Title: John Paul Jones to the Commissioners, 15 August 1778
From: Jones, John Paul
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Brest August 15th. 1778

     I have now been five days in this place since my Arrival from Passy—during which time neither seen nor heard from Lieutenant Simpson. But Mr. Hill, who was last Winter at Passy and who sailed with me from Nantes, informs me truely—that it is generally reported in the Ranger and of course throughout the French Fleet and on Shore—That I am turned out of the Service—and that you Gentlemen, have Mr. Simpson in my place with a Captains Commission. That my letter of the 16th of July to you was Involuntary on my part and in Obedience only to your Orders, to avert dreadful consequences to myself.
     These, Gentlemen are not idle illgrounded conjectures, but melancholy Facts. Therefore I beseech you, I conjure you, I demand of you to Afford me Redress—Redress by a Court Martial—to form which we have now a Sufficient number of Officers in France with the assistance of Captain Hinman exclusive of myself. The Providence and the Boston are expected here very soon from Nantes and I am certain that they neither can nor will depart again before my friend Captain Hinman can come down here—And it is his unquestioned Right to Succeed me in the Command of the Ranger.
     I have faithfully and personally supported and Fought the Dignified Cause of Human Nature ever since the American Banner first waved on the Delaware and on the Ocean. This I did when that Man did not call himself a Republican, but left the Continent and served its Enemies—And this I did when that Man Appeared Dastardly Backward and did not support me as he ought.
     I concluded by requesting you to call before you and examin for your own satisfaction Mr. Edwd. Meyrs who is now at the House of the Sweedish Ambassador and who having been with me as a Volunteer can and will I am persuaded represent to you the conduct of the officers and Men towards me both before I left Brest and afterwards in the Irish Channell as well as my conduct towards them.

      I have the honor to be with sentiments of due Esteem and Respect Gentlemen your very Obliged very obt. very humble Servt.,
      Jno P Jones


Title: Sartine to the Commissioners: A Translation, 16 August 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       Versailles. 16th. August. 1778

      I take the earliest opportunity to answer the observations addressed to me in the letter which you did me the honor to write to me the 13th. instant on the project of a regulation for the prizes and prisonners of the respective U States. I Conceive that I have fulfilled the object by digesting anew the 2. and 14 Articles of which I annex another text with copies of the different Laws that have been lately published respecting Prizes. Moreover, I will at all times receive with pleasure your representations of the inconveniencies which May attend in your opinion the execution of the regulation and you may be assured that His Majesty will be always disposed to procure grant the inhabitants of the U States every facility compatible with the interest of his finances and the Commerce of his Subjects.

       I have the honor to be with sincere attachment Gentn. Yr. m. h. & m. ob. st.
       (signed) De Sartine


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 18 August 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       La haie 18e. Août 1778

      Depuis mes dernieres, il ne s’est rien passé ici qui valût la peine de vous l’écrire. Cela ne veut pas dire cependant, que je n’aie tous les jours quelque occasion d’agir pour le bien général, et par conséquent de fréquenter tous les jours l’hôtel de F——, de recevoir des intelligences et des Lettres, et d’en dormer des Extraits, qui passent quelque fois au Cabinet, mais le plus souvent, et même régulierement, dans certains Ports: et en servant ainsi le grand Allié de l’Union, je suis persuadé de la servir ellemême: Mais le détail de toutes ces choses, infini en lui-même, vous seroit inutile et ennuyant; outre qu’il est de nature à ne pas devoir être exposé, sans nécessité, au sort d’une Lettre. Le Chevalier votre ami la sait en partie. J’ai bien reçu de sa part, par les mains de M. l’Ambassadeur la Gazette d’Yorktown que Mr. Franklin m’a fait la faveur de lui envoyer pour moi; et la Gazette de Leide de ce jour en est toute remplie. Voici, Messieurs, copie de la Lettre que j’écrivis hier à Mr. Van Berkel Pensionnaire d’Amsterdam, notre bon ami. Je viens de la montrer au g——F——, qui en est fort content.
      Le vaisseau de mes amis, dont j’ai eu l’honneur de vous parler il y a quelque temps, est parti. Je l’ai chargé d’un paquet pour le Congrès, et d’une Lettre de recommandation pour l’Officier commandant du Port où il abordera. Si son voyage est heureux, cela encouragera beaucoup de gens à l’imiter, et à répandre l’abondance, et par conséquent le bon marché des merchandises en Amérique.

       J’ai l’honneur d’être avec le plus respectueux dévouement, Messieurs, Votre très humble & très obéissant serviteur
       Dumas

       J’envoie demain un autre paquet en Amérique, par la voie préscrite anterieurement.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners: A Translation, 18 August 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 18 August 1778

      Since my last letters, nothing worthy of writing about has occurred. That is not to say, however, that every day I have not had some occasion of acting for the general welfare of the cause and, therefore, of visiting the French embassy daily in order to receive intelligence and letters, or to provide extracts which sometimes are sent to the Cabinet, but more often, and even with regularity, go to certain ports. I am convinced that by serving the great ally of the Union in this fashion I am serving her. But to detail all these things would be endless and both useless and boring to you, notwithstanding the fact that owing to their nature, these transactions should not be unnecessarily exposed to the hazardous fate of a letter. Your friend, the Chevalier, is, in part, aware of all this. He sent me, through the ambassador, the gazette from Yorktown, which Mr. Franklin did me the favor to send him for me, and today’s Gazette de Leyde is filled with it. Here, Gentlemen, is a copy of the letter I wrote yesterday to our good friend Mr. van Berckel, Pensionary of Amsterdam. I have just showed it to the Grand Facteur who is very pleased with it.
      My friends’ vessel, which I had the honor to mention to you some time ago, has left. I entrusted to it a packet for the congress and a letter of recommendation addressed to the commanding officer of the harbor where they will land. If its journey is successful, it will encourage others to follow their example and thereby increase the amount and thus lower the prices of goods in America. I have the honor to be, with the most respectful devotion, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       Dumas

       Tomorrow, I am sending another packet to America in the manner described earlier.


Title: John Ross to the Commissioners, 18 August 1778
From: Ross, John
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honble. Gentlemen
      Nantes 18th Aug: 1778

     I did myself the honour to Address You, on the 16th and 23d. Ultimo —Not on business of my own but that which Regards the United States, and consistent with the common Rule of Regularity, claimed an Answer long since.
     Mr. Delavile holder of Mr. Ceronio’s bills applyed to me again by letter, on last Saturday, and the bills being drawn, on public Account, shall be glad to know what Answer am to give the Gentleman.
     The United States Stand (in Accounts here) indebted for a large ballance to the house of Willing Morris: and Co.—which I have represented to you and applyed for to enable me to do something towards their private concerns—but no Answer to this, neither.
     The Officers of the Crown in this place, having lately, as I understand, made Sale of all the Furniture, wireing Apparel, and other effects taken out of the house of the late Mr. Thomas Morris, it is incumbent on me, in Name of Robert Morris Esqr. to Notifye Same to Mr. Lee Commercial Agent, through the Honble. Commissioners, under whose Sanctions he represents to have Acted, that he may not plead ignorance of those consequence’s, which his conduct, even with the Authority he was possessed of, has incurred to the Credit, property, and reputation of Men, injured, and insulted by the Exercise of his Power’s.
     It gives me pain, I shoud be compeled, to make this a Subject of correspondence so long. Nevertheless, Indifferent and trifleing as the business and Credit of Willing: Morris and Co. may appear to your Honors or to the Man of business acting as Commercial Agent, and however much the Powers am possesed of, have been despised and rejected by the Honble. Gentlemen; who gave Sanction to Mr. Lee’s assumed exercise of a dareing unpresidented Power, I hold myself justifiable to communicate what occurrs, to the prejudice of my absent friends in this business, untill some other Person are invested with such power’s as merit the Attention of the Representatives of America. I have the honour to be with all due respect Honble. Gentlemen Your very obedient Serv.

      Jno. Ross Esq.


Title: From John Adams to William MacCreery, 19 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: MacCreery, William

      Sir
      Passi Aug 19. 1778

     I thank you for your favour of the 8th. I believe my Letters to you, were carried faithfully enough. The secret is that I write my Letters, at the time they are dated, but they are frequently not copied and sent untill several days after. This arises from a Multiplicity of Business and of Pleasure, as it is called. It is unavoidable in our situation, but it is to me the most irksome Part of our Duties.
     Your Account of the Embarrassment of Trade is new to me and very interesting, but there will be soon an End to it. By the Treaty Congress, have Authority to appoint Consulls, whose Duty and Jurisdiction it is to decide Controversies and do Justice. I hope they will soon make such appointments. In the Mean Time however, the Commissioners here, are ready at all times to apply to the Court for Redress of Greivances, in which, I have no doubt they would have success. When there is any Complain the best Way is to state it in Writing to the Commissioners in cool, decent and dispassionate Language, and the Commissioners will immediately lay it before his Majesty, or his Ministers, and We have hither to found every appearance of a sincere desire, to do Justice and give satisfaction.
     It is very unfortunate that there is no Newspaper, or other public Channell through which, Intelligence, can by Us be Speedily communicated to every Part of this Kingdom. But We have not commonly, Intelligence of the Sailing of any naval Armament from England Sooner, than the Merchants have it in the sea Ports. If We had for my Part I would readily write all Night? to inform the American Merchants of it. Nil Americanum a me alienum puto. Pardon me.
     I Suppose the Interest of your Loan office Certificates is to be paid here. But it cannot be done untill We have Bills of Exchange drawn for it by the Loan officer in America, who issued the Certificate.
     We are all Impatience to hear from America. Nothing new at Versailles or Paris not even at the Palais Royal, except Bruits of Victories in America which come from Nobody and from No where. I am &c.


Title: Abraham Whipple to the Commissioners, 19 August 1778
From: Whipple, Abraham
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honoured Gentlemen
      Brest Road August 19 1778 Onboard Contin Ship Providence

     I had the pleasure of writing you July 31 from Paimbeufe where I had been wind bound for fifteen days. The Boston had not joined me Then. She afterwards did and August 8th we proceeded for Brest in Company. Contrary winds proving unfavourable detained us at Sea till the 14th when we arrived at Brest. I here found that Lt. Simpson had strictly attended to my Orders of July 24th and done every thing in his power to get in Readiness for the Seas. His Provisions Water &c. as directed was on board. I flattered myself with speedily putting to Sea but how was I surprized when made acquainted that none of the Prizes belonging to the Ranger were sold and that the unfortunate Crew had not recieved a single sous for all the time they had been in France; the disagreable feelings of Men who are obliged to Relinquish property which justly belongs to them, and for which they have hazarded their lives, induced me to allow them the Respite of a day or two, to attempt settling the prizes &c. obtaining their money. I hoped this would prove satisfactory and indeed it wou’d have composed matters, had not Captn. Jones the former Commander of the Ranger interfered in a most extraordinary manner, denied the efficacy of the sales threatned he would be the Ruin of all those who meddled with the Business and by a number of similar Acts been the means of a detention where one Obstacle added to another as frivolous in their natures as hurtful in their effects, have produced Consequences highly detrimental. I wish to treat every Character with delicacy and to pay a just Respect to those whose Commissions in the service of my Country intitle them to that deference. It gives me pain that I am obliged to make those Remarks on Capt. Jones conduct and sorry I am that his late behaviour has furnished me with the disagreable Necessity ... but when a Man in diametrical opposition to the Interests of his Country and the real good of America is swayed by principles of self or blinded by particular passions to act against that service in which he has had the honour of Long wearing a Commission I am resolved from sentiments of Duty to Represent his Conduct with a Candid Impartiality and Leave those to determine its pernicious tendency who are my Superiors, Capt. Jones yesterday sent me a Letter a Copy of which I enclose together with my Answer. I doubt not it will be satisfactory to your Honours as I attempted to explain the impossibility of a Compliance with his Request in a liberal though forcible manner.
     Tomorrow I am determined for Sea, wind and weather permitting not waiting for the Ranger if she cannot be ready for want of those affairs being accomodated, and charging the whole of the Obstacles which have retarded her to the Artifices, Insinuations, Disingenuity and Threats of Captain Jones. I will to the last moment attempt every thing in my power to accomodate these unhappy affairs, and endeavour by all possible means to get the Ranger away.

      Remaining with the Readiest Attention to your Honours Orders and a peculiar pleasure in the satisfaction of Obeying them Gentlemen Your mo. Obedt. & very humb. servt.,
      Abraham Whipple


Title: From John Adams to the President of the Congress, 21 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: President of Congress,Laurens, Henry

      Sir
      Passi Aug. 21. 1778

     I have the Honour to inclose to congress, the last Gazettes and a Plann of the various Manoeuvres in the late sea fight by which the masterly Movements of the French Fleet in every Situation, and the ridiculous Confusion of the late Lords of the ocean as they called themselves are Said to be truly represented. Whether it was Want of Skill in the officers, or whether it was a Want of Men to perform the necessary Motions, that occasioned the Awkwardness of the British Fleet; either supposition is equally ominous to that Nation.
     The French Fleet are supposed to have Sailed yesterday and it is reported from England that theirs was to go out, soon, how truly I know not. If they both get to sea, I suppose We shall soon hear of mutual Civilities between them. After the Experiment that has been made, We are under no apprehensions here, for the Event.
     We are very anxious to hear from America, having nothing from thence, since the 3d July. I have the Honour to be, with the highest Esteem and Respect, sir your most humble and most obedient servant

      John Adams


Title: The Commissioners to John Paul Jones, 22 August 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Jones, John Paul

      Sir
      Passi August 15 22 1778

      Your Letter from Brest of August the 15th is before us, and We are very sorry to hear that Reports so groundless are circulated to your Disadvantage. However We trust they will do you no lasting Injury, as Insinuations so grossly false seldom hurt any but the Maker and Propagator.

     We write this Letter that you may have it in your Powers to assure any Body you think proper, that, so far from turning you out of the service, your coming away from the Ranger to Paris was without our orders or Knowledge that on the sixteenth of June We gave you orders to return to America Commander of the Ranger and that this Destination was altered for no other Reason, than a Letter from M. De Sartine which We never solicited representing that he had occasion for your services, and requesting our Consent, which We readily gave, Supposing that you might be more serviceable to the Common Cause, in this Way, than in any other, that your Letter to Us of the 16 July, expressing your Willingness to drop the Dispute between you and Lieutenant Simpson, and to give up his Parole, was made as far as we know of your own voluntary Choice and certainly without any order or solicitation from Us.and that it appeared to Us to do honour to your Disposition, and your Character. And We hope that Lieutenant Simpson will consider it in the same Point of Light.

      We are, sir, with Respect, your most obedient servants.

     We have


Title: The Commissioners to John Paul Jones, 22 August 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Jones, John Paul

       Sir

      Passi August. 22. 1778

      We have received your Letter of the 16th. and have written to Captain Whipple to appoint a Court Martial for the Tryal of Lieutenant Simpson provided there are a sufficient Number of officers to constitute one. We are This however is not to make any Change in the Command of the Ranger untill the Tryal is over, nor then unless the Judgment of that Court is against him. We are.


Title: The Commissioners to J. D. Schweighauser, 22 August 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John,Lee, Arthur,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Schweighauser, John Daniel

      Passi August 22. 1778

     We received yours of the 18 Instant. Mr. Bersoll has already been informed that he must send his Accounts and Vouchers to us before we can order him to be paid therefore you will inform him that ’ till he has furnished us with these for our Examination he must not expect payment and we hope that for his own sake as well as for ours he will not proceed to the indecent Violence you apprehend. We are not in Circumstances to afford any further purchases and therefore desire that the goods on hand only may be ship’ d off as speedily and with as little Expence as possible. You will therefore act with Regard to the Saltpetre as you judge most conducive to this End. Mr. Hall must also shew a Receipt for the Delivery of the Beef charged to the Ranger, before he can be paid.
     With Regard to the Captain’s and other Americans not actually in the Service of the 13 united States who apply to you for Money, these are our Sentiments which we desire you will consider as final, that when they are at a Seaport like Nantes where they may supply their Wants by their own Industry, there is no Reason for their asking any thing from the public, nor can we consent that any public Money should be advanced to persons in their Situation, it is only to forward them to that Situation that we think ourselves authorised to furnish them Aids from the public Funds. We are wth. great Esteem Yours &c.,

      BF
      AL
      JA


Title: Muscoe Livingston to the Commissioners, 24 August 1778
From: Livingston, Muscoe
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Nantes, 24 August. 1778

     My having been very unwell ever Since Capt. Tuckers departure from this place, has prevented My writing you, on the Subject, of the three prizes, which he Sold to Monsieure Peuchelburg, of L’orint for Account of Mr. Scweighauser of this place; it appears by Capt. Tuckers certificate as well as by other papers in My possession (which shall be sent you, if Necessary) that Mr. Peuchelburg assured Capt. Tucker, there was a duty of Forty thousand Livers, on the three thousand quintills of fish, which induced him to Lett, his, and Crews part of that quantity, of very fine fish, together with the three Vessells be sold for thirty thousand Livers. This Sum, was very short, of what they would have sold for, had we been allow’d the privilege of benifiting by an Article of the Treaty, now Subsisting between France and america; these Vessells was entered and claired cleared at Lorient, and entered here, as american property, and from America; as I am empowerd by Capt. Tucker, to apply to you, to have this Matter properly Represented, and Receive back the duties (if any is paid) take the Liberty of Requesting the Favour to be informed, whether we Must be contented, with that Loss, or how we are to be Redressed. I have the Honor to be with Respect Your Most Obt. H. svt.,

      M. Livingston


Title: Puchelberg & Co. to the Commissioners, 24 August 1778
From: Puchelberg & Co. (business)
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       L’Orient 24. Aout 1778

      Nous avons l’honneur de remettre très humblement à Vos Excellences la lettre ci-jointe dont M. Lee demeurant chez M. Schweighauser a Nantes nous chargea hier à Son Passage par cette Ville Et vous voudrez bien nous faire la grace de nous en assurer la reception.
      Comme nous sommes les associés du dit M. Schweighauser: c’est avec un Empressement particulier que nous avons offrit à Vos Excellences nos très humbles services dans ces quartiers. Nous serions au Comble de nos desirs d’obeir à Vos ordres Et si vos bontés, que nous osons reclamer à notre faveur vous engagent à nous accorder votre Protection; daignez être persuadés, Messieurs, que nous ferons l’impossible, de nous rendre dignes de votre Confiance par notre exacte Probité Et par l’Exécution la plus Scrupuleuse de vos Ordres.

       Nous sommes avec le plus profond Respect de Vos Excellences, Les très humbles Et très Obeissants serviteurs
       Puchelberg & Co.


Title: Puchelberg & Co. to the Commissioners: A Translation, 24 August 1778
From: Puchelberg & Co. (business)
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Lorient, 24 August. 1778

      We have the honor to forward very humbly to your excellencies the enclosed letter which was given to us yesterday by Mr. Lee, who resided with Mr. Schweighauser when he was in Nantes, and ask you to please acknowledge its receipt.
      As associates of the aforementioned Mr. Schweighauser, we have been eager to offer you our humble services in this area. Our wishes would be most fulfilled in obeying your orders and, if you kindly give us your patronage, please rest assured that we will do everything in our power, through unfailing honesty and a most scrupulous execution of your orders, to be worthy of your trust.

       We are, with the most profound respect for your Excellencies, your very humble and very obedient servants
       Puchelberg & Co.


Title: James Smith to the Commissioners, 24 August 1778
From: Smith, James
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Paris Hotel de Saxe Augt. 24 1778

     This is to inform you that when I arrived at Calis the 4th of May 1778 I had part of my Baggage detain’d by the Custom House Officers under the pretence of their being contraband. They consist of Household Linnen and some articles included under the denomination of plate which had been in use for some time and appeared to me as necessary for the comfort of a private family unused to the Customs of this Country as wearing Apparel. Let it be observed I did not refuse to pay the duty but as the value could not be immediately assertained and the price demanded for their ransom nearly equal to the Original Cost and which I considered as an imposition not warranted by the Laws of this Country I was determined to complain upon my arrival at Paris.
     Soon after my arrival I accordingly mentioned the affair to Mr. Lee considering it came within his department but was told there was no remedy but pay the duty and that his Brother altho’ a public Minister had been under the same predicament and was Obliged to pay fifteen Guineas, not considering that public Ministers who are receiving the Emoluments of Office and may be under the necessity of Living with a Splendor ill suited to the Genius of rising Rebublics groaning under immense burdens and struggling with every difficulty were in a situation very different from private individuals flying with their family’s from the Tyranny of Old Goverments and forsaking their private employments to seek shelter in a Kingdom in open Alliance and supposed bound by the faith of Treaty to give succour and protection to every American. What might not be felt in one case, might operate as a real grievance in the other, and will if not rectified prevent many Emigrations from Britain of its most useful inhabitants and therefore loudly demands the attention of the Commissioners.
     Not satisfied with Mr. Lee’s answer, yet unwilling to occupy the time of the Commissioners who are supposed to be engaged in matters of more importance I represented this affair to Mr. Grand and begged the favor that he as a French Subject would apply to the proper Officers and indeavour to inforce the propriety of granting exclusive priviledges to persons in simular circumstances which from the temper of the times must frequently happen. Mr. Grand admitting the propriety of my reasoning and the necessity of the measure promised that he would interest himself in this business upon the broad Bottom I mentioned which would be one trouble and serve as a rule of conduct for Custom-house Officers on all future Occasions.
     The matter rested in this situation till the 4th of July. Not hearing from Mr. Grand (who I understood had mentioned the matter to the Commissioners) I then related the circumstances of the Case to Doctor Franklin who promised that he would pay proper attention to it and make the application required. After a considerable lenght of time I waited on him for his answer but much to my surprise I found he did not so much as remember the Transaction and requested to know my meaning and upon explination desired I would send him a memorandum of the detained Articles. Knowing that memory is the first faculty we receive in our Infancy, and the first which leaves us in the Evening of Life I thought it most proper to convey the Memoire requested through the Channel of young Mr. Franklin supposing that duty and natural Affection would supply the imbicility incident to Old Age by reminding him of what might again slip his memory and which would be very inconvenient to me as I intend shortly leaving the Kingdom. In my letter to Mr. Franklin, I complained that I thought my self neglected and Ill treated in which Opinion I am happy to find I am not singular, and received a reply containing expressions which if dictated by a man in Office I hope the Genius of Our republics will never admit without serious circumspection, and can only be excused as coming from a young Gentleman who perhaps may not yet have learned, that even King’s who bear the highest Offices of State, were not raised from the common level for their own benefit, that they are the Servants of their constituents; that the meanest of their countrymen demand their services as the price of their submission to the Laws when ever their various exigencies demand them and that delays and Inattention operate as Injuries which every man has a right to complain of when he finds himself neglected without incurring the sensure of indecency a privilege which I hope every man who bears the honorable tittle of an American will have spirit enough to mantain with men in Office from whom even a proud Look ought to be considered in an alarming point of view at a period of Our History where we may be in danger of Sliding from an Absolute power into an Aristocratic Tyrranny in my opinion infinitely more intolerable and thereby lose the great Objects for which we have been contending.
     I hope Gentlemen you will consider these reflections not intended as personal, disrespectful or derogatory to the honor of the Commission. I mean them as a complaint against what I am perswaded will not be permitted by any gentleman under your influence or supposed to be employed about your persons either in a private or public capacity. Permit me to add no man more than myself is impressed with a higher sense of gratitude for the Signal services you may have done your Country or feels a greater veneration for the persons who are appointed to fill so important a Station.
     I would not be understood to ask any thing unreasonable or arrogate to myself any marks of attention more than what is due to the meanest of my Countrymen. The articles in question must appear trifeling when contrasted with the many grand Objects which must necessarily engage your attention. But this is not what I am contending for. The question to be determined is what reception or indulgences Gentlemen Emigrating from Britain to America through the Channel of this Kingdom are to expect that every man in future be able to regulate his private affairs with prudence in proportion to his circumstances. It were easy to recite perticular Cases, were where being obliged to sell some kinds of property (independant of the loss) manufactured in England would oblige many to abandon their intentions of removing into america to the great detriment of that Country. I myself stand in this predicament with respect to some articles which cannot be replaced within this Country or America some of which are absolutely necessary to the excersise of my Profession.
     I flatter myself these circumstances have escaped your attention through a multiplicity of weightier matters and doubt not from your Credit with, and the present disposition of this Government to cement the union between the two countries by the most powerful of all motives, will with joy embrace the opportunity of granting your request and that every American may return to his Native Country under the full impression of your politeness and minute attention to their various necessities. If a formal state of my case was not delivered in writing it was because I rather wished to receive relief under a General regulation and not as a perticular favor done to an individual especially as I had been seriously informed the same had been refused to a public Minister. I Judged a verbal representation more respectable to the Commissioners besides my own feelings would not admit my asking a perticular favor of Gentlemen who from the 6th of May till the 4th of July did not think me worthy of the politeness and attention which had been shewn to others whose sentiments had been notoriously Hostile to the grand interests of America and it may be worthy of Observation that when I related the perticulars on the 4th of July to Doctor Franklin I was not given to understand that a “Memoire stating the affair addressed jointly” to the Commissioners was necessary to be adopted. I have the Honour to be with all Due Respect, Gentlemen, Your most Obedient most humble Servant,

      James Smith


Title: Ralph Izard to the Commissioners, 25 August 1778
From: Izard, Ralph
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Paris 25th. August 1778

     In a Letter which I have lately received from Florence, and which I have had the honour of laying before you, it is recommended that an endeavour should be made to interest the Ministry in favour of any Loan that may be attempted in Genoa for the United States, as it is probable the Genoese may require the security of the Court of France, for the payment of such sums as they may have it in their power to lend. The Ministry must be convinced of the ability of America, in a few years after the establishment of Peace, to discharge any pecuniary engagements she may at present have occasion to enter into; and the connexion which subsists between the two Countries, will I hope, induce them to afford us every assistance in their power. I shall be glad to know whether you think I ought to apply to the Count de Vergennes on the subject, or that the application should be made first by you, in either case I shall be ready to cooperate with you, or in any manner that shall appear most likely to produce the desired effect.
     Captain Woodford, who is lately arrived in this City from Tuscany, informs me that there are some Merchants at Leghorn inclined to enter into the American Trade. He is to command a Vessel from that Port, and is apprehensive of meeting some of the Cruizers belonging to the States of Africa. This danger will probably deter many Americans from entering into the Mediterranean Trade and if possible, should be removed. The King of France, in the 8th. Article of the Treaty of Commerce has engaged to employ his good offices, and interposition with the Emperor of Morocco, and with the Regencies of Algiers, Tunis, Tripoli, and every other Power on the Coast of Barbary, in order to provide as fully as possible for the convenience, and safety of the inhabitants of the United States, and their Vessels, and effects, against all violence, insult, attacks, or depredations on the part of the said Princes, and States of Barbary, and their Subjects. You will be so good as to inform me whether any steps have been taken by the Court of France, for the security of the inhabitants of the United States, in consequence of the above Article. I have the honour to be with great respect Gentlemen Your most obedient humble Servt.,

      Ra. Izard


Title: The Commissioners to Ralph Izard, 25 August 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Izard, Ralph

      Sir
      Passi August 25. 1778

     We have the Honour of your Letter of this Days Date, and shall give the earliest Attention to its Contents. We apprehend their would be no Impropriety at all, in your Application, to his Excellency, the Count de Vergennes, concerning the Subject of a Loan in Genoa, and We wish that you would apply. As We wish, however, to do every Thing in our Power to procure you Success, We shall do ourselves the Honour, to propose the Subject to his Excellency the first Time We shall see him, which will probably be, tomorrow When We Shall make an application to him also, upon the other Subject of your Letter, the Interposition of his Majesty, with the Emperor of Morocco, and with the Regencies of Algiers, Tunis, Tripoli, and every other Power, on the Coast of Barbary. We have the Honour to be, with great Respect, Sir, your most obedient humble Servants.

      Augst 27

     P.S. Since writing the above we have spoken of the Genoese Loan to Count de Vergennes, who gave us no Encouragement to hope that France could engage, for us in that Affair. The other Matter will be the Subject of a proposed written Memorial.


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Barnes, 25 August 1778
From: Barnes, Thomas
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Paris August 25th. 1778

     Nothing gives me greater concern, than to be under, The Necessity of troubling you with a detail of my situation But distress urges me therefore with submission beg leave to Enlarge. I being one of those escaped from Fortone Prison, in consiquence I was luck’y in getting so far Under Your protection, and accepted of your friendship As marks of humanety, as be assured it was never more Wanting, However since I had the pleasure of seeing you It being last Thursday I have been very ill, without much Intermission, Afflicted with an Intermitting Fever attended with A fit every day in a violent degree, this present time I find Myselfe much better and embrace the opportunity of Letting you know that I am in a great measure destitude Of money, as I have paid 2 guineas to a Doctor and know not How much more he may demand, besides my Attendance and Lodging amount very high. I have paid 3 guineas For a passage in the Deligence, which is to proceed to Nantz on Thursday next, as by that time I am in Expectation of being eneabled to go, but without money it is Imposible. Its true I received Ten guineas but Consider I Have been here 2 weeks and my not being aversed in the French Language, renders it Imposible for me to use Frugal’ety as I would wish, as be assured I am much Improved Upon, I have used the freedom of reprisenting my situation to Doctor Franklin Yesterday, but have received no answer. Therefore am fearful I have given Offence, now beg leave To direct my sentiments to you, in hopes of meeting with Better success. Its true It would be presumtious of me to assume A Correspondence with a gentleman of his qualety as The Dignety of your stations dont render it subsiquent for Me; but the good Oppinion allways sustained by the publick of the Benevolence of Doctor Franklin besides many Proofs of it received by the helpless Americans now in bondage In the hands of the enemy has emboldened me, but not meeting With the reception I expected, thro the Idea I have of your humanity I use the freedom of calling upon you, in hopes you would make A second tryal in my behalfe which I am convinced will have The desired effect; my request is 5 guineas which with the greatest Industry I am capable of may suffice. If this request should Be granted, I inclose my direction, any obligation that Is requisite, by thursday I will wait on you, if helth will Permit and pass them, now there is a great sum of Money due to me for wages therefore you run the less Risk’, money I owe at present and it must be paid or I cant Proceed. All this I hope you will take into consideration And the only Amends I can make at present is that I am a Subject to the Continent of America, and have Been in the service since the Comencment of this war I dare say suitable to my capasety  I hope will suffice, wont Incroch on your time Any farther. Therefore beg leave to conclude to be Your Obediant Humble Servt.,

      Thomas Barnes

      If you should be kind enough to feavour me with an Answer Any order you may send please to Inclose it with directions.


Title: Thomas Read to the Commissioners, 25 August 1778
From: Read, Thomas
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honorable Sirs
      Nantes August 25th 1778

     I Received yours by Capt. Barns. I have been So unwell that I have not been out of my Room, am now recuiting fast, and in a few days to be fit to do any Business. I have got my Vessel Clean’d and near fitted, and have sent her down to Pellrene le Pellerin. I understand by the agent here, that they have not goods belonging to the Publick. They have told me they wrote your Honors to know Whether they shou’d purchase. If you are not Very Desirous of my Imediate Return I Request your Honors to give me leave to Cruize for three months, with a Small Aditional Expence in Number of men. I cou’d be ready in a Short time, as I have now three months provissions and Brought thirty one men and officers here and mount twelve four pounders and have ports for two more and I think I cou’d procure as many more men, those that are belonging to the Vessel are on high Wages from twenty to ten pounds per month, which they are willing to Relinquish on being paid up, and Enter on the Continental pay of Eight Dollars per month till we Return home. I have the Vanity to think by Cruizeing in the Mediteranean, if a french pass cou’d be obtained or an English one that have been taken I coud Soon Repay the Expence and add Something to my Country as my Vessels Sails fast and am well Acquainted in them Seas from Gibralter to the Gulf of Venice. The Season of the year comeing on for the Newfoundland Ships with their fish to A market makes me think it worth your Honors Notice, as we can carry but a small Quantity of goods after our Provisions on Board. If Agreeable to your Judgements Shall be glad to have you answer as soon as Possible. I am with Due Respect your Honors mos obedient Humble Servant,

      Thos. Read


Title: James Moylan to the Commissioners, 26 August 1778
From: Moylan, James
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honorable Gentlemen
      L’Orient 26 Augst. 1778

     The General Mifflin Privateer Cap: McNeal arrived here yesterday. He sail’d from Portsmouth the 8th. of May last and has been for two months past cruizing in the North Seas, where, and at the mouth of the Channel, he made thirteen prizes, five of which he sunk. The rest he sent to America and this Kingdom, one of which is arrived in this port, (a french Brig loaded with suggars Coffee and Cotton from Guadeloupe) which he retook after it’s being upwards of Eighty hours in possession of the enemy. As Cap: McNeil has got about fifty English prisoners on board, I request (being encharged with the care of his Bussiness) you will inform me, if they wou’d not procure the liberty of an equal number of our suffering Country Men now in England, and what wou’d be the means proper to be used to effect it. The important trust’s of our Country, which you are invested with, will, I flatter myself, procure me your answer to this letter, without delay, in expectation of which I remain with truth Honorable Gentlemen Your assurd hl

      James Moylan


Title: Puchelberg & Co. to the Commissioners, 26 August 1778
From: Puchelberg & Co. (business)
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       L’orient le 26 aoust 1778

      Nous avons l’honneur de nous referer à nôtre lettre du 24 de ce mois, et celuy d’annoncer très humblement à vos Excellences que depuis hier il est arrivé sur nôtre rade un Batiment Anglo Americain de 20 Canons nommé le General Muffelin Mifflin commandé par le Capitaine Daniel MaKenil McNeill venant de Portsmouth dans La nouvelle Angleterre, c’est depuis 4 mois que le dit Capitaine est en Croisiere et il y a trois jours qu’il vient de reprendre d’un Corsaire de Guernesey un Vaisseau françois venant de la Guadeloupe chargé en Sucre, Caffé et Indigo. Ce Batiment se trouve déja heureusement dans nôtre port où à ce que Ton dit, le dit Capitain veut le faire vendre pour son Compte. Comme le Capitaine MaKenil ainsi que ses officiers portent l’ordonnance conforme à celle du Capitaine Tucker nous presumons le susdit Sieur MaKenil, Capitaine et officier des Etats unis de L’amerique auxquels il sera obligé de rendre compte de ses prises et dont ils preleveroit leur part que nous ignorons en combien elle est fixeé pour les Corsaires. Nous vous prions, Messieurs, très humblement de nous donner vos ordres à cet égard. Nous savons parfaittement bien ceux que vos Excellences ont prescrit à nôtre associé Mr. Schweighauser à Nantes concernant le partage des prises faites par les fregattes et nous nous y conformeronts très scrupuleusement. Nous sommes avec un profond Respect de Vos Excellences Les très humbles & très obeissants Serviteurs,

       Puchelberg & Co.


Title: Puchelberg & Co. to the Commissioners: A Translation, 26 August 1778
From: Puchelberg & Co. (business)
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Lorient, 26 August 1778

      We have the honor to refer to our letter of the 24th of this month and very humbly to inform your Excellencies that yesterday an Anglo-American vessel of 20 guns, the General Mifflin commanded by Captain Daniel McNeill, arrived in our harbor from Portsmouth, New England. This captain had been cruising for 4 months, and three days ago took back from a Guernsey privateer a French vessel coming from Guadeloupe bearing sugar, coffee, and indigo. This veseel is, happily, already in our harbor, where, according to rumors, the said captain wishes to sell it on his own account. However, since the commissions carried by Captain McNeill and his officers conform to that of Captain Tucker, we presume that Mr. McNeill, Captain and Officer of the United States of America, will be obliged to report his captures to Captain Tucker and then take the shares as established for privateers, the amount of which we are ignorant. We humbly request that you give us your orders concerning this transaction. We are well aware of those your Excellencies prescribed to our associate in Nantes, Mr. Schweighauser, concerning the division of captures made by frigates and we will conform to them most scrupulously. We are, with profound respect for your Excellencies, your very humble and very obedient servants,

       Puchelberg & Co.


Title: From John Adams to the President of the Congress, 27 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: President of Congress,Laurens, Henry

      Sir
      Passi August 27 1778

     I have the Honour to inclose, the last Gazettes by which Congress will see the Dearth of News in Europe at present. We expect an Abundance of it at once soon, as We have had nothing from America Since 4. July.
     The French Fleet went out again from Brest the seventeenth: but We have not yet heard that the English Fleet is out. While the two Fleets were in Harbour, the British East India Fleet, and another Small West India Fleet got in,—a Misfortune of no small Moment, as the British Financies, will receive by means of it, a fresh Supply of Money for the present and their Fleet a considerable Reinforcement of Seamen. I have the Honour to be with the highest Respect, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,

      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Barnes, 27 August 1778
From: Barnes, Thomas
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Paris Augst. 27th. 1778

     This day have had the pleasure of receiving Your much desired and welcome letter. Have also Received the feavour asked of 5 guineas which I greatfully Acknowledge. At the same time am sensible My letter to Doctr. Franklin deserves depricating Against as it was Imperfect in every particular. Now when to late I am sensible of my eror. However it is not my natural desire to adress a Gentleman of his qualtetys in an Improper Manner. It happens to be so, therefore beg it may be ad’apted to my bad state of he’lth, and my not Being aversed with the rules You have laid down in Your letter. My not letting Doctr. Franklin know where I lodged was Certainly a great mistake in me. All this I hope he will Excuse and Adapt it to the Above reason which I hope will suffice. Now I am supplyed as far as may be Requisite for which I am much Intebted And shall allways consider myselfe vastly obligated To the present Commissioners in Consiquence thereof. As to Mr. Leger and Captain Murph whom You mention they are gone to Nantz as they have Proceeded from hence last Thirsday Night. The Notes You have sent I have Signed and sent them by Your Young Man. I now mean to proceed to Nantz from thence to Boston as quick as possible where I shall have an Apportunity of seeing some of your Conexions there and there abouts, where I thinke I Can with Justice say you merrit the good Appinion of Your Countrymen in general. Your time is presious Therefore wont Incroach any farther. Therefore beg Leave to be with Submission Your friend and Humble Servt. Adue,

      Thomas Barnes


Title: The Commissioners to Vergennes, 28 August 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de

      Sir
      Passi August 28. 1778

     There are several Subjects, which we find it necessary to lay before your Excellency; to which we have the Honour to request your Attention.
     At a time when the Circumstances of the War may demand the Attention of Gouvernment, and without doubt call for great Expence, we are very sorry to be obliged to request your Excellency’s Advice respecting the Subject of Money but the Nature of the War in America, the vast Extent of Country to defend, and this Defence having been made chiefly by Militia, engaged for short periods, which often obliged us to pay more Men than could be brought into actual Service, and above all this War having been conducted in the midst of thirteen Revolutions of civil Gouvernment against a Nation very powerfull both by Sea and Land, has occasioned a very great Expence for a Country so young and a Gouvernment so unsettled; this has made Emissions of paper Money indispensable in much larger Sums, than in the ordinary Course of Business is necessary, or than in any other Circumstances would have been politick. In order to avoid the Necessity of further Emissions as much as possible, the Congress have borrowed large Sums of this paper Money of the possessors upon Interest, and have promised the Tenders payment of that Interest in Europe, and we therefore expect that Vessels from America will bring Bills of Exchange upon us for this Interest, a large Sum of which is now due.
     It is very true that our Country is already under Obligations to his Majestys Goodness, for considerable Sums of Money; but the Necessities of the United States have been such, that the Sums heretofore generously promised furnished us are nearly if not quite expended, and when your Excellency considers that the American Trade has been almost entirely interrupted by the British power at Sea, they having taken so many of our Vessels as to render this Trade more advantageous to our Enemy than to ourselves, that our Frigates and other Vessels which have arrived in this Kingdom have cost us a great Sum, that the provisions of Cloathing and all the Munitions of War for our Army, except such as could make in that Country, have been shipped from here at our Expence, that the Expence we have been obliged to incur for our unfortunate Countrymen who have been prisoners in England, added to the unavoidable Expences of the Commissioners to this and to other Courts has been veryas well as Maintenance of those taken from the Enemy has been very considerable, your Excellency will not be surprised when you are informed that our Resources are exhausted. We therefore humbly?hope the Continuance of his Majestys Generosity, and that the Quarterly payment of seven hundred and fifty thousand Livres may be continued. And we assure your Excellency that the Moment we are furnished with any other Means of answering this Demand, we will no longer trespass on his Majestys Goodness.
     We have further to inform your Excellency that we are impowered and instructed by Congress to borrow in Europe a Sum of Money to the Amount of Two Million Sterling, which is to be appropriated to the Express purpose of redeeming so many of the Bills of Credit in America, as will be sufficient it is apprehended to restore the Remainder to their Original Value. We therefore humbly? request his Majesty’s permission to borrow such a part of that Sum in this Kingdom as we may find Opportunity. Altho’ we may be impower’d to offer a larger Interest than is usually given by his Majesty yet that we may not be any Interruption to his Majesty’s Service, we are willing and desirous of limiting the Interest which we may offer, to the same that is given by his Majesty: and altho’ most persons will chuse to lend their Money to his Majesty, yet there may be others desirous of forming Connections in Trade with the People of America who would be willing to serve them in this way. And perhaps nothing would have a greater Tendency to cement the Connection between the two Nations, so happily begun, or to insure to the French Nation the Benefit of the American Trade, than Connections of this kind.
     By the Eighth Article of the Treaty of Commerce his Majesty has engaged to employ his good Offices and Interposition with the Emperor of Morocco and with the Regencies of Algiers, Tunis, Tripoli, and the other powers on the Coast of Barbary, in order to provide as fully as possible for the Convenience and Safety of the Inhabitants of the United States, and their Vessels and Effects, against the Violence Insult Attacks or Depredations on the part of the said princes and States of Barbary and their Subjects. We have received Information that there are already American Vessels in Italy desirous of returning home, and that there are Merchants in Italy desirous of entering into the American Trade; but that an Apprehension of Danger from the Corsairs of Barbary is a Discouragement. We therefore request your Excellencys Attention to this Case; and such Assistance from his Majestys good Offices as was intended by the Treaty.
     There is another thing that has occurred of late on which we hereby?have the Honor to request your Excellency’s Advice. There are many Americans in England, and in other parts of Europe, some of whom are excellent Citizens who wish for nothing so much as to return to their native Country, and take their Share in her Fortune whatever that may be; but are apprehensive of many Difficulties in removing their property. Whether it will be practicable and consistent with his Majesty’s Interest to prescribe any Mode by which Americans of the above Description may be permitted to pass thro’ this Kingdom with their Apparel, Furniture, plate and other Effects not Merchandises for Sale without paying Duties, we submit to his Wisdom. In the mean time, we have received a Letter from Dr. James Smith of the State of New York, who has been several Months in Paris, representing that part of his Baggage is detained at Calais by the Custom House Officers under an Idea of their being contraband that they consist of Household Linnen and some Articles included under the Denomination of plate, which had been in use for some time; if there is nothing improper in it, we should take it as a Favor if your Excellency would procure permission for the Doctor to take his Effects with him to America, without paying any Duties.
     We likewise request of your Excellency a passport, for such Cartel Ship as shall be employed by the English, in sending our people, who are their prisoners, to France to be exchanged. They propose Calais as the port at which the Exchange may be made, But as the prisoners we have are at Brest, and the Expence of removing them to Calais would be considerable, we should be glad that the passport would permit the landing of our people as near Brest as maybe without Danger of Inconvenience to the State. We are with the greatest Respect Your Excellencys most humble and most Obedient Servants.

      B Franklin
      Arthur Lee
      John Adams


Title: John Paul Jones to the Commissioners, 28 August 1778
From: Jones, John Paul
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Brest August 28th. 1778

     I have this moment been with Mons. De la Prévalaye by Accident. That Gentleman you know, Commands here in the Absence of Comte D’Orvilliers. He has told me that as there are now no Ships of War in the Road he can no longer furnish a Guard for the Prisoners taken by the Ranger and now on board the Prize Brigantine Patience.
     I could have no dependence on the Officers and Marines of the Ranger because they had suffered the Prizoners to Escape at Nantes which were taken on the Passage from America. Therefore on my arrival from the Irish Channel the 9th. of May I applied to my Friend Comte D’Orvilliers who immediately furnished a Guard of Twelve Soldiers with Officers. This Guard has been releived daily ever Since by French Boats and Seamen—has been fed and Supported altogether at the Expence of France—and has not suffered any of the Prisoners to Escape. Were Comte D’Orvilliers here, I am sure he would at my request Order the Guard to be Continued and tho’ he is Absent I will Use every direct and Indirect Means to have it prolonged Until this reaches your hands.
     For the Sake of Humanity I entreat you to make immediate Application to the French Minister—that my favorite Object a Cartel may not be lost after I have taken so much pains to furnish and preserve the Means of bringing it about.
     I must not loose the post; therefore I can only add that I have the Honor to be with due Esteem and Respect Gentlemen Your Very Obliged very Obedient very humble Servant,

      Jno P Jones


Title: To John Adams from William MacCreery, 30 August 1778
From: MacCreery, William
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Nantes 30 Augt. 1778

     I am very much obliged to you for yours of 19th. Instant and am glad to find that there is a prospect of an end being speedily put to the troubles which arise to us in the Sea Ports of this Kingdom from our differences with Seamen, by the appointment of Consuls. I have not lost less than £100 Sterling by the People of one little Vessel. These People too, are renderd useless to our Vessels while such Money lasts them, and probably much longer—for in the expenditure of it, they commonly contract such diseases by intemperance, as render them unfit for Service.
     The Winds having been for some time past, and still continuing Easterly, we have no arrivals from America; hope it will soon change, and waft us favourable Accounts from thence.
     Of late several of our Captured Sea-Men, chiefly Masters of Vessels, have got to this place from England—and I have been very much vex’d at finding that in general they complain of the Conduct of the Commissioners to them. Their complaints commonly are want of Money—and want of attention.
     As to the former, it is impossible for them to expect it in a very profuse manner, under our present circumstances—when Funds I think must be pretty low with us in a Public, as well as in a Private line—and as to the latter, there can be no accounting for the whims of Men who will find a fault for a deficiency in Compliments and congratulations where People in the line of the Commissioners must—at least ought, to be much better employ’d.
     However it is devoutly to be wish’d that a Provision of some kind was made for those People, in order that they might benefit by it according as they are fortunate enough to escape from the hands of the Enemy. If there cou’d for this purpose, be a Vessel appropriated at this, or any other Port, where they wou’d be received and rashions dealt out to them regularly, they wou’d all resort thither, and be ready to go on board the first Public Vessel that shou’d stand in need of them—Or—they wou’d answer to Man our Merchant Vessels which are often distress’d for want of Sea-Men in which case their expences to the Public wou’d be reimbursed here by the Agent of such Vessel—if required.
     It is further advanced by these Gentlemen that their Bretheren in Gail in England, are at a loss how to account for the behavior of the Commissioners to them, having wrote several Letters to them, modestly requesting to know, if they might hope for a speedy exchange, to which they had never received any Answer. In vain did I argue the improbability of such Letters Reaching the Commissioners and the still greater uncertainty of a Letter getting back from them. They have also declared, that, if these People in Prison, were to know the Reception which they met with at Paris—the Major part of the Prisoners wou’d embrace any other means of getting out of their present loathsome confinement.
     On the other hand—complaints are made of the treatment of the Prisoners in our hands at Brest, where 180 Men are confined on board of a small Brigg and where, in case of a high Wind, their daily subsistance is rendered very precarious—besides which, Notice has been given by an officer there, that the Guards wou’d be discontinued in a few days, in which case, many must soon escape.
     I may perhaps be thought officious in entering on this Subject, People being allready employ’d to attend to these matters, however, I have this intelligence to day from a Gentleman just come from thence, and in whom I can confide. You know that I am not ignorant of their treatment of us at New York, but even there, I assure you that their Prison-ships were not so much crowded even in the Winter Season, besides, I hope we wou’d not wish to take example from them, on the contrary, I really am perswaded, that it is the wish of the Commissioners to make them as comfortable under their misfortunes as possible, but I am well aware of the difficulties they must find in attending to all these matters and that it is impossible to have every thing done to their wish or intentions, at such distances.
     It is my earnest wish to have all these complaints removed, and no one can doubt but it is the same with the Honorable the Commissioners. I know not a more probable way of effecting it, than by settling a Cartell which I hope is in their power to do. And I beg leave on this occasion to make them a tender of my services, shou’d they be in the least acceptable, or necessary. I am at present quite disengaged from business, and will freely go to England or elsewhere should they think me capable of furthering the above purpose, without any expectation of proffit or emolument. I shall only ask a reimbursement of my necessary expenses on such an expedition. Therefore, Sir, Shou’d they think, or rather, shou’d they determine on doing this, I pray you, if you think it necessary, to inform your Honorable Colleagues, of my disposition that way. You are as well acquainted with me as most People here, so that I need not Refer you to any body for a Character, but if you do not think me worthy of such confidence, I need not tell you to desist, but from what has pass’d, I have no right to expect any such thing.
     I have been detain’d at this place ’till now, contrary to my expectations, and shall now remain ten days longer, that I may receive your Answer to this Letter, by which I shall govern my next movements, being allways Dear Sir most Respectfully Your very obedient Hble Servt.,

      Will M.Creery


Title: John Paul Jones to the Commissioners, 30 August 1778
From: Jones, John Paul
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Brest August 30th. 1778

     I had the honor of writing to you by the last Post that Monsieur De la Prevalaye, the present Commandant here, had absolutely refused to continue the Guard which Comte D’Orvilliers lent me for the security of Prisoners of War taken by the Ranger, and Confined on board the Prize Brig Patience in the Road.
     I then promised to use every possible means to have the Guard continued until you could make application to the French Minister of the Marine: and I am now happy to inform you that I have Succeeded thro’ the Intrest of my good Friend Monsieur De la Porte the Intendant who has this day informed me that if I will obtain your consent, he will Immediately furnish a Vessel and send them with a Flag to England.
     I am persuaded that you will agree with me in thinking this Offer too generous to be Rejected; as it will at once free the Public from a considerable expence and releive a number of our Unfortunate Fellow Citizens: If it is rejected I do not think it will be repeated.
     The Guard has been continued, at my request, Since the 9th of May without any order from the Minister, and without any expence to America; but it will be continued no longer than Until your Answer becomes due, Unless you Procure an Immediate Order for that Purpose from the Minister of the Marine.
     I apprehend that you will have Occasion only to send a proper Person here to Negociate the Exchange in England—Or perhaps, if you ask it, Monseigneur De Sartine may agree to transport them by Water to Calais: Transporting them there by Land would be Attended with great Expence; And if a direct exchange can be effected, it will be attended with the least Risque, the least trouble, and the least Expence both in time and Money.

      I have the Honor to be with due Esteem and Respect Gentlemen Your very Obliged very Obedient very humble Servant,
      Jno P Jones


Title: The Commissioners to Horneca, Fizeaux & Co.: A Translation, 31 August 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John,Lee, Arthur,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. (business)

       Gentlemen
       Passy, 31 August 1778

      We take the opportunity of Mr. Whitall’s visit to convey to you a leather-bound book containing 205 promissory notes, each worth 1,000 florins, making a capital fund of 205,000 florins lawful money of the Netherlands, to be paid on 1 January 1788 at your residence with, in addition, 10 coupons of 50 florins in interest for the year, the whole payable to the bearer and signed by us.
      You will please acknowledge their receipt.
      You will stamp this book “A” and then do likewise on all 205 promissory notes. At each delivery that you will make you will carefully fill in the blanks, that is to say, with the number of the note which you may designate as 2,001 should you not wish to show that it is the first, its folio, and the date of delivery. You will also carefully fill in all the blanks in the counterfoils which should remain attached to the book after you have detached the notes at the scalloped pattern in the center of the stamp marked United States of North America, according to the enclosed model in French. It would be advisable that the same dates appear on both the counterfoil and the promissory notes in order to have a perfect match which may serve as a model for you, independent of the record we will have in our possession. Therefore, it will be essential that, with each delivery of one or more promissory notes, you keep an exact record consistent with the delivered note and its counterfoil.
      It is superfluous to mention to you not to sell these promissory notes for anything but cash. It is even more superfluous to recommend that you undertake the sale of these notes promptly but, at the same time, with all possible prudence and circumspection so as not to jeopardize anything, particularly the success of this loan. To achieve this end you will be able to reward your agents and cover the expenses of the operation. In order to do away with the details and, at the same time, to enable you to spare nothing, instead of the 5 percent carried by the promissory notes, we will give you 6 percent on all those you have sold. This will cover any expenses, even postage and petty cash; in any case, we do not want this sum to exceed 6 percent for all expenses incurred. You will observe a uniform procedure for the interest coupon, that is to say, upon delivering it you will have the interest which will be accrued up to the date of delivery given to you.
      Finally, for all that concerns this matter, you will correspond directly with us or our successors in order to arrange the remittance of funds as you receive them so that there will be no delay or loss of interest. We are very respectfully, gentlemen, your very humble servants,

       BF
       AL
       JA


Title: La Vauguyon to Vergennes, 15 May 1778
From: La Vauguyon, Paul François de Quélen de Stuer de Causade, Duc de
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de

        Du 15. May 1778

      J’ai receu, Mr. le Comte, les depesches que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’addresser.
      La lettre de Mr. Franklin est arrivée, comme Je m’y attendois; mais j’ai engagé son Emissaire, ainsi que je vous en avois assuré, à suspendre la demarche qui lui étoit prescrite, sans lui faire connoitre mon motif. Je lui ai temoigné qu’il me paroissoit prudent, de sonder encore les dispositions de notre ami d’Amsterdam, et de lui demander des nouveaux Conseils avant de S’acquitter de la Commission des Membres du Congrès. Je l’ai bien prevenu qu’il devoit uniquement parler en son nom, et s’abstenir de prononcer le mien. Il a suivi mon avis, et à trouvé notre vertueux Republicain constamment penetré du meme desir, et de la meme esperance. Il venoit me rendre compte de son entretien avec lui au moment où votre derniere depesche m’est parvenuë. Je lui ai dit alors, que, comme je n’avois recu aucun ordre relatif à la demarche dont il étoit chargé, et que je m’en avois avis que par la communication qu’il m’en avoit donnée, je ne pouvois, ni la hater, ni la suspendre, ni la diriger; que j’avois lieu de croire que le Roi verroit avec Satisfaction le rapprochement des Etats unis et des Etats generaux; mais que je savois, qu’il desiroit essentiellement que rien ne troublat la tranquillité des Hollandois, et que ses dispositions à cet égard me paroissoient egalement conformes aux veritables interets de la France, et des deux Republiques.
      La lettre de Mr. Franklin a été remise hier matin. J’apprends par l’Emissaire du Congrès que notre ami d’Amsterdam a eu à cette occasion une Conversation très interessante avec le Conseiller Pensionnaire, qui lui a paru flatté de la Confiance que lui témoignoient les Chefs des Etats unis, et aussi favorablement disposé, qu’il pouvoit le desirer. Mr. de Bleiswyk n’a nullement été embarrassé du parti qu’il devoit prendre. Il a senti la necessité de faire part aux membres des Etats de Hollande du temoignage de prévenance du Congrès envers la Republique; mais pour ne pas donner à cette Communication un éclat nuisible à ses vuës, il a cru ne devoir dans ce moment rendre aucun compte à cet égard dans l’assemblée meme. Cette demarche auroit exigé une Resolution des Etats à l’effet de prendre la lettre ad referendum, et de la communiquer aux differentes villes et au Corps des Nobles, et cette resolution, quoique provisoire, auroit pu exciter les reclamations de la part de l’Ambassadeur d’Angleterre, à qui il paroit Sage, de n’en pas fournir encore le motif. Il s’est determiné à donner secrettement à chaque Membre des Copies de la lettre. Par ce moyen les differentes villes recevront l’information necessaire pour deliberer sur cet objet interessant, et lorsque le Conseiller pensionnaire jugera convenable de faire son rapport aux Etats assemblés, chaque deputé pourra avoir une connoissance légale du voeux formel de ceux qu’il represente. Notre Ami d’Amsterdam est enchanté de la tournure que prend cette affaire, et se flatte du plus utile Succès.
      (Le reste est en écrit:)

       P.S. J’ai l’honneur de vous envoyer ci joint la copie de la lettre de Mr. Franklin au Conseiller pensionnaire traduite de l’Anglois.
       Vous êtes vraisemblablement informé de la mort du Ld. Chattam, que nous venons d’apprendre.
       Suite un passage chiffré d’un Chiffre que nous n’avons pas.


Title: La Vauguyon to Vergennes: A Translation, 15 May 1778
From: La Vauguyon, Paul François de Quélen de Stuer de Causade, Duc de
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de

        15 May 1778

      I have received, M. le Comte, the dispatches that you did me the honor to send.
      Mr. Franklin’s letter arrived as I expected, but I convinced the emissary, in accordance with my promise to you, to suspend the démarche he had been prescribed without revealing my motive. I indicated to him that it seemed wiser to me to explore deeply again the dispositions of our friend from Amsterdam and ask for new advice before undertaking the commission of the Members of Congress. I duly warned him that he should speak only in his own name and refrain from mentioning mine. He followed my advice and found our virtuous Republican steadfastly imbued with the same desire and hope. He had just come to give me an account of his visit with him when your last dispatch arrived. I then told him that since I had received no instructions in regard to his démarche, and since the only information I had about it was through the communication he himself had made, I could neither accelerate, suspend, nor direct it, but that I had reason to believe that the King would see the rapprochement between the United States and the States General with a favorable eye; but that I knew that his main desire was that nothing disturb the peace of the Dutch nation, and, in this regard, his dispositions seemed to me to conform to the true interests of France and of the two republics.
      Mr. Franklin’s letter was delivered yesterday morning. The emissary from Congress told me that our friend from Amsterdam had, on this occasion, a very interesting conversation with the Councillor Pensionary, who seemed to be flattered by the trust shown him by the leaders of the United States and as favorably disposed as he could wish for. Mr. de Bleiswyck was in no way embarrassed by the measures he had to take. He understood the necessity of conveying to the members of the Dutch States the testimonial of the amiable dispositions of Congress toward the Republic; but, in order not to give this communication a notoriety harmful to his plans, he thought it better at present not to communicate it to the Assembly itself. Such a démarche would have required a resolution by the States, for the letter would have to be submitted ad referendum and communicated to the different towns and to the Corps of Nobles. In addition, this resolution, although provisional, might have provoked protests by the British Ambassador, and at present it seems wise not to furnish him the opportunity. He therefore decided to distribute copies of the letter secretly to each member. As a result, the different towns will receive the necessary information for their deliberations over this interesting matter; and when the Councillor Pensionary deems it appropriate to make his report to the assembled states, each deputy will be officially informed of the precise wishes of those he represents. Our friend from Amsterdam is delighted with the way things are proceeding and anticipates the greatest success.
      (The rest is in ordinary writing.)

       P.S. I have the honor to enclose a copy of Mr. Franklin’s letter to the Councillor Pensionary, translated from the English.
       You have probably already heard of the death of Lord Chatham, news of which has just reached us here.
       There follows a ciphered passage in a code that we do not have.


Title: Berubé de Costentin to Arthur Lee and John Adams, 4 September 1778
From: Costentin, Berubé de
To: Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       a Brest le 4. 7bre. 1778

      En Conformite des ordres que vous M’avez fait l’honneur de m’addresser le 15. du mois dernier le Sr. Thomas Wilkinson a party hier pour la ville de St. Paul de Léon ou il vivra a ses fraix; et J’ay pris pour la Sureté de sa personne touttes les précautions possibles.
      J’attends de vos ordres ou de Monsieur Francklin sur vos prisonniersicy qui Coûtent bien de la depense la qui me donnent bien de L’Embaras et de L’Inquietude.
      Je suis avec Beaucoup de respect Messieurs Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur

       Berubé de Costentin


Title: Berubé de Costentin to Arthur Lee: A Translation, 4 September 1778
From: Costentin, Berubé de
To: Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       Brest, 4 September 1778

      In conformity with the orders that you had the honor to send me on the 15th of last month, Mr. Thomas Wilkinson left yesterday for the town of St. Paul de Léon, where he will live at his own expense. I have taken every possible precaution for the security of his person.
      I await your orders, or those of Mr. Franklin, concerning your prisoners here, who are a great expense and cause me much annoyance and anxiety.
      I am with much respect, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       Berubé de Costentin


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 4 September 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Messieurs
       La Haie 4e. Sept. 1778

      Notre ami et moi nous nous proposons de faire faire un nouveau pas à sa Ville, plus grand encore, que les derniers qu’elle a faits; et nous espérons, s’il plait à Dieu de le bénir, et à vos ennemis de continuer à maltraiter cette Republique pour faire notre jeu bon, qu’il pourra nous conduire au grand et dernier, qui opereroit l’union parfaite des deux Soeurs. Pour cet effet, il faut garnir les mains de notre Ami d’une Piece de plus, outre celles qu’il a déjà par mon canal, afin qu’il puisse agir avec succès auprès de la partie de la Régence de sa Ville qu’il n’a pas encore entamée. Voici ce que c’est. Il faut, s’il vous plait, m’écrire, le plus promptement possible, une Lettre ostensible, dans laquelle soit renfermé, ou un projet de Traité général d’amitié et de Commerce, tel que vous le saurez être conforme au desir des Etats-Unis; ou une Déclaration, que la République est desirée de conclure avec les Etats-Unis, avec les changemens que requerra le local des Parties contractantes, un Traité pareil à celui de la France, qui pourroit servir en ce cas de base. J’ai communiqué cette idée au g——F——, qui, non seulement l’approuve parfaitement, mais qui trouve que je ne dois pas perdre un instant. Votre réponse, si vous me la faites d’abord, arrivera justement dans le temps que l’Assemblée des Etats d’Hollande se séparant, notre Ami sera à même d’aller mettre la chose tout de suite en train et sur le tapis dans sa ville. Ainsi, de grace, Messieurs, mettez-moi vite en état de battre ce fer pendant qu’il est chaud. L’idée est trés-heureuse, parce que dès-lors ce ne sera plus l’Amérique qui sollicitera, mais la Ville qui pressera la chose. Je puis vous assurer que notre Ami est aussi ardent que moi dans tout ceci. Il a composé une grande Piece, contenant les raisons de la Ville pour se refuser à l’augmentation des troupes, les contradictions dans lesquelles ils sont tombés tous ici dans leurs demandes et Lettres circulaires sur ce sujet, le vrai état et les vrais intéréts de cette Republique. La conclusion de cette Piece, qui sera présentée pour être insérée dans les Actes publics de la Republique, est de protester contre tout ce qui pourroit arriver au désavantage de la republique dans les conjonctures présentes. On a conseillé à Amsterdam aux Marchands d’Amsterdam, de se soumettre à pay double tonnage et poundage, afin de pouvoir equiper ainsi à leur dépens 15 vaisseaux de guerre, et se procurer une protection dont l’Etat les laisse manquer; et ils se sont prêtés à cela de la meilleur grace du monde; on a renvoyé à LL. hh. pp. plusieurs Marchands dont la propriété vient d’être saisie par les Anglois, pour demander d’être dédommagés. La France menace de ne plus admettre dans ses ports les caboteurs Hollandois, si la Republique souffre que les Anglois les prennent. On a réduit un grand Personnage absolument au silence, en lui certifiant l’inutilité parfaite de toute tentative ultérieure quant à l’augmentation; en faisant voir l’incongruité de faire promener pour rien les vaisseaux de l’Etat dans la méditerranée et ailleurs, pendant qu’il n’en reste pas un seul dans le Canal et dans la Mer du Nord, où sont les vrais pirates; en demandant ce qu’il falloit penser d’un Vaisseau de guerre tout neuf de 54 canons, consumé par les flames depuis peu de jours à Amsterdam au milieu des autres vaisseaux de l’Etat: car on soupçonne violemment les de cette méchanceté.
      J’ai vu les dernieres dépeches étrangeres. Il n’y a rien, dans 24 mortelles pages in folio, qui vaille une ligne de ce que je vous marque cidessus. Et quand il y auroit quelque chose qui valût l’Extrait, je n’en aurois plus le temps aujourdhui. Vous savez, Messieurs, que je suis seul, sans Clerc ni Secretaire sans moyens d’en tenir; mais avec le dévouement le plus parfait au service des Etats-Unis, et le respect le plus sincere pour vos personnes, Messieurs, Votre très-humble & très obéissant serviteur

       Dumas


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, 6 September 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

      Dear Sir
      Passi September 6 1778

     It seems to me necessary, that each of Us may understand our affairs, and be able to render a clear and Satisfactory account to our Constituents, that We should settle two or three Questions that at present are undecided.
     It should be understood by each of Us, what Articles of Expence, are to be paid by Us both, jointly and what are to be discharged by each Separately.
     I will venture to give my opinion upon both, with as much Frankness and Precision as possible.
     I should think that the Rent of the House and Furniture, the Hire of the Coachman Horses and Carriage, the Wages of the Maitre d’Hotel, and Cook, and the Expences of the Table should be paid in Common by the Draughts which We make upon the Banker jointly.
     That the Pay of our Clerks, the Wages and Cloaths of our seperate servants, our own Cloaths, Books, Newspapers and other Expences of every Kind should be paid seperately. I have hitherto in my own Mind gone upon this Line.
     With Regard to our Common Expences, I think an Account should be kept, and Receipts taken, and once a month, each of Us furnished with a Copy of it. I am willing to take this Trouble upon myself, if it is thought agreable. I am, Sir, your Friend and humble sert
     Mem. September 13. 1778. This Letter which was written a Week ago was never Sent. But this Morning Mr. W. T. Franklin came in, with the Book in his Hand containing an account of the Expences of the Family from the Beginning, and offering, that I should keep the Account, for the Future. Mr. J. L. Austin being present.


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

       Versailles 6. 7ber 1778

      J’ay recu, Messieurs, la lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’ecrire le 30 Aout derniere. J’ai envoyé a M. de Vergennes le Passeport necessaire au navire Angloise chargé de l’Echange des Prisonniers de l’Angleterre et des Etats-Unis, et je vais donner les ordres necessaires pour que vos Prisonniers Soient mieux Surveillés à Brest, jusqu’au Moment de l’Echange. J’ai l’honneur d’etre, avec un sincere Attachement, Messieurs, votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur.

       De Sartine


Title: Gabriel de Sartine to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 6 September 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Versailles, 6 September 1778

      I have received, gentlemen, the letter that you did me the honor to write on 30 August. I have sent to M. de Vergennes the necessary passport for the British vessel charged with the exchange of the prisoners held by England and the United States, and shall give the necessary orders to ensure that your prisoners at Brest will be more closely watched until the moment of exchange. I have the honor to be, with sincere attachment, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant.

       De Sartine


Title: From John Adams to the President of the Congress, 7 September 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Laurens, Henry,President of Congress

      Sir
      Passi September 7th 1778

     I have the Honour to inclose to congress, all the News Papers, I have by me. Enough to shew that We have nothing very important here, at present.
     The French and British Fleets are again at Sea and We hourly expect Intelligence of a Second Battle. But our Expectations from America are still more interesting and anxious, having nothing from thence, since the 3d of July, except what is contained in the English Gazette.
     Events have probably already passed in America, altho not yet known in Europe, which will determine the great Question, whether We shall have a long War or a short one.
     The Eyes of all Europe are fixed upon Spain, whose Armaments by Sea and Land are vastly expensive and extreamly formidable, but whose Designs are a profound, impenetrable secret. Time however will discover them.
     In the mean Time however, We have the Satisfaction to be sure they are not inimical to America. For this We have the Word of a King, Signified by his Ministers: a King who they say never broke his Word, but on the Contrary has given many Striking Proofs of a Sacred Regard to it. I have the Honour to be, with the Strongest sentiments of Esteem and Respect, sir your most obedient and most humble servant.

      John Adams


Title: From John Adams to William MacCreery, 7 September 1778
From: Adams, John
To: MacCreery, William

      Sir
      Passi September 6 7. 1778

     Yours of 30 August I received two days ago, and forthwith laid it before both my Colleagues.
     You observe that Sea Men and Masters of Vessells escaped from England, complain of the Conduct of the Commissioners. Want of Money, and Want of Attention, you Say are their Complaints. Serious indeed!
     As to the first, I want to write a Volume, but will Spare you the Trouble, and content myself with a few Words. Attend to these few Words, and judge whether, I am culpable.
     Seven Millions of Livres nearly had been Spent, before my arrival here. What has America received for it? I have not Spent much of this Money.
     Now We have no Money, nor the least Assurance of any, We expect every Hour Draughts from Congress, for a Million Livres for Interest on Loan office Certificates.
     Remittances from Congress We have none or next to none.
     It is in vain to deceive. I absolutely expect, We shall be obliged to protest Bills drawn from the highest Authority, in a very short Time. So far from being offended at the Smallness of the sums We have lent these Persons, they ought to be very thankfull that they had a farthing.
     As to the Want of Attention, I really know not what they mean? There has not been a Prisoner escaped here, that I have not treated with a cordial affection, that I have not invited to dine and whose Business I have not dispatched with the Utmost Expedition in my Power. And I believe, and am sure that Mr. Lee has done the same, and Dr. Franklin too for any thing that I know or believe.
     But be not deceived, Mr. McCreery. There are interested Combinations, in this Country—Americans, Frenchmen, and I fear Englishmen too are concerned in them. These People have Spies, Tools and Emissaries, all about, who are taught and employd to fill the Heads of Americans with discontent. Let them go on—so sure as there is a futurity so sure those Combinations will be brought to light, And the Truth will finally be made to appear to the full Justification of the innocent, faithfull and disinterested servant of his Country, and to the Confusion and Disgrace of the mere Lovers of themselves, who think to obtain opportunities of making private Fortunes, by exciting Prejudices against Persons who are sinking and sacrificing theirs, in this Cause, and who have been doing so for fifteen Years.
     The Commissioners here, have been employed, these three Months in negociating an Exchange of Prisoners, they have wrote many Letters to England both to the Ministry and to private Persons—they have often applied to the Ministry here, and have lately applied several times for a Passport for a Cartel ship, but have not yet been so happy as to obtain it, altho they expect it every Hour.
     What the Commissioners will finally do about sending any Person to England I dont know. Mr. Williams was proposed some time ago, and Mr. Austin, but neither have been sent and I dont know that it will be necessary to send any Body. If it should be determined to send any one, whether Mr. Williams yourself or Mr. Austin or any other Gentleman I am not able to say. I cant advise you to wait in Expectation of it. I am your friend and servant.


Title: To John Adams from Nicolas Toussaint Lemoyne Des Essarts, 7 September 1778
From: Essarts, Nicolas Toussaint Lemoyne des
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       Paris ce 7. 7bre. 1778

      J’ai L’honneur de Vous adresser Le 1er. Volume de mon ouvrage. Vous verrés Dans mon Discours préliminaire que je me propose De faire L’histoire Des tribunaux de toutes Les nations, de parler De leurs principales Loix, Et De Rendre compte des fonctions de Leurs magistrats. Les Etats unis ont Leurs tribunaux, Leurs Loix Et Leurs magistrats; J’ose vous prier, Monsieur, de Vouloir Bien me procurer Les materiaux qui me sont necessaires pour Rediger L’article Des tribunaux des Etats unis. Personne n’est plus a portée que vous, Monsieur, de me Rendre ce service. Comme mon second Volume est presque imprimé, Et que L’article Etats unis se trouvera Dans Le 3e. Je vous serai très obligé D’avoir La Bonté De me procurer Le plus tot qu’il vous sera possible Les Details qui me sont necessaires pour faire L’histoire de vos tribunaux, de ce qui s’y passe, Et De La maniere Dont La justice est Rendue Dans L’etendue Des Etats unis. Je serai ou ne peut pas plus Reconnoisant Du service que vous voudrés Bien me Rendre.
      Je suis avec une consideration Respectueuse Monsieur Votre très humble et trés obeissant serviteur

       Des Essarts Avocat, membre de plusieurs academies, auteur du journal des causes celebres,Rue de Verneuil près celle de poitiers.


Title: Nicolas Toussaint Lemoyne des Essarts to John Adams: A Translation, 7 September 1778
From: Essarts, Nicolas Toussaint Lemoyne des
To: Adams, John

       Sir
       Paris, 7 September 1778

      I have the honor to send you the first volume of my work. You will see, in my preliminary discourse, that I propose to do a history of the tribunals of all nations, to deal with their major laws, and to give an account of the functions of their magistrates. The United States has its courts, laws, and magistrates. I take the liberty to ask you, sir, to provide me with the material necessary for my article on the tribunals of the United States. No one is in a better position than you, sir, to do me this service. Since my second volume is almost printed and the article on the United States will appear in the third, I would be much obliged if you could kindly send me, as soon as possible, the details necessary to enable me to write a history of your tribunals, their operation, and the manner in which justice is rendered in the entire United States. I shall be eternally grateful for this help.
      I am, with respectful consideration, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant

       Des Essarts Lawyer, member of several academies, author of the journal des causes celebres,Rue de Verneuil near that of Poitiers.


Title: Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. to the Commissioners, 7 September 1778
From: Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. (business)
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Messieurs
       Amsterdam le 7 Septe. 1778

      Nous venons de Recevoir par M. Withalle, le Livre contenant les Promesses du Congrés, Revêtües de leur Coupons et de Vos Signatures.
      Il ne nous manque, pour entamer, leur Négotiation; que vos ordres et Vos Instructions Relativement aux fraix, et aux alloüances que nous devrons accorder aux Preneurs en Sus de L’Interet Stipulé à 5 pour Cent.
      Nous avons l’honneur d’etre tres Respectueusement Messieurs Vos tres humbles & tres obeissants Serviteurs

       Horneca Fizeaux & Comp.


Title: Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 7 September 1778
From: Horneca, Fizeaux & Co. (business)
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       Amsterdam, 7 September 1778

      We have just received from Mr. Whitall the book containing the promissory notes from Congress, along with their coupons and your signatures.
      Now all we require to begin their negotiation is your orders and instructions relative to the expenses and allowances that we may grant the buyers in addition to the stipulated 5 per cent interest.
      We have the honor to be, very respectfully, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servants

       Horneca, Fizeaux & Co.


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Greenleaf, 8 September 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Greenleaf, Thomas

      Sir
      Passi near Paris September 8. 1778

     Your Letter to me from Forton Goal dated in July I have lately received, and altho I most Sincerely condole with you under the Misfortune of your Captivity, yet I rejoice with you in the Continuance of your Health and in the Humanity, and Charity, and Friendship of your British Benefactors.
     As to the Assistance you are to expect, you may be assured and you may assure your fellow Prisoners, that the Commissioners in France have taken a great deal of Pains to obtain their Liberty: but hitherto without Success. And I can promise nothing for the future, but that I will do all in my Power to procure their Exchange.
     You are pleased to compliment me, with “Nobleness of Sentiment,” but would you as a virtuous Citizen of America, a young Republic, Struggling under infinite Misfortunes, request or advise me, as a servant of that Republic and a stewart of its T a small Part of its Treasure, to indulge a “Nobleness” of Sentiment at the Expence of our bleeding, burning Country impoverished almost ruined Country. It would be very easy for me as long as the public Money lasted in my Hands to be generous and to get a Character with Persons to whom I should give, for Magnanimity. But sir as I never engaged in the service of my Country for the Advancement of my private Interest, So I never entered it to obtain the Character of Generosity, Magnanimity, or Nobleness of Sentiment.
     I must therefore tell you plainly, that I cannot justify to my Constituents nor to my Self the least degree of Partiality to you on Account of my Acquaintance with your Fathers Family. That every other Prisoner in Forton and Plymouth has the Same right with you, to any assistance in my Power to give in my public Capacity. That the State of the Public Finances is such, that in my opinion it is impossible for Us to do more for the Prisoners than We have done. But if you apply to my Supposed “Nobleness of Sentiments” in my private Capacity, and ask me to give you or lend you Money out of my private Pockett, you know, or ought to know that my whole Time and a great Part of my Property and all my Prospects have been Sacrificed to the public service for a Course of years past and that my Family is suffering under the Consequences of it.
     After all however, if you will write me an Account of any Necessaries that you want I will Send you the Money out of my private Pocket, if it is a reasonable request and within the Compass of my very small Abilities. I am your Countryman and humble servant.


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 8 September 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Sirs
      Bordeaux 8 Sept 1778

     This morning Arrived the Privateer Schooner Success—Attwood Master from Virginia. She left Cheasapeak Bay 13 July. The Captains inteligence consists that the ninth Comte d’Estaing saild from the Bay for New York remained in the Bay five French Frigates.
     Some English Prisoners are brought in here taken by American Privateers their enlargement or detention is optional in the Captures no claim under your Authority being made of them and as being prisoners of the States the French Government dont appear to enterfer.
     There are frequent Altercations betwixt Masters and their Seamen being matters of a Civil Maratime Nature between parties not Subjects in this Kingdom are not Connoisable in their Courts by Which the injured are sometimes agreivd without redress.
     In One of my former I mentiond to you an Advantage that I apprehended would result should all Vessels belonging to the States be order’d to make their Report to your Constituents thereby enabling them to transmit you circumstantial Accounts of all that related thereto as well as the earliest information. I am attentive to procure as Authentic Accounts as private Curiosity will permit which of course being bounded I am not so interestingly inteligent to you as at all times I should esteem myself happy to be.
     I have the honor to be with due respect Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: From John Adams to Jonathan Williams, 9 September 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Williams, Jonathan

      My dear sir
      Passi September 9. 1778

     Your Favour of the 3d I duely received and am very much obliged to you for the Trouble you have taken in Writing to my dear Mrs. Adams, and in sending her a few Merchandises to the amount of 229 Livres: 6 s: 9 d which Sum I will immediately pay to Mr. W. T. Franklin as you desire, and I should have been very glad to have paid an additional sum for your Commissions.
     We are in the Midst of an Awefull Pauze in the Political Concert, but I suppose a few Hours will set all the Instruments in Motion together. May the Musick be as ravishing to the Allies as the strains of Orpheus.
     I am with much Esteem your most obedient servant


Title: Benjamin Franklin and John Adams to the Massachusetts Council, 9 September 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John
To: Massachusetts Council

     Passy, 9 September 1778. RC in Adams’ hand PPAmP. printed (with enclosure): Magazine of American History, 12:462–463 (Nov. 1884). Franklin and Adams sent the Council a letter of 10 Aug. from Thomas Hutchinson to Dr. James Lloyd of Boston, concerning land owned by Hutchinson’s sister, Grizell Sanford, and enclosing his and his sister’s powers of attorney. Franklin and Adams had opened the letter because they believed it unwise to permit any communication from Hutchinson to go to America without examination, but left it up to the Council to decide what to do in the matter. No record of any action by the Council has been found.