Title: The Foreign Affairs Committee to the Commissioners, 14 May 1778
From: Continental Congress, Foreign Affairs Committee,Lee, Richard Henry,Lovell, James
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      No. 7 York Town May 14th: 1778

     Our Affairs have now a universally good appearance. Every thing at home and abroad seems verging towards a happy and permanent period. We are preparing for either War or Peace; for altho we are fully perswaded that our Enemies are wearied beaten and disappoint in despair, yet we shall not presume too much on that belief, and the rather, as it is our fixt determination to admit no terms of Peace, but such as are fully in character with the dignity of Independant States and consistent with the Spirit and intention of our alliances on the Continent of Europe.
     We believe, and with great reason too, that the honor and fortitude of America, have been rendered suspicious, by the Arts, intrigues and specious misrepresentations of our Enemies. Every proceeding and Policy of ours has been tortured to give some possible colouring to their assertions of a doubtful disposition in America as to her perseverance in maintaining her Independance; and, perhaps, the Speeches of several of the Minority in both houses of the English Parliament, (who seemed to persist in the possibility of a reconciliation), might contribute towards that Suspicion. We, at this time, feel ourselves particularly happy in being able to show, from the accidental arangement of Circumstances, such as we could neither have policy to foresee, or power to alter, that the disposition of America on that head was fixt and final. For a proof of this we desire your attention to the following.
     The English Ministry appear to have been very industrious in getting their two conciliatory Bills, (even before they had been once read) over to America as soon as possible, the reason of which haste we did not then foresee, but the arrival of your dispatches since, with the Treaties have unriddled the Affair. General Howe was equally industrious in Circulating them by his emissaries thro’ the Country; Mr. Tryon at N. York did the same, and both those Gentlemen sent them under sanction of a flag to Genl. Washington, who immediately sent the first he received to Congress. Mr. Tryon’s Letter which covered them, and General Washington’s answer thereto, you will find in Hall’s and Seller’s Gazette printed at Yorktown April 24 May 2d.
     Those Bills are truly unworthy the attention of any National Body; but lest the Silence of Congress should be misunderstood, or furnish the Enemy with New Ground for false insinuation, they were instantly referred to a Committee of Congress, whose judicious and spirited report thereon was unanimously approved by the House April 22d and published and circulated thro’ the several States with all possible expedition.
     The dispatches in charge of Mr. Dean did not arrive till the Second of May, ten eight days after the said reports were published; and his expedition in bringing the dispatches to Congress, prevented any Intelligence arriving before him. Inclosed are the reports referred to, to which we recommend your attention in making them as public as possible in Europe, prefacing them with such an explanatory detail of Circumstances as shall have a tendency to place the Politics of America on the firm basis of National honor, Integrity and fortitude.
     We admire the true Wisdom and dignity of the Court of France, in, her part of, the Construction and Ratification of those Treaties; they have a powerful and effectual tendency to dissolve that narrowness of mind which Mankind have been too unhappily bred up in. In those treaties we see the Politician founded on the Philosopher, and harmony of Affections made the ground work of mutual Interest. France by her open Candor has won us more powerfully than any reserved treaties could possibly bind us, and at a happy Juncture of Times and Circumstances laid the seeds of an eternal friendship.
     It is from an anxiety of preserving inviolate this cordial union so happily begun, that we desire your particular attention to the 11th and 12th Articles in the Treaty of Amity and Commerce. The unreserved Confidence of Congress in the good disposition of the Court of France will sufficiently appear by their having unanimously ratified those treaties, and then trusted any alterations or amendments to mutual negociation afterwards. We are apprehensive that the general and extensive tenor of the 12th Article may in future be misunderstood, or rendered inconvenient and or impracticable, and, in the end, become detrimental to that friendship we wish ever to exist; To prevent which, you will herewith receive instructions and authority for giving up on our Part the whole of the 11th. Article proposing it as a Condition to the Court of France, that they, on their part, give up the whole of the 12th Article, those two being intended as reciprocal Ballances to each other.
     It is exceedingly distressing to Congress to hear of Misconduct in any of the Commanders of Armed Vessels under the American flag. Every authentic information you can give on this head will be strictly attended to and every Means taken to punish the Offenders and make reparation to the Sufferers. The Chief consolation we find in this disagreeable business, is, that the most Experienced States have not always been able to restrain the Vices and irregularities of Individuals. Congress has published a Proclamation for the more effectually suppressing and punishing such Practices. But we are rather inclined to hope that as the line of Connection and friendship is now Clearly Marked and the minds of the Seamen relieved thereby from that unexplainable Mystery respecting their real prizes which before embarrassed them, that such irregularities will be less frequent or totally cease; to which end, the Magnificent Generosity of the Court of France to the owners of the Prizes which “for reasons of State” had been given up will happily contribute. We are, Gentlemen, Your Obt. Humble Servts.,

      Richard Henry Lee
      James Lovell


Title: The Commissioners to Vergennes, 16 May 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de

      Sir
      Passy May 16. 1778

     We had this Morning the Honour of receiving your Excellency’s Letter of the 13. Instant relative to the Boston Frigate.
     We beg leave to assure your Excellency that the Frigate called the Boston, now at Bourdeaux, is a Ship of War belonging to the 13 United States of North America, built and maintained at their Expence, by the Honourable Congress.
     We therefore, humbly presume that his Majestys royal Determination on the Representation of the Farmers General, will be according to the Usage of Nations in such Cases, and your Excellency may be assured that Captain Tucker will conform to that Determination with the utmost Respect.

      We have the honour to be Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servants
      B Franklin
      Arthur Lee
      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from James Lovell, 16 May 1778
From: Lovell, James
To: Adams, John

      (11)
      Dear Sir

       May 16th. 1778

     As I hinted to you in my letter of yesterday, which goes by a different Vessel from what bears this, Half-pay for 7 years, if they live so long, is granted to the Officers who serve the War out. It was also resolved to give 80 Dollars to the Men in addition to their Land.
     The Commissioners at the Courts of Tuscany Vienna and Berlin are to have plenipotentiary Commissions and not to be restricted to 12 years Treaties of Amity and Commerce. They could only propose and treat but not conclude. And I hope they will not be allowed to make Alliances. Great Caution indeed is to be used in that point. There is but one Power besides France that could tempt me, unless Minheer should incline.
     I presume our Army will now immediately be reformed the Battalions consolidated and the useless Officers dismissed. He, as your Namesake says, will soon put Things to rights, having been obliged to coax almost instead of order in times past. Our Soldiers deserve all praise for their perseverance in hunger and nakedness but the Gemmen have taken improper times to move their schemes of Pension and, will you believe it, Nobility. Some, in a big House, think that there is no Objection to Titles when not hereditary. Does it not look well——Lord chief Justice of Delaware.
     It is reported that Mr. S. A. is coming forward. I assure you we who are here have had consummate drudgery day and night ever since you left us in November. Mr. D is a very good man indeed. I wish he would consent to tarry, but his Estate is continually destroyed by his Friends who are keeping his Enemies in order. I mean the Guards over Burgoynes troops. I hope Mr. Deane will come over. I mean I hope he will not throw himself out of use by resenting an Act of Congress founded on Necessity. I think he is peculiarly calculated for Holland if we have a Commission there. Howe is not gone from his Command. It is reported that the Enemy are embarking their heavy Baggage. This if fact is no proof of their quitting. It may be a prudent preparative to coming out against us: a few days will make something certain. The Council which Gates attended in his way to Peeks-kill was finished with great unanimity of Sentiment, and much Cordiality between the great men tho the latter was not expected from some foolish bickerings which had been raised out of Conways Indiscretion, whose Resignation has been accepted.
     I wish you happiness and I think you have the fund for it whether you are now in Paris or a Prisoner in England. Give my Love to your Son and tell him it is Matris Ergo, that he may try his talent at the Phrases which teazed me in my Infancy.
     I hope soon to have from you Sic Canibus Catulos similes, by way of Confession, and some Substitute, more adapted to my Experience than the Cupressi of Tityrus, to mark your Sublimities. Be cautious, however, that you do not hint that you have seen any Thing superior to Philadelphia; unless you are willing instantaneously to forfeit the great Portion you hold of Mrs. Clymars good Opinion.
     Genl. R—— has been from home several Weeks: he has purchased into an Estate about one hundred miles off, near to water Carriage, where is an exceeding rich Lead mine Capable of supplying the Army, and of repaying him in half a year or less. Your affectionate humb servt,

      JL


Title: The Commerce Committee to the Commissioners, 16 May 1778
From: Continental Congress, Commerce Committee,Ellery, William,Hutson, Richard,Adams, Thomas
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      York in Pennsylvania May 16. 1778

     This will be accompanied with a Contract entered into between John Baptist Lazarus Theveneau De Francy Agent of Mr. Peter Augustine Caron De Beaumarchais representative of the House of Rodrigue Hortalez & Co. and the Committee of Commerce. You will observe that their Accounts are to be fairly stated and what is justly due paid. For as on the One hand Congress would be unwilling to evidence a disregard for, and contemptuous refusal of the Spontaneous freindship of his most Christian Majesty; so on the other they are unwilling to put into the private Packets what was gratuitously designed for Public benefit. You will be pleased to have thier Accounts liquidated and direct in the liquidation thereof that particular care be taken to distinguish the property of the Crown of France from the Private property of Hortalez and company and transmit to us the accounts so stated and distinguished. This will also be accompanied by an Invoice of Articles to be imported from France and resolves of Congress relative thereto. You will appoint if you judge proper an Agent or Agents to Inspect the quality of such Goods as you may apply for to the House of Roderigue Hortalez & Co. before they are shipped to prevent any imposition.
     The Obstructions of the Bays and Harbours to the southward by British men of war, hath prevented our shipping Tobacco as we intended. We have ordered several Vessels lately to South Carolina for Rice and have directed the Continental Agent in that state to consign them to your address. So soon as we can venture to send out Tobacco with any probability of Success we shall certainly do it.
     This goes by a dispatch Vessel under the direction of the Committee of foreign Affairs. Five Others are employed in the same business, which you will load with such Articles as you may have ready to transmit to us.
     We congratulate with you on the treaties entered into with his most Christian Majesty and are with the greatest respect, Gentn. Your very hble servts

      William Ellery
      Richd. Hutson
      Thos. Adams


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

      Gentlemen
      Brest 16th May 1778

     As there is an appearance that the Sales of the Rangers prizes will be greatly protracted thro’ the claims of the Admiralty here—I have been under the necessity of drawing on you this day a Bill at five days sight in favor of Monsieur Bersolle for Twenty four thousand Livers—which I mean to distribute among the brave Officers and Men to whom I owe my late Success. It is but reasonable that they should be furnished with the means of procuring little comforts and necessaries of Life for themselves—— and the intrests of the Service as well as the claims of Humanity and Justice plead in behalf of their Wives and helpless Families who are now unprovided in America, and will naturally expect a Supply of Cloathing &ca. by the Drake.
     You may expect a circumstantial Account of every transaction respecting the Ranger in a day or two—Meantime my unsettled situation must be my Apology.
     It may not be amiss to add that upon recollection I do not conceive that France has any power to give up American prisoners while they remain on board of American Ships and are not suffered to come ashore. I have the honor to be with much Esteem and Respect, Gentlemen Your very Obliged very Obedient very humble Servant

      John Paul Jones


Title: The Commissioners to Ferdinand Grand, 17 May 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Grand, Ferdinand

      Sir
      Passi May 17th. 1778

     It is our desire that you accept no Bills nor pay any money out of the funds which are or may be in your hands to the credit of us three jointly without our joint order. As it has been the practice to address Letters upon the business of the Commission to Mr. Deane we desire that you will send to us all the Letters you receive so directed, and not give them to any private person. We have the honor to be &c.


Title: To John Adams from Alagnac, 18 May 1778
From: Alagnac
To: Adams, John

       A Clermont ferrant en auvergne le 18 May 1778

      Le Docteur Franklin, Monsieur, a qui j’ay eu l’honneur D’ecrire pour Savoir Des nouvelles D’un jeune homme nommé le chevalier De Pontgibaut, embarqué Sur le navire l’arc en ciel, partit De Nantes Depuis le Il 8bre 1777, avec plusieurs lettres De recommendation pour Mrs De Con Wai et De la Fayette, Dans l’esperance D’etre employé Dans vos troupes Des Colonies unies De l’amerique; m’a mendé qu’il n’en avait point entendu parler permettes moi monsieur De m’Addresser a vous Comme Arrivant nouvellement De Ce pays la, peut etre auries vous quelque Connaisance Du Sort De le chevalier, ou Du navire L’arc en ciel et vous m’obligeries infiniment Si vous avies la bonté De m’instruire De la Destinie De l’un ou De l’autre. Le jeune homme plein D’ame et D’ardeur jaloux D’acquerir de la gloire pour une aussi bonne Cause, est fort cher a Sa famille et Son Silence Depuis Son Depart donne a Son pere Comte De Chalier Viellard repectable agé De 77 ans la plus grande inquietude, ne Serais ce pas abuser De votre Complaisance monsieur, que De vous prier D’alleger Son Tourment en Daignant vous informer ce qu’est Devenu le jeune homme supose que vous n’en ayes pas la moindre Connaissance oserais esperer Cette grace De vous monsieur et Celle De Croire que I have the honour to be With a great respect Sir your Most obedient humble Servant

       D’alagnac

       Mr. la Combe negotiant de Ce pays Ci qui a voyage tres longtems Dans vous Colonies et qui Se propose D’y retourner a bien voulu Se charger de vous remettre ma lettre en main proper c’est un garcon qui merite votre protection.


Title: Alagnac to John Adams: A Translation, 18 May 1778
From: Alagnac
To: Adams, John

       Clermont-Ferrand, Auvergne, 18 May 1778

      Dr. Franklin, sir, to whom I had the honor to write for information about a young man, Chevalier de Pontgibaut, who left Nantes on 11 October 1777 on board the Arc en Ciel with letters of recommendation to Messrs. Conway and Lafayette in the hope of being employed with the troops of the United Colonies of America; has replied that he knows nothing on the matter. Permit me then to turn to you, sir, as you have newly arrived from that country and might have some information on the whereabouts of the Chevalier or the Arc en Ciel and you would greatly oblige me if you would have the goodness to inform me as to the fate of the one or the other. This young man, filled with ardor and eager to achieve glory in the service of such a worthy cause, is very dear to his family and his silence, since his departure, deeply worries his father, Comte de Chalier, a venerable old man of 77. Would it be too much of an imposition on you, sir, to ask you to ease his anxiety by condescending to discover what has become of this young man on the supposition that you have no information at hand. I dare hope for a favorable response to my request, sir, and I have the honor to be with a great respect, sir, your most obedient and humble servant

       D’alagnac

       Mr. La Combe, a merchant in this province, who has traveled extensively in your colonies and who is about to return there, kindly agreed to hand deliver this letter to you. He is a man worthy of your patronage.


Title: To John Adams from Dupont de Lens, 18 May 1778
From: Dupont de Lens
To: Adams, John

      My lord
      Calais 18 May 1778

     Under the auspices of my friend Mr. Recules de Basmarin I take the Liberty of addressing myself to you; to make a tender of my Services to you, desiring you to appoint me to the place of Consul, or Commissary of your nation in this port.
     The perfect Knowledge I have in every thing Concerning the maritime Commerce, my having the advantage of Writing and Speaking English most as fluently as French, and my being recommended by Mr. Recules de Basmarin make me hope, My lord, that you Will be So good as to grant me the favor I have the honor to Sollicit from your excellency.
     The Situation of our Harbour, open to all Sorts of Winds, defended by forts and respectable batteries, being advantageously Situated, most opposite the mouth of the Thames, Which one may reach in less than Six hours, Will often be Very useful for the Shelter of any armed Ships of your nation, or any other that Should happen to be in this latitude: besides it might happen that the Captains Should undergo Some delay in their operations, Which Would Consequently be of prejudice to them, if they had no body to Whom they Could or Should be obliged to address themselves at their arrival.
     By honouring me With So respectable an employement as that of representing a Nation that has just given to every nation an example of the love of its Country and freedom, Supported by the heroism of Virtue and Courage. I desire you to be persuaded, My Lord, that I will give all my Cares and attentions, and Shall use the most Scrupulous exactness in performing With honor all the operations, even the most Secret one’s, either for the inward or outward part of the Kingdom, intrusted to me and in giving every assistance necessary to the Ships that Will Come in this port for their business or Want. I am With respect My Lord Your Excellency’s Most obedient and humble servant

      Dupont de Lens


Title: Christian Stenger and William Straughan to the Commissioners, 18 May 1778
From: Stenger, Christian,Straughan, William
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Onboard the Ranger Continentel Ship of War at Brest. 18 May 1778

     The Humble Petition of Christian Stenger and William Stragham Showed that Your Petitioners with thyre Propertyes, by this Unnaturall Ware have fallen Captives to the Ranger Continentel Ship of Ware, Comanded by Captn. John Paul Jones Esqr.—first Comander of the Brigg Dolphin, beloning to Water ford, Sunck with her Cargo Flaxseed off Cape Clare Aprill 14t. Latter Comander of the Lord Chatham from London to Dublin where She belonged. Taken in the Ireish Channell Aprill 17t. and now at Brest.
     Showed that Your Humble Petitioners have a havy Charge in Ireland first 11 and Latter 8 Children, all Intirely Depending on ower Industery and if adding to Ower Misfortune by a long Continuance of Captivity will Prove Ower Totall Distruction, and the Cause of the Innosent at home Seeking thyre bread from Doar to doar.
     Being asured of Your Exsemplary Humanity, we bouldly take this method to knock at the Doar of Mercy for ower Deliverance, which when optained will Shurely be a Great Charrity bestowed on these at home who are not Yet able to Earn thyre Bread.
     We however are not Intirely Distitude of Som Glimmering Hopes of Deliverance from Captn. Jones, who Since ower Captivity has given us at Cartentimes Som Ovasif Promisse of Deliverance, In returne for ower knowlege when on the Coast of Ireland which we Liberally have Contributed for the Safity of the Ranger, for the Testimony of which Apale to Captn. Jones himself and Principall officers, but not in the least infringing on thyre knowlege of which the Rangers Cruse is a Sofitiand Profe of thyre Conduct.
     We asurantly Flatter owerselves that Your bounty full goodness to the Distresed will out Shine the Admirallity of England, who not withstanding when Petitioned by Samuel Chandler now onboard the Ranger, found admittance and Sett at Liberty. If this Trough Gods assistance Should Com before Your Honour, Then are asured of Ower Liberty. Give us leave to point out the Clarest way to ower Familys, Suffer us to be put onboard of a Dutch Ship of which there is Severall now at Brest, if thy are Even bound to Som Treading portes in France or Spain whare we are Shure to meet with frinds the Merchants to whome we are known. If this Should find Exceptance in Your presance which hope will be the Cace and Som, we with the Innosent at home are bound to pray, and remain to Yours Honours Most afectiond. Humble Servants.

      Christn. Stenger
      Wm. Straughan


Title: Jonathan Williams to the Commissioners, 18 May 1778
From: Williams, Jonathan
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Brest May 18. 1778

     My last informed your Excellencies of my Arrival at this place from Morlaix and my Motives in coming hither.
     Capt. Jones has received a Letter from Mr. Schweighauser who in consequence of one from William Lee Esqr. claims the Disposal of the Prizes sent into this port by the Ranger, informs Capt. Jones that he has the Management of the public Business, and that I pretend to what he alone has authority for.
     As I wish to be clearly understood in every part of my Conduct, I take the Liberty to assure you that I came hither with a View, not of obtaining a Consignment, but of assisting Capt. Jones in his Affairs, and consequently of serving the Public; I therefore have not attempted to alter the Channel, the commercial part of the Business had taken.
     The former prize the Lord Chatham being sent into the Intendant the Sale of it will probably be made by the Admiralty, if not, it will fall into the Hands of Mr. Bersoll by whom the Ranger was furnished before her Departure, and to whom Capt. Jones has applied for his present Wants, it being necessary, on Account of the great Detail of them that the Business should be transacted by a Resident here; the other being empty is employed as a prison Ship. The Drake is fitting to convey the prisoners to America. I have given every assistance in my power to put the affairs in a regular Train for a speedy and compleat Supply.
     Your Excellencies thus see that my Motives are very different from what Mr. Schweighauser supposes, and so far from having any Disposition of entering into a Dispute about pecuniary advantages, it is my Intention to quit Brest the Moment I find my presence useless to the Public; but as much as I wish to avoid Dispute I must endeavour also to avoid an Imputation of neglect of Duty, and if I had acted otherwise than I have done I should have felt myself liable to it.
     Capt. Jones’s great object is to secure near 200 prisoners which he keeps on board his prison Brig, so as to obtain an equal number of our unhappy Countrymen now suffering in Captivity. If this can be effected here it will not be necessary to send the Drake to America, and in this Case, I beg leave to observe that this Ship can take a great part of the Stores I have at Nantes, perhaps almost all. As she belongs wholly to the Captors it will be necessary to buy her of them, or freight her to America either of which could be perhaps more reasonably done than of any other persons. As you shall please to decide, I will in obedience act.
     I shall go from this in a Day or two taking Nantes in my Way to collect my papers intend to proceed to Paris. This need not prevent the loading of the Drake should you so determine. I have the honour to be very Respectfully, Your Excellencys most obedt & most humle Servant

      Jona Williams


Title: To John Adams from Henry Laurens, 19 May 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      York Town 19th. May 1778

     Will you permit me to congratulate with you upon the favorable appearances in our American concerns and particularly upon your safe arrival at Paris, and further to request you will forward in the best manner the times will afford, the two inclosed Letters, one to Ralph Izard Esquire and the other to my daughter in Law in London the latter if War is kindled between France and England must take a circuitous route by Holland or Flanders and under particular protection. Command me at any time to do ten times as much in return and be assured of my chearful obedience.
     You are so fully informed of the State of affairs in this quarter by the Committee of foreign correspondence it would be committing waste upon time to repeat. We have this Instant an account of the Enemy’s movements from Philadelphia under clouds of mancevre and stratagem, time will shew whether they mean to attack Gen. Washington or to penetrate Jersey and cross over to New York. Our Commander in Chief is also in motion and if they don’t face him he will be on their Skirts.

      I wish you every degree of happiness & am with great Respect Dear sir Your Obedient hum’ servt
      Henry Laurens


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

       Messieurs
       La Haie 19e May 1778

      Ma derniere, en forme de Journal, commencoit par le 7e. et finissoit par le 15e de ce mois. Vous y aurez vu ma marche, pas à pas; et qu’elle a abouti au vrai terme qu’il falloit, savoir, à faire connoître ici, d’une maniere non équivoque, et authentique, les dispositions amicales des Etats-Unis envers cette République, et à préparer ainsi les voies pour un heureux rapprochement, sans mettre l’Ambassadeur Anglois endroit d’importuner et inquiéter l’Etat par des clameurs. La maniere dont Mr. le G——P——s’est conduit dans cette affaire, est, je le répete, des plus adroite; et nous la regardons, le G——F——, notre Ami d’ Amsterdam, et moi, comme une preuve démonstrative de la sincérité avec laquelle il entre dans nos vues. Je tiens de notre Ami, que Vendredi passé il a fait remettre une Copie traduite de votre Lettre à chaque Membre des Etats de la Province, sous main, comme on dit ici par opposition à la maniere ordinaire notoire (c’est àdire, aux Etats en corps). Le lendemain, Samedi, au Dejeuner qu’il y avoit à la Cour, Mr. l’Ambassadeur de France, Mr. l’Envoye Plenipotentiaire d’Espagne, Made, la Comtesse d’Herreria son Epouse, et quelques autres, firent groupe à part, pour observer la contenance de l’Ambassadeur d’Angleterre quand il entra: ils le virent passer devant le G——P——, non seulement sans lui faire aucune civilité, mais en le regardant d’un air refrogné et furieux. Cela a bien diverti le groupe. Ce Ministre, pour avoir vieilli dans les affaires, ne se possede guere: il ne pense pas qu’en montrant ainsi sa mauvaise humeur, il nous donne lui-même le témoignage le plus fort de la vérité des sentimens du G——P——à notre égard.
      Au reste, notre Ami m’a dit, que le G——P——, NB en conséquence de ces paroles, Messieurs, de votre Lettre à lui “of which (Treaty of Amity and Commerce between France and the U.S.) we shall speedily send your Excellency a Copy, to be comunicated if you think proper to their High-Mightinesses,” s’attend à recevoir cette Piece de votre part. Il faudra done, s’il vous plait, m’envoyer cette Copie dans une Lettre à moi, que je puisse montrer, et oú vous m’ordonnerez de remettre la Copie du Traité à son Excellence Mr. le G ——P——, aprés en avoir tiré une autre Copiepour Venvoyer aussi à la Régence d’Amsterdam. Il n’est pas besoin d’écrire pour cela une seconde Lettre au G——P——: il faut, premierement, qu’il en ait répondu une, de politesse, à la votre, et lui laisser son temps pour cela. Dans tout cela je ménagerai ce qui est dû à votre dignité, Messieurs, avec le méme Scrupule que le fond de l’affaire. J’ai parlé de tout cela au G——F——, qui l’approuve. Ce dernier a vu avec beaucoup de satisfaction le paragraphe qui le regarde dans la Lettre de Mr. Franklin du 30e
      Je suis, en attendant prompte réponse quant a l’article cidessus, et en son temps de bonnes et grandes nouvelles, dont je ferai bon usage, avec le respect et le fidele attachement que vous me connoissez, Messieurs, Votre tres humble & tres obéissant serviteur

       D

       L’imprimé ci-joint, est fait sur le canevas que Mr. A. Lee m’a envoye il y a quelque temps. Le meme est sous presse en francois, et je vous l’enverrai, Messieurs, incessamment. Cette piece est lachée a dessein, précisément dans cette circonstance.
       Je viens de chez notre Ami d’amsterdam. Il m’a assuré que la Lettre au G——P——, actuellement entre les mains de tous les membres des Etats de cette Province, fait un tres bon effet, et que ces Messieurs en sont fort contents. Il approuve aussi tres fort la maniere dont je vous marque de m’envoyer la copie du Traité.
       Le Comte de Weldern, Envoyé de cette Republique a Londres, par Lettre du 12e. May, a écrit pour la 2e. fois la nouvelle arrivée a Londres d’un Corps de fourageurs de l’Armée de Howe, coupe et enveloppe par notre armee, comme aussi que les affaires des Anglois sont en Amerique dans un tres facheux etat. Tous nos amis ici me demandent, si vous ne me marquez done rien de tout cela, puis que ce sont des nouvelles qu’il importe aux Anglois seulement de cacher, mais a nous de publier. Je reponds a cela, que vous ne me marquez, Messieurs, que les nouvelles que vous recevez authentiquement.
       Les papiers Anglois nous apprennent la mort de Lord Chatham, et l’arrivee du Genl. Burgoyne.
       Le g——F—— vient de m’apprendre la rentree à Brest du Ranger, qui a repandu tant de terreur en Irlande et au Nord de l’Angleterre, avec la Chaloupe armee le Dragon, qu’il a pris.


Title: From John Adams to Fleury, 20 May 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Fleury, François Louis Teissèdre de

     Passy, 20 May 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:104. In his reply to Fleury’s letter of 26 April (above), Adams noted the excellent reputation of François Louis Teissèdre de Fleury, then serving with the Continental Army, and congratulated Fleury and his wife “upon the honor of having such a Son.” He then stated, to remove any uneasiness, that the younger Fleury’s “Pay and Appointments” should be adequate for his subsistence.


Title: To John Adams from William Vernon Sr., 20 May 1778
From: Vernon, William Sr.
To: Adams, John

      Dear sir
      Boston May 20th. 1778

     The preceeding is Copy of my last, via Bilboa. I have noted, that we have run out the Warren Capt. Hopkins from Providence, he happily escaped the vigilance of the Enemy, received the Fire of Two Ships in the River, as he passed them without any meterial damage, several ships follow’d him out from Newport and pursued a day or Two, he out saild them. He was ordered to Boston immediately, the severity of the weather and being badly Man’d, obliged him to run as far to the southward as the Latt:24d.o, upon his Passage he Captured the ship Neptune Capt. Smallwood from Whitehaven, bound to New York, with salt and dry Goods, great part of which he took on board his ship. The Ship with the Salt, was retaken within Six hours sail of Boston; also a Snow from St. Eustatia going to Ireland Loaded with Flax-seed and Fustick which Arrived safe at Bedford, this Vessil was cover’d with fictitious Dutch Papers. The Warren anchored safe in Boston Harbour after being at Sea five Weeks. We next dispatched the Columbus, with only Twenty five Men on board, leaving all her stores, except just sufficient to run her to New London, she was drove on shore at Point-Judith, by two or Three Frigates, the same Night, the next day the Enemy sat her on fire under cover of their Ships, who were annoy’d by a few Troops from the shore, with Three feild Peices, Killed them fourteen Men and wouned Twenty. I think they Paid a high price for the Hull of an old Ship, as our people strip’t her Sails Rigging &c. The 30th. of April we sent down the Providence Capt. Whipple, having on board about 170 Men, who was ordered to the first Port in France he cou’d make, to be under the direction of the Commissioners, where we hope she is safe Arrived, no dispatches was sent by this Ship, as she was to pass a dangerous passage; however in a brisk Wind and dark Night she got out safe, receiveing a heavy fire from the Lark, which was the uppermost ship, who’s Fire she returned with Spirit and good effect, Kill’d a number and Wounded many Men, much disabled the Ship; the lower-most Ship by this alarm, was prepared to receive the Providence, who was obliged to pass her very near, gave her their Fire, that was returned with good success, but we have not yet heard the particulars, as they ever endeavour to conceal their Losses.

     You find how injudiciouly our Ships have been confined in Providence River at a vast expence, when they might have been employed to good purposes. The Ship Virginia is Captured in Chesapeake bay, perhaps imprudently. The Randolph Capt. Biddle was lately blown up to windward of Barbadoes, in an engagement with the Yarmouth a 64 Gun Ship, every Soul perished except four; this is an unfortunate stroke of Providence, which we must submit too without repineing, yet we cannot but regret the loss of so brave an officer and Crew. The loss of the Alfred on her passage home from France we lament, not so much for the Ship, as the gallant and worthy Capt. Henman, Officers and Crews being in the hands of a Cruel Enemy, and the shameful cowardly manner in not being supported by the Rawleigh Capt. Thompson, who saw him engaged with an 18 Gun Sloop of Warr, whom he had obliged to sheer off, and a 20 Gun ship bearing down upon her within Two Mile, which Two ship he maintain’d the conflict with upwards of a hour, while Capt. Thompson lay within Two or Three Mile a spectator to the Capture; soon as the Alfred struck her Colours, the Enemy gave Chase to the Rawleigh who flee’d with all the Sail she cou’d croud, lightening his Ship by throwing over board, Provisions Cables &c. &c., and had certainly parted with his Guns, had not some Passengers interposed; I am verily sorry to say thus much respecting this matter, but they are truths too notorious to pass over in silence. A report prevails that the Enemy have burn’t our Galleys and shiping upon the Delaware that were above the City; its not said the Two Frigates that was sunk are distroyed. Are we not Dear sir compensated in those Losses by the glorious Treaties of Alliance of Amity and Commerce which were executed the 6th. of Febry. last at Paris and unanimously ratified by Congress the 4th. Instant, I think sir they are magnanimous founded in our Independency equality and reciprocity; upon which I most sincerely congratulate you and our oppressed Country.
     Inclosed is a Letter for my son, which please do me the favor to forward him. Not having heard of your Arrival, am at a Loss where to direct to him. Yet I am perfectly happy in his being under your patronage, and cannot doubt of his being Place’d in such a situation that he may in Time, be qualified to serve his Friends and Country with reputation, provided he is prudent and assiduous, your Friendly advice and notice, I am perswaded he will have in proportion to his merits, I cannot ask more, I wou’d not even wish to perplex a Friend with the care and trouble of an unworthy son, all I cou’d possibly hope or desire in such case, wou’d be his interposition in saving unnecessary expence and squandering of Money to no good effect. I pray sir you will give me your sentiments freely upon the behaviour and whole Character of my son, which will be esteemed as the greatest favor. Please to make my most respectful compliments acceptable to your Hon’ble Colleges, and believe me truely Your most Obedient Humble servt


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Adams, 21 May 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Samuel

     Passy, 21 May 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:106–108. Adams commented on, among other things, the probability of a European war, the movements of the French and British fleets, and the possibility of wider European support for the Revolution. He then discussed the large amounts of money expended on supplies and the Commissioners’ expenses. Regarding the latter, Adams proposed that to lower expenses and increase efficiency, the three Commissioners be  reduced to one, the other two to be sent elsewhere or recalled. He recommended, in particular, separation of the office of minister from that of commercial agent. Samuel Adams replied on 25 Oct. (Adams Papers).
     John Adams’ letter, together with those of 24 May to the Commerce Committee (probably not sent) and of 25 May from the Commissioners to John Bondfield, John Paul Jones, J. D. Schweighauser, and Jonathan Williams, each drafted by Adams (all calendared below), firmly defined, as he saw it, his role as a Commissioner. He would strive to bring order to the Commissioners’ affairs, particularly in regard to finances and the often conflicting demands of those claiming to act as American commercial agents.
     The letters and JA’s comments on them in his Autobiography indicate his frustration, belief in the need for immediate action, and recognition that his position would be controversial. Adams wrote to Samuel Adams out of the belief that “our whole System was wrong and that ruin to our Affairs abroad and great danger and confusion in those at home, must be the Consequence of it” (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:106).


Title: Benjamin Franklin and John Adams to the Massachusetts General Court, 22 May 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John
To: Massachusetts General Court

     Passy, 22 May 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:110. Citing the usual practice under the law of nations of allowing six months after the commencement of hostilities for subjects of both sides to remove their property, Adams and Franklin requested that, if possible, the General Court return to Joseph Parker of London property seized by Massachusetts in the spring of 1775.
     Whether recipient’s copy or draft, the letter (MiU-C: Presidents Collection) was begun by Adams and finished by Franklin. It has a statement to that effect at the bottom of the second page by Parker, who was to transmit the letter to the General Court (see Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., illustration facing 4:131).


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners: A Translation, 22 May 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 22 May 1778

      The Dutch States General ended their session today, and each member will be leaving for his town tomorrow. I have just come from wishing our friend a good trip. He saw the Grand Pensionary, who told him that he was torn between his desire, on the one hand, to answer your letter in a way that would demonstrate how much he appreciates your courtesy in these dealings and is flattered with the hope that the time will come when he will be able to correspond openly with you; and, on the other hand, the constraint that his position puts him in of being unable to give you in writing, before the state authorizes him to do so, the titles due your station. He therefore asked our friend to have me visit him one day as if, on my own behalf, I was asking him if he had an answer to give me. He intends to give me a verbal reply that I could then transmit to you as coming from him. I told our friend that, since in my last letter I had asked you to send me the copy of the treaty that you had promised the Grand Pensionary in your letter to him and which he is expecting, I thought that I should wait until I received that copy because then I could approach the Grand Pensionary naturally and out of necessity without having to resort to the pretext of asking him for an answer. Our friend approved. I had another reason for not rushing over. I want first to consult an oracle more reliable than that of Calchas. Moreover, our friend has assured me that the Grand Pensionary is very much in accord with the town of Amsterdam and thus fully intends to arrange with it the rapprochement of the two republics.
      Our friend has pressed me to provide him with accurate intelligence from you, and N.B. particularly on the reception given by the United States to the British Commissioners sent to negotiate with them. I have told him that he could rest assured that they would be totally ineffectual unless they had been instructed to accede, without reservations, to the treaty between France and the United States. He replied that he believed as I did, but that he needed the fact authenticated, and that the use he would make of it would be both important and productive of much good.
      In addition, he told me that, in the assembly of the States General, the Province of Holland categorically refused to discuss the troop increase, and that the town of Amsterdam, in particular, declared itself to be absolutely against such an increase, especially so long as a situation remained in which such an increase might involve the state, directly or indirectly, in the quarrel between Great Britain and France. Nevertheless, the other provinces, to accommodate someone who is far too compliant with Sir Joseph Yorke, have agreed to draft and propose a plan for an increase. Nothing substantial, however, will come out of it despite Sir Joseph Yorke’s attempts to have the contrary believed here and in his own country. Indeed, without Holland, and particularly without Amsterdam, the other provinces can do nothing in the matter since all six together pay only a third of the total budget, Amsterdam alone paying ⅔ of the remaining ⅔.
      You will find enclosed, in French, the document that I had the honor to send you in my last letter in Dutch. You will see, in reading it, that it has been released at the appropriate time.
      My letter cannot go before next Tuesday, but I thought it best to write it as soon as I left our friend, while the interview was still fresh in my mind. He departed in good-spirits, satisfied with what took place during this assembly.

       Saturday, 23 May

      Here is the translation of a German letter I have just received. I find nothing believable in its first paragraph except, perhaps, the recall of the volunteer officers. If that is true, France may have had reasons for doing so that are quite different from those imagined by the writer.

       26 May

      I showed what precedes to the Grand Facteur last Saturday, and, as he was about to depart on a trip, he had a copy made for his own use. I will not be able to consult with him until he returns at the end of the week.
      The French ambassador has been away for a few days. He has gone to Amsterdam, &c., to accompany the Duchess of Chartres and the Princess of Lamballe, who have come for a tour of Holland. He read me an excerpt from a letter he received last Friday that said that Mr. Simeon Deane, who carried the treaty to congress, had returned on the 11th of this month to Brest and that news had reached France that Quebec was now under the control of the United States. I am waiting for this news from you so that I can communicate it to our friend and to the Grand Pensionary, an essential step at this time.
      I have the pleasure of Mr. Sam. W. Stockton’s presence here and am rendering him some small services. He will be leaving tomorrow for Leyden, Amsterdam, and Germany. He left the enclosed letter with me.

       I am, with the most sincere respect, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant
       D


Title: From John Adams to the Commerce Committee, 24 May 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Continental Congress, Commerce Committee

     Passy, 24 May 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:111–112. John Adams described the confusion that resulted from the multiplicity of commercial agents, often operating from the same ports, each claiming his authority from a different source. Adams recommended that order be imposed by designating a person in each of the principal ports as the sole American agent. He also suggested that appointment of one or more consuls by the congress might be appropriate. Realizing that his effort to bring order to the Commissioners’ finances was controversial, Adams noted that its “Consequence has been, so many Refusals of Demands and Requests, that I expect much Discontent will arise from it, and many Clamours.” See also JA to Samuel Adams, 21 May (calendared above).
     JA may have had second thoughts about this letter. The lack of a formal closing, the presence of what is apparently the only extant copy in Lb/JA/5, the absence of the notation “sent” on the Letterbook copy, as well as the general tone of this letter make it unlikely that it was sent.


Title: The Commissioners to John Bondfield, 25 May 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Bondfield, John

     Passy, 25 May 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:116. Replying to Bondfield’s letters of 12 (above) and 17 May (not found), the Commissioners’ letter, drafted by Adams, commended Bondfield for his efforts to keep them informed and asked him to send an account of his disbursements and to send future accounts monthly so that the Commissioners could avoid running into debt.


Title: The Commissioners to John Paul Jones, 25 May 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Jones, John Paul

     Passy, 25 May 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:112–114. Responding to Jones’ letters of 9 and 16 May (both above), the Commissioners’ letter, drafted by Adams, congratulated him on his arrival at Brest, requested an account of his voyage, and advised him of their preference that his prisoners be exchanged in Europe rather than sent to America in the Drake. The Commissioners expressed regret that Jones had not sent them a detailed account of his cruise and the prizes taken and requested a copy of a congressional resolve on the disposal of prizes. The Commissioners then gave Jones several reasons for refusing his draft in favor of Bersolle. Finally, taking a paragraph from Arthur Lee’s unsent letter to Jones of 17 May (DLC: Franklin Papers), they noted that Lt. Thomas Simpson would have to be sent to America because of the impossibility of convening a court martial in France and questioned Jones’ judgment in ordering Simpson’s arrest because of the “troublesome” consequences of such an act in a foreign country.
     Unknown to Adams and Lee, this letter may have initiated a correspondence between Jones and Benjamin Franklin. In his first letter, dated 27 May and answered by Jones on 1 June, Franklin sought to mitigate the effect of the Commissioners’ letter of the 25th and ended with the statement that “it will always be a pleasure to me to contribute what may lie in my power towards your advancement and that of the brave officers and men under your command” (Wharton, ed., Dipl. Corr. Amer. Rev.Francis Wharton, ed., The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States, Washington, 1889; 6 vols., 2:599; Cal. Franklin Papers, A.P.S.I. Minis Hays, comp., Calendar of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin in the Library of the American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia, 1908; 5 vols., 1:433). Later letters of 1 and 10 June offered Jones a post that he had unsuccessfully sought during an earlier visit to Paris in January, the command of the Indien, a frigate built for the United States at Amsterdam and then transferred to France because of problems with Dutch neutrality. With the offer of a new command came an invitation to visit Paris to consult on the matter, a request that Jones agreed to in a letter to Franklin of 6 June (Wharton, ed., Dipl. Corr. Amer. Rev.Francis Wharton, ed., The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States, Washington, 1889; 6 vols., 2:599–600; Morison, John Paul JonesSamuel Eliot Morison, John Paul Jones, a Sailor’s Biography, Boston and Toronto, 1959., p. 120–124, 174; Cal. Franklin Papers, A.P.S.I. Minis Hays, comp., Calendar of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin in the Library of the American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia, 1908; 5 vols., 1:436).
     Franklin, in his letters of 1 and 10 June, made it clear that Adams and Lee were and would remain ignorant of the proposed new command in order to preserve secrecy, a situation that significantly affected the later correspondence and activities of the three Commissioners in regard to Jones (see, in particular, the Commissioners to Jones, 16 June, calendared; Arthur Lee to JA, 5 July, and note 1, both below). Although the need to preserve security was certainly a consideration, the withholding of information from Adams and Lee can also be seen as an indication of Franklin’s dominant position within the Commission and, possibly, his desire to cut off from the substantive work of the Commission two members that he believed to be a part of a faction arrayed against him. These interpretations help explain a passage in Adams’ Autobiography. There he declared that with the letter here under review and some others written at the same time, all of which he was doubtful that Franklin would sign, “the Die was cast.” Rumors became rife that “Mr. Adams had joined with Mr. Lee against Dr. Franklin” (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:116–117).


Title: The Commissioners to J. D. Schweighauser, 25 May 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Schweighauser, John Daniel

     Passy, 25 May 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:115. Drafted by Adams, this letter, through enclosed extracts from letters of 25 May to John Paul Jones (calendared above) and Jonathan Williams (calendared below), informed Schweighauser that he was the authorized American agent at Brest. The Commissioners directed him to send monthly accounts and to inform them of unusual proposed expenses so that they would not run into debt.


Title: The Commissioners to Jonathan Williams, 25 May 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Williams, Jonathan

     Passy, 25 May 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:114–115. Replying to Williams’ letters of 11 and 18 May (both above), this letter, drafted by Adams, advised Williams that he had no power to act at Brest in regard either to prizes or to American commerce. J. D. Schweighauser was the American agent in that port, having received his powers from the congress through his appointment by William Lee. The Commissioners, therefore, revoked Williams’ powers in order to save money and prevent confusion and delay. He was immediately to deliver all stores and merchandise in his possession to Schweighauser and send his accounts to the Commissioners.


Title: To John Adams from William Vernon Sr., 26 May 1778
From: Vernon, William Sr.
To: Adams, John

      Dear sir
      Boston May 26th. 1778

     The Two foregoing Letters are Copys, thinking it necessary to transmit at least Three Copys these precarious Times, which I shall think no trouble in transcribing, if a single line thereof gives you the least satisfaction. The building the 74 Gun Ships are order’d to be stoped for the present, I suppose it to be in consequence I of what You requested me to write Mr. Ellery upon the subject. Nothing New in the Naval department since my last.
     The Enemy from Newport made an excursion upon the Main Yesterday morning, they Landed about 700 Men at Warren at Day light, under the command of Col. Cambell they burn’t a number of boats that was collected there the last Winter, sat Fire to the Baptist Meeting House which with three or four other buildings were consumed, the Militia collecting to the number of 120 they retreated towards Bristol made a stand, two or three Mile from that Town, while a number Rob’d and plundered the Inhabitants destroy’d furniture &c. &c, sat Fire to the Episcopal Church and 22 of the best dwelling houses in the Town, retreated hastily down to the Ferry landing, opposite to Rhode Island, where a Frigate an Arm’d Brigantine and several Cutter was ready to receive them on board under cover of their Guns which constantly Fir’d upon our People who pursued and harassed them in their retreat and embarkation, altho’ not a fourth part of their number. Col. Barton (who took Prescot) was Wounded with one private we made three Prisoners, and its very probabil Kill’d some and Wounded many, as much blood appeared upon the Hill where they made a stand and several were seen to fall. Thus ended this burning thieveing Expedition in six hours from their Landing after retreating 8 Mile and stealing Twenty respectabe Inhabitants out of their beds, whom they took away, we suppose to Starve and Murder on board their Prison ships, as they have done with some Thousands before. I forgot to tell you Ten days past they sent a party into the Eastward sound and Rob’d the Elizabeth Islands of 1500 sheep and 100 Cattle, burn’t some buildings &c. they did not Land at the Vineyard, return’d to Newport with their booty.
     We are impatient to hear of your safe Arrival. I am most respectfully, Dr. sir your obedt. Hble servt

      Wm Vernon


Title: John Paul Jones to the Commissioners, 27 May 1778
From: Jones, John Paul
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Brest May 27th 1778

     I have now to fulfil the promise made in my last by giving you an Account of my late Expedition. I sailed from Brest the 10th of April. My Plan was extensive: I therefore did not at the beginning wish to incumber myself with Prisoners. On the 14th I took a Brigantine between Scilly and Cape Clear bound from Ostend with a Cargo of Flax-seed for Ireland; sunk her and proceeded into St. Georges Channell. On the 16th I took the Ship Lord Chatham bound from London for Dublin, with a Cargo consisting of Porter and a variety of Merchandize; and almost within sight of her Port: this Ship I manned and Ordered for Brest.
     Towards the Evening of the day following the Weather had a promising appearance and the Wind being favorable I stood over from the Isle of Man with an intention to make a descent at Whitehaven: at Ten I was off the Harbour with a party of Volunteers, and had every thing in readiness to land, but before Eleven the Wind greatly increased, and shifted so as to blow directly upon the shore; the Sea encreased of course and it became impossible to effect a landing: this Obliged me to carry all possible sail so as to clear the Land and to await a more favorable Opportunity.
     On the 18th in Glenluce Bay on the South Coast of Scotland I met with a Revenue Wherry; it being the common practice of these Vessels to board Merchant Ships, the Ranger then having no external appearance of War, it was expected that this rover would have come alongside: I was however mistaken, for tho the Men were at their Quarters yet this Vessel outsailed the Ranger and got clear in spite of a severe Cannonade.
     The next Morning off the Mull of Galloway I found myself so near a Scotch coasting Schooner loaded with Barley that I could not avoid sinking her. Understanding that there was Ten or Twelve sail of Merchant Ships, besides a Tender Brigantine with a number of Impressed Men on board, at Anchor in Loughryan in Scotland I thought this an Enterprize worth my attention but the Wind, which at the first would have served equally well to sail in or out of the Lough, shifted in a hard Squall so as to blow almost directly in with an appearance of bad Weather; I was therefore obliged to abandon my Project.
     Seeing a Cutter off the Lee Bow steering for the Clyde I gave chace in hopes of cutting her off; but finding my endeavours ineffectual I pursued no further than the Rock of Elza. In the Morning I fell in with a Sloop from Dublin which I sunk to prevent Intelligence.
     The next day the 21st being near Carrickfergus a Fishing boat came off which I detained: I saw a Ship at Anchor in the Road which I was informed by the Fishermen was the British Ship of War Drake of 20 Guns. I determined to Attack her in the Night: my Plan was to overlay her Cable and to fall upon her Bow so as to have all her decks open and exposed to our Musquetry &ca. at the same time it was my intention to have secured the Enemy by Graplings so that had they cut their Cables they would not thereby have attained an Advantage. The Wind was high, and unfortunately the Anchor was not let go so soon as the Order was given; so that the Ranger was brought up on the Enemies quarter at the distance of half a Cables length. We had made no Warlike appearance, of course had given no Alarm; this determined me to cut immediately, which might appear as if the Cable had parted; and at the same time enable me, after making a Tack out of the Lough, to return with the same Prospect of advantage which I had at the first: I was however prevented from returning; as I with difficulty weathered the Light house on the Lee side of the Lough, and as the Gale increased. The Weather now became so very Stormy and severe and the Sea ran so high that I was obliged to take Shelter under the South Shore of Scotland.
     The 22d introduced fair Weather; tho the Three Kingdoms as far as the Eye could reach were covered with Snow. I now resolved once more to attempt Whitehaven: but the Wind became very light so that the Ship could not, in proper time, approach so near as I had intended. At Midnight I left the Ship with two Boats and 31 Volunteers: When we reached the outer Peir the day began to dawn; I would not however abandon my Enterprize, but dispatched One boat under the direction of Mr. Hill and Lieutenant Wallingsford with the necessary combustables to set fire to the Shipping on the North side of the Harbour; while I went with the other party to attempt the South side. I was successful in scaling the Walls and Spiking up all the Cannon on the first Fort; finding the Sentinals shut up in the Guard house they were secured without being hurted; having fixed Sentinals, I now took with me one Man only (Mr. Green) and spiked up all the Cannon on the Southern Fort, distant from the other a Quarter of a Mile.
     On my return from this Business I naturally expected to see the Fire of the Ships on the North side as well as to find my own party with every thing in readiness to set Fire to the Shipping on the South. Instead of this I found the Boat under the direction of Mr. Hill and Lt. Wallingsford returned, and the party in some confusion, their Light having burnt out at the instant when it became necessary. By the strangest Fatallity my own Party were in the same situation, the Candles being all burnt out: The day too came on apace yet I would by no means retreat while any hopes of Success remained. Having again placed Sentinals a light was obtained at a House disjoined from the Town; and Fire was kindled in the Steerage of a large Ship which was surrounded by at least an Hundred and Fifty others, chiefly from Two to Four hundred Tons burthen, and laying side by side aground, unsurrounded by the Water.
     There was besides from Seventy to an Hundred large Ships in the North Arm of the Harbour aground clear of the Water and divided from the rest only by a stone peir of a Ships height. I should have kindled Fires in other places if the time had permitted. As it did not, our care was to prevent the one kindled from being easily extinguished: after some search a Barrell of Tar was found and powered into the Flames, which now asscended from all the Hatch ways. The Inhabitants began to appear in Thousands and Individuals ran hastily towards us. I stood between them and the Ship on Fire with a pistol in my hand and ordered them to retire which they did with precipitation. The Flames had already caught the Rigging and began to ascend the Main Mast. The Sun was a full Hours march above the Horizon; and as Sleep no longer ruled the World, it was time to retire: we embarked without Opposition; having released a number of Prisoners as our Boats could not carry them. After all my People had embarked I stood upon the Peir for a considerable space yet no person advanced. I saw all the Emeninces round the Town covered with the amazed Inhabitants.
     When we had rowed to a considerable distance from the shore the English began to run in vast numbers to their Forts. Their disappointment may easily be imagined when they found I suppose at least Thirty heavy Cannon (the Instruments of their Vengeance) rendered useless. At length however they began to Fire. Having as I apprehend either brought down Ships Guns or used One or two Cannon which lay on the Beach at the foot of the Walls dismounted and which had not been spiked. They Fired with no direction and the Shot falling short of the Boats, instead of doing us any dammage afforded some diversion; which my People could not help shewing by discharging their Pistols &ca: in return of the Salute.
     Had it been possible to have landed a few hours sooner my Success would have been complete: not a single Ship out of more than Two hundred could possibly have escaped; and all the World would not have been able to save the Town. What was done however is sufficient to shew, that not all their boasted Navy can protect their own Coasts—and that the Scenes of distress which they have occasioned in America may soon be brought home to their own doors. One of my People was missing and must, I fear, have fallen into the Enemies hands after our departure. I was pleased that in this Business we neither Killed nor Wounded. I brought off Three Prisoners as a sample.
     We now stood over for the Scotch shore and I Landed at noon on St. Marys Isle with one Boat only and a very small party. The Motives which induced me to land there are explained in the within Copy of a Letter which I have written to the Countess of Selkirk.
     On the Morning of the 24th I was again off Carrickfergus; and would have gone in had I not seen the Drake preparing to come out. It was very moderate and the Drakes boat was sent out to reconnoitre the Ranger—as the Boat advanced I kep’t the Ships stern directly towards her and tho’ they had a Spy Glass in the Boat, they came on within Hail, and alongside. When the Officer came on the Quarter deck he was greatly surprised to find himself a Prisoner! altho’ an Express had arrived from Whitehaven theNight before. I now understood, what I had before imagined, that the Drake came out in consequence of this Information, with Volunteers against the Ranger. The Officer told me also that they had taken up the Rangers Anchor. The Drake was attended by Five small Vessels full of People; who were led by motives of curiosity to see an Engagement. But when they discovered the Drakes boat at the Ranger’s stern they wisely put back. Alarm smokes now appeared in great abundance extending along both sides of the Channel. The Tide was unfavorable so that the Drake worked out but slowly; this obliged me to run down several times and to lay with Courses up and Main Top-Sail to the Mast. At length the Drake weathered the Point; and having led her out to about mid-channell, I Suffered her to come within hail: the Drake hoisted English Colours and at the same instant the American Stars were displayed on board the Ranger. I expected that Preface had been now at an end; but the Enemy soon after hailed, demanding what Ship it was? I directed the Master to answer the American Continental Ship Ranger—that we waited for them and desired they would come on. The Sun was now little more than an Hour from setting, it was therefore time to begin. The Drake being astern of the Ranger I ordered the Helm up and gave her the first broadside, the Action was warm, close, and obstinate; it lasted an Hour and five minutes when the Enemy called for Quarters—her Fore and Main Topsail yards being both cut away and down on the Cap. The Fore top Gallant yard and Mizen Gaff both hanging up and down along the Mast. The 2d Ensign which they had hoisted shot away and hanging over the Quarter Gallery in the Water. The Jib shot away and hanging into the Water—her Sails and Rigging entirely cut to peices. Her Masts and Yards all wounded and her Hull also very much Galled.
     I lost only Lieutenant Wallingsford and one Seaman (John Dougal) killed, and Six Wounded; among whom are the Gunner (Mr. Falls) and Mr. Powers a Midshipman, who lost his Arm. One of the wounded (Nathaniel Wills) is since dead—the rest will recover.
     The loss of the Enemy in killed and Wounded was far greater. All the Prisoners allow that they came out with a number not less than an Hundred and Sixty Men; and many of them Affirm that they amounted to an Hundred and Ninety. The Medium may perhaps be the most exact Account, and by that it will appear that they lost in Killed and Wounded 42 Men.
     The Captain and Lieutenant were among the Wounded—the former, having received a Musquet Ball in the Head the Minute before they called for Quarters, lived and was sensible for some time after my People boarded the Prize. The Lieutenant survived two days. They were Buryed with the Honors due to their Rank and with the Respect due to their Memory.
     The Night and almost the whole day after the Action being moderate greatly faciliated the refitting of both Ships. A large Brigantine ran so near the Drake in the Afternoon that I was Obliged to bring her too, she belonged to Whitehaven and was bound for Norway. I had thoughts of returning by the South Channel but the Wind shifting I determined to pass by the North and round the West Coast of Ireland. This brought me once more off Belfast Lough on the Evening of the day after the Engagement.
     It was now time to release the honest Fishermen whom I took up here on the 21st. And as the poor fellows had lost their Boat, she having sunk in the late stormy Weather, I was happy in having it in my Power to give them the necessary Sum to purchase every thing new which they had lost. I gave them also a good Boat to transport themselves ashore and sent with them Two infirm Men on whom I bestowed the last Guinea in my Possession to defray their travelling Expences to their proper home at Dublin. They took with them One of the Drakes Sails which would sufficiently explain what had happened to the Volunteers. The grateful Fishermen were in Raptures and expressed their Joy in three Huzzas as they passed the Rangers Quarter.
     I again met with contrary Winds in the Mouth of the North Channel but nothing remarkable happened till on the Morning of the 5th Current. Ushant then bearing SEBE distance 15 Leagues, when seeing a Sail to leeward steering for the Channel, the Wind being favorable for Brest and the distance triffling I resolved to give chace. Having the Drake in Tow, I informed them of my intention and Ordered them to cast off. They cut the Hawser. The Ranger in the Chace went lasking between the NNE and NNW.—it lasted an Hour and Ten minutes, when the chace was hailed and proved a Swede. I immediately hauled by the Wind to the Southward. After cutting the Hawser the Drake went from the Wind for some time, then hawled close by the Wind steering from SSE to SSW as the Wind permitted; so that when the Ranger spoke the Chace the Drake was scarce perceptable. In the course of the day many large Ships appeared steering into the Channel, but the extraordinary Evolutions of the Drake made it impossible for me to avail myself of these favorable circumstances. Towards Noon it became very Squally and the Wind backed from the SW to the West. The Ranger had come up with the Drake and was nearly abrest of her, tho’ considerably, to leeward when the Wind shifted. The Drake was however kept by the Wind; tho’ as I afterward understood, they knew the Ranger and saw the Signal which she had hoisted. After various Evolutions and Signals in the Night, I gave chase to a sail which appeared bearing SSW the next Morning at a great distance. The chase discovered no intention to speak with the Ranger; she was however at length brought too and proved to be the Drake. I immediately put Lieutenant Simpson under Suspension and Arrest for disobedience of my Orders dated the 26th Ultimo Copy whereof is here inclosed. On the 8th both Ships Anchored safe in this Road, the Ranger having been Absent only 28 days. Could I suppose that my letters of 9th and 16th Current (the first advising you of my Arrival and giving reference to the Events of my Expidition—the last advising you of my Draft in favor of Monsr. Bersole for Twenty four thousand Livers and assigning reasons for that demand) had not made due appearance I would hereafter as I do now inclose Copies. Three posts have already arrived here from Paris since Comte D’Orvilliers shewed me the Answer which he received from the Minister to the letter which inclosed mine to you—yet you remain Silent. Monsr. Bersole has this moment informed me of the Fate of my Bill the more extraordinary as I have not yet made use of your Letter of 10th Jany. last whereby I then seemd entitled to call for half the Amount of my late draft, and I did not expect to be thought extravagant when on the 16th I doubled that demand. Could this indignity be kept secret I should disregard it. But tho’ it is already public in Brest and in the Fleet as it affects only my private Credit I will not complain. I cannot however be silent when I find the Public Credit under the same disgrace. I conceive that this might have been prevented. To make me completely wretched Mr. Bersole has told me that he now stops his hand not only of the necessary Articles to refit the Ship but also of the daily Provision. I know not where to find tomorrows dinner for the great number of Mouths which depend on me for Food. Are then the Continental Ships of War to depend on the Sale of their Prizes for a daily Dinner for their Men? “Publish it not in Gath.” My Officers as well as Men want Cloathes to cover their Nakedness and the Prizes are precluded from being sold before further Orders arrive from the Minister. I will ask you Gentlemen if I have deserved all this? Whoever calls himself an American Agent ought to be present here.
     I am unwilling to think that you have intentionally involved me in this sad delema at a time when I ought to expect some enjoyment, therefore I have as formerly the honor to be with due Esteem and Respect Gentlemen Your very Obliged very Obedient very humble Servant

      Jno. P. Jones


Title: The Commerce Committee to the Commissioners, 28 May 1778
From: Continental Congress, Commerce Committee,Ellery, William,Hutson, Richard,Adams, Thomas
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentn
      York in Pennsylvania May 28th. 1778

     You will receive this by Thomas Read Esqr who was Captain of the Frigate Washington but is now Commander of the Armed Brigantine Baltimore. This Brigantine was intended for A dispatch Vessel, but now hath A Cargo on board of Forty Nine hhds. of Tobacco which was all she coud take in and accomodate her men. We have addressed her to John Danl. Schweighauser Merchant in Nantes, and have directed him to dispose of the net proceeds of her Cargo, and also a balance which he hath in his hands belonging to these States according to your Order. We have order’d Captain Read to wait for and pursue your directions, and have desired Mr. Schweighauser to Ship such Goods on board the Baltimore, belonging to these States, as Captain Read can receive consistantly with your directions.
     We have the pleasure to inform you that the Frigate Dean Captain Nicholson, the Queen of France Captain Green and the Henrietta Captain Brown are safely arrived at Boston and our Agent there in A Letter of the 13th May advises us that “they had another valuable Arrival from France Yesterday” which we hope is the Duke de Choiseuil. We are with the greatest Respect, Your most obed hble servants

      William Ellery
      Richd. Hutson
      Thos. Adams


Title: Elijah Hall and Others to the Commissioners, 30 May 1778
From: Hall, Elijah,Cullown, David,Green, Ezra
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Ranger 30th. May 1778

     The Petition and Remonstrance of Us the Subscribers Officers of the american continental Ship of War Ranger humbly sheweth—
     That our Friend and Brother Officer Lt. Thos. Simpson; was on the 24th of April last sent on board Our Prize the Sloop of War Drake, to take the Command; with this Order among others, to keep within a Cable’s length (or thereabout) on Our starboard Quarter. On the 4th. of May Instant took the Drake in Tow, on the Morning of the 5th. our Commander gave Orders to ware wear Ship and give chace to a Vessel which we saw to Leward. The Master haling the Drake inform’d them, that we should ware Ship, and gave Orders to cast off the Harser and make sail; but unfortunately for Mr. Simpson he, with his Officers, and Men, misunderstood the Orders; and as there was no Signal given for waring Ship (which till then had been the constant Practice) concluded they were to keep their Course; which they did accordingly.
     This Gentlemen is the suppos’d Offence for which Mr. Simpson was arrested and confined, first on Board the Drake; then in a guard Ship, in the port of Brest; and for a Week past in a common dirty Goal; without any provision made for his comfort or Support, except what the humane Goaler has been pleas’d to afford Him; and till this Day debarr’d the Liberty of seeing any One, to whom He might make known his wants; he has even been deny’d Pen and Ink.
     Such Treatment Gentlemen we are bound to say (in justice to the Injured, to Ourselves, and country) is what we think not only new, and unheard of; but very unjustifiable Arbitrary and Inhumane; it gives general uneasiness on board, both among Officers and Men; and must if allow’d of persisted in greatly injure the Cause of Liberty; and perhaps totally defeat Us in the important pursuit in which we are engaged.
     Mr. Simpson ever maintain’d an unspotted Character behaving in such a manner as to command the Respect and Esteem of all who had the happiness of his Acquaintance and since He has been in the Service; has conducted himself in every respect as became an Officer and a Gentleman.
     We join with Mr. Simpson in earnestly requesting that He may be brought to a speedy Trial; if it can’t be done here, pray He may be sent to America as soon as may be; and in the mean Time beg your Honors would take His case into Consideration, and give such advice respecting Him as your prudence shall direct. We are with due Respect Gentn. Your most Obedt. & very huml. Servts.

      Elijah Hall Lieutt.
      David Cullown Master
      Ezra Green Surgeon


Title: To John Adams from James Lovell, May 1778
From: Lovell, James
To: Adams, John

      My dear Sir

       May 1778

     In aid to your scrutiny after the real robber of the Commissioners Dispatches, I send what I think a good Confirmation of Folgiers honesty. By comparing the Governor’s letter with Folgier’s Examination you will find the Governor led into a mistake about the number of Seals broken, by Folgiers forgetting that the outside Cover of the whole had anything more than “Dispatches” wrote on it. He told us differently 2 days after we had sent an Express to Nth. Carolina. I am glad he did forget it at first as it strengthens eventually the nature of the Evidence.
     You must not wonder that I make so much of this matter. It is of the highest Importance to you to be guarded against Bosom-Traitors yourself and to tear them from your Colleagues. I must add that no one here thinks Folgier’s Employment by them a discreet Choice, tho he does not appear to be the Arch Traitor. Affectionately your Friend

      James Lovell

      May 25th. 1777 The Commissioners refer to Letters of March 14 and Apr. 9th. which have never reached Us, nor any Letter since May 25th.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners: A Translation, 2 June 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 2 June 1778

      I have the honor to confirm my last three letters, namely that of 7 to 15 May in the form of a journal, another of the 19th, and the last of 22 to 26 May.
      The French ambassador returned in good health.
      The Grand Facteur is of the opinion that I should not accept, as a reply to your letter, what the Grand Pensionary will perhaps tell me verbally when we meet. But he expects, as do I, that you, in response to my last two letters and as soon as possible, will send me a copy of the treaty which I will then present to the Grand Pensionary and the Regency of Amsterdam so that the former may have time, before the States reassemble, to circulate this document, as he did the letter, among its members. The States will reconvene on 1 July, so there is no time to lose. The Grand Facteur read the Avis aux Hollandois, found it good, and sent the copy I gave him to his House.
      You will see by the enclosed translation, copied out by the Grand Facteur, that the dance is finally about to begin in Germany. Let them do it; it will do us no harm, the only result being the loss by the enemy of some of its remaining resources.
      When the Duchess of Chartres and the Princess of Lamballe arrived from France at Rotterdam they, dressed informally and without waiting for their attendants, asked to be taken to the Inn. In the smoking-room some Dutchmen took them for the actresses that were expected in town. They put away their pipes in deference to their sex, but one asked them what roles they played in the troupe. We sometimes play the leading roles, replied the Duchess. The princesses visited, among other places, Gouda, where they watched the making of pipes and brought back a boxful in all shapes and sizes, from Brobdignag to Lilliput. At Utrecht, van Mollem, attired in his sumptuous dressing gown made of chite in order to show them his famous silk factory, was, for the princesses, the porcelain man.
      I have just been offered the following verse to be placed at the bottom of Mr. Franklin’s portrait:

       Eripuit calo fulmen, sceptrumque tyrannise.

      I find the line to be both admirable and sublime, preferable to any that I have seen and the only line worthy of its intended location. I am, with all the reverence and respect imaginable, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       C. Dumas


Title: The Commissioners to John Paul Jones, 3 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Jones, John Paul

     Passy, 3 June 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:123–124. The Commissioners, as a result of letters from Lt. Thomas Simpson and appeals by others on his behalf, determined that Jones’ treatment of Simpson was too harsh and desired that Simpson be allowed to give his parole and return to America, there to be tried by a court martial. The Commissioners also requested that Andrew Fallon, taken prisoner when Jones captured and then scuttled the brigantine Dolphin on 14 April, be permitted to give his parole.
     Fallon, bound to Esher, Holland, “to embrace a religious life,” gave his parole on 11 June (Cal. Franklin Papers, A.P.S.I. Minis Hays, comp., Calendar of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin in the Library of the American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia, 1908; 5 vols., 4:263,490; Morison, John Paul JonesSamuel Eliot Morison, John Paul Jones, a Sailor’s Biography, Boston and Toronto, 1959., p. 135).


Title: The Commissioners to Sartine, 3 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de

     Passy, 3 June 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:125–126. Protesting duties charged on goods purchased for the Boston at Bordeaux, listed in an accompanying account, on the grounds that as a ship of war it was not liable for them, the Commissioners desired Sartine to take corrective action. They also requested that the prizes put in the hands of the commandant at Brest by John Paul Jones be turned over to J. D. Schweighauser because of the heavy charges to be paid on their sale owing to their having been placed improperly in the commandant’s charge. Finally, if it was not thought improper,, the Commissioners wished to issue a letter of marque to a vessel outfitted at Dunkirk.


Title: The Commissioners to Thomas Simpson, 3 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Simpson, Thomas

     Passy, 3 June 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:124. This letter informed Simpson that the Commissioners had ordered John Paul Jones to grant a parole so that he could go to Nantes in order to take the first opportunity to sail for America.


Title: Elijah Hall to Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, 3 June 1778
From: Hall, Elijah
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      On board the Ship of War Ranger June 3rd. 1778

     I request your Honours Favour in behalf of the Officers and Men, that you would point out some Method to bring the Prizes to sail, which we took on the late Cruize, as we are much in want of Cloathing and other Necessaries which we cannot do without. Many of Us have Wives and Children now suffering in America, the Time for which most of the People engag’d being now almost expired, and no prospect of going Home to relieve their distressed Families, as there was annex’d to their names the following sentence—and while absent from the eastern States which they declare to Capt. Jones that they know nothing of at signing, and of which they think he means to take an advantage; this and many other Deceptions they Charge Capt. Jones with; of which, I think it my Duty to inform you; He promised them half their Wages in France, which he has not done. Mr. Simpson is put in a common Goal for a supposed Breach of Orders who always supported the best of Characters from His Youth up. I humbly beg You would remove Him to some place suitable to a Gentleman of his Rank till there is an Opportunity to send Him home for Trial, which is his earnest desire, that so he may have justice done Him. All the People are dissatisfied with Capt. Jones, which is the sole Cause of the Disorder on board the Ship, which He charges His Officers with, that they have not kept good Order nor Discipline. I never knew of any disorderly Action till they found they were deceived and unfairly dealt with; they are well disciplined and will Load and Fire Cannon as fast as any Men in Europe. The late action is a proof of it, although Capt. Jones gives them no honour, for it is reported about Brest that Capt. Jones said he was oblig’d to drive His Officers and Men to Quarters; which is scandalous to the last degree. I will venture to say that no Officers or Men were ever more willing for engaging than those of the Ranger, or ever behaved better; not a Man or Boy ever flinch’d from his Quarters to my knowledge during the action. Capt. Jones’s mode of Government is so far from that of Ours that no American of Spirit can ever serve with cheerfulness under Him. I beg your Honours would remove Me from under his Command Where I can do honour to myself and service to My Country. If this cannot be done must beg leave of your Honours to resign although I had much rather serve my bleeding Country. I have done every thing in my Power to keep peace and Harmony amongst the People; since we arriv’d here they are determined not to go out from this Port with Capt. Jones unless they are to go to America. We passed by many merchant Ships the last Cruize and left them unmolested; we went to get Honour and not Gain—we might as well have sent ten sail of Vessels into this Port as we did those that have arrived (had they not been retaken). We have been seven Months from America and not two of them at Sea, the most of Our time spent in Cutting our Masts and yards and altering Sails, to little or no purpose. Mr. Bursole has deny’d us all Supplies we can get no Beef but from the Kings Slaughter House and what we get is very Bad; we have three Hundred People to Feed. I hope Your Honours will take it into Consideration and adopt such measures as you shall see fit. I have the honour to be Gentn. your humble Servant

      Elijah Hall


Title: John Paul Jones to the Commissioners, 3 June 1778
From: Jones, John Paul
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Brest June 3d 1778

     Your letter of the 25th Ultimo I received by Yesterdays post: I frankly ask your pardon for the undue liberty which I took the 16th Ultimo when I ventured to sign a draft upon you for the purpose of supplying the people under my Command with necessary Cloathing &ca.—and I promise you never to be guilty of the like Offence again.
     I hope you do not however mean to impute to me a desire to receive “Presents of the public Money” —or even to touch a Dollar of it for any private purpose of my own ? On the contrary I need not now assert that I stepped forth at the beginning from Nobler motives? My Accounts before I left America testify that I am more than Fifteen hundred pounds in Advance for the Public Service exclusive of any concern with the Ranger. And as for Wages I never received any.
     Had I not previously determined to keep the Prisoners here they would have been sent away in the Drake long before now: My embarrassed Situation will in the Eye of Candor Appologize for my not sending you a more early information of the particulars of my Cruise and of the Prizes which I have made.
     On my passage from America I took two Brigantines both from Malaga for England. The one Arrived safe at Nantes and being sold by Messrs. Morris and Williams the Captors part thereof was paid to them. The other Arrived at Bourdeaux and was, I understand, sold by Mr. I. H. Delap who, tho’ he had my Orders to remit the Captors part immediately into the hands of Mr. Williams of Nantes, yet he still retains it in his own hands. On my late Expedition Three prizes were Sunk. The Ship Lord Chatham was sent here to remain under the care of the Intendant, she now remains in the port locked and Nailed up under a Guard; the Ship of War Drake with her Stores on board and the Brigantine Patience in Ballast are with the Ranger at Anchor in the Road. Monsr. de Sartine can inform you that the Sale of the prizes are precluded until he sends further Orders here. Had it been otherwise I cannot see how you could suppose that I had created Agents to dispose of the public property and yet if I had done this perhaps my public wants would Justify me.
     The Rules whereby Congress hath been pleased to Command me to regulate my Conduct in the Navy authorize me to Issue my Warrant to the Agent &ca. and I humbly conceive that it is his province to furnish you with an Estimate of the Amount of the Expence. If you wish for an Estimate from me, unacquainted as I am with prices, besides the delay, it may be very far from exact.
     When you determined to change the Continental Agent I could wish you had sent that information in a Letter to meet me here on my Arrival, as I had advised you of my intention to return to Brest—all disagreeable Altercation might then have been avoided. My Situation is not now mended by your last. The Gentleman you mention being at Nantes and no person appearing in his behalf at Brest.

     A space of Sixteen Months is now elapsed since Congress thought of me so as to put under my Command Seven times my present Force, leaving me at full Liberty how and where to apply it—and if I am not now Capable of supporting the Internal Government of a single Sloop of War—I wish that some person more deserving had my place and that I were in America to answer for my Misconduct. I have “well considered” and yet shall persist in Justifying the Steps which I have taken and to which you allude.
     I am happy in having it in my power to furnish you with the inclosed Resolution of Congress respecting the Capture of the Enemies Ships of War agreeable to your desire. And if you are in possession of any Resolution of Congress which will Authorize me to send Lieutenant Simpson—to America &ca. I should be Obliged to you for a Copy of it.
     I thank you with all my Heart for your Congratulation which I am extremely sorry that I have not better merited. I have the Honor to be Gentlemen Your very Obliged very Obedient very humble Servant

      Jno P Jones


Title: Sartine to the Commissioners, 3 June 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       A Marli Le 3 Juin 1778

      J’ai recû, Messieurs, La Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire Le 16 du Mois passé pour demander qu’il soit accordé une fregate du Roi aux frères Basmarin Raimbeaux et Cie. pour etre emploié a proteger Le Commerce qu’ils font a l’Amerique et en même terns user de Represailles pour Les Pertes que Les Anglois Leur ont fait essuyer en dernier Lieu. Je voudrois qu’il me fut possible de me preter a ce que vous paroisser desirer; Mais sa Majesté a desiré que quant a Present il ne feroit detaché aucun de ses Batimens du service qu’ils remplissent, pour etre accordés a des Particuliers. J’ai l’honneur d’etre &c.

       De Sartine


Title: Ranger Crew Members to the Commissioners, 3 June 1778
From: Ranger, crew of
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       3 June 1778

     To the honourable the Commissioners of the United States of North America, the Petition of the Jovial Tars Now on board the Continental Sloop of war Ranger, most humbley Sheweth,
     That your Petitioners regard and love For their Countrey, and dutey to there ancient fore Fathers, have most of them left there wives, and Familey Cruized the wide Atalantick, in the most dangerous places, greatley Damadgeing and distressing, our enemys, and all the Satisfaction and recompence we receive for our Labour, are, Vain and Flattering promisses, likewise arbitrary Proceedings, which Causes a general murmer and uneasiness among all on Board. They therefore think it there Duty to make application to your honours for releive, From there pressent Greiveances.

     That the greates number of them entered in the Service particulraly upon Mr. Simpsons our first Leiutenants account knowing him to be a Gentelman of honour, Worthey and capeable of his Officeships, and who is now confined inocentley, as we think in a Lousey Dirtey french Goal.
     That they that entered for a Cruize, or a Twelve month Expected to be discharged at the expireation of that time, But Capn. Jones, since there entry and without there Concent, has ordered an uncertain term of time to be wrote Against there names, rendering them subservient to him during his absence from the eastern States, which we think Arbitrary and unconstitutional, and must when heard of in America be a hindrance and a preventment For aney Seamen to enter into the Service, or Depending upon the honours of Commanders, Like ours.
     There is a number of Prizes brought into this port, but no Satissaction, or account for them, unless Your honours, will take it into Consideration, in those Material affairs, and to See Justice done by the captors. On our first arrival in France we brought in tow two prizes one of which fetchd not half the first cost, and the other deliverd to Mr. Delap of Bourdeaux of which can get no Account, or Satisfaction for.
     We have been Lying in different ports in France since the first of December last and onley made one Cruize, and that to perfection had we our rights, But we can expect no more when we see our, Faithfull, true and Fatherley Officer our first Leiutenant used so abruptley, and we beleive and what wee have Seen without a Cause, thus have we been Deluded from our Freinds, Famileys by ungratefull and False Promises and deceitfull Advertisements, we have fought and Taken, Ships Sunk and Destroyd them and all the conslation we can send to our distressed and perhaps Famishing wives and Children, is, that there prizes is in the Hands of him, who has Deceived us, from the Begining.
     We humbley pray you be pleased to take our Case into consideration and render us some veiw and Satisfaction Of what we have gone thro with and to Send us home and not For us to Let our poor wives, and Famileys Suffer with Dispair, and we in dutey bound will ever pray.

      Ebenezer Watson
      William Young
      Saml. Odiorne
      Samuell Lock
      John Garoin
      Daniel Sargent
      Robert Moore
      John Roberts

      William Allen
      Simon Staple
      John Colbath
      John Bettenham
      Daniel Jacobs
      Robert Poor
      Edmund Boyenton
      Peter Sontgerath
      Oliver Crommett
      William English
      Joseph Rackyeft
      Mark Staples
      William Jones
      John Parsons
      Amos Kenneston
      Eprahm Grant
      Thomas Low
      Obadiah Donell
      Charles Ward
      William Finnel
      Nicholas Caverly
      Daniel Sargant
      Andrew Anderson
      Joseph La Plant
      John Monson
      William Pirkins
      Francies Andros
      Charles Balls
      James Smith
      Gabriel Gautier
      James Rickor
      James Laighton
      William Shores
      Sam’l Ball
      Edward Shapleigh
      John Brown
      Benjamin Racklett
      Reuben Ricker
      Charles Framton
      Thomas Staples
      Darby Dayley
      Caleb Emery
      Daniel Jackson
      John Walker
      Daniel Nelson
      Daniel Sherburne
      Davis Woodde
      Willam Gerrith
      Amos Abbot
      Charles Gaudraw
      Thomas Adams
      Scipio Africanus
      Theophilus Simpson
      Joseph Mathieu
      Willim Stacy
      Joseph Afrin
      James Robarts
      Samuel Holbrook
      John Casey
      Cato Calite
      Joseph Fernald
      Thomas Becke
      Abraham Knight
      Reuben Hanscom
      Solomen Hutchings
      John W. Grohmarney
      William Dahuere
      John Doelan
      Stephon Dickson


Title: The Commissioners to John Bondfield, 4 June 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Bondfield, John

     Passy, 4 June 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:127. Replying to letters (not found) from Bondfield of 26 and 30 May, the first enclosing accounts for the purchase of supplies for the Boston, and the second reporting on the conspiracy against the Boston and enclosing an affidavit on the episode, the Commissioners approved Bondfield’s purchases, noting that the price of beef seemed too high, and expressed their hope that the Boston would soon sail and thus reduce expenses. The Commissioners further reported that the affidavit had been sent to the Ministry, expressed their concern, and declared that every effort should be made to punish those involved.
     See also, Samuel Tucker to JA, 27 May (above); and Bondfield to the Commissioners, 6 June (below).