Title: The Commissioners to Lord North, 4 – 6 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: North, Frederick, Lord

     Passy, 4 or 6 June 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:127–128; not sent. The Commissioners appealed “for an immediate Exchange of Prisoners in Europe.” They protested the treatment of American prisoners “in a manner unexampled, in the practice of civilized Nations” and promised retaliation if such treatment continued.
     Although the letter bears no date, in the Autobiography it immediately follows a letter to Vergennes dated 4 June and is introduced by a statement, “on the same day We wrote to Lord North.” However, in the Letterbook from which Adams derived the text (Adams Papers, Microfilms, Reel No. 92), the letter follows a series of items dated 4 June and immediately precedes a number of letters dated 6 June. Additional doubt is cast on a 4 June date by the placement of an Arthur Lee copy of the letter (misdated 6 May) between a letter dated 5 June and one of the 6th (PCC, No. 102, IV, f. 11).
     Adams’ Letterbook copy provides no indication that the letter was sent, but notations on a draft in DLC: Franklin Papers and on Arthur Lee’s copy indicate specifically that it was not. An explanation may be that direct correspondence with Lord North became unnecessary. A letter of 5 June from David Hartley to Benjamin Franklin gave the Commissioners an apparently firm proposal for an exchange of prisoners (see the Commissioners to John Paul Jones, 10 June, calendared below).
     The text of Adams’ Letterbook copy incorporated the additions and deletions made during the drafting process. This is particularly true of the final paragraph, which in the draft, with deletions indicated, read: “Most earnestly we beseech your Lordship, no longer to sacrifice the essential interests of Humanity to Claims of Sovereignty, the vainess of which the Issue of our most solemn Appeal to Heaven has sufficiently proved. It is a fatal Mistake by which you seem to have been mislead to think —that when you trampled upon Humanity you triumphed over us. which your Experience must by this time have convinc’d you are become impracticable are not to be maintained.”


Title: The Commissioners to J. D. Schweighauser, 6 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Schweighauser, John Daniel

     Passy, 6 June 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:129. The Commissioners, in reply to Schweighauser’s letter of 1 June (not found), directed him to provide, frugally, whatever repairs and supplies were needed by the Providence, newly arrived at Paimboeuf near Nantes, and promised to obtain information on how French customs regulations would affect his efforts on behalf of the frigate.


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 6 June 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honorable Sirs
      Bordeaux 6 June 1778

     I am not favord with any of your Commands since the 18th Ultimo. All the advertizements containd therein are at Sea and some of them far advancd on their Passage.

     I had the honor to write you the 12. 16. 26 and 30th Ultimo per post which I suppose got duely to hand, to the last I shall be confirmd next Post as the honor paid to my drafts will be notified me by the Holders.
     Since Cap. Tuckers departure from hence I have been obliged to discharge on the Ships Account Sundry debts not brought in before the closing of them. I transmitted and Cash sent him down of which Anext is the detail. I expect some other small Accounts will appear that I dont yet know of. I shall discharge what may appear due to the inclosed Account and draw for the same as occation serves.
     The affair of the Conspiracy has been examin’d by the proper officers appointed by the Intendant. There dont appear sufficient ground to detain the Parties Accused it is probable tho denied peremptory that conversation had pass’d to the effect laid against them but that any steps taken in consequence cannot be proved, the Intendant paid every attention so attrocious an act Merritted and would most certainly have given every Satisfaction could the Act have been brought home. I have the Honor to be Honble Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: Sartine to the Commissioners, 6 June 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

     Marly, 6 June 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:129–130 (JA’s English translation); for the French text, see JA, WorksThe Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, ed. Charles Francis Adams, Boston, 1850–1856; 10 vols., 7:15–16. Sartine here injected himself into the Commissioners’ dealings with Bersolle and John Paul Jones. The Minister of Marine called on the Commissioners, “for the conservation of your Credit,” to reconsider their refusal to honor Jones’ bill drawn on Bersolle and to pay for the supplies sent to Jones from the royal magazines. Sartine also requested reimbursement for purchasers of goods stolen by Jones’ crew from one of his prizes, the Lord Chatham, and later recovered. Finally, he recommended that the Commissioners determine whether Jones’ imprisonment of Thomas Simpson had been proper.
     Adams believed that Sartine’s intervention was unwarranted, reflecting the general effort to circumvent the orders of the Commissioners and the congress in order to “throw the American Business and Profits into the hands of the Tools of the Minister and his Understrappers” (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:130).


Title: To John Adams from James Warren, 7 June 1778
From: Warren, James
To: Adams, John

      My Dear Sir
      Boston N Engld. June 7th: 1778

     We are yet in A State of Uncertainty whether you are Arrived in France or England, and Consequently whether you are now Acting As An Embassador or suffering as Prisoner. All we know is that the last Ship from France brings no Account of you tho’ you had been out 7 weeks when she left Rochfort. The Enemy have Circulated a Report that the Boston was taken, and mention the Name of the Ship that Captured her. But I don’t Incline to give Credit to it, and think there are reasons to doubt it. As I think myself Interested in the Event, I am Anxious to hear of your safe Arrival.
     Nothing for several weeks has got in from any part of Europe tho’ the winds have been remarkably favourable. Our Curiosity is therefore wrought up to A high Key, to hear what is passing in Europe, whether there be A declaration of War between France and England and whether any other Powers have Acknowledged our Independence, and Concluded a Treaty with us. Thus stand matters with regard to foreign News.
     With regard to domestic News, I am Informed by my Friends at Congress that our Army is very respectable both with regard to Numbers and discipline. The Baron d Stubun has performed wonders in regulateing the discipline of the Army. They are well Cloathed, and well provided with Provisions, Arms, and Ammunition, and Congress have determined that the Officers who serve to the End of the war shall receive half pay for 7 Years, and the Soldiers have 80 dollars, which has given satisfaction to the first, and Contentment to the last, and prevented both resignations, and desertions but no operations of Consequence have yet taken place. The Enemy have made one or two Excursions which the Papers we shall send you will give an Account of, but were by our last Accounts Immured in Philadelphia, and prepareing to leave it. Where they will next go is a Subject of Conjecture. Some think they will leave the Continent, Others that North River, Connecticut or this State is their Object.
     No Material Alteration in our Currency, it is rather better. Goods of all kinds are much more plenty. Some are Cheaper but they dont yet fall in proportion to the demand for money which is become very Considerable, and I think must in time have its Effect. The produce of the Country is yet Extravagantly deare and is the principle Cause of keeping down the value of our Currency. The Countrymen have so long had the Advantage of high prices that they dont feel the want of money so much as the Merchants, and Tradesmen. Connecticut as well as some Other States have passed a regulateing Act which Operates much as ours did. They are Nevertheless Obstinate in Adhereing to it, and have sent down a Committee to Induce our Court to come into the Measure this Session many Members I hear are fond of it. It stands at present suspended for an Answer to A Letter wrote Congress.
     The Court met here and frighted with the Appearance of danger of the Small Pox, after Election adjourned to Watertown, where they now are. The Papers will Announce to you that I am no longer A Member of the General Court. My Town did not Chose me, and the Court did not Compliment me with An Election at the Board, so that were I dismissed from the Navy Board I should be truly A private Man, and an Independent Farmer, and should be as Contented and satisfied with my situation as ever you saw one, for really I am Tired of public Life, tho’ I was determined never to desert the Colours I helped to hoist. If you Enquire how all this came to pass I must tell you it is oweing to various Causes. The people feel themselves Uneasy and dont know the reason. They have therefore shifted their Members more generally than ever. I scorned to make or suffer any Influence in my favour. The Tories and the Influence from Boston, and some other places had their full play, which are the reasons I am not in the House. The greater part of the Council from Envy, and other reasons never loved me and the Complextion of the House, Consisting of Members (the most Influential of them) whose politicks are very different from Mine, and who are of the moderate Class which you know I never belonged to may Account for my not being Elected. But above all the partiality of my Friends which has rendered me Obnoxious to a Certain great Man, and his numerous party by holding me up to view in Competition with him. The Policy therefore has been to get me out of sight, and prevent my being an Obstacle to his Glory, and Ambition.
     The returns are not yet made from the several Towns of their Approbation or disapprobation of the Form of Goverment sent to them. But I beleive it is pretty Clear that the Majority have decided against it in much less time than the Convention took to decide in its favour. The Town of Boston (whose wise Observations you will see in the Papers) and the County of Essex have had A great Share, and Influence in this determination for you must know it has become very popular to find fault with the doings of the General Court or Convention, by those who can’t mend them, and A little Clamour much more A great one may easily damn any measure good or Bad.
     The Great Man Tarried here till after Election, and then went off with the Pomp and retinue of an Eastern Prince. I was not in the List of his Attendants and was not Solicitous enough to Officiously Offer my service, and to receive that Honour. I suppose the Sin is Unpardonable. I must suffer the Consequences of his frowns, and be Content to be ranked Among those who never Adulate and flatter.
     Your Friend Adams is at Congress. Gerry and Dana propose to return when Mr. Hancock and Doctr. Holton who is your Successor Arrive.
     This is the third Letter I have wrote you since your departure. I hope the others as well as this will reach you. This is to go by a packet that Carries public Letters for you and the Other Commissioners or rather Embassadors, the Captain of which is to deliver them to you in Person so that the danger of the Seas Excepted the Opportunity is fine. I have Accordingly Informed your Lady of it, and Expect her Letters in Tomorrow which I presume will Inform you that the Family are well. My Love to Master John, and beleive me to be with Great Sincerity Your Assured Friend & Humbl. Servt.

      J Warren


Title: From John Adams to Edmé Jacques Genet, 8 June 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Genet, Edmé Jacques

       Passy, ante 8 June 1778

     I do myself, the Honour to transmit you a Small Bundle of Newspapers, for your Perusal, out of which you will Select any Thing that you think proper for Publication, in your very valuable Collection of Affairs D’Angleterre et L’Amerique.
     Looking over the Remembrancer, for the Year 1775,1 found to my Surprize, having never seen this Remembrancer before, two Letters from a Gentleman in the Province of Massachusetts Bay, to his Friend in London, one dated Feb. 10 1775 and the other Jany 21. 1775. They are found in Pages 10.11 and 12 of the Remembrancer for that Year.
     These Letters were written by me, and as I kept no Copies of them and never heard of their Publication, I had wholly forgotten them, but finding them in this Work, I recollect them very well.

     If you think them worth inserting in your Collection Americans acted with Frankness, broke out, and, with the Utmost faithfullness a  informed our Friends in England, what their Ministers were about and what would be the certain Consequence of their Temerity. The Letters you will see were written in great Haste and without the least Reserve. The History of the Events of War, from the Date of these Letters to this Day, has been no more nor less than a Completion of the Prophecies contained in them.
     In Page 24 and onwards to the End of Page 32, and again from Page 45. to Page 54 you will find an History of the Dispute with America; from its origin in 1754, to the Present Time.
     This is a brief Abstract of a series of Letters which were also written by me, in the Winter of the Year 1775, the Tendency of all which was to shew, the Ruinous Tendency of the Measures of the British Administration, to convince the Nation of the Necessity of changing their System, and if they did not, but persisted in it and attempted to carry it into Execution by Force of Arms, it would infallibly end in the total Loss of their Collonies.
     that Time, or not, they have since had some Cause to consider. But they will not consider, and they will probably persist in the indulgence of their Passions, untill they shall be reduced to Weakness and Distress enough. France has no Reason to regrett this, for She will gain, by every Degree of Wealth and Power that Britain throws away, in this Contention, especially in that particular Branch which has been her Pride and Glory, Commerce, and the Dominion of the sea.
     This Publication, is a full Confutation of all the Calumnies against Us, both in Parliament and Newspapers, that We concealed our Designs of Independency, and professed to have no such Designs.
     In this Publication and in many others, as well as in Multitudes of private Letters, they were frankly told that however distant the People then were from Wishing Independency, yet if they once commenced Hostilities against Us, it would be impossible to restrain the Americans from cutting asunder forever, the Ligaments, which bound the two Countries together. . If you should think of doing it,  be glad to see it before it is printed as there are many inaccuracies in the Print, which ought to be corrected.

      I have the Honour to be, with the Utmost Gratitude for the Pains you have taken, in communicating our Affairs to the World, sir your most Obedient humble servant
      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Edmé Jacques Genet, 8 June 1778
From: Genet, Edmé Jacques
To: Adams, John

      Honour’d Sir
      Vlles. June 8t. 78

     The News papers you So kindly transmit me will be carefully perus’d and will afford, I dare say, many interesting articles to my publication which has no other aim than paying to your Country the justice that is due to enlighten’d courage. I had noted in the remembrancer the letters you mention the 1st. of which begins with these words You have no doubt. To be Sure they’ll please excessively my readers being So prophetical, and impress’d with genuine love for your former metropolis. The other papers giving an account of the origin of war I had also destin’d to publication. I am very oblig’d to you Sir, for the Kind leave you grant me of giving them to light with your Sanction: and I won’t fail to lay them all under your Eyes when ready for the press.
     I am Sorry you was at the trouble to send me a messenger on purpose. For the future, any parcel you may have occasion to transmit me, may be Sent to the post office, as I pay no postage.

      I am with the truest respect Hond. Sir Your most humble and obedient Servant
      Genet


Title: To John Adams from James Lovell, 8 June 1778
From: Lovell, James
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir

       June 8th. 1778

     I fear I omitted to send the Resolve of May 5th. with 3 past Packets. I shall be vexed if it does not reach you with the Ratifications as, on the Timing of it depends much of its Propriety. I was strangely betrayed by its having been dated the 4th. in a mistaken Alteration, when A.B.C. were sent Eastward.
     By Letters Yesterday from Mr. Beaumarchais I find Mr. Deane is probably on this Continent so that we may know the exact State of our Account with Mr. Hortales. The present Cargo in the fier Roderigue is to be sold outright for Cash or Produce, Congress having the first Offer if it belongs to Mr. Beaumarchais not to Hortales & Co. I hope there is no mystery in this, for I really approve of the Thing. I am glad it does not belong to the Continent: but I wish to know whether any of those Vessels lately taken belong to Mr. B. and whether this would not have belonged to H had it been lost. This may be an amusing Speculation for you.

     Mr. D’s Recall I find is attributed very much to Plots of A.L. You know this to be unjust, and that Facts are as in my Letter to Dr. Franklin.
     All Things speak the Enemy’s departure from Philadelphia. Intending to pass across the Jersies to Staten Island they found the Militia to a Man ready to waylay them and that some Continentals were detached. They have therefore given an Air of Peace to their Motions, and asking for an immediate Exchange of Prisoners “because they are going away.” They are levelling their Works, as we repeatedly hear tho the cautious General has not yet told us the latter part but he was surprized that they “still” remained on the 1st. They meant however to celebrate the 4th. there,—the birthday of their foolish King.
     Mr. S.A. has come forward, and Things go on very well here except that we want many Lessons on Finance. Give them to us,—with a little Practicability, if you please, wrought into your nicest Systems. Affectionately,

      JL


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

       Messieurs
       La Haie 9e. Juin 1778

      Ma derniere étoit du 2 de ce mois. Vous verrez par les deux traductions ci-jointes à quoi en sont les affaires en Allemagne, et que l’on peut s’attendre, d’un ordinaire à l’autre, à apprendre que les hostilités ont commencé en Allemagne.
      Il paroît ici, depuis quelques jours, une brochure remplie de déclamations, mal cousues ensemble, contre l’Angleterre, sous le titre Le voeu de toutes les nations, et l’intérêt de toutes les Puissances, dans l’abaissement et l’humiliation de la Gr. Br. Il y a une Epitre dédicatoire à la tête, qui s’adresse à Mr. Franklin. Le g—F— a voulu savoir ce que j’en pensois: j’ai répondu, Si desint vires, tamen est laudanda voluntas. C’étoit justement ce qu’il en pensoit aussi. Au reste, je ne vous parle, Messieurs, de cette production, que parce que, toute mal bâtie qu’elle est, elle trouve beaucoup d’acheteurs et de Lecteurs ici à La Haie parmi les gens du premier rang.
      Je languis, Messieurs, de recevoir ce que je vous ai demandé. Le g—F—, et notre Ami, et le G—— P—— aussi, S’y attendent comme moi. Il seroit bon de ne pas laisser trop de vuide à présent sur la Scene.
      Au reste la démarche qui a été faite a déjà produit un grand bien, d’un côté en fortifiant et augmentant les bonnes dispositions des bien intentionnés; de l’autre en décourageant toujours plus les malintentionnés, en diminuant leurs ressources, et leur espoir de pouvoir engager la republique à quelque démarche qui favorise leurs vues. Il y a 3 à 4 mois qu’ils ne m’auroient pas laissé faire impunément ce que j’ai fait dernierement.
      Ce que vous venez de lire, Messieurs, étoit écrit, lorsque la Lettre dont Mr. A. Lee m’a favorisé en date du 4e. Juin, m’est parvenue. L’approbation qu’il a bien voulu donner aux additions que j’ai faites à la derniere piece, m’a causé une satisfaction aussi pure et aussi vraie, qu’est le zele qui me les a dictées, sur la connoissance que j’ai des gens à qui elle s’adresse. Continuons seulement, comme nous avons Si bien commencé, à lier une bonne et forte partie ici; et tout ira bien. Le Lion Belgique est déjà moins, qu’il ne l’a été, entre les dents et grifes du Lion Britannique: on en a déjà bien limé et rogné à ce dernier: le temps viendra où on lui arrachera tout-à-fait la proie qu’il croyoit tenir.
      Je suis avec le dévouement le plus respectueux, Messieurs, Votre très humble & très obeissant serviteur.

       D


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners: A Translation, 9 June 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 9 June 1778

      My last was dated the 2d of this month. You will see by the two enclosed translations what the state of affairs in Germany is and that one may expect, any day, to hear that hostilities have begun.
      In the last few days a pamphlet, badly assembled and filled with declamations against Great Britain, has appeared under the title of Le voeu de toutes les nations, et l ’intérét de toutes les Puissances, dans l’abaissement et l’humiliation de la Grande Bretagne. It begins with a dedicatory letter addressed to Mr. Franklin. The Grand Facteur asked what I thought of it and I replied si desint vires, tamen est laudanda voluntas, which was exactly what he also thought. I only mention this publication because, despite being awkwardly put together, it has found here at The Hague many buyers and readers among people of the first rank.
      I languish, gentlemen, in the expectation of receiving that which I requested from you, as do also the Grand Facteur, our friend, and the Grand Pensionary. It would be wise not to leave too much of a void vuide here at present.
      The démarche taken so far has already produced a good effect, on the one hand, in strengthening and increasing the good dispositions of the well-intentioned, and, on the other hand, in discouraging even more the ill-intentioned by diminishing their resources and their hope of engaging the Republic in some démarche favorable to their views. Three or four months ago they would not have permitted me, with impunity, to do what I have done of late.
      What you have just read, gentlemen, was written before Mr. A. Lee’s letter of 4 June reached me. The approbation he kindly gave to the additions that I made to the recent piece, based as they were on the knowledge I have of the people to whom it is addressed, gave me a satisfaction as pure and sincere as the zeal that dictated them. Let us continue what we have already so well begun—to recruit a good, strong party here—and all will be well. Already the Belgian lion has begun to slip from the teeth and claws, now considerably filed and clipped, of the British lion, and the time will come when the prey he thought was in his grasp will be torn from him. I am, with the utmost devotion and respect, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant.

       D


Title: The Commissioners to J. D. Schweighauser, 10 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Schweighauser, John Daniel

     Passy, 10 June 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:134–135. The Commissioners, responding to Schweighauser’s letter of 4 June (not found), commended him for refusing to pay 1,200 livres to William Morris, possibly an escaped prisoner (Deane PapersPapers of Silas Deane, 1774–1790, in New-York Historical Society, Collections, Publication Fund Series, vols. 19–23, New York, 1887–1891; 5 vols., 2:258), and reminded him that no disbursements could be made without the Commissioners’ orders. Schweighauser was directed to act with Capt. Whipple in the disposal of a prize and to evaluate the Flammand, a ship offered by John Joseph Monthieu for a voyage to America. Finally, in a postscript, he was ordered to pay John Paul Jones’ expenses to and from Paris.
     This postscript, written in a darker ink than the text, was appended to the wrong letter in Adams’ Letterbook (Microfilms, Reel No. 92), for neither he nor Lee knew on 10 June that Franklin had invited Jones to Passy, and Jones did not arrive there until after the 16th (see Commissioners to Jones, 25 May, calendared above; 16 June, calendared below). It was probably intended to be part of the Commissioners’ letter to Schweighauser of 23 June (calendared below).
     The following paragraph was deleted in JA’s Letterbook: “The Fusees from Berlin, the Druggs from Marseilles, and the Remittances from London being Subjects which We in our Capacity of Commissioners at this Court have nothing to do with, our Mr. Arthur Lee will write you in particular concerning them.” Arthur Lee notes in his Letterbook (PCC, No. 102, IV, f. 13) that “this paragraph being in the Letter drawn by Mr. Adams, Dr. Franklin refused to sign it, because he said it would be acknowledging Mr. Lee’s right to manage the affairs of Spain. The Letter was detained a day to erase this paragraph.”

     Franklin’s objection was presumably twofold. He probably saw the paragraph as implying that Arthur Lee was responsible for everything not explicitly stated in the Commissioners’ instructions and commission to the French Court. Franklin may also have believed that it indicated a change in his status vis-à-vis Arthur Lee in regard to Spain. Both men had been commissioned to the Spanish Court: Franklin on 2 Jan. 1777 and Lee on 5 June 1777 (JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 8:521–523, note). Franklin did not act under his commission, but Lee went to Spain in 1777 in an unsuccessful effort to gain Spanish recognition. If Lee was seen as responsible for transactions not directly related to the French Court, it might be inferred that he had superseded Franklin in dealings with Spain. This would have been unacceptable to Franklin even had he been on good terms with Lee. In the absence of such a relationship it was presumably intolerable.


Title: Marine Committee to the Commissioners, 10 June 1778
From: Continental Congress, Marine Committee,Lee, Richard Henry
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honorable Gentn
      York in Penna June 10th 1778

     There is wanted for A fifty Six Gun Ship now building at Portsmouth in the State of New Hampshire, Twenty eight 24 pounders Cannon and Twenty eight 18 Pounders which We request you will order to be shipped for that Port or the Port of Boston by the first Opportunity. Should the Continental Frigates Boston and Providence be in France when this gets to hand they may take in those Cannon and in that case you will please to ship an equal number of each Size Sufficient to Ballast Said Frigates, as we shall have Occasion for more than will be wanted for the 56 Gun ship. We request your attention to this business and are Honorable Gentn with great respect Your very Obedt. servants,

      Richard Henry Lee. C.M.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners: A Translation, 11 June 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 11 June

      Yesterday morning I received, from Sir George Grand, the packet containing your letter of 2 June and decided that I should go first to the Grand Facteur. He, however, was to be out of town all day so I used the time to make a copy of the treaty in case I needed one in future dealings connected to the Mission with which I have the honor charged. This morning, gentlemen, the Grand Facteur confessed to me that he was somewhat embarrassed by the portion of your letter putting me under his direction. I suggested that he wait until he had written to his House but, without responding to that, he said to me that, genuinely, in his capacity as Grand Facteur, he could not direct me in this regard; that is, he could neither advise me on nor prevent my démarche (that is the official answer). In his private capacity, however, he believed that the difficulties that might result from not making the demarche would be much greater than those that might result from going through with it. Among other things, it would show poor taste to be evasive and appear to go back on one’s word after having fostered the hope of receiving this copy which, as a result, is awaited with much anticipation and interest. He thus advised me to carry it to its intended conclusion (there is the true plan), telling the Grand Pensionary only that I received the order to give him the treaty for his information so that, when he deemed it appropriate, he might report on it to the States of the Provinces &c. Nevertheless, at the same time, from a due regard for the Court of France, which has not yet deemed it appropriate to print and publish the treaty, I should request him not to distribute or give copies to anyone.
      I asked him if it was appropriate to send a copy to our friend, for the regency of his city, and to inform the Grand Pensionary about it? He replied, certainly, but with the same request that it not be copied. I am now busy, therefore, making a second copy for our friend.
      This evening, at 8:30, the Grand Facteur asked me to confer with him tomorrow before going to see the Grand Pensionary.

       Friday, 12 June

      These are the results of my conference this morning with the Grand Facteur. In the treaty are two or three articles that clearly favor us at the expense of others, and it may or may not be proper to disclose this fact here. It may be appropriate because it could act as a bait in order to detach the people from—, and make them share our views; but inappropriate because it could encourage them to hazard certain requests that we do not know if the House, depending on the circumstances, would judge proper to grant. These thoughts and the express order you gave me to take the advice of —, as to the propriety of delivering it at present, have led us to conclude that I should await an answer from you. If it is affirmative, I will carry on with a greater sense of security and give you in due time an account of what ensues. If it is negative, however, we have already composed an ostensible letter that you would send me commenting on these remarks in your letter of 28 April to the Grand Pensionary: of which we shall speedily send your Excellency a copy, to be communicated if you think proper to, &c. In the meantime, the Grand Facteur has asked me for the treaty in order to have a copy made for his own use, and I will finish the copy intended for our friend so that everything will be ready when needed. For the time being, the original and the two copies made by me will remain under lock and key so as to produce their effect when and only when judged appropriate.
      For a while now I have not mentioned the dispatches from this country’s ministers abroad. This is because the person from whom I have had occasion to obtain them is away for some time and the efforts that I can prudently make to find some needy intriguer who might procure them for me on a regular basis have been so far unsuccessful.
      Rumor has it that Sir Joseph Yorke has taken some démarche to check the pulse of this state because of the concern felt by his master regarding the formidable measures taken on the opposite coasts. I have not yet been able to discover the truth of the matter because, with the summer weather, everyone I know is away. What I do know is that some will not want to and others will be unable to do anything for him. He will realize that:

       Donec eris felix, multos numerabis Amicos:
       Tempora si fuerint nubila, solus eris.

      I have just seen the honorable congress’ glorious and powerful resolution concerning the Conciliatory Bill and the Commissioners following it. I interrupted my letter to take this manly document to the Grand Pensionary who, when he learned of its content, laughed at my eagerness and remarked that I always go to such great lengths. This is true, but it is also true that he is satisfied with the trouble I take. I lend him these accounts regularly, and, if I do not send them to him as soon as they arrive, he asks for them. I am very respectfully, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       D


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 13 June 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honble. Sirs
      Bordeaux 13 June 1778

     I took the liberty to draw on your honors as the most assured means to obtain a certainty of my letters in course getting to your hands. I am much obliged for the punctual honor you have paid to my drafts. I have to ask your excuse for not more particularly explaining the cause of the price of fresh Beef. The Pound of that article at Bordeaux is forty Ounces, during Lent which reignd all the time the ship consumed fresh Provision, One Butcher Farms the supplies for the Town, pays very heavy for the exclusive privaledge which of course falls on the consumer. That as well as every other article I took due attention to obtain on the lowest terms and that by the most surest of means paying Cash for every Article in this as in every other circumstance that may be committed to my care of a strickt adherence to my duty permit me to assure you. The Frigate put to Sea the 7th Instant in Company with two french Frigates and several Merchant Men Bound for the United States. They were met off Isl Dieu by a vessel arrived two days past. I am with due Respect your honors Most Obedient Humble Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: H. Archer to the Commissioners, 14 June 1778
From: Archer, Henry Waldegrave
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Paris June 14. 1778

     I presume to trouble you with the communication of my design to enter into the army, and becoming a citizen of the united States. Though a native of England, I feel myself quite attached to America, and firmly persuaded that I shall carry thither dispositions entirely consonant to its welfare, and that my affection to her will not be the less in being only a Son by adoption. From infancy, I considered myself a member of the British Empire at large, including the Colonies of North America. Warped by no blind partiality, or local attachment, while their union with the Parent State subsisted, I wished equally for the happiness of the whole. Upon their division my predilection is strong for that part, where the free principles of the ancient constitution are likely to be most vigorous and lasting. Upon the first rise of the dissentions between them, dissentions, that reflect as much honor on the one as infamy on the other side; from my own observations of things, confirmed by the opinions, and conversation of those I most esteemed, I decided, that the opposition of the Americans was sanctified by justice, as well as recommended by good policy; in the progress I admired the wisdom with which this opposition was conducted, applauded the firmness with which it was supported, and rejoiced at the success with which it has been attended. Ambitious of military fame, and of military distinction, it was not consistent with my Notions to engage in the Army of the King of Great Britain; where the former of these, was not to be acquired at all, as even Valour in the support of Tyranny, and Injustice is reproachful, nor the latter, but by interest, and the too frequent exercise Sacrifice of virtuous principles. An immediate entrance into his Service would have obliged me to war against my conscience, and against those, whom I ardently wish to prevail. Nor is it by any means eligible for me to defer entering into the British Service till the War with America is ended, for besides the loss of time, and delay of preferment, there are more powerful discouragements. I have too much reason to believe that the Military profession, even hereafter, will not be very honorable in Great Britain. From the degeneracy of the People, the corruption of their Representatives, and the wickedness of those in power, the Army may probably become, before a distant period the devoted instruments of despotic sway, and like the disgraceful Pretorian Bands ready to sell their services to such as would supply their debaucheries with the most profusion, and such as were most ready to favor their rapaciousness and violence. On the contrary, in the service of the united States, I shall during the present contest, bear arms in a cause my conscience approves, and which reflects honor on its humble supporters, and where there is reason to believe, that should my services be required in future, it will be on the side of justice, liberty, and Glory, and where in short the disciplined Soldier, and the free Citizen are not incompatible.
     I cannot indeed boast of being much qualified to make my services welcome, or important, but this I can promise, that the small qualification I do possess, or may acquire shall be exerted on every occasion to the utmost. I have been some time at the Royal Academy at Chelsea, endeavouring to attain a knowledge of military affairs. As soon as I was of age, I left it, and disposed of as much of my property as amounted to about five hundred pounds. With what I have left of that, I wish to take the quickest opportunity of getting to America, and entering into one of the Regiments of Horse. I shall be glad to serve first as a Volunteer at my own expence with a view of giving such proofs of my zeal and unfeigned attachment to America as may entitle me to some notice. You may perhaps be inclined to think there was no occasion to trouble you with my design. I was induced to do it, by these, among other reasons, Your approbation and Patronage would be extremely satisfactory and encouraging; and as I must necessarily have passed thro’ Paris, I was desirous of paying my respects to you, who deservedly possess so high a trust from the united States, which if I had failed to do, it might there, suggest a suspicion that I was afraid you might have known or discovered something to my disadvantage. At the same time, I was in hopes you would be kind enough to give me your advice and assistance about the most expeditious method of arriving in America. I propose doing myself the honor of waiting on you next Tuesday in company with Monsr. le Baron de Ridberg, till which I postpone mentioning other particulars. I have the honor to be with the greatest and most unfeigned Esteem, Gentlemen, Your very hble & obt. Sert.

      H. Archer


Title: To John Adams from Stephen Sayre, 15 June 1778
From: Sayre, Stephen
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Copenhagen 15th June 1778

     As my information is only from the public papers, I am left in uncertainty whether I am writing to Mr. John, or Mr. Samuel Adams. Some Letters have pass’d between the latter Gentleman and myself, on the subject of American Controversy. As I ask only for a short reply, on a matter of simple justice; I trust I shall not be disappointed, tho I am ignorant as to which of those great Characters I write.
     You cannot be a stranger to the circumstance of my having attended Mr. Lee to Berlin, at the public expence. I thought it somewhat hard, to be told at Berlin, which was done in clear and express terms, that I should be no longer consider’d in that service, or expect the least support from the Commissioners, whether I return’d to Paris with Mr. Lee, or not—at the same time I don’t say they acted unjustly.
     As a private Gentleman, having no expectation given me that the most humiliating attendance at Paris could give me any Employment, I chose to remain at Berlin, where I could live more at ease and at less expence. Having wrote to my friends in Congress from Paris, by all the Ships sent by the Commissioners from the month of April 1777, to September or October—I waited with impatience for Answers. Think then, how great must be my astonishment, to learn, that tho’ the Commissioners had many Letters sent to their care for me, they have neither sent them, or given me any reasons why they with’old them. Surely this is a ground of complaint, and a conduct that sets all conjecture at difiance.
     I am willing to suppose some strange accidents may have concur’d to disappoint me. I could wish, that urgent national business were an Apology for neglecting an individual, tho’ intitled to some decent attention, from the highest Characters. I have a right to some reply, as a private man—my whole public conduct makes it a matter of indispensable justice.
     Of you, Dear Sir, I request the high favour, to learn the Cause, and to state it to me with candour. If you suffer any arguments to dissuade you from a reply, which I may expect from your own feelings, you will thereby condemn me before I am heard.
     Let me add one word of congratulation on the glory acquired by the United States of America, and that I am with great esteem and respect your obedient & very humble Servant

      Stephen Sayre


Title: Abraham Whipple to the Commissioners, 15 June 1778
From: Whipple, Abraham
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      On board Ship Providence Paimbeuf June 15t. 1778

     Had the honour of Recieving your Letter per Capt. Jones, beg leave to mention there are no Orders relative to my Prisoners, which should be glad to Recieve. Am Repairing my Masts and will make the Old Ones serve, New Ones being very expensive. Shall be as frugal as possible. Capt. Jones acquaints me you have some Cloathing and Arms for the United States it is in my Power to Carry considerable, if I know timely the Quantity and Largeness of Bales; that I may stow the Ship Accordingly. The Ship will be graved and in readiness to take in in twelve Days. My Midshipmen are Arrived having made their escape to St. Maloes. The Prize Brigantine is safe at the Isle of Rea. I have Ordered her round here, and shall deliver her to Charge of Mr. Schweighaser on Arrival at Nantes. Have the Honour to be Your most Obedt. very Humble Servt.

      Abraham Whipple

      NB My Masts are now on shore a Repairing with all possible Expedition.


Title: The Commissioners to John Paul Jones, 16 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Jones, John Paul

     Passy, 16 June 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:137–138. Jones was ordered to prepare for a voyage to America on which he would harass the British as much as possible, specific mention being made of the vulnerability of the Newfoundland fishery and the transports passing back and forth between England and America. The Commissioners also directed Jones to carry, but not to await, whatever dispatches might reach him from the Commissioners or the French government and to put on board whatever cargo he could, so long as it did not impair the fighting and sailing qualities of the Ranger.
     These orders could not have reached Jones at Brest, for he had already left that place and must have been nearing Paris (Jones to the Commissioners, 3 June, note 2, above). They are curious in view of the correspondence that had passed between Jones and Franklin. The text, together with Arthur Lee’s surprise at Jones’ arrival (to JA, 5 July, below), indicates that the Commissioners, on the 16th at least, believed that Jones would remain at Brest and thus be able to leave for America immediately (see also Commissioners to Jones, 22 Aug. [1st], below).This is another indication that JA and Arthur Lee were acting without full information and that an effort was being made to conceal Franklin’s dealings with Jones. Lee’s letter of 5 July indicates that Jones received his orders after his arrival, perhaps on 23 June, the date on which very similar instructions were sent to Capt. Abraham Whipple of the Providence (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:140–141).


Title: To John Adams from Fleury, 16 June 1778
From: Fleury, François Louis Teissèdre de
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       a St. hipolitte ce 16 juin 1778

      Je suis trop reconnoissant des bontés dont vous mavés honnoré pour ne pas vous exprimer a cet egard tous les sentiments que je vous dois. Receves done monsieur l’homage dun pere sensible que vous venes de tranquiliser, et qui se glorifie davoir un fils au service dune nation dont vous donnés la plus haute idee. Je ne metonne point monsieur quil cherche a si distinguer, si touts ceux qui l’habitent j pensent comme vous. Le bonheur dobtenir lextime des gens tells que vous est faite pour donner de lemulation. Je suis enchanté que mon fils ait eu lavantage de fixer desja votre attention par la renommée quil tache de sacquerir. Il seroit tres heureux pour lui que son zele vous inspirat le desir de le connoitre. Sil apprenoit jamais la complaisance dont vous maves comblé. Je ne doute pas quil ne fait tres empressé de vous en temoigner sa sensiblité. Oseray je vous prier monsieur de maccorder toujour la meme grace dont vous venes de me combler. Je vous aurois une obligation infinie de minstruire de ce qui sera relatif a mon fils. Pardonnés mon importunité, mais je suis pere je nay que cet enfant. Il servoit au regiment de rouergue il j etoit extimé et cheri de ses chefs et de ses camarades. Une noble ardeur la fait passer aux insurgens j’ay cedé a sa resolution glorieuse, mais vous sentes que ce sacrifice de ma part fait gemir la nature. Jen seray cependant monsieur de domagé si mon fils se rend utile a votre nation et si je suis asses heureux pour vous inspirer asses dinterest pour que vous daignes me randre dans loccassion le service que jose implorer de votre generosité. Crojes monsieur que tout ce qui mappartien ainsi que moy serons toujour empressés de meriter cette grace par les sentiments distingués et respectaux avec les quels je suis, Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur,

       De fleury

       Vous mobligeries bien sensiblement monsieur si lorsque vous ecrires a lamerique vous voulies bien me faire le plaisir de demander des nouvelles de mon fils et lui permettre de metre une de ses letters pour moy dans celles que vous recevres, ne doutant pas qu’il ne men ait ecrit pleusieurs que je nay pas recues, jen ignore la cause.


Title: Fleury to John Adams: A Translation, 16 June 1778
From: Fleury, François Louis Teissèdre de
To: Adams, John

       Sir
       St. Hippolyte, 16 June 1778

      I am too grateful for the aid you accorded me not to express, in this regard, all the sentiments due you. Accept therefore, sir, the homage of a sensitive father whom you have just reassured and who is honored to have a son in the service of a nation of which you give the highest idea. It does not surprise me that he should wish to distinguish himself there if its inhabitants are all like you. Success in earning the esteem of people such as yourself can only foster emulation. I am delighted that my son has already had the good fortune to draw your attention by the reputation that he sought to achieve. He would be most fortunate if his zeal inspired in you a desire to make his acquaintance. If made aware of your generosity he will show you, I do not doubt, his appreciation with eagerness. Dare I ask you to continue the aid with which you have honored me thus far? I would be eternally grateful if you could inform me of matters pertaining to my son. Forgive my importunity, but I am a father who has this only child. He was serving in the Rouergue regiment, where he earned the esteem and affection of his officers and comrades. A noble spirit spurred him to join the insurgents, and I yielded to his glorious resolve, but I am sure that you understand that nature laments my sacrifice. Yet, I would feel greatly repaid if my son makes himself useful to your country, and if I am fortunate enough to awaken sufficient interest in you to help me in this matter out of your kind generosity. Be assured, sir, that I and all that belongs to me will always strive to deserve this blessing with the same respect and faithfulness with which I am, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant,

       De Fleury

       I would be greatly obliged if, when you write to America, you would be kind enough to ask for news of my son and permit him to send his letters to me with those received by you, for I know that he has written several which, inexplicably, never reached me.


Title: William Bingham to the Commissioners, 16 June 1778
From: Bingham, William
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honble Gentn
      St Pierre M/que June 16th 1778

     It is a long time Since I have had the honor of receiving any of your Commands, and am the more surprized at it, as a Packet Boat has arrived with Dispatches for the General, informing him of a Treaty of Alliance and Commerce being concluded on betwixt the Court of Versailles and the United states of America.
     Should this Treaty cause any material Change in the political or commercial System of Affairs; Should it stipulate any new Advantages for the French Commerce; or Should it entitle our Trade to a more free and full Indulgence in their Ports, and a more open Protection from their Flag; Should it determine any new Line of Conduct with regard to Foreign Powers, or the reciprocal Services to be expected of each other; Should any common object employ the Attention of the contracting Parties, which requires their acting in Concert, I humbly think that I should be made acquainted with its Contents, that I might act in Conformity thereto, and as far as my Small Influence will reach, cooperate accordingly.
     As Agent for the United States of America in the West Indies, every Circumstance that regards the Country that I represent, and that forms a Subject of Controversy, immediately falls under my Notice and Attention;—but how shall I govern myself with any Degree of Prudence or Precision, or according to the Terms that the Treaty prescribes, when I am entirely ignorant of what it contains.
     I have taken the liberty of laying these Thoughts before you Gentlemen, from the Impulse of a Motive which you cannot but think commendable from a Sincere desire of obtaining Such Information as is essentially necessary to the Discharge of my Trust with Reputation to myself, and Credit to my Employers. I have the honor to be with unfeigned Respect Honbl. Gentn. Your most obedt. & very hble Servant

      Wm Bingham


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 16 June 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honble. Sirs
      Bordeaux 16 June 1778

     I had the Honor to write you the 13.13 and 14th Instant. Mr. Emery receiv’d letters from Capt. Cunningham at Corrunha advising their Arrival at that Port from Cadiz having made four Prizes in the Passage. We have it reported the Boston fell in with two privateers, one of eighteen Guns she took, the other got off. I cannot trace it so as give implicite faith.
     The Jersey Privateers stil continue upon the Coast of Spain they have taken a vessel belonging to Bayenne having Tobacco on board from the Cape and a small schooner with eighty hhds from Edenten.
     Letters from Lisbon mention the arrival of a Vessel at that Port from the Western Islands that fell in with the Fleet under Comte D’Estaing near to Tercera the 23 May.
     Captain de Siau is come down, A suitable vessel is purchased to mount 24 nine pounders two hundred and forty men and a small tender is on the stocks which together are to be compleatly equipt and at Sea by the 20th July. I am with due respect Your honors Most Obedient H Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 16 June 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       Lahaie 16e. Juin 1778

      Le feuillet ci-joint a èté écrit à diverses reprises en allant et venant hier et aujourd’hui. J’en ai donné connoissance aussi à Mr. Lee à Vienne; excepté de ce que vous verrez renfermé dans des crochets.
      Le g—— F—— ne m’a pas encore rendu le Traité, qu’il m’avoit demandé pour le faire copier. Il le gardera peut-être, jusqu’à-ce que la permission de le remettre à sa destination soit arrivée. Je lui ai demandé S’il l’avoit fait copier; il m’a dit pas encore: ainsi j’attendrai qu’il m’en reparle lui-même.
      Je suis avec beaucoup de respect, Messieurs, Votre très humble & très obéissant serviteur

       D

       Je sai que le g—— F—— a écrit aujourd’hui à sa Maison, sur ce qui concerne l’Article ci joint de la Gazette d’ici d’hier.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners: A Translation, 16 June 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 16 June 1778

      The enclosed sheet was written piecemeal yesterday and while coming and going today. A copy, omitting what is in brackets, has been sent to Mr. Lee in Vienna.
      The treaty, which the Grand Facteur asked to copy, has not yet been returned to me. He may plan to keep it until permission to send it on to its true destination arrives. I asked him if he had had it copied; he told me not yet. I shall, therefore, wait for him to mention it again.
      I am, with the utmost respect, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       D

       I know it for a fact that the Grand Facteur wrote to his House today concerning the enclosed article that appeared here yesterday in the Gazette.


Title: Francis Coffyn to the Commissioners, 18 June 1778
From: Coffyn, Francis
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Hond. Gentlemen
      Dunkerque 18th. June 1778

     I take the liberty to crave your referrence to the letter I had the honnur of writing to you the 8 instant to the contents of which I am Still waiting with anxiety the favour of your answer. I received last night only under a blank cover your letter dated 10th instant address’d to any Captain bound to America the contents of which shall be carefully communicated and recommended to two Captains which are now fitting out their vessells in this harbour for Said destination, that they may inform those whom it may concern on their arrival at any port of the Continent. Interim I think it proper to advise you that the first will sail in about 8 or 10 days and the last will not be able to proceed before the 5th. of next month. As they intend to go north about Scotland, and I imagine the American Coast will be pretty clear of Cruizers against the time they may reach it, it is to be hoped they will get there Safe; if your opinion should coincide with mine, and you Should think proper to convey by the same channell any interesting news you may receive relating the dispositions of the fleets on the other Side, you may rely on my particular care and attention to your orders in this as well as in every other respect.
     The intelligence received by last post from London and by the Smugglars respecting these fleets, were So contradictory, that I did not think it prudent to communicate it to you; Some letters mention’d that both Squadrons were Sail’d from Portsmouth and Plymouth, and others advised that they was Still detain’d by contrary winds the 9th instant but that the Ships were then riding at Single anchor, the last account was confirm’d by a person who left London last Sunday.

     Whereas on account of our vicinity with England, it often happens that we have the news here, Sooner then they can reach the place of your abode, if I should hear any of importance in which confidence may be placed, before the departure of the above mention’d two vessells, I will if you approve of it, transmit the intelligence by the Same channell.
     The Captains of three vessells two of which arrived here yesterday and one this morning, report that on monday last, they met off Portland close to the shore, a fleet of about 45. Sail, Steering westward, that some of the ships which appear’d to be large men of warr, fired guns, and that the Salute was return’d from the Shore.
     One of the American Seamen which I mention’d in my last was gone off in a Smuggling vessell, is return’d, and he Seems to repent that he had taken that step without acquainting me off it, he is desirous of going on board of any continental ship of warr or privateer, he is a stout able Seaman, he was onboard the Fox frigate when She was retaken.
     Three other Americans which have been out on a whaling voyage in the South Seas, arrived here yesterday. They are also desirous of serving their Country, and therefor claim your protection. I humbly give it as my opinion that it is necessary to provide for these people, for if they are not immediately employ’d, I am afraid they will return to England where they are sure of meeting encouragement because the British Gouvernment is taking every step to Establish that fishery in England, and in order to Suceed therein, offer great advantages to all Seamen who are Expert in it, if once it takes root there, it may be hurtfull to America, as this fishery has hitherto been a considerable branch of Trade in the New England provinces. I therefor take the liberty to request you would favour me with your orders respecting the above mention’d four men, and if contrary to my opinion your intention is that they shift for themselves, I beg you would inform me of it, as the first has not a Shilling left, and the three last have hardly money enough to maintain them till I can receive your answer.
     James Beams being now nearly recover’d of the wound he received onboard the Lexington, I have agreed with a Captain of the Brigantine la Boulonnoise bound to Brest to allow him L. 72 for his passage and provisions on the voyage, which I shall pay tomorrow and the moment I’ll receive your orders to settle with the two surgeons, I shall remit you this mans bill. With great respect I have the honnor to subscribe myself Hond Gentlemen, Your most obedient and most devoted humble Servant

      Frans. Coffyn


Title: Dubourg to the Commissioners, 18 June 1778
From: Dubourg, Jacques Barbeu
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       Paris 18e. juin 1778

      Persone ne reconnoit plus volontiers et ne rend plus de justice que moi a la profondeur de votre sagesse et a la superiorité de vos lumieres. Sans cela je vous avoue que je serois etonné que vous ayez refusé et refusiez de faire courir sur les Anglois avec votre pavilion tous ceux qui en ont le courage et la bonne volonté, qui en prennent tous les fraix et tous les risques sur eux, et qui se regardant ipso facto, comme Americains, se soumettent a toutes les loix de votre marine, concernant le partage même des prises faites sous votre pavilion. Il est vrai que comme des promesses vagues a cet egard ne suffisent pas, il y auroit des precautions a prendre pour que ceux qui les feroient ne pussent se dispenser de les tenir; et que cela ne pourroit meme etre fait solidement sans l’aveu du gouvernement dans les ports duquel se font les armamens, et ou se feroient egalement les plus part des retours. Mais je pense que tout cela ne seroit point difficile a applanir, et l’objet paroit assez important pour en valoir la peine. Je ne doute pas que l’on ne pût esperer du ier. coup de filet un benefice tres considerable; sans compter que pour se garanter des recidives, la Cour de Londres seroit obligée de prendre des precautions extraordinaires et tres dispendieuses, ou de restraindre beaucoup son commerce du Levant, qui est une de ses branches les plus lucratives; mais en attendant on leur auroit porté de grands coups, et on tourneroit contre eux tous les fonds qu’on leur auroit enlevés. Le principal auteur promoteur de cette entreprise est un ancient associé d’un certain Marquis Roux de Corse qui a fait beaucoup parler de lui par l’audace qu’il eut au commencement de la derniere guerre de la declarer a 1’Angleterre en son propre et privé nom. Quant au Capitaine qui doit monter le ier. chebec, je pense que vous n’avez point de doute sur sa resolution et son intrepidité. Je ne crois pas qu’il y ait homme au monde plus propre à electriser une troupe de braves gens. J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec un respectueux devouement, Messieurs, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

       Dubourg


Title: Dubourg to the Commissioners: A Translation, 18 June 1778
From: Dubourg, Jacques Barbeu
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       Paris, 18 June 1778

      No one would more readily concede or pay more tribute to the depth of your wisdom and the superiority of your intelligence than I. Otherwise, I must confess, I would be astonished by your past and present refusal to send against the British, under your flag, all those with the courage and incentive to do so; men who would taken upon themselves all the expenses and risks and, considering themselves ipso facto Americans, would submit to all the laws of your navy concerning even the division of prizes taken under your flag. It is true, since vague promises are insufficient, that necessary precautions would have to be taken to insure that those making them are held to their obligations and that this plan could not be firmly carried through without the permission of the government in the ports where the outfitting is to be done and where the ships will return. I believe, however, that this would not be a difficult point to settle and certainly the goal is worth the trouble. Doubtless one could not expect substantial gains from the first effort, not to mention that, in order to protect itself against repetitions, the Court of London would be forced to take extraordinary and expensive precautions or else greatly limit one of the most lucrative branches of its trade, that with the Levant. In the meantime, we would have dealt them powerful blows and could, in turn, use against them the funds we would have taken. The chief author promoter of this enterprize is an old associate of a certain Marquis Roux of Corsica who was much talked about at the beginning of the last war for his boldness in declaring war against Britain in his own name and private capacity. As to the captain who is to command the first xebec, I think that you have no doubts about his determination and intrepidity. I do not believe that there is a better man in the world to inspire a crew of brave men. I have the honor to be, with respect and devotion, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       Dubourg


Title: Francis Coffyn to the Commissioners, 19 June 1778
From: Coffyn, Francis
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Hond. Gentlemen
      Dunkirk 19th. June 1778

     I had the honnor of writing to you yesterday referring to my letter of 8 instant which I beg leave to confirm. This cheafly Serves to inform you that Capn. Pilartry, (or some such name) of the Brig la Marie Françoise of Quimper which arrived here last night, reports that he met on the 15th instant off Portland a fleet of 21 ships of the line and 5 or 6. frigats bound to the westward but had then the wind contrary: Said Captain tol’d me that he was nigh enough to distinguish the Ships and that he was Sure they were men of warr; their number Strengthens my Idea that it is Admiral Keppels Squadron that sail’d from St. Helens, which by the last accounts was riding at Single anchor. I imagine the letters Expected by this evenings post from London, will illucidate this matter, and likewise confirm the report which is this day spread here that Lord Byron’s squadron sail’d from Plymouth the 10th. instant as there is sufficient time left to clear up these various reports before the Sailing of the first vessell bound to America, as mention’d in my yesterdays letter, and as I may receive your answer thereto, I shall wait your approbation before I transmit the Intelligence by Said vessell. Interim I am Sorry to be under the necessity to inform you Gentlemen, that when I sent James Beams this morning to the navy office to pass revew, Mr. Danglemont the Commissary refused to grant him leave to go passenger to Brest on board the brig la Boulonnoise so that I am under the necessity of waiting till an other opportunity offers, which you may rely I shall not let slip. I Suppose that the reason on which the Commissary grounds his refusal, is because said vessell belongs to his majesty and that he will avoid an American Should be found on board in case She should be Examined in the channell by an English Cruizer. I have the honnor to remain very respectfully Hond. Gentlemen, Your most obedient & most devoted Humble Servant

      Frans Coffyn


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 19 June 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       La Haie 19e. Juin 1778

      Nulla dies sine linea. J’ai eu l’honneur de vous communiquer l’ordinaire passé l’article insidieux que Sir J. Y. avoit fait placer dans la Gazette de Lahaie, et la dépêche du Cte. de D——d. Le 16 j’envoyai à Leide ce que vous trouverez ci-joint. Le 17e le Gazettier d’ici, par ordre de Mr. le Baron de Reischach Envoyé de la Cour de Vienne, chanta en réchignant la palinodie suivante. “Nous sommes requis de très bonne part de publier, que 1’article, dans notre No. 71, concernant le Sr. Lee, Agent Américain, ne nous a pas été fourni de la part de la Cour de Vienne, ou d’aucun de ses Ministres.” Mardi prochain il y aura quelque autre chose dans la feuille de Leide. Nous faisons ici, comme vous voyez, la petite guerre. Nous pelotons, en attendant partie.
      Le g—— F—— m’a pronostiqué aujourdhui, que la permission de presenter le T—— arrivera mardi. J’ai compris que Ton s’attend à sa Maison, que ceci produira de la part de ceux d’ici une Résolution dans toutes les formes dans leur prochaine assemblée. Je le souhaitte de tout mon coeur; mais je ne le crois pas. On n’est pas dans le cas de pouvoir ou d’oser faire un tel coup d’éclat. Le point essentiel qu’il s’agissoit de gagner et que nous gagnerons sûrement, c’est d’ôter tout prétexte et espoir aux malintentionnés de faire entrer la republique dans aucune de leurs vues; et rien n’est mieux pour cet effet que la maniere don’t nous manoeuvrons actuellement.
      Je garderai ceci jusqu’ à Mardi.

       23e. Juin

      La pronostication du g—— F—— a manqué. Vous verrez, lui ai-je dit, que ce T—— deviendra public par les Gazettes Américaines et Angloises, et alors ma démarche auprès du G—— P—— n’aura plus ni mérite ni grace—Que voulez-vous? m’a-t-il répondu: 1’affaire est faite; on a écrit; nous ne pouvons à présent passer outre avant d’avoir réponse: elle viendra peut-être vendredi.
      La Gazette de Leide a aujourdhui ce qui suit
      “Par les soins du Gouvernement notre commerce s’accroît au milieu des querelles de nos voisins. Depuis quelque temps on nous a même fait concevoir l’espérance de le voir fleurir plus que jamais, si notre ville Ostende devenoit un Port—franc pour les Américains. Cette attente vient d’être fortifiée par la nouvelle de l’arrivée d’un Agent Américain à Vienne.”
      Je suis, Messieurs, avec le plus vrai respect Votre très humble et très obeissant serviteur

       D

       26e.Juin

      Cette Lettre ne partit pas mardi passé, parce que, toute réflexion faite, son contenu ne me parut pas pressé au point de ne pouvoir attendre un ordinaire de plus.
      J’ai enfin la permission de porter le T—— au G—— P——, et de le lui faire lire, comme aussi à Mr. notre Ami; mais ordre en même temps de n’en laisser copie à personne. On a ajouté, en me disant cela, que Mr. Franklin est instruit de cela, et approuve le tout.
      Quelqu’un m’a dit ce matin, que l’Assemblée des Etats d’Hollande n’aura lieu que dans 19 jours. Je m’informerai plus amplement de cela.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners: A Translation, 19 June 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 19 June 1778

      Nulla dies sine linea. I had the honor to send you, by the last regular mail, the insidious article inserted in the Gazette de la Haie by Sir Joseph Yorke and the dispatch from Count de Degenfeld. On the 16th I sent the material that you found enclosed to Leyden. On the 17th the local gazeteer, by order of Baron de Reischach, envoy of the Court of Vienna, with bad grace, sang the following palinode: “We are required by a very good source to state that the article in our No. 71 concerning Mr. Lee, the American agent, was not furnished to us by the Court of Vienna or by any of its ministers” Next Tuesday there will be something else in the Leyden paper. As you can see, we are waging a small war here. We keep our hands in until the game begins.
      Today the Grand Facteur predicted that permission to present the treaty will arrive on Tuesday. I gathered that his House expects that it will produce a formal resolution on the part of those here at their next assembly. I hope so with all my heart, but I do not believe it. We are not in a position to be able or even to dare to attempt such an accomplishment. For us, the essential point to be achieved—and it surely will be—is to rid the ill-intentioned of any pretext for or hope of bringing the Republic to share any of their views and, in this respect, nothing could be better than the manner in which we are now proceeding.
      I will keep this until Tuesday.

       23 June

      The Grand Facteur’s prediction came to nothing. You will see, I told him, this treaty will be made public in the American and British gazettes with the result that my démarche with the Grand Pensionary will cease to have either merit or propriety. What can I tell you? he answered, the deed is done; we have written and cannot now go forward before receiving a reply; it may come on Friday.
      Today the Gazette de Leyde contained the following:
      “Through the efforts of the government our commerce has increased in the midst of our neighbors’ quarrels. For some time we have been made to conceive the hope of seeing it flourish more than ever if our town Ostende would become a port open to the Americans. This hope has been strengthened by the news of the arrival of an American agent at Vienna.”
      I am, gentlemen, with a very real respect, your very humble and very obedient servant

       D

       26 June

      This letter did not go out last Tuesday because, all things considered, its contents did not seem urgent enough not to wait for the next regular mail.
      I finally have permission to take the treaty to the Grand Pensionary and for him, and also our friend, to read it; but with the accompanying order that no one be given a copy of it. In addition, I was told that Mr. Franklin was apprised of all this and approved it fully.
      This morning someone told me that the Assembly of the Dutch States will meet in only 19 days. I will seek further information concerning this.


Title: To John Adams from Richard Henry Lee, 20 June 1778
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Adams, John

      My dear Sir
      York in Pennsylva 20th. June 1778

     Our enemies at N. York had contrived to distress us a good deal by a publication that the Boston was taken and carried into England. We were at first greatly concerned for our Friend, until we reflected on the lying genius of our enemies, and the improbability that Heaven would permit such a triumph of Vice over Virtue. Now we are made happy by an account from Boston that you are safely arrived in France. The Treaty with France was soon ratified here, desiring only that the 11th. and 12th. Articles might be reconsidered and omitted. Three Copies of the ratification have been sent away from hence near a month, and now, 3 more are dispatching. The former dispatches would inform you the determination of Congress upon the English Acts of pacification, before we knew of our new Alliance, and these will acquaint you with the reception Messrs. the Commissioners from London have met with. The figure they cut is truly ridiculous. If this were all it would be happy for England, but she seems now to be a Setting Star. Two days ago the B: Army abandoned Philadelphia and our Troops are in possession of that City. The enemy are in the Jersies, but whether they mean to push for Amboy, or embark below Billingsport on the Delaware, is yet uncertain. The Jersey Militia are in readiness, and if our Army can cross Delaware in time, the gentry will yet get a parting blow. The friends to the future happiness and glory of America are now urging the Confederation to a close, and I hope it will be signed in a few days. All but a few Delegates have powers, and those that have not, come from Small States, that will undoubtedly come fall in. Our next business is Finance, and this is a Momentous point indeed. Every state exclaims, We are Overflown with our emissions of Money, yet all seem to be going on in the same beaten Track, and will I fear until invincible Necessity shall force a change. I wish to bring you, and my brother Doctor Arthur Lee, to be well acquainted. Republican Spirits who have so successfully labored for the liberty of their Country, and whose sole object is the security of public happiness, must esteem each other. The Continental Army is now on a much more respectable footing, both for strength numbers and discipline, and supplies of every kind, than it has been since the War began. It will give me singular pleasure to hear of your happiness at all times. I am dear Sir most sincerely and affectionately yours.

      Richard Henry Lee

      P.S. Cannot Monsr. Beaumarchais demand against us be fully and fairly explained. There is mistery in this business that demands to be thoroughly developed. Be so kind as contrive the enclosed safely to my brother letter for my brothers safely to them.

     R.H.L


Title: William Moore to the Commissioners, 20 June 1778
From: Moore, William
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Paris 20th June 1778
      To the Honble the Commissioners of the United States of North America

     Your Petitioner Humbly Sheweth that being a native of the States of New Jersey one of the thirteen United States of North America—That having Come Over from the East Indies where he now has A brother who is About Removing A Considerable property from thence to Great Britain—he being entirely unaquainted with the present Situation of that Kingdom—That from the attachment your petitioner has for the place of his Nativity he wishes to remove this property—as well as to advise the removal of that of his Brother and of Several of his friends Now in the East Indies immediately to the United States of North America. That for the Above reasons Your petitioner is now on his way to the East Indies and not only prays for a passport to go on But for liberty to return from thence with A vessal and Cargo to the United States of North America. And your petitioner Shall as in Duty bound ever pray

      William Moore


Title: Sartine to the Commissioners, 20 June 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       A Versailles 20 Juin 1778

      J’ai recû, Messieurs, une Lettre de Nantes qui m’a été ecrite par le Sieur J. D. Schweighauser Agent des Etats unis de L’Amerique Septentrionale, qui, comme chargé de la Direction des Prises faites et conduites a Brest, par les Fregates le Ranger et la Providence, me demande les Formalités a observer, pour la Vente des dites Prises. Je lui reponds qu’elle peut etre faite, Soit a bord, Soit a Terre, a l’amiable. Mais qu’il ne doit etre question d’aucune des formalités qui S’observent en general pour des Prises. Je previens les officers de l’Amirauté de Brest de ce qui je lui marque a ce sujet, et Je vous en fait part etant a propos que vous en ayez Connaissance. J’ay l’honneur d’etre avec une parfaite Consideration, Messieurs, votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

       De Sartine


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Adams, 21 June 1778
From: Adams, Samuel
To: Adams, John

      My dear Sir
      York Town June 21 1778

     Although we are exceedingly pressd with publick Business at this Juncture, I cannot omit the Opportunity that now offers of writing to you. The general Scituation of Affairs, and the particular Transactions between the British Commissioners and the Congress will be transmited to you by this Conveyance, by the Committee for foreign Affairs. Since I last came to this Place from Boston, several Gentlemen have arrivd here from France viz Mr. Simeon Dean, Mr. Carmichael, Mr. Stephenson and Mr. Holker. Mr. Carmichael comes strongly recommend by Dr. Franklin and Mr. Silas Dean; but Dr. Lee in his Letter gives Reasons why he cannot place a Confidence in him. From a long Correspondence with Dr. Lee, I conceive so great an Opinion of his Candor as well as inflexible Integrity and Attachment to our Country, that I cannot entertain a Doubt that he would suffer partial Considerations to operate in his Mind to the Prejudice of any Man. Such a Difference of Sentiments concerning a Gentleman who I imagine must be of some Consequence, could not take Place without at least apparently good Grounds; and it may produce such Effects on this Side of the Water as may prove uncomfortable to us if not injurious to our Cause. Would it not then be doing some Service, to exercise your Prudence in endeavoring to investigate the real Grounds of it, in doing which possibly some things may open to View of Importance and at present not thought of.
     Dr. Lee is a Gentleman of a fair and generous Mind. I wish therefore that you would freely converse with him upon this Subject if you think you can do it with Propriety; and let him know that I have lately receivd many Letters from him; which I have duly attended to and would have acknowledgd to him by this opportunity, if I had Leisure.
     By the Last Accounts I have had from Braintree your Lady and Family were in Health, though anxiously wishing to hear of your safe Arrival.
     I shall write to you as often as I can and shall esteem myself happy in receiving your Favors. I remain very affectionately your Friend

      SA


Title: Foreign Affairs Committee to the Commissioners, 21 June 1778
From: Lee, Richard Henry,Heyward, Thomas Jr.,Lovell, James
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      York Town in Pennsylva June 21 1778

     The British Commissioners have arrived and transmitted their powers and propositions to Congress, which have received the answer you will see in the Pennsylvania Gazette of the 20th. instant.
     On the 18th. of this month Gen. Clinton with the British army (now under his command) abandoned Philadelphia, and the City is in possession of our Troops. The enemy crossed into Jersey, but whether with design to push for So. Amboy, or to embark below Belingsport on the Delaware is yet uncertain. Gen. Washington has put his Army in motion, and is following the enemy into Jersey.
     There has arrived here a Mr. Holker from France who has presented a paper to Congress declaring that he comes with a verbal message to Congress from the Minister of France touching our treating with Great Britain and some other particulars which for want of his paper we cannot at present enumerate. The Style of his paper is as from the representative of the Court, but he has no authentic voucher of his Mission for the delivery of this verbal message. We desire of you Gentlemen to give us the most exact information in your power concerning the Autenticity of Mr. Holkers Mission for this purpose. We are Gentlemen, with esteem and regard your most obedient and very humble servants

      Richard Henry Lee
      Ths. Heyward Junr.
      James Lovell


Title: The Commissioners to J. D. Schweighauser, 23 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Schweighauser, John Daniel

     Passy, 23 June 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:140–141. The Commissioners, noting Schweighauser’s letter of 18 June (not found) and their instructions to John Paul Jones and Abraham Whipple of 16 and 23 June respectively (for both, see instructions to Jones, 16 June, calendared above), enclosed resolutions of the congress on the disposition of prizes (probably those of 23 March and 30 Oct. 1776, JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 4:229–232; 6:913) for Schweighauser’s use in disposing of prizes of the Ranger and Providence and informed him of the possibility of a prisoner exchange. Finally, he was ordered not to send the Commissioners’ circular letter of 10 June announcing the recall of Byron’s fleet because it had since sailed.
     For a possible postscript to this letter, see the Commissioners to Schweighauser, 10 June (calendared above).


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 23 June 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honble. Sirs
      Bordeaux 23 June 1778

     We are without any object Interesting other than the Eclat with which Le Marquis D’Almadova is receiv’d by the Governor Intendant and other Cheif officers of this City. He appears much a Man of the World.
     He will leave this to Morrow for Paris where he proposes to stay Six Days. His Retinue which is Numerous creates delay by what I learn of them who have had opportunity to introduce themselves into his Family. They do not expect their residence in London will be of long durrée. I hear nothing further of the Boston. No vessels arrived on this Coast since my last. Nine American Seamen arrived here yesterday from St. Sebastians part of a Crew, taken by a Jersey privateer, from Edenton landed on the Biscay Coast. I am with great Respect Your honors Most Obedient Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: Peter Amiel: Oath of Allegiance to the United States, 23 June 1778
From: Amiel, Peter,Adams, John
To:

      23 June 1778

     I, Peter Amiel, do acknowledge the thirteen United States of America, namely New Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticutt, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia, to be free independant, and Sovereign States, and declare, that the People thereof owe no Allegiance or Obedience to George the Third King of Great Britain; and I renounce refuse and abjure any Allegiance, or Obedience to him. And I do Swear, that I will, to the Utmost of my Power Support, maintain and defend, the Said united States against the Said King and his Heirs and Successors and his and their Abettors, Assistants and Adherents, and will Serve the Said United States, in the office of Commander of the armed sloop the Alliance which I now hold, and in any other Office which I may hereafter hold, by their Appointment, or under their Authority, with Fidelity and Honour, and according to the best of my Skill and Understanding. So help me God.

      Peter Amiel
      Test William MooreJoy CastleJohn Adams
      Subscribed 23 June 1778

      Sworn before us at Passi this 23d day of June 1778

     Arthur Lee
     John Adams


Title: The Commissioners to Francis Coffyn, 26 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Coffyn, Francis

     Passy, 26 June 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:142–143. The Commissioners left to Coffyn’s judgment the amount to be paid on a surgeon’s bill, approved his proposal to transmit to America intelligence that he had obtained, and advised him either to send the unemployed sailors to serve on the frigates at Brest and Nantes or to retain them at Dunkirk to join the Alliance. Finally Coffyn was directed to execute the bond for the Alliance and to deliver the enclosed commission and instructions to Amiel.


Title: To John Adams from John Williams, 27 June 1778
From: Williams, John
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Downing Street No. 4 27th. June 1778

     Tho I have not the honor of a Parsonal acquaintance yet from your high Station and Character, and the Genteel as well as faithful conduct, you have Shewn to my Son who had the happiness of being Several years under your tuition, I take the liberty of Addressing you at this time, to express my Grateful Sense of your Goodness to him, and the Satisfaction I feel on hearing of your Safe arrival in France, and to congratulate you on the happy prospect of returning Peace Liberty and Safety to the Country that gave us birth I mean the united States, where my best Affections ever were, and ever well be centered. I also beg the favour to be informed, should you have any opportunity by a Safe hand, whither you know any thing of my Son’s welfere and Family’s, as I have not had any certain intilligence from any of them Since I was last in Paris near a year go.
     The Bearer Mr. Jona. Simpson who left Boston with Genl. Howe, having unhappyly from his youth, and inexperence, tho naturally of a Good Disposition been induced to address a late detestable, and Jusly detested Govr. but being now a True penitent, and wishing most earnestly to return to his Country and to his Allegiance, is Going to Paris to beg the best Advice upon this important business, and I am Sure he will be happy to be hon ored with your Directions. If he Should return to England I would beg to be favourd by him with what you may know of my Family. I shall leave this Kingdom as soon as a matter I have in Law can be Settled which I am in daily expectation of and indeed I have for Some Months past. I hope however it will be settled this Term. Therefore Should you have any commands here I shall be happy to receive them.
     I am most Sincerely wishing you health & all posseble happiness Sir, Your much Obd. & Obld. Humble Servant

      Jno. Williams

      NB. Since I have wrote this above the news is Just arrived of three Ships of war belonging to France having been taken, by the English Fleet that Saild a few days ago under the command of Ad. Keppel on account of which Mr. Jona. Simpson has layd aside his intentions of going to Paris, and as my Friend who is an native of France is Just Seting out I have not time to Copy this over. Yrs. as before

     JW


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 27 June 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honble Sirs
      Bordeaux 27 June 1778

     The Engagement of La Belle Poule is esteem’d at this port as a prelude to the declaration. Sugar Coffee and every other forreign Produce is buying up on Speculation which Acts are the Merchants Compass governing their views by the appearances of the times.
     We have Letters of the 10 and 13 May from America but as they came by the Nymph Frigate can of course contain nothing more than what you will have received by said Conveyance.
     Admiral Byron don’t appear destind for America if as is reportd two of the Ships of his Squadron are at Ancor near Roscoff. Four Copies of your Instructions of the 10th. are already forwarded and this day the perticular Account of rencontre as is here related of La Belle Poule, many favorable Circumstances Arriving together in America may posibly promote the Recruiting Service which they write me wants a Spurr to forward.
     We have no Arrivals since my last from America in any of the Ports on this Coast.
     Le Marquis D’Almadora left this 25th at night he makes very short Stages. The non Arrival of the Galions alarms the Interested. The Capital Sums Insured in England is the sole hope here of their not meeting with opposion. I am with due Respect Your honors Most Obedient Humble Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 27 June 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       La Haie 27e. Juin 1778

      Voici copie de la Lettre que je viens d’écrire à Mr. le G—— P——
      “Monsieur, Le Traite d’amitié et de commerce entre la France et les Etats-Unis de l’Amérique m’a été envoyé. Quand il plaira à Votre Excellence de me prescrire le jour et l’heure ou il Lui seroit commode de me donner audience, je recevrai ses ordres avec le profond respect avec lequel je suis, &c.”
      Avant de porter cette Lettre, je l’ai fait voir au g—— F——, qui l’a approuvee. A present j’attends que le G—— P—— me fasse dire quand il voudra me recevoir. Je Suppose que la curiosite ne lui permettra pas de differer longtemps.

       28e.

      J’ai bien supposé. En revenant de chez le g—— F——, j’ai trouvé le billet suivant, tout entier de la main du G—— P——.
      “Monsieur, Ayant vu hier par votre Lettre, que le Traité d’Amitié et de Commerce entre la France et les Etats-Unis de l’Amérique vous a été envoyé, et que vous souhaitez de me voir, je vous prie, Monsieur, de vouloir vous rendre chez moi demain matin vers 8/12 ; heures. Je suis très parfaitement, Monsieur, Votre tres humble et très obéissant serviteur, P. Van Bleiswyk. Ce 28c Juin 1778.”
      Je reçus hier au soir de la part de Mr. le Chev. Gd. le paquet dont vous m’avez favorise le 22e,. et dont j’ai lu, ou plutôt devore l’agréable contenu avec le plus grand intérêt. Après la Lettre que j’avois écrite au G—— P——, il n’y avoit plus moyen de reculer: aussi le g—— F——, a tout de suite dit qu’il falloit passer outre. J’irai done demain matin faire la communication du Traité, mais Seulement en le laissant lire, ou en le lisant, comme on voudra, sans en laisser prendre copie.

       29e. Juin 1778

      J’ai été chez le G—— P——. Il m’a rec, u avec la plus grande politesse. Je lui ai présenté le Traite, en le prévenant qu’il ne m’étoit pas permis pour le présent de le faire voir à d’autres qu’a lui et à notre Ami, comme à deux Ministres de la République, pour qui Mrs. les Plénipotentiaries des Etats Unis avoient la plus grande confiance et la plus haute estime. “Mais vous pouvez pourtant me le laisser un peu, n’est-ce pas?” me dit-il. Je l’assurai que tout ce qui étoit en mon pouvoir, et ma personne meme, étoit à sa disposition, mais que je le suppliois de considérer, que ceci étoit un dépot. Il n’insista pas; et ayant lu, il trouva “que c’étoit un Traité d’amitié et de Commerce comme tous les autres.” Je lui dis qu’on n’avoit pas voulu en faire un autre, et que la republique pouvoit en faire un pareil. Il me dit “qu’il y avoit sans doute des Articles secrets.” Je répondis “que cela ne seroit pas sans exemple, mais que je n’en savois rien.” Il parla “de l’irrésolution de la Cour de Madrid, et du peu de disposition de celle de Vienne à ecouter Mr. Lee.” Je m’enveloppai dans une parfaite ignorance de ce qui se traitoit dans les Cabinets. Il trouva que “le Traité ne garantissoit pas l’indépendance.” J’observai qu’il la supposoit, et que la déclaration que la France en avoit faite à toutes les Puissances, excluoit toute incertitude à cet égard. Il me parla de Mr. Franklin dans des termes qui manifestoient la plus haute estime, conĉue depuis longtemps déjà, et, a mot couverts, de sa bonne volonté pour le rapprochement des deux Peuples. Je lui offris, s’il avoit quelque desir de revoir le Traité, de le lui apporter aussi souvent qu’il voudroit. Il répondit que cela n’étoit pas nécessaire, sur-tout puisque je devois aussi le communiquer demain à notre ami. Je lui remis copie de la nouvelle manuscrite, avec promesse de lui faire des Extraits de celles, Messieurs, que vous m’enverrez a l’avenir. Il me témoigna que cela lui feroit plaisir. Il me parut plus réservé à la fin qu’au commencement; faché apparemment, de n’avoir pu faire voir le Traité au Prince, mais qui l’auroit fait voir a S. J. Y.&c.

       30e.

      J’attends ce soir Mr. V. Berkel. Les Etats d’Hollande S’assemblent demain.
      On m’a envoyé d’Amsterdam quelques feuilles de la dédicace ci-jointe. J’ignore qui en est l’auteur: mais cela vaut incomparablement mieux que le voeu des nations.
      Je m’occuperai à présent à extraire pour nos Gazettiers les papiers dont vous m’avez favorisé et suis avec respect Messieurs Votre tres humble & très obeissant serviteur

       D

       30e. Juin 1778

      On vient de me Conner que la Ville d’Amsterdam a fait un Emprunt de 3000,000 de florins (6000,000 de Livres de France), qui a été rempli dans 2 ou 3 heures de temps. Tant mieux; voilà toujours autant d’argent dont les Anglois ne profiteront pas, pour faire hausser leurs fonds. Mais il faut que je sache encore pour quoi cet emprunt a été fait; et je le Saurai. Toujours, le fait est sûr.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners: A Translation, 27 June 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       The Hague 27 June 1778

      Here is a copy of the letter I have just written to the Grand Pensionary.
      “Sir: The Treaty of Amity and Commerce between France and the United States has been sent to me. When it will please Your Excellency to indicate the date and time when it would be convenient for him to grant me an audience, I will receive his orders with the profound respect with which I am, &c.”
      Before sending this letter I showed it to the Grand Facteur who approved it. At present I am awaiting word from the Grand Pensionary as to when he will receive me. I suspect that curiosity will not permit him to delay very long.

       28th

      I guessed right. Upon returning from the Grand Facteur I found the following note, entirely in the hand of the Grand Pensionary.
      “Sir: Having seen by your letter of yesterday that the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between France and the United States of America has been sent to you and that you wished to see me, I suggest, sir, that you come tomorrow morning around 8:30. I am very respectfully, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant, P. Van Bleiswyck. 28 June 1778.”
      Last night I received from the Chev. Grand the packet that you have favored me with of the lid, the agreeable contents of which I read or rather devoured with the utmost interest. After the letter I had written to the Grand Pensionary, there was no way of backing out; hence, the Grand Facteur said to proceed immediately, I shall, therefore, communicate the treaty tomorrow morning, but only permitting it to be read or reading it myself, as he chooses, without a copy being made.

       29 June 1778

      I have been to the Grand Pensionary’s. He received me with the utmost politeness. I presented the treaty and, at the same time, informed him that, for the time being, I was not permitted to show it to anyone but him and our friend: two ministers of the Republic for whom the Plenipotentiaries of the United States have great confidence and the highest esteem. “But,” he asked, “you can leave it with me for a short while, can’t you?” I assured him that I and all that was in my power were at his entire disposal, but begged him to understand that this was entrusted to me. He did not insist and, having read it, said he found “that it was a Treaty of Amity and Commerce like all the others.” I told him that there had been no desire to conclude one that was different and that the Republic could make a similar one. He said to me “that there were without a doubt secret articles.” I replied “that it would not be the first time, but that I had no knowledge of any.” He then spoke “of the irresolution of the Court of Madrid and the slight disposition of that of Vienna to listen to Mr. Lee.” I cloaked myself in complete ignorance as to what transpired in the cabinets. He found “that the treaty did not guarantee independence.” I observed that it assumed it, and that the French declaration to all the powers had precluded any doubts in this regard. He spoke to me of Mr. Franklin in terms that manifested a high and longstanding esteem and, in covert terms, of his own goodwill toward the rapprochement of the two peoples. I offered, if he had any desire to reexamine the treaty, to bring it to him as often as he wished. He replied that it would be unnecessary, especially since I also had to show it to our friend tomorrow. I gave him a copy of the handwritten newsletter (nouvelle manuscrite) with the promise to provide him with extracts from those that you would send me in the future. He said that he would be very grateful. He seemed more reserved at the end than in the beginning, apparently upset because he could not show the treaty to the Prince, who would then show it to Sir Joseph Yorke, &c.

       30th

      Tonight I expect to see Mr. V. Berkel. The Dutch States assemble tomorrow.

      I received from Amsterdam a few pages of the enclosed dedication. I am ignorant as to the author, but it transcends national interests.
      I will occupy myself, at present, with extracting, for our gazeteers, articles from the papers that I had the honor to receive from you and am with respect, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       D

       30 June 1778

      I have been told confidentially that the town of Amsterdam has borrowed 3,000,000 florins (6,000,000 French livres) which have been collected in two or three hours. Good, that is just so much money that will not go to the British to increase their resources. But I must, and will, find out why the borrowing was done. In any case, the fact is true.