons à tous Egards aux Instructions que vous nous donnés, en cottant La A tant le Livre, que chaque promesse, dont nous remplirons les blancs, en les numerotant, nous observerons de les couper en festons et de remplir le Talon qui restera attaché au Livre, pour Servir de Controlle, sans avoir besoin pour cela du Modêle que vous nous annonçez, Ce qui ne s’est pas trouvé dans votre Packett.
      Il est bien entendu que nous ne lacherons aucun de ces Effets, que contre Argent comptant, et qu’a mêsure que nous en placerons, nous vous en donnerons avis, accompagné d’un Bordereau exact, et conforme aux Premisses dêlivrées et au Talon.
      Cet Emprunt êtant le premier qui se soit fait en ce Genre, et dans cette forme, nous ne pourrons savoir, si l’on exigera quelque autentiçité, ou formalité, avant que d’avoir consulté nos Courtiers, et autres emploÿes dans ces Sortes de Negotiations.
      Mais nous allons sans perte de Temps, nous en occuper avec eux et traitter de maniere à obtenir la prêfêrençe, sur les Levées qui Sont ouvertes pour diverses Puissançes, d’Allemagne, du Nord, &ca. qui rendent l’argent tres rare.
      L’allouançe que vous nous accordés, nous mettra en Etat de nous la procurer, et nous Souscrirons aux Conditions que vous nous prescrivez, de nous charger de tous les frais quelconque, de commission, Courtage, Gratifications, Posts de Lettres, remises d’argent, même du Paÿement des Coupons d’Intêrets, que nous ferons gratis, quoÿque nous retirions 2 pour Cent de touttes les Course, que nous servons pour ces dêtails minutieux, et embarrassants; au moÿen d’une augmentation d’un pour Cent sur les Intêrets, ce qui fera une diminution de 10 pour Cent sur le Capital, ainsy pour chaque F. 1000 que nous negotierons, nous vous remettrons 900. net de tous fraix quelconque, et vous n’aurez qu’a nous faire entrer les Interets à Raison de 5 pour Cent, à mêsure de leur Echêances, pour les Payer aux Porteurs ce qui surprimera tous dêtails et comptes, autres que ceux de nôtre Reçette et Remise.
      Il est d’ailleurs bien entendu, que nous nous ferons paÿer avec le Capital, des Promisses, l’Intêret des coupons qui auront couru, Ce que nous vous le bonifiërons.
      Nous espêrons, Messieurs, que vous aprouverez cet Arrangment, sans lequel nous Serions obligéz d’avançer de nôtre Argent, les Gratifications, et Génêralement tous les autres fraix, pour n’en etre rembourçéz qu’en 10 Ans, chaque Année un dixieme, ce qui n’est pas praticable, vú surtout la somme ou nous avons esperançe de porter vôtre Emprunte.
      Nous avons l’honneur d’etre tres respectueusement, Messieurs, Votres Vos tres humble et tres Obeissants serviteurs

       Horneca, Fizeaux & Comp.


Title: Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 17 September 1778
From: Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. (business)
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Gentlemen
       Amsterdam, 17 September 1778

      We have received the letter that you did us the honor to send the 31st of last month, but which did not arrive until the 15th.
      In our letter of the 7th, we acknowledged the receipt, from Mr. Whitall, of the book containing 205 promissory notes of the United States of America, each for 1,000 florins current payable on 1 January 1788 and accompanied by 10 of 50 florins for the interest of 5 percent per year payable to the bearer and under your signature, amounting to a capital of 205,000 florins current plus interest.
      We will undertake the negotiation of these bills with all the zeal and prudence of which we are capable, taking the necessary precautions to safeguard the credit of the states, and employing in this new offering all the resources that 50 years of experience have given us.
      We will conform, in every respect, to the instructions that you have given: stamping both the book and each promissory note with the letter “A,” numbering the blanks on the counterfoils while making sure that they are detached in a scalloped pattern, and filling out the counterfoils that will remain attached to the book as a means of control; without having need for the model that you said you were sending, but which we did not find enclosed in the package.
      It is, of course, understood that we are not to place any of these bills against anything but cash-money and that, as they are placed, we shall send you a notice accompanied by a detailed memorandum matching the delivered promissory notes with their counterfoils.
      This loan being the first that we have made of this type and in this form, we have no way of knowing beforehand if some proof of authenticity or other formality will be asked of us before having consulted our broker and others employed in these kinds of transactions.

      We will, however, start the proceedings immediately in order to obtain a preference over the offerings opened by several powers of Germany, the North, &c., which make money very scarce.
      The allowance which you have granted will enable us to get this advantage, and we shall abide by the conditions that you have prescribed, taking upon ourselves all the expenses such as commission, brokerage, gratuities, postage, remissions of money, and even the payment of the interest-coupons. This we will do at no charge, although we will take out 2 percent on all commissions, to cover the minutiae and petty details, by increasing by one percent the interest, which will represent a 10 percent decrease on the capital. That is, for each 1,000 florins we negotiate, we will remit to you 900 florins free of all charges whatsoever and you will have only to enter the interest at 5 percent, as it comes due, for payment to the bearers, thus eliminating all accounting details other than our receipts and remissions.
      It is also understood that we will be paid from the capital of the promissory-notes; the interest on the coupons which will have accrued, we will credit to you.
      We hope, gentlemen, that you will approve this arrangement, without which we would be obliged to advance from our own money to pay the gratuities and general expenses, for which we would not be reimbursed until 10 years later, at one tenth per year. This is not practicable, particularly in view of the sum that we hope to raise with your loan.
      We have the honor to be very respectfully, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servants

       Horneca, Fizeaux & Co.


Title: William Lee to the Commissioners, 17 September 1778
From: Lee, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Gentlemen
      Paris Sept. 17th. 1778

     I wish to have a conference with you on a Subject that very materially concerns our Country which at present is a profound Secret to our Enemies or their Agents and must remain so ’till compleated, or the success will be interrupted; any hour therefore tomorrow (at 12 oClock or afterwards) when you are alone, that you may please to appoint, I will do myself the honour of waiting on you, and in the mean time I have the Honour to be with great regard, Gentlemen, Your most Obliged & Obedt. Humble Servant.

      W. Lee


Title: To John Adams from Leray de Chaumont, 18 September 1778
From: Chaumont, Jacques Donatien, Leray de
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       Passi le 18 7bre. 1778

      J’ay receu La lettre que vous m’avez fait L’honneur de m’ecrire Le 16 de ce mois, pour Scavoir quel est le pris du Loyer de ma maison que vous habitez pour le passé et pour L’avenir. Quand Je Consacray, Monsieur, ma maison a M. Franklin et a Ses Confreres qui voudroient vivre avec luy, Je me Suis Expliqué que je n’en voulois aucune retribution; parceque Je Sentois que vous aviez Besoin de tous vos moyens pour envoyer des Secours a votre patrie, ou pour soulager vos freres Sortants dés fers de vos ennemis. Laissez Je vous en suplie, Monsieur, subsister cet arrangement que J’ay fait dans un tems ou le Sort de votre patrie etoit problematique; quand elle Jouira de toutte Sa Splendeur, de pareilles Sacrifices de ma part Seroient Superflus et indignes d’elle: mais actuellement ils peuvent luy estre utils, et Je Suis trop heureux de vous les offrir. Les etrangers n’ont que faire, Monsieur, d’estre informée de mon precedé puisque vous voulez eviter leur Critique a ce Sujet. Tant pis pour Ceux qui n’en feroient pas autant que moy S’ils etoient a mesure, et tant mieux pour moy d’avoir immortalisé ma maison en y Recevant M. Franklin et Ses Confreres.
      J’ay L’honneur d’estre avec le plus parfait respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Servt

       Leray de Chaumont


Title: Jacques Donatien Leray de Chaumont to John Adams: A Translation, 18 September 1778
From: Chaumont, Jacques Donatien, Leray de
To: Adams, John

       Sir
       Passy, 18 September 1778

      I have received the letter that you did me the honor to write on 16 September, asking me the rental price of my house in which you have been and will continue to reside in the future. When, sir, I lent my house to Mr. Franklin and his colleagues who wished to live with him, I explained that I did not want compensation because I felt that you needed all your resources to send aid to your country or to help your brothers escaping from the shackles of your enemy. Please, sir, let this arrangement, which I made at a time when your country’s fate was still undecided, continue until it enjoys its full glory and such sacrifices on my part become superfluous and unworthy of your nation. But at present they can still be very useful and I am only too happy to be able to do you this service. Strangers, sir, need not be informed of this arrangement since you wish to avoid criticism on the subject. Unfortunate are those who, had they the means, would not do as I do, and blessed am I to have immortalized my house by lodging Mr. Franklin and his colleagues.
      I have the honor to be with the utmost respect, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant

       Leray de Chaumont


Title: The Commissioners to the American Prisoners in Great Britain, 19 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: American Prisoners in Great Britain

      Gentlemen
      Passi September 19 1778

     Altho We have not written to you directly, for some time You may be assured, We have not been unmindfull of your Interests, your Comfort or your Liberty. We have been engaged, a long time, in negociating a Cartell of Exchange. This Work We found attended with many Difficulties, but at last have obtained Assurances from England that an Exchange shall take Place. We have also obtained from the Government of this Kingdom, a Passport for a Vessell to come from England to Nantes or L’orient, with American Prisoners, there to take in British Prisoners in Exchange. We now sincerely hope, that you will obtain your Liberty. We cannot certainly say however that all, will be immediately exchanged, because We fear, We have not an equal Number, to send to England. Those that remain if any will be those who have been the latest in Captivity and consequently have suffered the least.
     While the British Government, refused to make any Agreement of Exchange We the Commissioners here never discouraged their Countrymen from escaping from the Prisons in England, but on the contrary, have lent small sums of Money, sufficient with great Œconomy, to bear their Expences to some Seaport Town, to such as have made their Way hither. But if the British Government should, honourably keep to their Agreement to make regular Exchanges We shall not think it consistent with the Honour of the United States to encourage such Escapes, or to give any Assistance to such as shall escape.
     Such Escapes hereafter, would have a Tendency to excite the British Administration to depart from the Cartell—to treat the Prisoners that remain with more Rigour and to punish those that escape if retaken with more severity.
     On the other Hand, We have now obtained Permission of this Government to put all British Prisoners, whether taken by Continental Frigates, or by Privateers, into the Kings prisons, and We are determined to treat such Prisoners precisely as you are our Countrymen are treated in England to give them the same Allowance of Provisions, and Accommodations and no other. We therefore request you to inform Us with Exactness, what your Allowance is from the Government that We may govern ourselves accordingly. I We have the Honour to be, with much Respect and Affection your Countrymen and humble servants.


Title: From John Adams to the President of the Congress, 20 September 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Laurens, Henry,President of Congress

      Sir
      Passi Septr. 20 1778

     I have the Honour to inclose, the latest Gazettes, which contain all the News of Europe. The News from America by the Way of London, which is contained in the Courier de L’Europe of the fifteenth instant, has raised our Expectations and encreased our Anxiety. We are not without Apprehensions that the Compte D’Estaing, may fall in with the combined Fleets of How and Biron.
     The English are beginning to elevate their Heads a little; and to renew their old insolent Language, both in Coffeehouses and in daily Papers. The Refugees from America, unable to bear the Thought of being excluded forever from that Country, and still less that of soliciting for Pardon from their injured Countrymen, and returning to see established Principles, which they detest and Forms of Government against which they have ever combatted, are said to be indefatigable, in instilling hopes into the King and Ministers, that by persevering another Campaign, and sending Twenty thousand more Men to America, the People will be worn out and glad to Petition for Dependance upon them. They flatter themselves and others with hopes that Spain, will remain Neuter, and that by intriguing in France, they can get the French Ministry changed, and then that they shall have little Trouble from this Quarter. Nothing can be more whimsical, more groundless, or ridiculous than all this. Yet it is said to amuse and please the credulous Multitude in that devoted Island.
     Those who pretend to know the Bosoms of the Persons highest in Power in that Kingdom, say, that they delight themselves with the Thought, that if it is not in their Power to reduce America, once more to their Yoke yet they are able to harrass, to distress, and to render miserable those whom they cannot subdue. That they have some little Compunction at the Thought that they shall be ranked in History with the Phillips and Alvas, the Alberts and Grislers of this World but this instead of producing Repentance and Reformation as it ought, engenders nothing but Rage, Envy and Revenge.
     This Revenge however, is impotent. Their Marine and their Finances, are in so bad Condition, that it is with infinite difficulty they can cope with France alone even at sea: and it seems to be the Intention of Providence, that they shall be permitted to go on with their Cruelties, just long enough to wean the affection of every American Heart, and make room for Connections between Us and other Nations, who have not the Ties of Language of Acquaintance and of Custom to bind Us. I am, with the most perfect Respect, sir your most obedient humble servant.


Title: Muscoe Livingston to the Commissioners, 21 September 1778
From: Livingston, Muscoe
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Gentlemen
      Bordeaux. 21 Sepr. 1778

     Your Favour of —— I have Received and will answer Immediately on My Return to Nantes at which place, I have Left all the papers, Rilative, to that business; I shall have a very fine Ship Ready for Sea, Immediately, and would be Very glad to take in, two or three hundred Tons of the publick goods, which Now Lays at Nantes for America; as to the Freight, I Really am unacquainted with; but If you will be So Obliging, as write Me a Line to Nantes, aquainting what you will give, with the quantity of goods you will Ship Me, will be particularly Obliged. I have The Honor to be Gent. Your Ob, and H, Sert

      M. Livingston

      Please Let me have your answer by Return of post. Please direct to Me under cover to Mr. Schweighauser Nantes.


Title: Gabriel de Sartine to John Adams: A Translation, 21 September 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       Versailles. 21st. Septr. 1778

      I have received the letter which you did me the honor of writing to me the 17th. instant. I made no doubt but that the reflexions which I made on the necessity of Establishing a perfect reciprocity between the two Nations with respect to reprisals at sea, would appear just to you. I am sorry that you have not at hand a copy of the Laws of the U States on this Subject which might have prevented some difficulties that the distance of time and place may render frequent. The Regulations of Massachusets Bay which Capt. McNeill has informed you of is different from the English Laws and more like the French. The Regulation of England by leaving at any rate one half of the vessel to the first owner, appears most conformable to the Interests of Commerce, which ought never to be forgotten even in the midst of War. But it would be more especially essential that the different provinces of the U States should adopt on this head uniform and invariable laws, so that there should not exist in any of the provinces particular laws, which the ignorance of Owners of vessels will not permit them to apply to the different States, and which would necessarily bring on difficulties that might be avoided by a common Legislation.
      With respect to the question of Fact concerning the recapture of the ship Isabella by Capt. McNeill, I have only pointed out the motives which the proprietors of this vessel conceive they have for reclaiming it, and on which they ground their pretensions in the letter which they have addressed to me; it belongs not to the administration to investigate them, the cognizance thereof being reserved to the Tribunals, But if the decision of the Tribunals is adverse to the first proprietor, you will surely conceive it proper, that the Third, or even one half of this vessel should be deposited in the hands of such public Officers as shall be appointed for that purpose untill the two nations have agreed on Laws which shall be respectively followed with respect to Vessels recaptured from the Common Enemy.
      I have the honor &c.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, 22 September 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

      Sir
      Passi September 22 1778

     In order that I We may be understand one another, Upon looking over the Account of the Expenditure of the Money for which We have jointly drawn upon the Banker Since my Arrival at Passi, I find some Articles charged, for Similar ones to which I have paid in my seperate Capacity. I dont mean to be difficult about these Things but that each of Us may We may have a Plan, for the future, I beg leave to propose. That the Wages and Expences of the Maitre D’hotel and Cook, and of all the servants, their Cloaths and every other Expence for them, the Wages, Cloaths and other Expences of the Coachman, the Hire of the Horses and Carriage, the Expences of Postage of Letters, of Expresses to Versailles and Paris, and else where of Stationary Ware, and all the Expences of the Family, should be paid out of the Money to be drawn from the Banker by our joint order.
     If to these, Dr. Franklin chuses to add the, Washer womans Accounts, for our servants &c. as well as ourselves, I have no objection. Receipts to be taken for Payments of Money, and each Party furnished with a Copy of the Account and a sight of the Recipts once a Month if he desires it.
     The Expence of a Clerk for each, may be added if Dr. Franklin pleases or this may be a seperate Expence, as he chuses.
     Expences for Cloaths Books and other Things and transient pocket Expences to be seperate.
     Or if any other Plan is more agreable to Dr. Franklin, Mr. Adams begs him to propose it.
     The accounts for our sons at school may be added if Dr. Franklin chooses it, to the General Account—or other wise. For my own Part, when I left America I expected, and had no other Thought, but to be at the Expence of My sons subsistence and Education here in my private Capacity, and I shall still be very contented to do this, if Congress should desire it. But while other Gentlemen are maintaining and educating large familys here, and enjoying the exquisite Felicity of their Company at the Same time, perhaps Congress may think it proper to allow this Article to Us as well as to them, and I am sure I do not desire it, nor would I choose to accept it, if it was not allowed to others, altho, perhaps the Duties Labours and Anxieties of our station may be as greater as that of than those of others.
     I am sir your Inmate and obedient servant


Title: Jonathan Williams to the Commissioners, 22 September 1778
From: Williams, Jonathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Honble Gentlemen
      Nantes Sept. 22. 1778

     When I had the honour to lay my Accounts before you, I left the general one unfooted intending to compleat it after Examination. I now send it properly closed and settled to the 30th May 1778.
     You have also inclosed the account of the Magazine, Invoice of Arms repaired, and your general Account since that Period, all settled to the 10th September 1778, Balance in your Favour seven thousand three hundred eighty Six Livres 18/9. I have since received a Bill for Bayonnet Sheaths use in the magazine amounting to three thousand three hundred ninety one Livres 12. This with the Articles mentioned at the Foot of the general Account will leave a Balance of about eleven thousand Livres in my Favour, for which I shall take the Liberty to draw on you giving advice accordingly.
     Duplicates of all my Accounts are transmitted to Congress.
     I am sorry to inform you that the Dispatch Capt Barnes who sailed from this port the 29th Ultimo is taken and carried into Guernsey.
     I have the Honour to be with great Respect Honble Gentlemen Your most obedient & most humble Servant

      Jona Williams


Title: The Commissioners to William Lee, 22 – 26 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Lee, William

      Sir
      Passi September 22–26 1778

     We have considered, with some Attention the Papers which you have laid before Us, containing a Project of a Treaty to be made between the Republic of the United Provinces, and that of the United States of America.
     As Congress have entrusted to Us the Authority of treating with all the States of Europe, excepting Such as have particular Commissioners designated by Congress to treat with them, and as no particular Commissioner has been appointed to treat with their High Mightinesses: We have already taken such Measures as appeared to Us Suitable to accomplish So desirable a Purpose as a Friendship between two Nations So circumstanced as to have it in their Power to be extreamly beneficial to each other in promoting their mutual Prosperity. And We propose to continue our Endeavours, in every Way consistent with the Honour and Interest of both.
     But We do not think it prudent for many Reasons to express at present any decided Opinion concerning the Project of a Treaty which you have done Us the Honour to communicate to Us.
     We cannot however conclude without expressing a ready Disposition to treat upon so great an Object, which besides laying a foundation of an extensive Commerce, between the two Countries would have a very forcible Tendency to Stop the Effusion of human Blood; and prevent the further Progress of the Flames of War. We have the Honour to be with the Utmost Respect, sir your most obedient and most humble servants.


Title: E. F. van Berckel to the Commissioners, 23 September 1778
From: Berckel, Engelbert François van
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Amsterdam 23 Septembre 1778

      Le soussigné, Conseiller Pensionaire de la Ville d’Amsterdam, a l’honneur de faire savoir à tous les Messieurs qui se trouvent duement qualifiés de la part du Congrès des Etats-Unis de l’Amérique, qu’il se trouve autorisé par Mrs. les Bourguemaîtres de la dite Ville, de déclarer en leur nom, que, dans la supposition que le dit Congrès rientrera pas avec les Commissaires Anglois dans des Engagemens, qui pourroient être nuisibles ou préjudiciables au Commerce de la République des Pays-Bas Unis en Europe, directement ou indirectement, les Bourguemaîtres susdits seront entierement disposés à diriger, de leur côté, les affaires, autant qu’il dépendra d’eux, de la sorte, que, dès que l’Indépendance des dits Etats-Unis en Amérique sera reconnue par les Anglois, il pourra être arrêté et conclu au plutôt un Traité d’Amitié perpétuelle entre cette République et les dits Etats-Unis, contenant des avantages réciproques, par rapport au Commerce entre les sujets des deux nations, les plus étendus.
      Le soussigné a Thonneur d’ajouter, que c’est l’intention des dits Bourguemaîtres que l’on fasse usage de cette déclaration où l’on le jugera convenable; ne doutant nullement qu’on ne le fasse avec le ménagement nécessaire, pour qu’il n’en transpire rien auprès de ceux qui pourroient être intéressés à faire échouer, s’il étoit possible, ou bien à rendre difficile, l’exécution d’un plan, qui n’a d’autre but que celui d’avancer le bonheur et les véritables intérêts réciproques des deux Républiques.

       E. F. Van Berckel


Title: E. F. van Berckel to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 23 September 1778
From: Berckel, Engelbert François van
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Amsterdam, 23 September 1778

      The undersigned, Councilor Pensionary of the City of Amsterdam, has the honor to inform all the gentlemen who find themselves duely commissioned by the congress of the United States of America, that he finds himself authorized by the burgomasters of the city to declare in their name that, assuming the said congress will not enter into any agreement with the English commissioners that would be harmful or prejudicial to the trade of the Republic of the Netherlands in Europe, either directly or indirectly, the aforementioned burgomasters will be entirely disposed to facilitate matters on their part and as much as may depend upon them, so that as soon as the independence of the said United States in America is recognized by the English, it will be able to at once settle and conclude a treaty of perpetual friendship between this Republic and the said United States containing the broadest reciprocal advantages in trade between the subjects of the two nations.
      The undersigned has the honor to add that it is the intention of the said burgomasters that the present statement be used as will be deemed appropriate, not doubting that it will be used with all the necessary precautions so that nothing will occur to aid those who would like to see such a project fail or at least made difficult to implement, when its sole purpose is to increase the happiness and true reciprocal interests of the two republics.

       E. F. Van Berckel


Title: J. D. Schweighauser to the Commissioners, 24 September 1778
From: Schweighauser, John Daniel
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Honourable Gentlemen
      Nantz 24 Sept. 1778

     I have received but Yesterday the Letter with which you have honoured me the 14 Instant, covering one the 17th. for Capt. Richard together with the Bill of Loading and Invoice of 895 Barrels of Rice and thirty one of Indigo shipped by Mr. A. Livingston of Charles Town and Subject to your particular orders. I imediatly have been to Mr. Peltier du Doyer who I knew had the Care and direction of this Vessell to comunicate to him your Commands and beg that he would deliver me that Cargo, he has replied to my great astonishment that it was all sold except 18 or 20 Casks of Indigo of a very inferior Quality and that he had acted according to Mr. De Beaumarchais’s positive orders, and already begun making him remittances. I could not help expressing my Surprize and reflecting on the Imprudence of such an Action, as both he and the Captain render themselves responsable for the whole as he ingeniously confesses that he has had no Bill of Loading from said Beaumarchais. As this Affair seems altogether extraordinary I have postponed doing any thing ’till I receive your further Orders which you may depend will be strictly followed. I am extreamly happy to learn that the Exchange of prisoners will at last soon take place and I sincerely congratulate you on this affair as this will releive a number of Beings from Misary, and who will be indebted to you for this act of Humanity. Besides this affair will save a considerable Expence to the United States.
     In regard to my Commission at 5 Per Cent, which you think is two much I must beg that you would be kind enough to consider the trouble and Expence which attend this Business. The Captains not understanding the Language demand a Person from my Counting House to wait upon them most part of the day. The Outfit or repairs of the Ships employ two or three more to buy numberless articles and the strict Examination of all those Accounts is as you will judge very fatiguing. Besides the Care of the Prisoners is I can assure you no small task. If I am allowed but 2 Per Cent I must necessarily charge the 2 Per Cent I allow to my Correspondents at Brest and L’orient with the travelling Expenses of the Person I send to help them which I have not done as I include this in my Commission. When Mr. Penet came here at the beginning of this rupture to transact Business under my Inspection the Honourable Comittee allowed 5 Per Cent. Mr. Thomas Morris had the same perquisite. All these reasons persuade me that I had the same right if not greater since they had much less to do as you will yourselves confess. Many would do this Business for the usual Commission but be persuaded that they would take care to get it another way. However to cut short I humbly submit this to your Justice persuaded that if you consider my trouble you will not think my Demands unreasonable. Being with true Consideration most respectfully Your Most devoted and Most obedient Servant Honourable Gentlemen

      J. D. Schweighauser


Title: From John Adams to Ralph Izard, 25 September 1778
From: Izard, Ralph
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Passi September 25 1778

     I have received with much Pleasure, your Favour of Yesterdays Date. No Appology was necessary, for the delay of So few days, to answer a Letter the Contents of which did not, from any public Consideration, require haste. My most fervent Wishes, mingle themselves with yours, that the happy Time may soon arrive, when We may enjoy the Blessings of Peace uninterrupted by disputes, with any Power whatever: But alas! my private opinion is Apprehensions are very Strong, that We are yet a great Way at a distance from So great a Felicity.
     You will readily, acknowledge the Impropriety of my entering into the Question concerning the Duty of the Commissioners here, to have made the Communications of the Treaty, which you mention: But of this you may be assured that I shall at all Times, hold myself obliged to you for the Communication of your sentiments, upon any public affair.
     I am therefor sorry that in your Letter you have confined yourself to that Part of the Treaty, upon which I particularly requested your Sentiments. And I now take the Liberty to request your Sentiments upon every Part of the Treaty, which you conceive liable to doubtfull Construction, or capable of producing Discontent or Dispute. For I have the honnour to be fully of your Opinion that it is of very great Importance to be upon our guard and avoid every Cause of Controversy with France as much as possible. She is, and will be in Spight of the obstacles of Language, of Customs, Religion and Government, our natural Ally against G. B. as long as she shall continue our Ennemy, and that will be at least as long as she shall hold a foot of Ground in America, however she may disguise it, and whatever Peace or Truce she may make.
     You have mortified me much by mentioning a Conversation at Mr. Bertins, which if you understood me perfectly and remember it right had either too much of Phylosophy or of Rhodomontade, for a Politician, especially for a Representative of the United States of America, and more especially still for a Citizen of the Massachusetts Bay.
     Your sentiments of the Fishery as a source of Wealth of Commerce and naval Power are perfectly just, and therefore this Object will and ought to be attented to with the Utmost Precision and cherished with the most anxious Care.
     Nevertheless Agriculture is the most essential Interest of America, and even of the Massachusetts Bay, and it is very possible to injure both, by diverting too much of the Thoughts and Labour of the People, from the Cultivation of the Earth, to Adventures upon the Sea. And this in the opinion of some Persons has been a fault in the Massachusetts Bay. Experience had taught Us, in the Course of this War, that the Fishery was not so essential to our Welfare as it was once thought. Necessity has taught Us to dig in the Ground instead of fishing in the sea for our Bread, and We have found that the Resource did not fail Us. The Fishery was a source of Luxury and Vanity that did Us much Injury: yet this was the Fault of the Management, not of the Fishery. One Part of our Fish went to the West India Islands for Rum and Molasses to distill into Rum, which injured our Health and our Morals—the other Part went to Spain and Portugal for Gold and Silver the whole of which, almost went to London, Sometimes for valuable Articles of Cloathing, but too often for Lace and Ribbons.
     If therefore the Cessation of the Fishery for twenty years to come was to introduce the Culture of Flax and Wool, which it certainly would do as far as would be necessary for the Purposes of Decency and Comfort, if a Loss of Wealth should be the Consequence of it, the Acquisition of Morals and of Wisdom would perhaps make Us gainers in the End.
     These are vain Speculations I know. The Taste for Rum and Ribbons will continue, and there is no Means, for the New England People to obtain them So convenient as the Fishery, and therefore the first opportunity will be eagerly embraced to revive it.
     As a Nursery of Seamen and a source of naval Power it has been and is an object of serious Importance, and perhaps indispensably necessary to the Accomplishment and the Preservation of our Independance. I shall therefore always think it my Duty, to defend and secure our Right to it, with all Industry and Zeal, and shall ever be obliged to you for your Advice and Co operation. Pardon the Length of this Letter, and believe me, with much respect Esteem your Friend and servant.