Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Elizabeth Wright, 13 February 1777
From: Wright, Elizabeth
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honourd Sir
Pall mall London Febuy. th 13 1777
Your known Goodness of Heart and Generosity in Releiving and Suckouring the injured or oppres’d has Emboldned me to trouble you with the Case of Mr. Plat now a Prisoner in Newgate, On a charge of High Treason Comitted in America, that thro your Means or influence his Frinds may be made acquaintd with his Situation in order that they may take some Precautions for his being acquited, or at least, that he may Receive some Remittances for his Support in His Disagreable Unhappy Confinement, which I am apprehensive will be of some Continuence, as I fear this new Act that is now passing, is made allmost on Purpose to Detain Him with Several Others Nearly in the same Situation, Without Bail or Tryall as Prisoners of Warr, to be Confined in the Severeest Maner, in Goals, or Dungeons, as Criminals and God only knows where it may End, Perhaps Hang’d. Wee was intimately Acquainted with Mr. Plat in New York of Which Place He is A Native. His Father was A Merchant There a Man of Fortune and unspotted Reputation and He Himself is a very Amiable young Man, and A Credit to His Country. His Uncle of the same Name, no Doubt Sir, you are Acquainted with, As He is One of the Members of the Congress. About 3 years Ago Mr. Plats Father setled Him in Georgia at His own Request, where he Purchased 5000 Acres of Land, intending to turn Planter, but meeting with some Obstructions with Regard to Negros to Stock His Farm He Entred into Trade And became much known and Esteemed in Georgia as A Worthy Young Man. His Father Came from New York to see him and unfortunately Died whilest on the Vissit. His Mother A Brother and two Sisters are now on Long Island and have not heard from Him since He wrote them an Account of his Fathers Death. The 13th of Jully 1775 there Arived A Vessel in Savanah Harbour Commanded by A Captain Maitlord, Laden with Goods and some Powder and Arms from Merchants in England Consignd to their Correspondents, Merchants in Georgia. The People of Georgia at that Time had just formd a Congress amongst themselves and began as well as the Other Provinces to be Divided into Liberty and tory Partys. The Merchants to whom the Goods were Consigned were of these different Oppinions. A Stoppage of Trade then takeing Place and Goods being rather Scarce the Congress Previous to the Arival of the Vessel Purchased the Goods of the Merchants at An Advanced Price, but rather against the Will of those of them who were in the opposition to the Congress, in Consequence of which the others fearing there might be any obstruction to the Landing the Goods or that Possibly a Mob might be Rais’d to Destroy or Prevent the Congress from obtaining them, applied to Mr. Plat with two other Gentleman to go on board the Vessel which Lay some Miles off and see that She was safe brought up to the Town and that none of the Goods should be Landed till Her Arival There. They gave them an order to the Captn. and Mate to Receive and Entertain them in the best Maner on Board. But they seeing the Captn. aterwards in Town shew’d Him the order, and as He was not going on Board again just then He gave them an order to the Mate, much to the same Purpose as the other, viz., to Receive and treat them well, and was very Polite and Friendly. But by what hapned afterwards it appears that He was rather Averse to the Congress haveing the Cargo. They staid on Board 6 Days, saw the Vessel brought up to the Town and Nothing Landed Except some Horses for Governor Campbell at Charlestown south Carolina. They then went on shore thought no more of it and Another Commite was sent in their stead, who Landed the Cargo. After Captn. Maitland had Cleard his Vessel in Georgia he set sail with a Cargo from thence for Jamaica and soon after Mr. Plat went as Merchant in a Vessel of His own which He had fitted out for the same Port leaving his Partner to superintend his Business and Property in the Mean time. After his Arival in Jamaica He saw Captain Maitland There who was Exceeding Friendly to Him and invited Him to Make His home on Board His ship whilest He staid in Kingston. This offer He Declined but they frequently fell in Company with Each other and allways upon the footing of Friendship for about 8 weeks when they hapned one Evening to Meet in A Coffee House in a good deal of other Company amongst which was Captain Miller of New York, with several other Captains. Some of them had got a little heated with the Liquor and one Amongst the rest, gave as a Toast “Damnation to all Americans” to which Mr. Plat Reply’d, that No Gentlemen of Honour or Goodness could drink such a Toast as it was Repugnant to the Rules of Society, on which the other grew warm as well as some of the Company, and Mr. Plat fearing A Quarrel imediately Withdrew. Captain Maitland who by this time had grown warm with the Liquor and Conversation soon after His Departure, Cryd out “That Damnd fellow was one of them on Board my Ship at Georgia with an order from the Congress and Landed the Powder and Arms for them.” Most of the Company was Exceedingly Pleasd at the Discovery and the next Day Reported it all over the town, not omiting the Governor Sir Bassil Keith who imediately sent word to Captain Maitland that He ought to come and Exhibit an information against Mr. Plat. The Captn. having grown sober again was Exceedingly Sorry for what he had said and sent word to Mr. Plat that He wish’d he would absent Himself or Leave the Place. Elce He must be obliged to Comply with the Governors Comands. Mr. Plat Amazed, tho’ indiffirent, at his information returnd Answer that His Business did not suit him to leave the Place at that Time, that He had nothing to dread from any information He Could make against Him, and that He was at liberty to act as he thought Proper in the Case. Mr. Plat was at that Time haveing Disposed of his Vessel and Cargo fitting out another for Turtling and fishing before His Return to Georgia. As He Lay off in the River Prepared to Sail the Admiral’s Boat Came allong Side and Askd for Mr. Plat the Captain Reply’d that He was on Board on which they imediately seiz’d the Vessel and Crew alledging it was on account of An information of Captain Maitlands against Mr. Plat, before the Governor. Mr. Plats Captain and Crew were set at Liberty about 3 weeks afterward, but Mr. Plat was Confind in Irons and for a fortnight Debard from Seeing or writeing to Any of His Friends, and treated with the greatest insolence and indignities by the Sailors. He was afterwards Permited to write to His Friends on shore who Procured for him a Habeas Corpus on which He was brought to Trial on the affadavit of Captn. Maitland His Mate and 3 of His Men who deposed that he had been on Board their Vessel in Georgia with an order from the Congress and Landed for them the Powder and Arms which the Governor Deem’d Rebelion and Treason but finding it rather Difficult to Prove He Deliverd Him intirely into the Admiral Gaytons Hands who was both His Prosecuter and Goalor. Mr. Plat had a Negro Boy which with his own Cloaths they had when His Vessel was seiz’d Permitted Him to keep. Him He was oblidged to sell in order to defray the Expences of His tryal. Mr. Plats Council Pleaded that at the Time these goods Arived in Georgia that Province was not Declared in Rebelion, as this hapned in July and that Declaration was not made till in the fall and that as to Seizing His Vessel, the Act intitled them to Seize American Privateers and did not Extend to A Private Vessel which had been cleard out for Turtling and Fishing. The admirals Council made their Cheif Plea wich was addressing themselves to the Judge, Pleas your Honour if your Honour should set the Prisoner at Liberty it will cost the Admiral 6000 Pound Damages for falce imprisoment to which the Judge Reply’d “Well I acquit the Prisoner of the Charges laid to Him but Return Him on Board as an Able Bodied Seaman to do Duty in Consequence of a late Act that all Masters and Mariners so taken, should serve on Board His Majestys frigates in His Majesty’s Service. To this it was answerd that Mr. Plat was neither Master nor Mariner but Merchant on Board His own Vessel, that this the Captain and crew could Prove. But this Assertion was Evaded and he was again Caried on Board the Admirals Ship and from thence Remov’d to several others and after some time sent home by the Admiral under Pretence of tryal in England in order Chiefly to Secure Himself from Prosecution, which He fear’d had Mr. Plat been set at Liberty. He arived at Portsmouth after having been A Prisoner 10 Months and sent to London for A Habeas, obtain’d it but there was the greatest Precautions taken in order to Render it inefectual. He was Remov’d with the greatest Expedition into Another Vessel, but He still Persisting in desire to be Brought to Tryall, 2 of Sir Johnfeildin[g’s Men?] Was sent for Him to Portsmouth. He wa[s brought] to Town and Carry’d before Him but He not ch[oosing] to Medle with so intricate a Cause He was Carryd before another Majistrate and Comanded to Prison, with a charge of Treason tending to Piracy on the written affadavit of two of Captn. Maitlands Sailors Previously Prepared by Council and not appearing to Confront Him in a new, and diffirent Maner from that at Jamaica. A Copy of it Refused Him, and the Comitment wrote in such a Maner that his tryall Cannot be brought on till the Kings Pleasure wich no doubt according to this New Act will not be during the Warr unless He could be Exchanged for some English Prisoner. I could not help wishing you sir and his Uncle knew his situation, as it Distresses us Exceedingly tho he himself is Exceeding chearful under it and says that if it can in any respect conduce to the good of his country he shall bear it with Pleasure Even tho his Life was Required of him. If you Sir approve of it, I should Esteem it as a Favour if you would send this to his Uncle or whatever you think best. I Reman with the greatest Respect
Elizabeth Wright

My Mother Brother Sister and Self desire our best Love and duty to You.

Addressed in another hand: Doctor Franklin


Title: The American Commissioners to Baron Schulenburg, 14 February 1777
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To: Schulenburg, Friedrich Wilhelm, baron von der

May it please your Excellency
Paris Feby. 14th: 1777
We have the honor of inclosing the Declaration of the Independancy of the United States of North America, with the Articles of their Confederation; which we desire you to take the earliest Opportunity of laying before his Majesty, the King of Prussia; At the same time We wish he may be assured of the earnest desire of the United States to obtain his Freindship; and by a free Commerce, to establish an intercourse between their distant Countries, which they are Confident must be mutually beneficial. The state of the Commerce of the United States, and the Advantages which must result to both Countries from the Establishment of a Commercial intercourse; We shall if agreeable to his Majesty lay before him. Meantime We take the Liberty of assuring your Excellency that the Reports of the Advantages gained by his Brittannic Majestys Troops over those of the United States are greatly exaggerated, and many of them without Foundation, especially those which assert that an Accommodation is about to take place, there being no probability of such an Event, by the latest intelligence We have received from America. We have the honor to be with the most profound respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Very Humble Servants
B FranklinSilas Deane

Commissioners Plenipotentiary for the United States of North America

Addressed: To / his Excellency / Baron de Scolenborg


Title: The Farmers General: Memorandum for the American Commissioners, 14 February 1777
From: Farmers General
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Du 14 fevrier 1777.
Les Fermiers généraux avanceront deux millions aux termes proposés. Le premier million sera payé le 15 May préfix. Le second le 15 Aoust et ils en seront remboursés en Tabacs qui leur seront livrés dans les ports de france avant la fin de décembre prochain.
Le prix proposé de 4 s. la livre dans les Magasins de la Virginie et du Maryland est beaucoup trop considérable. Les fermiers généraux croyent être bien assurés que le prix courant des Tabacs des premiers crus de Virginie n’excede pas 12 l.t. le cent pezant, et celuy du Maryland est encore au dessous.
Il n’est pas possible en effet que les habitans de ces Colonies ayant des besoins sans autre ressource pour s’en procurer que leurs Tabacs et ayant plus de deux récoltes accumulées tiennent leurs Tabacs à un prix excessif.
Il en est de même du prix proposé pour le transport des Tabacs en france. Le Compte Simulé joint aux propositions ne l’établit qu’à 138 l.t. 8 s. quoiqu’on y ait porté une double commission et qu’on n’ait eu aucun égard au bénéfice que feront les marchandises de france qui seront achetées avec l’argent fourni par les fermiers généraux.
Enfin ce qui doit fixer toute Incertitude sur les prix c’est Le Marché qu’ont déja conclu les fermiers généraux et celuy que leur propose de conclure une Compagnie de Négocians très solvables à raison de 32 l.t. Le cent pezant poids de Marc de Tabac rendu en france payable en Lettres à Trois usances du jour de la livraison.
D’après ces faits, dont les fermiers généraux donneront preuve, ils offrent de prendre tout le Tabac qui sera transporté en france à raison de 6 s. La Livre ou 30 l.t. pezant poids de Marc avec les réfractions, allouances et deductions ordinaires, en remboursement des deux millions de leurs avances, et après leur remboursement ils payeront au même prix Tout le Tabac qui arrivera en france en a[rgent] ou en Lettres sur leur Receveur général à un mois d’usance[?].
Lorsque les deux millions auront été acquittés et que l’excédent des Tabacs qui pourront arriver leur aura [été] remis de bonne foy dans le courant de cette année, ils [ne] feront aucune difficulté de renouveller le marché proposé pour les trois années suivantes, et de faire l’avance des trois millions qui sont demandés payables aux époques qui seront convenues.
Mais cette seconde avance qui présente un nouveau traité doit dépendre de l’exécution entiére du premier traité et ce n’est qu’à la fin de l’année ou au commencement de la prochaine qu’on peut s’en occuper.


Title: Lambert Wickes to the American Commissioners, 14 February 1777
From: Wickes, Lambert
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
Port Lewis Feby. 14th 1777
This will inform you of my Safe arrival after a tolerable Successfull Cruize, having Captured 3 Sail of Brig’s one Snow and One Ship, the Snow is a Falmouth Packet bound from thence to Lisbon she is Mounted with 16 Guns and had Near 50 Men on board, She Engaged Near an hour before she struck. I had one Man killed. My first Lieut. had his left Arm shot of above the Elbow and the Lieut. of Marines had a Musquet Ball lodged in his Wrist. They had Serveral Men wounded but none killed. I am in great hopes that both my Wounded Officers will do well, as there is No Unfavourable Simptoms at Present; Three of our Prizes is Arrived and I expect the other two in to Morrow. As I am informed that there has been two American Private Ships Warr, lately taken and Carried into England, I think it would be a good oppertunity to Negotiate and Exchange Prisoners if it Could be done, but Submit to your better Judgments to Act as you think proper. I Should be very Glad to hear from you as Soon as Possible and Should be Much obliged if you Would Point out Some line or Mode for me to Proceed by, in Disposing of Prisoners and Prizes. As Nothing will be done before I receive your Answer to this, I hope you’ll excuse my being more particular at Present, from Gentlemen, Your most oblig’d Humble Servant
Lambt Wickes
To the Honble. Commissioners Dr. Benja. Franklin Silas Dean & Arthur Lee at Parris

A List of the Vessels and Cargoes take Vizt

No. 1,
A Brig from Pool, bound to Cadiz with a Cargo of Cod Fish

  2,
A Brig with Wheat and Flour from Dublin bound to Lisbon

  3,
A Brig from Sheetland with Barley bound Cadiz

  4,
Swallow Packet, bound from falm[outh] to Lisbon in Ballast

  5
A Ship from Bordeaux bound to London-Derry with Brandy, Claret and Hoops. Three of those are Arrived and the Other two are not farr Off.

L.W.

Addressed: To / The Honble. Dr. Benja: Franklin / at / Parris
Notation: Capt Weeks Port Louis Feby 14 77


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from C. W. K. and J. H., 14 February 1777
From: K., C. W.,H., J.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

This letter is a mystery to which we have no solution. The hand we cannot identify, but Franklin’s endorsement makes us suspect that the bearer himself may have been the writer. The initials “C. W. K.” suggest nothing to us. “J. H.” may well be John Horne, better known later as Horne Tooke. In 1775 he had played a prominent part in raising a subscription in London for the dependents of Americans killed at Lexington and Concord, and two years later was tried and imprisoned for his part in that affair. All that can be said with assurance is that Horne, if this letter is not a complete concoction, would have been a logical backer for Potter’s mission to France.
Israel Ralph Potter (c. 1744–1826) was a Rhode Islander who had fought at Bunker Hill. He then sailed in the Continental brig Washington, Captain Sion Martindale, and was captured at sea and imprisoned in England. After his escape he went to London, as mentioned here, and then made two visits to Paris. On both of them, according to his later account, he saw Franklin, who promised that if he returned he would be given passage to America; but the outbreak of war between France and Britain prevented this third trip. His story is consonant with the suggestion in the present letter that he was in Paris to further, in some way not explained, the American cause in Britain. The crucial difficulty, however, is two entries in Franklin’s accounts that February, both apparently covering the same disbursement of 120 l.t.: in one it was to “Potter, an American Prisoner escap’d from England, to help him home”; in the other it was to “Israel Potter and Edward Griffis, to bear their Expenses to Nantes.” Franklin believed, these entries indicate, that Potter was homeward bound; but how could he have believed so when he had this letter in his hands? That is part of the mystery.

Sr
Feaby 14th 1777
We Have Taken This oppertunity of writing To you by The bearer Hereof Hoping you are in good Health As we are at This Time by The will of god.
Sr we Have the Pleasure to Inform you That The bearer Hereof Isreal relft Potter was Taken Prisnor on board The Washington Commanded by Captain Marlinggal and Caried into Pounchmouth From which Pleace he gained his Libberty after sumtim of Confindment There and he is we Can Ashure you a man That is greatly to be Estemed For his Vallor and Zeal Which he Hath often Shewed For the Cause of his Country. For Atho he was A Prisnor Himself yet he gladly Accepted The oppertunity of being our searvant To go To Relive his brother Souldiers That where [were] in Prison in London Twice and Hath often Expressed The Greatest Desire to Return Again to Amarica but Could Not by Any means Efect it. But we Have sent him unto you and Have Asised [assisted?] him as well as we Could at Present. But as we and many other Friends are very Desirous to Know The True State of Afairs We Desire That he may Return as Soon as Possible As he will be The only Person That Can be Depended upon For That Purpose. For he knows And Hath been in great Part of England and as he Hath A Searvant with him he may Pass Very Safely and we Dought Not But he will. And we Can Asure you That you Have A great many Friends In England who will with us Asist To The utmost of Their Power in all Things. We are well known By The bearer who will give you A Perticular Acount of us. But The sooner he Returns The Better it will be For There is Like To be Troublesum Times in England Very Soon So No more at Present. We are your
C:W:K and J: H
 To the Rev Mr F

Addressed: For Mr / Fran Paris / France
Endorsed: Israel Potters, pretended Letter from some Gentm. in England.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Marquis d’Osmond, 14 February 1777
From: Osmond, René-Eustache, marquis d’
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Vendredi 14 fevrier 1777.
Le Marquis d’Osmond, colonel commendant du regiment de Cavalerie d’Orleans, s’est presenté plusieures fois à l’hotel d’hambourg pour avoir l’honneur de voir Monsieur franclin où Monsieur dign; Les circonstances l’ont mal servi. L’un de ces Messieurs etoit incommodé l’autre etoit occupé. Le Marquis d’Osmond a le Plus grand desir d’obtenir une demie heure d’entretien. Il prie ces Messieurs de vouloir Bien donner, à celui de ses gens qui Porte ce Billet, le jour où ils seront visibles et l’heure qui leur sera la Plus commode. L’empressement du Marquis d’Osmond à s’ÿ rendre ne sera qu’une Preuve Bien faible de l’envie qu’il a d’obtenir ce qu’il demande.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur franclin / à l’hotel d’hambourg / rüe jacob. / A Paris
Notation: D’Osmond, Paris 15 fevrier 1777


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Louis Simon, 14 February 1777: résumé
From: Simon, Louis
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Marseilles, February 14, 1777, in English: Some local merchants are sending me to the East Indies in a new ship that I am to outfit. An inquiry in England about how to equip her with an electric conductor produced the surprising answer that the British navy has not yet adopted such conductors. You are the best person to help me on that aspect of your discoveries. I should be particularly grateful for help because I was in a thunderstorm off Africa, for some twenty days without interruption, when I often saw St. Elmo’s fire on the masthead and sparks on the ship’s iron rods, and knew the danger I was in. The translator of this letter will also translate your reply.>


Title: Jonathan Williams, Jr., to the American Commissioners, 16 February 1777
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
Nantes Feb. 16. 1777.
The inclosed is from Mr. Lee who set off this Morning, for Bourdeaux. The Dispatches &c. went with Mr. Morris to paimbeuf yesterday and are I hope by this time on board. I have the pleasure to inform you that an american Frigate supposed to be Capt. Weeks has sent a prize laden with Codfish into l’orient; This news comes by a Gentleman who arrivd from thence yesterday, so have no reason to doubt of its truth, but we must wait for the post tomorrow for confirmation.
I shall go to Paimbeuf tomorrow to put every thing in the most expeditious Train. It is strange that Mr. Peltier has not yet recvd. orders from Mr. Montieu relative to the purchase of the Goods to compleat the Cargo. Please to enquire into this for without such orders I apprehend it will be difficult to execute the Business. I hope you will excuse me mentioning once more that Charts are not to be had here and that 3 Weeks is the extent of Time that I allow myself to dispatch the Ship. Mr. Montaudouin has recvd. a Letter from Cadiz dated 28 January which mentions that a Ship in 26 Days from Martinique brings news that the Americains have gained a great advantage over the English. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Gentlemen Your most obedient Servant
J Williams
The Honorable The Deputies of the United States

Notation: Jon Williams Nantes Feby 16. 77


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 16 February 1777
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear and honored Sir
Nantes Feb. 16. 1777.
I have written the inclosed to Mr. Blunt because I thought it my duty so to do. If you don’t think so, please to keep it. The one to Mr. Vaughan does not contain a word of a public nature. Please to forward it.
I have not answer’d Mr. Alexander, because I want your assistance to know how it should be answered. I shall be infinitely obliged if you will favour me with a Line upon the Subject of my private concerns; tell me only what views you think are best for me to have and I am determined to know no Difficulty.

I have removed to another part of the Town far from Mr. Montaudoin, so send this under Covr of Mr. Shweighausser’s Banker. If you will please to direct to me chez lui I shall get my letter, some time sooner. I am in haste most respectfully and affectionately Yours &c.
J Williams


Title: The Secret Committee to the American Commissioners, 17 February 1777
From: Committee of Secret Correspondence,Franklin, Benjamin,Dickinson, John,Harrison, Benjamin,Jay, John,Johnson, Thomas
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

In the secret Committee of Congress Baltimore in Maryland
Honorable Gentlemen
Feby. 17th. 1777
We have the honor to inclose you a Resolve of Congress that is of great Importance to the public Service, which has suffered considerably the last Fall, and during this Winter, by the insufficient manner in which our Soldiers were clothed. Having found much Delay heretofore in getting Cloth made up, the Congress desire that 40,000 compleat Suits of Soldiers Cloaths may be sent. In giving directions for the making these Cloaths, it may be necessary, Gentlemen, to inform that both the Coats and Waistcoats must be short skirted, according to the dress of our Soldiery, and that they should be generally for Men of stouter make than those of France. Variety of Sizes will of course be ordered.
The Eastern Ports are generally entered with so much more Safety than the Southern, that we recommend the former for these Goods to be sent to, giving Orders to the Captain to inform Congress immediately of his Arrival, either by Express or by personal Attendance. We expect this Letter will be delivered you by Capt. Johnston, Commander of the Lexington armed Vessel, and as the Congress are very anxious to hear from you, it is probable Capt. Johnston will not remain long enough in France to get either Cloth or Cloaths in any quantity, but since it is necessary for the health of the Soldiers to cover them from the Dews of Summer it will be of great Advantage to send a considerable quantity of Blankets and Tent Cloth by the Return of the Lexington, with Stockings, Flints, and Muskets with Bayonets. The Soldiers Cloaths and the Cloth should be so contrived as to reach North America by the month of September at furthest. We are with esteem, honorable Gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble Servants
Richard Henry LeeFras. LewisWm Whipple
Copy.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from the Chevalier de Girard, 17 February 1777: résumé
From: Girard, ——, chevalier de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Philippeville, February 17, 1777, in French: I have heard of your arrival from Boston, and write to ask whether you can give me news of Mr. Penn, settled in the colonies and head of Pennsylvania, and enable me to send a letter to him.>


Title: Robert Morris to the American Commissioners, 18 February 1777
From: Morris, Robert
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Honorable Gentlemen,
Philada. Febry. 18th, 1777.
By this Opportunity I forward you sundry dispatches from Congress and the Committee of Secret Correspondance still at Baltimore, and from them I have just received the inclosed resolve of Congress dated the 5th Inst. Copies of which I shall transmit you by various Conveyances, in order that you may give orders for procuring the Articles required and to have them Collected ready for Embarkation. The places of their destination are not yet fixed but you will hear from the Committee or from me very soon on that subject, in the mean time the Articles may be provided and you may rest assured of our utmost exertions to make you effective remittances to answer all your Engagements.
We have at length got one of our Frigates the Randolph Capt. Biddle Cruizing on this Coast to meet any single Frigates of the Enemy and hope for good accounts from her, she sails fast is well Manned and appointed. Others will soon join her and our utmost exertions will be used to put the Navy on a respectable and formidable footing fast as possible.
No event of War of any Material Consequence has happened since the last letter from the Committee. General Washington continues to Pin up the Enemy in Brunswick from whence distress obliges them to send Foraging once or twice a week, and altho they come out 2 to 3000 strong our People always attack and never fail to kill and take more or less of them. They have sent for reinforcements from Rhode Island and probably may render the Jersey War a little more serious again but our new Enlistments go on so fast we shall soon be too formidable for them in the Field unless they receive very great reinforcements from Europe, and I fancy they may not find that so practicable now as the year past. With the greatest respect and Esteem I have the honor to remain Honorable Gentlemen Your very Obedient humble Servant.
Robt Morris
(Copy)

Addressed: To / The Honorable, Doctor Benjn. Franklin / Silas Deane & Arthur Lee Esqrs. / Commissioners for American affairs / Paris / by Mr. Reed.
Notation: From Rob. Morris Esqr. 18th Feby. 1777


Title: Thomas Morris to the American Commissioners, 18 February 1777
From: Morris, Thomas
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

GentlemenNantes February 18th. 1777.
Since I had the pleasure to address you last, have received Mr. Deane’s letter dated the 4th Instant which was delivered to me by Mr. Lee. In answer to its Contents am to acquaint you next Thursday’s Post will carry you a remittance of £90,000, promised in my last. It shoud have been sent sooner, but I coud not ask payment of those the Tobacco was sold to, untill the whole was delivered, which was compleated yesterday. Captain Anderson sailed on Sunday Morning with a fair wind. Your dispatches were put in a lead box and safely conveyed onboard the Success at Paimbeuf.
I have received a letter from Captain Wickes dated at Port Louis the 14th. Instant acquainting me with his arrival there after a successful Cruize, having capturd five Brittish Vessells of which the following is a List

No. 1.
The Swallow Packet bound from Falmouth to Lisbon mounted with 16 Carriage Guns and 50 Men onboard

  2.
A Brigt. from Pool bound to Cadiz with a Cargo Codfish

  3.
A Brigt. from Sheetland with barley bound for Cadiz

  4.
A Brigt. from Dublin bound to Lisbon with wheat and flour

  5.
A Ship from Bordeaux, bound to Londonderry with brandy, Claret, Rozin and Hoops

The Swallow Packet fought near 45 Minutes before she struck. Captain Wickes’s first Lieutt. lost an Arm in the Action, and his Lieutt. Marines received a Musquet ball in his Wrist, which was all the damage he sustained in the engagement. Onboard the Packet many were dangerously wounded. I shall sett off in a few hours for Port Louis, and on my return shall be able to give you a more circumstantial account of this matter. In the mean time I remain respectfully Gentlemen Your most Obedient Servant
Thos. Morris
To The Honble. Benja. Franklin & Silas Deane Esqrs.

Addressed: A L’Honorable Docr. Franklin / á L’Hotel D’Hamburg rue Jacob / á Paris
Notation: Mr T. Morris Nantes Febry. 18th 1777


Title: The Secret Committee to the American Commissioners, 18 February 1777
From: Committee of Secret Correspondence,Franklin, Benjamin,Dickinson, John,Harrison, Benjamin,Jay, John,Johnson, Thomas
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Honorable Gentlemen
In Secret Committee of Congress Feby 18, 1777
You will receive herewith a Copy of our Letter of Yesterday by the Lexington, with its enclosures. This goes to Boston for a Passage from thence. An armed Vessel belonging to that State will carry the dispatches and will be governed by your directions respecting her Load back, and the Time of her return. Should you have failed in obtaining the Loan, or of getting the Cloth, Cloaths, &c. mentioned in the Resolve of Congress, you will please turn the Vessel over to Messrs. Thomas Morris and William Lee, or either of them to receive such Continental Cargo as they may be enabled to send in her. Unless you should be of Opinion that the public Service requires that she should return immediately to North America with your dispatches, in which case you will direct what you judge best for the public good. We are with perfect esteem, honorable Gentlemen, your most obedient and most humble Servants
Richard Henry LeeFra. LewisWm Whipple
Baltimore Feby. 18th. 1777


Title: The Committee of Secret Correspondence to the American Commissioners, 19 February 1777
From: Committee of Secret Correspondence,Franklin, Benjamin,Dickinson, John,Harrison, Benjamin,Jay, John,Johnson, Thomas
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Honorable Gentlemen,
Baltimore in Maryland Feby 19th, 1777
The events of war have not since our last furnished any thing decisive. The enemies Army still remains encamped upon the hills near Brunswick, and still our Troops continue to beat back and destroy their Convoys insomuch that we understand their Horses dye in numbers, and we have reason to believe that the difficulty of removing their Stores, cannon, &c. will be insuperably great, until the opening of the Rareton furnishes a passage by water for their return to New York. The American Army is not numerous at present, but the new Levies are collecting fast as possible, and we hope to have a sufficient force early in the field. We see by the speech of the King of Great Britain to his Parliament that much money will be called for, no doubt, to prosecute the war with unrelenting vigor. That we shall oppose with all our power will be certain, but the event must be doubtful, until France shall take a decided part in the war. When that happens our liberties will be secured, and the glory and greatness of France be placed on the most solid ground. What may be the consequence of her delay, must be a painful consideration to every friend of liberty and mankind. Thus viewing our situation, we are sure it will occasion your strongest exertions to procure an event of such momentous consequence to your Country.
It is in vain for us to have on hand a great abundance of Tobacco, Rice, Indigo, Flour and other valuable articles of merchandise if prevented from exporting them, by having the whole Naval power of Great Britain to contend against. It is not only for the interest of these States, but clearly for the benefit of Europe in general, that we should not be hindered from freely transporting our products that abound here, and are much wanted there. Why should the avarice and ambition of Great Britain be gratified, to the great injury of other nations? Mr. Deane recommends sending Frigates to France, and to convoy our Merchandize. But it should be considered that we have an extensive coast to defend; that we are young in the business of fitting Ships of war, That founderies for Cannon were to be erected, and the difficulty of getting seamen quickly when Privateers abound as they do in the States where Sailors are, as yet, chiefly to be met with. And lastly, that our Frigates are much restrained by the heavy Ships of the enemy which are placed at the entrance of our Bays. In short, the attention of Great Britain must be drawn in part from hence, before France can benefit largely by our Commerce.
We sensibly feel the disagreable situation Mr. Deane must have been in from His receipt of the Committees letter in June, and the date of his own in October. But this was occasioned by accident, not neglect, since letters were sent to him in all the intervening months, which have either fallen into the enemies hands, or been destroyed. From the time of Doctor Franklin’s sailing, until we arrived at this place, the Ships of War at the Mouth of Delaware and the interruption given the Post by the enemy, added to the barrenness of events, prevented us from writing when we had no particular commands from Congress for you.
Mr. Bingham informs us from Martinique that he learned from a Spanish General there, on his way to South America, that the King of Spain was well disposed to do the United States offices of friendship, and that a loan of money might be obtained from that Court. As the power sent you for borrowing is not confined to place, we mention this intelligence, that you may avail yourselves of his Catholic Majesties friendly designs. Perhaps a loan may be obtained there on better terms than elsewhere.
We expect it will not be long before Congress will appoint Commissioners to the Courts formerly mentioned and in the mean time, you will serve the cause of your Country in the best manner possible with the Ministers from those Courts to that of Versailles. Earnestly wishing for good news, and quickly from you, we remain with friendship and esteem, honorable gentlemen your most obedient humble Servants
Benja HarrisonRichard Henry LeeJno Witherspoon

P.S. Congress adjourn this week back to Philadelphia.
We refer you to the letter of the Secret Committee concerning the transmission of Stores by this Vessel.


Title: Lambert Wickes to the American Commissioners, 19 February 1777
From: Wickes, Lambert
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
LOrient Febry 19th 1777
I Wrot you Last post Informing you of the Suckces of my Last Cruize and take this Opertunity To Inform you of the Safe Arrival of All my Prizes. I Am in Great hopes youl be Able to Obtain Leave for me to heav Down and Repair my Ship at this port As that Will be Absolutely Necessary prior To my Departure from this As I Recd. a Shott in [torn] Bottom When the Swallo Engaged me. When I Arrivd At this port the Captns. of the Different prizes Applyed to me for Leav to Go on shore Which I Granted on thier promising me that they Would not Write to England or Else Where With out my permishon they further promised Not to Go Away or Do Any thing Disagreabl Without my Consent. Not Withstanding thier Giving me Thier joint Words on Honour that they Would Comply With those Requests I find that they have at the Request of Mr. Perrit a merchant of this place Waited on the Intendant To Know by What Authority they Was Detained as Prisoners in this port. I Am further Informd that they Intend Going to the Admeralty Officer at vans [Vannes] to protest a Gainst Me And Demand the Restitution of their Respecktiv Ships and Cargoes. I hope you’l take Such Steps As to prevent any Bad Consequences Arriseing from those proceadings. I Am very Sorry to See that thos Gentlemen are So Abandoned To Al Sence of Honour as I am Well Assured it Can procead from No Bad treatment that they Recd. from me as they have All Publickly Acknowledged that It Was Impossible they Could have bin better treated If they had bin taken by Thier own brothers as I have made them a present of thier Own private Adventures those belonging to the Packet Are very Considerable they Amount to Near £2700 Sterling first Cost. Mr. Perrit has bin very Acktiv in Doing me Every prejudice in his power. I Should Esteam it as a very Great favour If it is in your power to Reward him According to his Deserts. I Immagine the Consequence of thier Waiting on the Intendant Will be an Order for the Enlargement of the prisoners but hope you have had Suffishent time for the Negotiateing an Exchange if it Could be Done. I Am to See the Intendant this Evening When I Shal Know his Determination and If Desired to Discharge the prisoners Shall Readyly Comply With his Request at the Same time I Shal Request that He Will order them to St. Mallo Immediately After They are Released Which I make no Doubt, but he Will Comply With. There is Several persons Now treating With me About the purchasing the Vessails and Cargoes and Am In hopes to Get Soon Clear of them on tolerable Good Terms. My Wounded Officers are in A good Way of Doing very Well. From Gentlemen your Most Obliged Humble Servant,
Lambt Wickes
To The Honrbl Doctr Franklin Silias Dean and Arthur Lee

Mr. Montaudain and Brothers of Nantz Is Mr. Perrits Friend and a Line from you To that Gentlemen Would Get him Sevearly Check’d by that Gentlemen

Addressed: To / The Honbl. Docktor Benjmn. Franklin / At / Parris
Notation: Captn Weeks Orient Febry. 19th 1777


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 19 February 1777
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Dear and honored Sir
Nantes Feb. 19. 1777.
I am very sorry to hear that you have an attack of the Gout, but I hope it will soon be over.
As to Business I must refer you to the inclosed. As I suppose I am to stay here some time longer, I shall be glad to hear from you what my future Line of Life is to be, for I take it for granted that I am not to return to England again. Mr. Lee mention’d that you had views of forming some Company of french Merchts. and that I might probably have an opportunity of taking an active part in the plan; whatever it is I will do my utmost to give satisfaction. I don’t know whether your hint relative to Mr. Ss Daughter was designed as serious or not, but I assure you I do not think that the most impracticable thing in the World; my Situation in business being settled to satisfaction, this might become an object worthy of pursuit. My former Views of this kind with Miss A I consider as totally at an end on account of the War between her Country and mine and I have long since given up every expectation of the kind. This leaves me at full liberty and I assure you that tho’ I am not less sensible of Miss a’s merit yet I must do justice to Miss S. If I were settled here I imagine I could do great service to my Country but wherever you think I can be more usefull I am determined that no personal consideration shall prevent my obedience. I have written so much and so often to you that I fear I tire you with repetition, but I discover every thing that occurs to mind without m[asking?] or endeavouring to dress it with propriety, because I know you will kindly excuse whatever you find amiss and freely tell me of it. I am with great Respect Your dutifull and affectionate Kinsman
J Williams

Please to tell me what you think of Mr. Alexanders plans about the Tobacco Business.


Title: Lambert Wickes to the American Commissioners, 21 February 1777
From: Wickes, Lambert
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen,
L’Orient Feby. 21st. 1777
When I wrote you last I mentioned, being Summond to Appear before the Intendant, in regard to the Destination of the Prisoners now on board my Ship. The Intendant, then Informed me that he should come on board in Company with the Captains of the different prizes and Examine all the English, Irish and Scotch Men that was on board my Ship and all those Chose to depart was to be releas’d and would be dilivered to Captain Newman and the remainder to remain on board. My Answer was that I could not Suffer any person to come on board My ship to discharge any person from her, but if he ordered me I would imeadiately Discharge all those prisoners taken in the last Cruize and take his Certificate for the Same. We have now Agreed to Wait ’till Sunday for your Answer and then Deliver the prisoners to Capt. Newman. I have also a Notification from the Admiralty Office to depart the port in 24 Hours with all my prizes. This by no Means Corresponds with your instructions to me. As we are not Allowed more than 24 hours to refit and Supply our Vessels with Necessaries, we shall send all our prizes out of the Port the first fair Wind, but shall continue here with the Reprisal, untill I receive your further Instructions which I hope will be more favourable. I have entered the Different Vessels as my Property, and not as Prizes. Inclosed you have a Coppy of my declaration. Mr. Morris is here now, but has not yet Settled the Plan for Disposing of the Prizes. I am in hopes of being able to give you a full Account of the Disposal of the Whole next Week. From Gentlemen Your most obliged Humble Servant
Lambt. Wickes

PS. Mr. Perret, Still Continued Very Active, in doing me all the prejudice he Can.
To the Honble. Dr. Benja. Franklin Silas Dean Arthur Lee Esqrs.

Addressed: To / The Honble. Dr. Benja. Franklin Esqr / at / Parris
Notation: From Capt. Weeks L’Orient 21st. Feby. 1777


Title: Arthur Lee to Franklin and Silas Deane, 22 February 1777
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas

Dear Sirs
Bayone Feby. 22d. 1777.
I arrivd here this day and shall pursue my journey to-morrow, and as the march is as regular as the Sun, it is agreed that the Voiturier shall place me in Madrid, in 13 days.
By Mr. Delap’s account the Imports from America, I mean from the United States, amounted last year to fifty five thousand pounds Sterling. He expects soon to have an exact list of the Imports and Exports from the Custom House, and will send it to you. He desires me to mention that the duty upon oil being seven Livres per Quintal is so heavy as to render that an unprofitable article of Commerce unless you can get it removd, that unless a Certificate of its being american produce, be sent with all Bees-wax, it is subject to a duty of 25 percent and that the duty upon Fish is fifteen livres per Quintal amounting almost to a prohibition. Salmon is the only Fish importable duty free, and that is reexported to their Islands.
Our demand upon Mr. S. has made a great noise. It was the talk of the whole change at Nantes that we had taken up, at once, two thousand Louis dores at Mr. Penet’s and Gruel’s Banquer; and I saw a Letter, of a late date, from Mr: Thoms. Morris to a merchant at Bordeau, informing him, that we had taken up that Sum, at his, Mr. Morris’s Banker’s, and that it must be deducted out of the Sum the Merchant was to advance us. At the same time he demands a state of Mr. Dean’s account letting the merchant, in as foolish a Letter as I ever had the honor to read, into the Secrets of the Congress very imprudently. Thus those Adventurers and Sots are continually prostituting the names of the Congress and of us, to exagerate their own consequence, or cover their own little Schemes. In every merchant’s mouth of any character at Nantes and Bourdeau the names of Mr. Morris and Mr. Myrcle are absolutely contemptible, and I assure you the censure is not a little visited, especially in the last place, upon those who appointed them. As far as my very imperfect judgment of commerce can inform me, the credit of the Congress seems to have sufferd by their conduct, almost irreparably.
I pursue my voyage quite alone, having found my nephew had little political stuff about him, so that I thought it better to leave him at Nantes under the care of Mr. Sweighausser who is a protestant. I have the honor of being with the greatest esteem Dear Sirs Your most Obedient Servant
Arthur Lee

Addressed: To the Honble / Benjamin Franklin & / Silas Dean Esqrs
Notation: Arthur Lee Bayonne Feby 22d 1777


Title: Jonathan Williams, Jr., to the American Commissioners, 22 February 1777
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
Nantes Feb. 22. 1777.
I have the honor of your Favours by Messrs. Portail &c. There is no opportunity for them to embark exceept via St. Domingo, unless the packet Boat should be sent. I say nothing to them of the Count de Vergennes as you do not express an Intention that they should go in her. They do not seem to like to go in a Ship under american Colours least they should be taken and their plan be thereby defeated, they therefore have thought of going by the West Indies. I beg to know whether in case they should not be able to go in this or any other way, I shall be at Liberty to take them on board the Count, they paying their passage. Four is as many as I wish to have in this Ship.
We have had bad weather for 2 Days past which has a little impeded our dispatch, but we go on as fast as we can. It is reported here that several Sail of english Men of War are cruising between Bellisle and Brest. This Information I thought proper to send to Capt. Weeks that he may keep a sharp look out. It is also said that a french Ship bound from the West Indies to St. Malo has been searched by an English Frigatte, and it is thought that outward bound Ships will of course meet with the same Fate. It seems to be the opinion here that these circumstances will occasion the two powers to stumble on a War whether either really intends or not. The News of our Success in Jersey, which you no doubt have heard of at Paris is thus confirmed by a Ship which arrived at Bilboa in 25 or 30 Days from Marblehead. She reports that 1800 Hessians were surprized at Trenton, on the 27. of Decr. and the whole of them with their arms &c. taken; 900 of them are said to have been killed in the action. It is also said here that the spanish Fleet has arrived at Rio de la plata. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Gentlemen Your most obedient Servant
J Williams
The Honorable The Deputies of the United States.

Notation: Mr Williams


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Nathan Rumsey, 22 February 1777
From: Rumsey, Nathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Honorable Sir
Nantes Feby. 22d. 77.
I hope I have the pleasure of being the first who gives You the inclosed most agreable Piece of News: It is the Extract of a Letter from a Gentleman in Bayonne to his Friend in this City, which is confirmed by a Letter received at the same time with this News, from William Lee Esqr. of London, allowing for Ministerial suppression. Examining the Circumstances, I think it appears to be genuine, and as such have the Honor of congratulating you upon its Existence. Messrs. Morris and Penet are at present at L’orient negociating the affair of the 5 Prizes, of the Capture of which you have before this without Doubt, been apprized.
One of the former Prizes of Captain Wickes is now in this Port, and Captain Pratchell, who is yet here, has made a reclamation, and demanded the Vessel. Upon his being refused the Vessel, he has obtained a summons for Mr. Penet and Self, signed by the first Judge of the Admiralty, to appear at the first Audience, and give our Reasons for detaining his Property. The sommons also includes you Sir; but doubt not but the Judge will have politeness enough to dispense with Your personal appearance.
Mr. Penet’s sudden Departure for L’orient gives me an opportunity of giving you this Information. I have the Honor to be Sir Your Most obedient Humble Servant
Nathan Rumsey

I have forwarded the Account of the inclosed news to Mr. Lee in London with a request that it may be immediately printed.
N.R.

Addressed: To / The Honorable / Doctor Benjamin Franklin / A l’Hotel D’Hambourg / Rüe Jacob / a Paris.
Endorsed: Mr Rumsey
Notation: N. Rumsey 22 Feb. 77


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from Henry Coder, 23 February 1777
From: Coder, Henry
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Coder or Codere, as he sometimes spelled himself (1738–80), played a considerable part in the commissioners’ early search for supplies. He was a retired army officer who came from Pézenas, in Languedoc. He had been a volunteer in the Seven Years’ War and became a lieutenant in 1775; perhaps he was soon afterward promoted (he refers to himself as a captain), but in 1776 he was pensioned off. His uncle had been useful to and in the confidence of the maréchal de Saxe, and he himself had been well regarded by Louis XV; but something went wrong after the old King died. Coder was now an entrepreneur. He first made contact with Franklin in January, when he warned him through Dubourg that the French weapons being shipped to America were not only defective but suicidal to use. The present letter seems to have been his first direct approach to Franklin, and it was accompanied or followed shortly by three undated memoranda. One proposed to manufacture a sample of 1,300 uniforms, each batch of a hundred in different colors for a different state. The other two gave minute details of the equipment to be provided, with the cost of each item.

    Paris ce 23e fevrier 1777
    Homme juste vertueux lisez cette lettre.
      Messieurs ellie de baumon et dubourg conoissent
      celui qui vous ecrit dans l’unique vue de
      rendre votre voiage en frence fructueux.
    Monsieur

Je vous protexte [proteste] qu’il y a en frence des hommes dans tous les etats bien disposés et tres capaples de vous scervir utilement et sans interet, mais malhureusement ce sont ceux qu’on ne vous a pas procurés, rarement ils s’offrent d’eux meme et surtout quand ils ont lieu de craindre d’etre confondus avec des mauvaix sujets. J’ai remits il y a un mois a Mr. ellie de baumon, une lettre d’un manufacturié d’armes de st. etienne que M. dubourg doit vous avoir donnée, elle a du vous convaincre et de la mauvaise fourniture qui vous a eté faite dans ce genre et que la faute ne put pas en etre imputée aux fabriquans. J’ai remis aussi a M. dubourg une notte exacte de ce que coutte au roy un soldat habillé et armé de pied en cap sauf le fusi et la bayonete, a la marge j’indique les endroits ou on fabrique les choses premieres propres a toutes ces sortes de fournitures et les lieux ou on les travallie. Je le prie de vous engagér a profitér de la reforme qui a eté faite de la regie pour l’habillement et l’equipement des troupes malgrai son utilité demontrée pour enrollér un nombre d’ouvriers propres a l’habillement et equipement ainsi q’un ou deux commis de cette regie reformée et d’en etablir une senblable en amerique. Par ce moyen on n’aura besoin d’achetér yci que les objets qu’on ne trouve pas en amerique, ce qui simplifiera la mission de MM. les deputés du congrés qui vera arrivér avec plaisir une compagnie d’hommes non sulement propres a travaliér l’habillement et l’equipement d’un soldat, mais en etat encore d’en fabriquér les matieres. Je m’engage a faire cette recrue sans qu’il y aye personne de compromits, je demende aussi dans cette notte a vous entretenir et demontrér la facilité que j’ai de remplir avec succés les diferents objets dont je parle et vous confiér des choses a vous sul tres interessentes pour la prosperité des colonnies, enfin vous convaincre que je merite de jouir de la douceur de vivre avec des hommes vertueux et libres. Je vous engage aussi Monsieur, a prendre conoissence d’une lettre que j’ai ecrit a M. dubourg, a ne point faire passér des officiers avec des grades superieurs en amerique, a cause de leurs grandes pretentions, de la difficulté qu’ils auront a vivre en bonne intelligence avec les generaux ameriqains et surtout dans la crainte qu’ils ne se laissent corompre, tandis qu’on tire le parti qu’on vut d’un officier subalterne et bas officier pour l’ordinaire plus instruit et en etat de soutenir la fatigue. Les officiers, bas officiers et soldats que je propose dans ma lettre a M. dubourg d’enmenér avec moi en amerique pour formér un corpts des troupes legeres seront la plus pard propres au scervice de l’artillerie et du gennie, disposés a prendre la pioche ou la charue quand il le faudra et en etat de faire des miracles en defendent la cause des insurgents (qui est celle de tous les hommes) dont nous meriterons la confience et l’amitié. Tout ce que je propose et ay a proposé de vive voix put etre executé dans un mois. Je suis avec veneration Monsieur votre tres humble et tres obeissent scerviteur
Codercapitaine d’infenteriehotel d’angletere rue de seine
Monsieur le docteur de franquelin


Title: Notes on the Pennsylvania Constitution, [before 24 February? 1777]
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To:

This fragment is the only extant manuscript in Franklin’s hand that deals with the second part of the Pennsylvania constitution, the frame of government. The notes might seem at first glance to be a byproduct of his involvement, such as it was, with drawing up the document; and our reason for thinking that they are not requires a more detailed consideration of that process than the outline in our note on the convention. The draft version of the frame of government was debated in the committee of the whole and presented to the convention on September 5, 1776. Franklin and two others were then appointed to revise the wording without changing the substance, and to have the revised draft printed for public discussion; it appeared on September 10. From the 16th to the 27th the convention resumed debate, altered many passages, renumbered some of the articles, and added a preamble. On the 28th the frame of government and the declaration of rights were formally adopted.
Franklin’s notes touch on only one aspect of the constitution, the provisions for rotation in several offices. The reference to Article XIX is to the new numbering and to provisions added after September 10, when the work of Franklin’s committee for stylistic revision was finished. The notes are not the sort that he would have been likely to make during the subsequent debate in the convention; they are purely factual, as if he were answering or preparing to answer questions on a specific point. The time when questions came at him was when he reached France, where the novel constitution aroused much curiosity. One of the first to evince interest was the duc de La Rochefoucauld, as witness the note from him below under Feb. 24, and it is a reasonable guess that at some time he asked about the provisions for rotation. If so this memorandum, like the Duke’s note, was written before the latter’s translation of the constitution appeared.

[Before Feb. 24, 1777?]
[Beginning lost] chosen an Assemblyman more than 4 Years in 7.
11. No one can sit as a Member of Congress more than 2 years successively, nor be re-elected till after 3 years of Interruption.
19 The supreme Council to be chosen 1 Member for each County annually, so as that one third be chosen yearly and the whole not changed but in three years.
Whoever has serv’d three years cannot be rechosen ’till after 4 years vacancy.


Title: [William Alexander]: Two Memoranda, [before 24 February 1777]
From: Alexander, William
To:

We have given both these documents titles supplied in the manuscripts in another hand, and date them on the assumption that they were written for the commissioners during Alexander’s visit to Paris in February, which probably ended on the 24th; for he reached Dijon on the 26th. While he was with the commissioners he drafted for them the long reply to the farmers general that immediately follows those memoranda, and there is every likelihood that all three grew out of discussions held during his visit. The “Hints” are on three disparate subjects, prizes, naval gunnery, and land forces. Alexander would scarcely have gone into them unless he had learned at first hand that they were on the commissioners’ minds. Neither would he in all probability have forwarded his views later from Dijon, because some of what he had to say was, coming from a British citizen, close to treason; he was well aware that spies were about. The “Observations on Tobacco,” although they contain almost nothing to interest spies, are not the kind of finished product that he would have sent by post; they seem to be impromptu jottings (some of them incomprehensible to us) made in the course of a meeting. These are our grounds for believing that he dashed off both memoranda while he was seeing the commissioners.

I. Hints
[Before February 24, 1777]
The advantages that will arise to the different European powers from the freedom and Independance of america, are So obvious That there can be no doubt of their Concurrence in every measure to Effectuate it, Consistent with their observance of treaties, or the timid views of Such as are affraid of War.
As the sale or Condemnation of Captures made at sea by the Belligirent Powers within the Dominions of the Newtral European Powers, is prohibited by Treaty, and this seems to be a most Important point for America as the only probable means of removing in some Degree the seat of the War and the most likely to rouse the spirit of the British Nation and Compel the administration to an Equal peace, The following Considerations are submitted.
As Newtrality Implies the free admission of Cruisers and their prizes into all the Ports of the Newtral power, there can never be a want of reasons, for Unloading such prizes in a Newtral port. Any defect in the vessel will always afford a sufficient one. Nothing can prevent such defects from being repaird, as perfect newtrality requires, aids in distress (for money) in every Case where they are necessary.

But as such repairs require time and Cargoes Suffer by detention reasons can never be wanting for shipping these Cargoes by other vessels during the detention of the prize vessels.
By the Treaty with Holland free ships make free goods, and supposing this article Contested in Its full Extent, goods bear no mark of Identity but what can easily be Effaced, and It has been the practice of all Europeans at War to Cover their property in this way. Supposing difficulties to occur in unloading and loading by different vessels than the prizes, There Certainly can be none in the acquisition of Hulks for that purpose.
Queries
Were it not proper to have faithfull agents in every sea port of the principal European powers?
Woud it not be proper that one or two Cruizers have their destination in each of these ports? Will not successfull Cruizers from Each of these ports, tempt the Newtral Merchants and seamen to desire a participation in the Emoluments?
Might not prudent agents be Directed to give shares, or be entrusted with powers to assign the Entire property of Cruizers, to the subjects of newtral powers upon payment?
Woud not this augment the fund for Carrying on the War?
Woud not this by gradualy Interesting Individuals come at last to have an Influence on the Councils of the European powers?
Woud it not by irritating the Enemies of Your Country Lead Them to imprudencies, which woud Convert friends into allies?
Might not Capital be drawn from all nations for this purpose: Profit being the God of Merchants?
The Litle Effect of Distant shot at sea is so well known, both by the reason of the thing and by experience, That it may be assumed as a principle, Where there is Either wind or sea that the 50th Shot does not take place at 300 Yards distance.

An Engagement at sea to be decisive must then by nigh, when It will be determined by the relative weight of shot thrown in from the one ship to the other.
This principle is so far understood, that it is beleivd every ship intended for action, Carries as much weight of Mette [Metal] as relative to Her strength and sailing she can bear.
But by shortening Guns of 5 or 6 feet to 3 and 4, without encreasing the thickness, will not ships carry Guns of 18 and 24 pound shot as easily as They can now do Guns of half these bores?
Will not such Guns carry point blank above the distance where guns at sea can be usefull?
N:B. The measures are assumed at random.
Have not all the Experiments made of the Effect of Guns been tried merely for Land service, and Erroneously adopted in the sea service?
Is not the object at land to give the greatest possible shock to a resisting body and at the greatest possible distance?
Is not the object at sea merely to bore a plank or Tear it, woud not the tearing one, be better than boring both sides of a ship?
Woud not shortening the Guns and thus decreasing the force tend to this? And at any rate bore both sides within any distance where Shot at sea can be relied on?
Is it not Certain that the time of working and firing a Gun at Sea, is in some nigh proportion to The weight?
Was not this fact ascertaind by the famous Engagement between Captn. Falconer in a 64 Gun ship against a french 74 Gun ship on the Coast of Portugal, where by throwing in nearly 2 shot of 24 lb. in the time the french threw in one 32 pound shot he prevaild by his weight of Metal, against heavier Canon?
It is believd the history of this engagement will be found in Smolet, it is well known to all seamen.

Woud not the Nation who first builds frigates of 30 Guns, 24 pounders of equal weight with the present 12 pounders prevail in all causes against ships even of 36 Guns of the present construction?
Is not some new practice necessary to give A Consciousness of Superiority, which commonly Creates a real one?
May not an Army be Compared to a parcel of Lead drops, which fired seperately will hardly pierce the skin, but when united and Melted into a Mass will produce the most Extraordinary Effects?
If additional force coud be given to this mass, without Encreasing the Bulk, The handling of it woud be equaly easy and Comodious and the Effect woud still encrease.
Is it not plain that even the best European Troops at present, are greatly Inferiour to what by accounts the ancients were, in every Essential Duty of a soldier?
Is not 5 Leagues or 15 Miles Deemd an extraordinary Good March for a body of Men, and what They can hardly exceed, for two days running, without resting a third?
Can an army now Entrench itself in the time and in the way They anciently did, where every Encampment was fortified even for a nights stay?
Is not the number of Shot fired and the small Execution in a long Batle a proof of how Imperfect modern armies are in the use of arms?
May not this Partly be accounted for, From the officers considering his Proffession, as merely an idle way of living Genteely, with too much Pay to work as a Journey Man, and with prospects too distant to Excite high ambition?
Is not the Pay of the Soldier too small to Cloth and Support Him under hard labour?
By Encreasing the Pay of the Soldier and diminishg that of the officer woud not more and better work be done?
Does not a Carpenter or Blacksmith work 12 hours a day, and keep his health and live as long as a soldier?

Woud not working soldiers 12 hours a day Contribute to their perfection in their art, Their Morals and even their health?
Might not lads at 16 or 17 be taught by Degrees to work as long at the business of a soldier as at any other Business?
  Marching
Cannot any lad with sound limbs be accustomed to walk without great Fatigue 30 Miles or 10 leagues a day by the same progress That a nailor is taught to make 3 or 4000 nails a day?
Woud not a light dress free from ligatures Either on the arms or legs facilitate this?
Woud not an oild silk or Cloth Covering which woud reject wet facilitate this?
Woud not shoes which woud merely save the sole from being hurt, without preventing wet, facilitate this?
Might not Cleanliness be preservd by frequent washing and swimming, without Linen shirts?
Woud not a Cotton lining to such Silk or Cloth as be above described be warmer than Linen, and by attracting the moisture of the Body keep it drier and as Cleanly as Linen?
  Intrenching
Coud not any lad of 17 be Soon taught to Ditch as well as a Common Ditcher?
Cannot any Good ditcher make Eight square Yards of Ditching in a day?
Coud not a body of Such, intrench themselves in two hours?
  Firing
Cannot any lad be taught in a few Months to shoot a bird flying, or at least hit, a body of 4 feet dimensions at 50 yards with a bullet?
Woud not 100 Men who coud march Entrench and fire as above be equal to any 200 troops now Existing Except for the single purpose of filling space?
Is not the Success of War more determined by speedy Marches, quick and strong encampments, and superiority of Detachments than by pitchd Batles?

Is it not rare even in Batles to find a space large enough for an Army to act entirely?
Is it not on the Contrary more Common that the fate of an army is decided by the success of a part, than by the action of the whole body?
Or is it not more rare to find ground large enough for an army to act in, than an army to fill the Ground you can occupy So to act together?

Endorsed by Franklin: Hints from Mr Alexander

  II. Observations on Tobacco
Observations
[Before February 24, 1777]
1st. If Commissions must be paid for buying, the legal Commission in America is 5 per Centum which should be added to the Cost tho In great and Safe Business it Is sometimes done for 2½ per Centum.
2d. An Agent must also be Employed to Attend the Delivery which will be 2 per Centum. The first is only on the purchase, the last is on the selling price.
3d. The french have ever been accustomed to 4 per Centum discount for money down. After all the profit is considerable, because the fraught Insurance etc. are not advance, So that the Advance may be computed £6 for 3 months, for which the returns are the Capital, and £[illegible].
French ships are apt to Dammage Tobacco more than the English both on account of Their Construction, their manner of Stowing and Their manner of working at Sea. They will also Carry fewer hogsheads In proportion to their Burden.
  Premiums [?] of Insurance will also probably rise.
  The idea of Carrying on that trade by mutual passes appears Chimerical. The British Nation coud only agree to it on Condition that the ships returnd to Britain, in which Case she woud Enjoy the monopoly of that beneficial Commerce. America can have no Object in Continuing this monopoly when she is seeking a free trade.
Whatever pecuniary Interest may be Suggested to tempt her It is to be Considerd that the British Merchant will only offer what he can afford after a large profit to Himself.
Why allow Him that profit?
If that trade[?] be to be Carried on by the Public, might it not be Converted into a Supply?
Suppose for goods delivered abroad at prime Cost, Tobacco were to be deliverd at Nantes and Bordeaux at [illegible] Sols putting half the fraught on the outward Cargo the fraught of the homeward might be got for 5 or at most 6 s. per Centum.
By Employing Foreign Ships, in case They were Seizd it woud generate questions between the Captive, and Captor, then Occasion national questions, As when the Cry of a people grows strong no Governors can resist it.

Notation: Mr. Alexanders Observations on Tobacco


Title: William Alexander’s Draft of a Memorandum from the American Commissioners to the Farmers General, [before 24 February 1777]
From: Alexander, William
To:

The history of this memorandum can be reconstructed from the four versions that survive. Alexander, during his visit to Paris, first drafted it for the commissioners as their reply to the memorandum from the farmers general above, Feb. 14. He wrote it in French, unlike the preceding documents, presumably because it was intended for eventual submission to the farmers; it shows a command of the language that is fluent but far from perfect. Temple Franklin then made two copies. The first and earlier one omits Alexander’s opening sentence but otherwise follows his text, with a few minor errors due to inattention; the second is drastically shortened. The version finally submitted, which bears the date of Feb. 24, follows verbatim this shortened text; but all errors in French have disappeared. What happened is clear. The commissioners quickly eliminated the blunt statement about price with which Alexander began his memorandum. They then decided to delete any discussion of specific prices, and confine themselves to the bland generalities with which Alexander concluded his statement. Finally they had this rump of a memorandum corrected and transcribed by some French amanuensis.

[Before February 24, 1777]
[L’on reponds aux propositions de la part de La Compagnie, que la prix de 4 sols la livre pour des tabacs pris dans les magazins de la Virginie et du Maryland, de meme que 6 sols par livre livrés en France ne peuvent presentement avoir lieu. L’on scai actuelment que les Colons craignant la difficulté de faire passer leur produits en Europe, ont diminué de Moitie la Cultivation des Tabacs. Le prix est presentment en Europe de 15 a 20 sols la livre; aussitot que l’avis de ces prix passent en l’Americq, le prix augmentera en proportion. Les speculations qui se font par tout sur cette Article, et la Competition d’acheteurs qui en resultera, portera vraisemblablement le prix au dela de tout ce qui a eté connus jusqu’icy. Et l’on l’a vue autrefois jusqu’a 12 Sols la Livre sur le lieu, scavoir dans l’année 1759.
Sur cet fondement l’on ose doutér si les Contracteurs actuelles a 8 sols seront en etat d’acquitér leurs Engagements. Et si Ils reussissent, Ils pourront perdre Gros.
La Compagnie n’ignorent pas, que quand des vendeurs scavent qu’il faut absolument achetér, et qu’on peut donnér 8 Sols, Ils ne seront guerre disposés de vendre a meilleur marché.
Et sur le tout,] après avoir amplement consideré les propositions de la part de La Compagnie, L’on croit que La systeme la plus avantageuse pour Elle et pour [le] Public en Amériq est celuy dont il a été ci devant question. C’est à dire, que La Compagnie fera expediér les différentes Matiéres dont Le Congres aura besoin, suivant L’état qui Luy sera fourni par Leurs Plenipotentiares. Et qu’elle achetera au plus bas prix possible qu’après L’expedition ces denrees seront sur les risques du Congrès, qui seront obligé de chargér le Montant en bons tabacs de La Virginie et Mariland qu’ils acheteront au plus bas prix possible, de sorte qu’il n’y aura aucun profit pris des deux Cotés. Qu’après L’expedition les tabacs seront sur les risques de la Compagnie.
La Compagnie pourra par cest moyen s’assurer d’un ample provision de matières pour la Consommation de la France sur le pied le plus médioqure que les Circonstances du tems peuvent admettre. Et se reposant sur La probité et la bonne foy de La société entiere, Elle ne Courrera aucun des risques auquel Elle sera toujours exposé en travaillant avec des particuliers.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from La Rochefoucauld, [before 24 February 1777]
From: La Rochefoucauld, Louis-Alexandre, duc de La Roche-Guyon et de
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Thursday evening [before Feb. 24, 1777]
Le Duc de la Rochefoucauld pays his respectful compliments to Doctor franklyn and beggs from him the favour of having for few moments the Minutes of the Convention held at Philadelphia for the Pennsylvanian Legislation. He wants of them for seeing and adding to his translation the subscriptions which are at the end of the Minutes, and which are not in the edition in 8°.

Addressed: Monsieur / Monsieur le Docteur franklyn


Title: [Dumas] to the American Commissioners, 25 February 1777
From: Dumas, Charles-Guillaume-Frédéric
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Messieurs
25e. fevr. 1777
Depuis ma Lettre du 14e. de ce mois, j’ai eu plusieurs fois la plume à la main pour vous écrire; mais n’ayant rien de pressant à vous marquer, je me suis contenu, de peur d’être importun. J’espere que Mr. Franklin jouit de sa retraite en parfaite santé, et qu’il aura le loisir de m’écrire de là plus amplement, comme il me l’a promis. J’espere aussi que la santé de Mr. Deane est parfaite, et que la multitude des affaires ne l’accable pas.
J’ai écrit à Amsterdam, pour être averti lorsqu’il partira un vaisseau pour l’Amérique; en attendant j’ai souscrit pour la Gazette françoise de Leide, pour la leur envoyer. Ils me demandent aussi des papiers Anglois; mais il y en a tant, que je ne sais lequel choisir; je me rappelle seulement qu’une de mes connoissances tenoit autrefois le London Evening post, et devoit payer pour cela au Maître de poste à peu près 5 guinées ou 5 Livres sterling. Mr. Franklin saura cela mieux que moi; et j’attends ses ordres sur le choix.
Si Mr. Lee est encore avec vous, Messieurs, ayez la bonté de lui présenter mes respects, mes voeux pour sa conservation, et pour avoir quelquefois de ses bonnes nouvelles.
Ce n’est pas sans de fortes raisons, Messieurs, que je vous ai priés de ne mettre sur le couvert de vos Lettres que le seul nom de Mr.—Mr. De Visme Marchand de Vin à Leide, et de ne mettre mon nom que sur la Lettre enfermés dans le couvert. Car, depuis le passage ici de Mr. Carmichael sur-tout, je suis fort suspect à vos ennemis en ce pays. Le Juif Pinto raconte par-tout que je suis en relation intime avec les Américains, et initié dans tous leurs secrets. J’ai déjà marqué à Mr. Deane que deux, au moins, de ses Lettres avoient été ouvertes; j’avois soupconné que cela s’étoit fait en france; mais on peut aussi l’avoir fait à La H. Après tout, les discours du Juif ne m’inquieteroient pas. Mais, ce qui est plus sérieux, c’est que l’Ambassadeur de vos ennemis s’est entretenu de moi, l’un des derniers jours de Cour, avec le Grand-Pensionaire, qu’il a prononcé plusieurs fois mon nom et que le Grand-Pensionaire lui a dit chut, en lui faisant remarquer qu’ils étoient écoutés par quelqu’un qui me connoissoit. Ce n’est pas que je craigne que vos ennemis m’attaquent ouvertement en ce pays; ils n’ont pas des preuves contre moi suffisantes pour cela; mais outre que vos lettres risquent d’être ouvertes et perdues pour moi, si mon nom y paroît, ils peuvent avoir la bassesse de vouloir me nuire et perdre dans la vocation qui a fait jusqu’ici ma ressource en ce pays, où la Cour est si étroitement liée avec eux, et où les plus riches rentiers sont si fort intéressés dans leurs fonds publics. Je renoncerois assurément avec joie à cette vocation précaire et désagréable, pour consacrer le reste de mes jours uniquement au service des Etats unis Américains, en ce paysci, en France auprès de Vous, Messieurs, par-tout ailleurs où il le faudroit. Mais vous aimerez sans doute mieux me voir dans le cas de pouvoir vous obéir au moment que vous m’appelleriez, que réduit à vous demander de m’occuper, dans le temps où je vous serois peut-être plus à charge qu’utile. Ce n’est donc point par pusillanimité, mais par discrétion pour vous, Messieurs, que j’évite de me compromettre ici; à tout autre égard je voudrois que toute la terre sût combien je me trouve honoré de la confiance et des ordres du Congrès.
Mr. Franklin m’exhorte à avoir bon courage, comme lui et Mr. Deane. J’admire leur fortitude, et ferai mon possible pour l’imiter. Vos Lettres, mes respectables amis, m’aideront beaucoup en cela. C’est un malheur pour moi d’être excessivement sensible aux désastres de mes amis; mais, d’un autre côté, si je l’étois moins, je ne les aimerois pas tant: ainsi, à tout prendre, je préfere encore cette anxiété, où j’ai du moins la douceur d’aimer, à l’ennui d’une apathie où je n’aimerois rien.
On ne parle ici que des cargaisons considérables, de tabac sur-tout, que le Congrès envoie en France. S’il pensoit à faire de-même en ce pays, je sollicite pour en avoir la factorie, avec un ami intime que j’ai à Rotterdam, qui est parfaitement au fait de la maniere dont il faut s’y prendre, tant pour la vente de ces cargaisons, que pour les retours. Les deux articles capitaux seroient le tabac et le ris, et nous devrions, autant que la chose seroit possible, les avoir seuls en ce pays, au moins de la part et pour le compte du Congrès. Il faudroit pour cet effet 4 Vaisseaux, bons et fins voiliers, Capitaines intelligents, allertes et sûrs, qui allassent et vinssent continuellement selon les directions dont on conviendroit. Un tel commencement pourroit avoir les suites les plus avantageuses et les plus importantes, à plus d’un égard. Une navigation, un commerce, un crédit, des ressources de tout genre &c, multipliés pour le Congrès, &c, &c. Cela mérite, Messieurs, que vous y pensiez. Ayez la bonté de m’en dire votre sentiment en réponse. Je vous aime, honore et respecte bien sincerement, Messieurs mes chers et dignes Amis Votre très humble et très devoué serviteur
St. Jean.

Notations: St. Jean 25 fevr. 77 / 25 Feby. 1777


Title: The Farmers General: Memorandum for the American Commissioners, 25 February 1777
From: Farmers General
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Du 25 fevrier 1777.
La proposition déja faite aux Fermiers généraux d’expédier des navires chargés de marchandises pour le Congrès et rapporter des Tabacs en retour, ne peut quant à présent leur convenir.
Ils s’en tiennent à celle qui leur a été faite le 12 de ce mois de la part de MM. Les plenipotentiaires du Congrès de leur livrer rendue en France une quantité de Tabac à des prix convenus au moyen de l’avance qui seroit faite au Congrès de 2,000,000 l.t..
Les fermiers Généraux ont accepté cette proposition par leur mémoire du 14. Ils ont offert un prix qu’ils estiment raisonable.
C’est à cette offre que MM. Les plenipotentiaires doivent une réponse et les fermiers généraux l’attendent depuis douze Jours.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from John Bradford, 25 February 1777
From: Bradford, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Boston 25th. Feby 1777
I have the Honour to transmit you this by Capt. John Adams, who goes express by order of Congress with dispatches for the Honble. Commissrs. at the Court of France, with orders to deliver them himself. The Secret Committee were desirous of making as valuable a Remittance as might be, to put the schooner in a set of Ballast, But it happens we have no Oil, pot Ash, or any other Article at market, which we usually send to the french Market. I have ship’d a hundred Tierces excellent Salmon, about three tuns Curriers Oil and a tun pot ash to the Address of Messrs. Pliarne Penet & Co. who are to advise with Wm. Lee and Thos. Morris Esqrs. if in Nants in the disposal of the small Cargo.
The Board of War here have desired to have some Goods sent from France on freight, and I have given the Capt. Orders, if the Articles ship’d, be not sufficient to put her in a proper set of Ballast, to take in as much on the account of this state as will answer that purpose.
The Agreeable Newes of your Arrival at the Court of France diffused a Joy throughout this Continent. May it please an Indulgent providence to Confirm your health, that you may in the evening of Life render your Country as important Services, as you have rendered the World heretofor.
You will see by the papers sir that ever since the 25th. Decr. we have been Gaining advantages of the Enemy, and its beyond doubt they are in miserable plight. General How has Staind and blasted his Character for ever, by Cruelly treating his prisoners but such is the Generosity of Americans we dont retaliate. I have the honour to be with the most profound Respects Sir Your most obedient and most Humble Servant
Jn. Bradford

I have the pleasure to Acquaint you that family Connections here are well as is your friend Doctor Cooper. I Rejoyce that the Honble. Mr. Lee is with you, am Glad he has come out from among them.
The Honble Benj Franklin Esqr.

Addressed: The Honble. Doctor Franklin / at / Paris
Notation: Bradford Boston 25 feb. 77.


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from ——— Guiraut l’Ainé, 25 February 1777: résumé
From: Guiraut, ——, l’aîné
To: Franklin, Benjamin

<Bordeaux, February 25, in French: I consigned some vinegar to Dublin on the Barbara, Capt. Welsh. She was captured and taken into Lorient by an American ship, I have just learned, and is being held there. I have the right as a Frenchman to repossess my merchandise, and ask you to have it released to the holder of my power of attorney, or to be reimbursed for its value according to the invoice that I am sending.>


Title: The American Commissioners: Memorandum for the Farmers General, 26 February 1777
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To:

Ce 26 Fevrier 1777
Les Plenipotentiares du Congrés, apres une Deliberation maturée, ne peuvent pas accepter le Prix offert par les Fermiers Generaux, ni faire aucune autre changement dans leur derniere Propositition.


Title: Lambert Wickes to the American Commissioners, 26 February 1777
From: Wickes, Lambert
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
LOrient Febry. 26th. 1777
I hav this Day Recd. very Extraordinary Oorders from The Intendant of This port Demanding me to Leav this port in 24 Hours he Says This Order is Given in Consequence of A possitiv Order Recd, this Day from the Minester At Parris. I Asked Liberty To heav Down my Ship and Repair her on my Arrival but it has never Bin Granted. On being told That I mus possitivly Depart in 24 Hours I Told the Intendant that it Was not in my Power to Depart in so Short A time as my Ship Was not fitt To procead to America Without heaving Down and Repairing and Beg’d he Would Send Carpenters Of to Exammine the Ship and Take Thier Report Accordingly. This he Consented to and Sent them off they Return’d and told the Intendant That they thought It highly Nessesary to Carreane and Repair the Ship Before Shee Departed for America he then possitivly Refused to Grant me Liberty to Refitt Unless the Carpenter and Caulker Would Sighn A Certifycate that We Should be in Emminent Danger of Loosing the Ship If not Repaired. This Certifycate they Could not Sign, As they had not bin to Sea in the Ship and it Was not in thier power to See the Ships Bottom Without heaving her Down. He then told me I Must Depart Immediately. We are Now takeing our Water on bord and Geting Ready to procead but Shall not be Able to Sail before Friday the 28th. in the Evening and Am in hopes of I Shal have the pleasure of Receaving your orders and Instrucktions on this hed by that time but If Oblig’d to Depart Sooner or before I Recv. your orders I Shall Run into Nantz and there Enter A protest and Ask Liberty to heav Down and Repair Tho I Am Ordered by the Intendant no to go in to Any port in France. These are very Extraordinary orders and Such as I Little Exspected to Recv, in Frace. I Beg Leav to Congrattulate you on Our Late Suckces in America as I Am Informd We have Gained a Very Signal and Compleat vicktory Over our Enemies At Trentown. You’l See by my Declaration Made on my Arrival That I then mentioned my Ships being Leaky and beged Liberty To heav Down and Repair. If this favour Cannot be Granted as it is Absolutely Nessesary prior to my Departure I Should be Much Obliged If you Would forward your Dispaches as Soon and Send me of for America as Soon As possible. From Gentlemen Your most Oblig’d Humble Servant
Lambt. Wickes

Addressed: To / The Honbl. Docktor Benjamin Franklin / At / Parris
Notation: Wickes 26 Feb. 77. L’Orient


Title: To Benjamin Franklin from William Gordon, 26 February 1777
From: Gordon, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin

My Dear Sir
Jamaica Plain Feby 26. 1777
After having finished the enclosed I alterd my design, and concluded upon sending it under cover to you, with request that you would forward it to Great Britain by a safe conveyance: if by the post via Holland, it may be best to put it under cover directed by an unknown hand, as the ministerial harpies at the London post office may have acquainted themselves with mine, or upon seeing such a quantity of writing may break it open. Wish it to get safe and soon to my friend: but have not sealed it that so you may read the contents, which must be done with allowance, it consisting much in chit chat, and not being originally intended for your inspection. There may be something new in it. I rejoy[ced in] hearing you had got safe to France. We are waiting and longing for the news of France’s having de[clared wa]r against G B. Who would ever have thought thirty years back that America would have wi[shed for suc]h an event? How much in the dark are the wisest as to futurity! Dr. Cooper has married his dau[ghter to a] West India gentleman. The Dr. is well; as are other friends. You will see what liberty I have ta[ken in ask]ing my correspondents to convey their letters to you, in hopes of having them forwarded by your favou[r flattering?] myself it will not be disagreeable. Wishing you the best of blessings, and praying to be remembe[red in respect]ful manner to Mr. Dean and Mr. Lee, I remain Your sincere friend and very humble servant
William Gordon


Title: The American Commissioners to Joseph Hynson, 27 February 1777
From: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur
To: Hynson, Joseph

This letter was written to a man already committed to betraying the commissioners. Their letter to Nicholson above, January 26, instructed him to buy a cutter at Boulogne or Calais and send her to Le Havre; if he failed to find a suitable one he was to try Dover or Deal. He went instead to London, met his friend Hynson there, and obtained a cutter, which was dispatched to Le Havre. While she was being loaded with the provisions, cargo, and arms that this letter mentions, the British were making arrangements with Hynson to intercept her and her dispatches at sea.

Sir
Paris Feby: 27th. 1777
This by Monsr. Eyries I hope will find you at Havre with the Cutter: which you are to equip with all possible expedition for a Voyage. Monsr. Eyries will supply you with the necessarys, and you will take his advice in equiping. It is proposed that she should proceed for America as soon as possible; Mr. Eyries proposes fixing eight or Ten Brass pieces of three or four pounders with other necessaries for defence against boats &c. You will be the best Judge what is suitable for her, and Mr: Eyries will be able to procure it in a manner the least liable to rumor or objections from Goverment. We shall expect from you on the Receipt of this, an account of the state of the cutter, what arming is necessary, and what goods she can carry, beside her provisions, without impeding her passage which is the first object. This we shall want to be informed of, as soon as possible immediately after which, particular Instructions with your Dispatches, shall be sent you express. You will take care that every thing be conducted with the greatest Secresy, and the choice of your Men requires your attention as several Instances of mutiny have lately happen’d. When you have consulted with Mr: Eyries and made your general arrangements, it may perhaps be as well for you to come up to Paris, leaving the Exicution in the hands of Mr: Eyries, on the whole I think this will be the most sure mode of proceeding, as you can personally explain what may not be so proper to trust to writing, and not so easyly express’d. The sooner you can come up the better, as in case of putting in any goods by way of Ballast, the particulars ought to be fixed early. I am for Dr: Franklin and Self Sir your most obedient Very Humble Servant
Silas Deane
Capt Hynson

Addressed: To / Capt: Joseph Hynson / To care of Monsr Eyries
Notation: S: Dean to Capt Hynson. Paris 27h. Feby: 1777


Title: The Massachusetts Council to the American Commissioners, 27 February 1777
From: Massachusetts Council
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
State of Massachusetts-Bay Council ChamberBoston, February 27th. 1777
We have lately received from the Secret Committee of Congress Seven Letters addressed to You, and they request that We would forward them by the quickest sailing Vessel to France. In Consequence of which We desired the Continental Agent here with all possible dispatch, to prepare one of the Continental Vessels for Sailing. She is now ready and is Commanded by Capt. John Adams, whom We have directed immediately upon his Arrival at Nantz to repair by Post to Paris and to deliver you the Letters himself and there receive your Answer, and be Governed by your directions touching his return, and the Port he is to come to. We wish they may arrive in Safety. If the Captain should be directed to return to any of the Ports in this State, We shall expeditiously forward to Congress any dispatches you may commit to our Care. By the last Accounts from Congress We have the Pleasure to acquaint you, that they were more firmly United than ever, and that in their measures they were decisive, determinate and very Spirited. They have some time since Resolved, that Eighty Eight Battalions, should be raised for the defence of the Continent the Men to serve for three Years or during the War. Fifteen of these Battalions are to be raised by this State, as their Quota; the Assembly are taking every measure in their Power to raise them, and hope We shall be able to Compleat them in Season. The Congress have since agreed to raise Sixteen more Battalions, and have Impowered General Washington to appoint the Officers. General Howe in Novr. and December last knowing that the Time, for which our Troops were engaged was near expiring, and that they would be most of them upon the return home, improved this opportunity suddenly to throw his Troops into the Jerseys. This manoeuvre threw the People of that State into a Panic, their Militia were scatter’d and could not be rallied. This Enabled the Enemy to Traverse the whole extent of the Jerseys without much molestation, and obliged General Washington to retire to the other side of the River Deleware. But Thanks to Heaven, who has remarkably interposed in our Favour, the Scene has greatly changed, for General Washington having received a reinforcement, in the Night of the 25th. of December repassed the Deleware, attacked a large Detachment of the Enemy’s Troops at Trenton, and took most of them Prisoners: and soon after when a large Body of the Enemy made an attempt to dislodge him from Trenton, He in the Night stole a March upon them passed them, and attacked and drove a large detachment of the Enemy from Princeton, who had began their March to join the Body at Trenton. He killed several hundreds and took many Prisoners and a Number of Waggons. The Enemy in the Jerseys are now Confined to Brunswick and Amboy and are said to be about Ten thousand Strong. We hear of small Skirmishes every Day in which our People have the advantage. We understand that great Dissentions and disputes have arisen between the British Troops and the Hessians: For further particulars relative to the movements, operation and State of our Army and that of the Enemy, We must refer you to the Public Prints, which We herewith Transmit. We Esteem ourselves happy, that Gentlemen of such Accomplishments and Abilities have been appointed to represent this Continent, at this Important Crisis, at the Court of France. We sincerely Wish you Success in your negotiation, and from your well known attachment to the Cause of America and from the Zeal Activity and Vigilance you have discovered in her Service, We promise ourselves that We shall soon experience the happy fruits of your exertions. The Aid and Assistance of France in this Contest in some way or other is highly necessary. We may otherwise by a further Accession of foreign Troops be overborne. It is greatly probable that unless a powerful diversion prevents, the Enemy the ensuing Summer will have in America as great a force as with all our exertions we can possibly cope with. We are under some apprehension of General Carletons Crossing the Lakes and attacking the Important post of Ticondaroga, and are forwarding Troops thither to Strengthen the Garrison. Some Warriors of the Six Nations have in the Course of this Week made us a friendly Visit and We have a good prospect of their Attachment to our Interest.
The Indians likewise on the Eastern Frontiers of this State are Friendly, And We have reports, attended with some degree of Probability that the Mercenary Troops in Canada are at Variance with the British Troops there.
We have just now received a Letter from the Commanding Officer at Ticondaroga dated the 18th. instant, he writes “That Cumberland Bay in Lake Champlin was yet open, that two Frenchmen arrived there from Canada four days before who bring Intelligence of about One hundred Indians with a few Regulars being on their March for that Post, probably with a View of surprising some of our Parties: and further say that the Enemy are Posted as follows. Vizt.
150 at Montreal where General Frazer Commands
100 at La Prairie
200 at Chamillé under the now Infamous General Paoli

550 at St. Johns including Sailors and Marines
300 at the Isle Aux Noix with a 12 Gun Redoubt
100 at Bojor Ville and
20 at Point au fair. The Remainder of the British Troops are billeted two or three in a House in the Vicinity of Montreal and Chamillé; and the Germans are all Cantoned in and below Quebec.”
By Resolves of Congress transmitted to us, we observe you are empowered and requested to procure for the Continent among other things a great Number of Fire Arms. The Public Service requires they should be sent as expeditiously as possible, and that a Considerable part of them should be appropriated to the Use of this State: in which Case it will be needful that such part should be directed to be brought into some of our Ports.
By the Return of Capt. Adams and all other Opportunities, we should be glad to be favored with such Intelligence, and Information as you shall think the Public Service makes necessary to be Communicated. In the name, and behalf of the Council of the State of Massachusetts Bay I am with great Esteem Gentlemen Your most obedient humble Servant
James Bowdoin Presidt.
The Honble Benjamin Franklin Silas Deane Arthur Lee Esqrs.

Addressed: To / The Honble Benja. Franklin, Silas Deane, & Arthur Lee Esqrs. / Commissioners from the United States of America to the / Court of France / Paris.
Notation: Feby 27 1777 Lettr. from State of Massachusetts Bay


Title: Jonathan Williams, Jr., to the American Commissioners, 27 February 1777
From: Williams, Jonathan Jr.
To: American Commissioners,Franklin, Benjamin,Deane, Silas,Lee, Arthur

Gentlemen
Nantes Feb. 27. 1777.
That you may be able to judge of the Quality of the arms when remounted I have ordered one of each to be sent by the messagerie which will come directed to Mr. Carmichael in the same manner as the samples of those sent by the Mercury did. The workmen are constantly at Work upon the Ship, and Shipackers are also at Work on the Bales, all is going on as fast as possible. I have the Honour to be with great Respect Your most obedient Servant
J. Williams

Mr. Lesterjate went away this morning to go on board his Ship which will sail the first Wind.
The Honbl The Deputies of the United States.

Addressed: A Monsieur / Monsieur Franklin LLD / a l’Hotel d’Hambourg / Rue Jacob / a / Paris.
Notation: Mr Williams Nantes Febry. 27th 1777