Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 21 July 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       La haie 21e. Juillet 1778

      Ma derniere est du 17e. Je viens de recevoir, traduire et porter au g— F— une Lettre Allemande. En attendant qu’il me renvoie mon feuillet, après en avoir fait tirer copie, j’aurai l’honneur de vous dire, que les Etats d’hollande se sont séparés, et que le Prince part aussi pour Los en Overyssel. On n’a point donné d’Instructions nouvelles au Comte de Welderen, ie. parce qu’après avoir fait son devoir en réclamant les 2 Vaisseaux, il n’avoit pas encore reçu réponse du Ministere, lorsqu’il écrivit sa Lettre à LI. hh. pp. 2e. parce que les propriétaries ne se sont pas encore plaints; et ceux d’Amsterdam peut-être ne se plaindront pas; car le Tabac qui étoit Sur le Vaisseau est pour Mrs Hope, qui s’entendent avec le Ministere Anglois. Notre Ami m’a dit cela.
      Le g—— F—— m’a dit, que le bruit que couroit hier d’une Frégatte Angloise prise par la Flotte françoise S’est confirmé: c’est le Dighby . On S’attend ici, d’un jour à l’autre, à la nouvelle d’un combat naval. Je portai hier à Leide un article concerté au sujet des 2 vaisseaux hollandois pris par les Anglois; mais comme le Gazettier de Leide n’ose pas le mettre dans toute son énergie, je l’envoie aujourdhui au Courier du Bas-Rhin.

       Je suis avec le plus vrai respect, Messieurs Votre trés humble & très obeissant servitr.
       D


Title: Muscoe Livingston to the Commissioners, 21 July 1778
From: Livingston, Muscoe
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Nantes 21 July. 1778

     I arrived here Last night, deliverd my letters to Capt. Whippie, and shall have his Instructions for Capt. Tucker and Sett out immediately for Lorient.
     I will be Exceedingly Obligd you, to do me the Favour, to give me two, or three Lines, either to the President of congress or by way of Certificate, Mentioning, what Capt. Tucker Said of My Conduct, during my being on board the Boston; as it will be a very great Satisfaction to My Friends, and may be, Other wise Servicible to me; I for got to make this Request while in Paris, or would not now, have taken the Liberty to trouble you; I shall Return to Nantes, in five or Six days from whence I Expect to get a passage to America; So that If I am honourd with your Letters under cover to John Loyd Esqr. at this place, I shall, be Sure to get it. I have the Honour to be with Much Respect Gentln your most obet. H Ser.

      M. Livingston


Title: The Commissioners to Sartine, 22 July 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de

      Passi July 22 1778

     We have the Honour of your Excellencys Letters of July the 15th, and 18th.
     James Niggins and John Selby are wholly unknown to Us, but as their Account of themselves to your Excellency is probable enough; and if nothing appears to invalidate their Relation, We should be obliged to your Excellency if you will grant their Request.
     We are very Sorry for the Dispute between two Officers of the Boston, and some of the Men belonging to this Nation, who had inlisted on board that Frigate, and for the Trouble your Excellency has had in Consequence of it. We have a Letter from Captain Tucker and another from those two officers upon the same subject.
     Captain Tucker informs Us, that these Men were inlisted at Bourdeaux, by Permission of the Admiralty, not as Voluntiers, but that they signed the ships Books like other Men, to proceed to Boston and were consequently liable to do the Duty, and ought to be governed by the Rules of War which are made by the Congress, for the Government of all their ships of War. That on the day of his entering at Port Louis, Eight of them obtained Liberty to go on shore, that one of them who was a serjeant, raised such Reports of their ill treatment from the Officers that the Deputies of his Majesty with the General came on board, and asked them if they would tarry or go on shore. They chose to go on shore. The Captn. shewed the General the Book of their Enlistment, but the General, Saying it was better to leave them, than to take them, ordered them on shore, with all their Cloaths, telling them, they forfeited their Wages and Prize Money. But the Captain observes that they have received of His Purser and himself, more than their Wages and Prize Money will amount to. That the two officers, complaind of, have never done any Thing contrary to, his orders except boxing one of these Mens Ears for flogging a Boy and Striking another for calling him a Buger, putting his fist up to his Nose, which they must expect no Officer would bear. The Captain says his orders were put up against the Bulk head, to strike no French Man whatever. This Article the two Officers broke twice, and nevermore.
     This is the substance of the Captains Account of the Affair. It is impossible for Us, at this Distance to judge between the Parties. All We wish for is that Justice may be done.
     Our Opinion is this, if the Men are inlisted upon the ships Books to go to Boston they ought to return to the ship and be received by the Captain, and are intituled to their Wages and Prize Money.
     But if they are not inlisted in Writing to go to Boston, but only for a Cruise that Cruise is compleated by the ships return to France, they have a Right to leave the ship if they choose it, and are still intituled to their share of Wages and Prize Money, deducting from it however What has been Advanced them by the Captain and Purser.
     These are our sentiments of the Justice of the affair. These We shall write to Captain Tucker, and We hope that the Dispute may in this Way be amicably ended. We have the Honour to be &c. We inclose your Excellency a Copy of the acknowlegement of good treatment by some of those Sailors and our Letter to Captain Tucker, and should be obliged to your Excellency to forward it, to him with yours to the officers who have made the Complaint. We have orderd all our Frigates to sail immediately with what Goods they can carry so as not impede their Cruize.


Title: The Commissioners to Jonathan Trumbull, 22 July 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John,Lee, Arthur,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Trumbull, Jonathan

      Sir
      Passi July 22. 1778

     We received your Excellencys Letter of May 29, by Captain Niles, with the Dispatches from Congress, which you had intrusted him, with, in good order. He had a short Passage of 22 days and brought Us the agreable News of the Ratification of the Treaties, and of their being universally pleasing to our Country. We shall order some Lead to be shipped on Board his Vessell, and have furnished him with the Money you mention, in ready Compliance with your Request. We are with great Esteem And Respect.

      F. L. A.


Title: The Commissioners to Samuel Tucker, 22 July 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John,Lee, Arthur,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Tucker, Samuel

      Sir
      Passy July 22d 1778

     We have received your Letters relative to the Disputes between two of your Officers and some of your Men belonging to this Nation, and we are of Opinion that if the Men are inlisted upon the Ships Books, to go to Boston, they ought to return to the Ship, and be received by you, and are entitled to their Wages and prize Money. But if they are not inlisted in writing to go to Boston, but only for a Cruise, that Cruise is compleated by the Ships Return to France, and they have a Right to leave the Ship if they chuse it, and are intituled to their Share of Wages and prize Money, deducting therefrom however what has been advanced them by the Captain and Purser. You are strictly enjoined to take special Care that all Frenchmen who may be in the Service of under you be at all times treated with Justice and Impartiality, and that Suitable Allowances be made for the Difficulties they are under in not understanding our Language, and not being habituated to our Customs. We are Your humble Serv’ts.

      B Franklin
      Arthur Lee
      John Adams

      PS. If however the Men insist on leaving the Ship altho’ inlisted expressly to go to Boston, we advise you to agree to it, but in that Case we think they are not intitled to Wages or prize Money.


Title: Benjamin Franklin and John Adams to the President of the Congress, 23 July 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John
To: President of Congress,Laurens, Henry

      Sir
      Passy July 23d. 1778

     We have just received a Message from Monsr. Le Comte De Vergennes, by his Secretary, acquainting Us; that Information is received from England of the Intention of the Cabinet there, to offer (by additional Instructions to their Commissioners) Independence to the United States, on Condition of their making a Separate Peace, relying on their Majority in both Houses, for Approbation of the Measure. M. De Vergennes, upon this Intelligence requests, that we would write expressly to acquaint the Congress, that tho’ no formal Declaration of War has yet been published, the War between France and England is considered as actualy existing from the time of the Return of the Ambassadors; and that if England should propose a Peace with France, the immediate Answer to the Proposition would be, our eventual Treaty with the United States is now in full Force; and we will make no Peace but in Concurrence with them. The same Answer it is expected, will be given by the Congress, if a seperate Peace should be proposed to them. And we have given it as our firm Opinion, that such an Answer will be given by you, without the least Hesitation or Difficulty, tho’ you may not have been informed before, as you now are, that War being actually begun, the Eventual Treaty is become fully and compleatly binding. We are with great Respect, Sir, your most obedt. & most humble Servants

      B Franklin
      John Adams


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 24 July 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       La haie 24 Juillet 1778

      Le g—— F—— ay ant oublié de me renvoyer le 21 mes Nouvelles d’Allemagne, je fus obligé de les traduire à la hâte, telles que je vous les envoyai ce jour-là. Voici quelques Extraits. Les Papiers Anglois et les Lettres d’Amsterdam sont remplis de ce que les François auroient déclaré la guerre à l’Angleterre. Les fonds Anglois ont baissé à Amsterdam de 2 p% environ: il ne se presénte pas même des acheteurs. Les vaisseaux hollandois de St. Eustache et Curaçao, conduits à Plymouth, sont, dit-on, relâchés. J’en serois bien aise, Si cela se confirmoit, parce que des Marchands, qui sont fort de nos Amis, sont intéressés pour une forte portion dans celui de Curaçao destiné pour la Zélande. Autrement je ne serois pas fâché de voir les Anglois irriter nos flegmatiques Bataves par leurs violences.
      Je reçois en ce moment le paquet que vous avez eu la bonté de m’acheminer, Messieurs, de la part de l’honorable Committé de la Correspondance secrete. Son contenu me rend extrêmement heureux, surtout de voir que les Lettres que je leur ai écrites jusqu’à Y inclus leur sont successivement parvenus avant le 2e. May, et leur ont été d’autant plus agréables, qu’elles ont rempli un intervalle de presque une année, pendant laquelle diverses fatalités les avoient privés de toutes les vôtres.
      Je continuerai de mettre à profit toutes les plus petites circonstances ici, pour augmenter nos partisans, et affoiblir le parti ennemi, C’est un Goliath, et je ne suis qu’un petit David, qui n’a pour armes que quelques cailloux; avec cela je l’ai déjà bien fatigué; et j’espere à la fin de l’abattre, ou du moins de le rendre enfin traitable.
      Je remettrai peut-être Lundi le traité au G—— P—— et je l’enverrai aussi à Amsterdam. On En fait pour cet effet 2 copies, dans lesquelles seront omis par ordre de la Maison (que le g—— F—— a eu la bonté de me lire, et où j’ai eu le plaisir délicat de me voir désigné par l’expression flatteuse de l’Ami de Mr. Franklin) les articles 11 et 12, pour raisons que le g—— F—— m’a dites, et qu’il est inutile de répéter, parce que vous les savez. Je suis avec le plus respectueux dévouement Messieurs Votre très humble & très obéissant serviteur

       D


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Cushing, 25 July 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Cushing, Thomas

       Dear sir
       Passi July 25. 1778

      I had this Day the Pleasure of your Letter by Captain Barnes, of June 9. I did myself the Honour, when in Boston to call at your House, but was told you was ill and could not be seen, upon which I sent in my Name, as the Fashion is, intending to call at another opportunity, but was dissappointed.
      I had a very disagreable Passage, to this Country, passing through many Dangers, from the Wrath of Neptune and Boreas, as well as from that of Bellona and her Britons; But had at last sufficient Cause for Gratitude to a Power superiour to them all, in a safe Arrival, in good Health, and in the Midst of good News.
      I thank you sir for the Newspaper, you incased to me, containing the Resolutions of Congress, upon the British Bills, Resolutions, which have been highly esteemed and applauded in Europe, as has also their Address to the People, and their prompt and polite Ratification of the Treaty.
      As to News sir, altho there has been no formal Manifesto published as yet, either by the Court of Versailles or London, yet the two Nations are at actual War, and the King of France has given orders to all his ships of War, to attack the English at sea, whenever they are found.
      We are in hourly Expectation of important News from America. The Count D’Estang must have arrived long ago—and he must have been, probably thirty days before Admiral Biron. Was Lord Howes Force sufficient to make a stand, at New York, or else where against D’Estang, untill Birons Arrival? In short We expect Something very good or very ugly from America, but I am not so sanguine as you know I have been sometimes, which it will be.
      I cant bear the Histories I read of the impudent Excursions from Philadelphia and Rhode Island, burning Vessells and Houses. Will America suffer such a Race of Tormentors so contemptible as they are at present in Comparaison of what they have been, to plague her much longer?
      I am grieved to the Heart at the Diversity of Sentiment, concerning our Constitution: but I have one a Consolation, in knowing that Disputes in our state are not usually carried to that Pitch of Heat, Rancour and Extravagance, that sometimes happens in other Places, and I therefore hope, that Harmony and Unanimity will in Time take Place.

       Be so good as to make my Compliments acceptable to all our old Friends, and believe me to be with much Respect, sir your most obedient, humble servant

       P.S. The Abby Reynel is writing an History of this Revolution, and is very desirous of obtaining authentic Documents. Can you help him to any?


Title: From John Adams to Richard Henry Lee, 25 July 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Lee, Richard Henry

     Passy, 25 July 1778. printed:JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:171–172. In this letter, the last copied from Adams’ Letterbooks into his Autobiography for the period of the first mission, he thanked Lee for his letter of 13 May (above), described his voyage to France, and commented on the European political situation which he saw as unfavorable to Great Britain. Adams also mentioned French enthusiasm for the American cause—he had “never seen a French Tory”—the problems caused by the lack of funds, and his difficulties with the French language. Finally, he assured Lee that Beaumarchais’ accounts would be closely examined.


Title: From John Adams to James Lovell, 26 July 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Lovell, James

      My dear Friend
      Passi July 26 1778

     Your favours of May 16 and 25 by Captain Barnes reached me Yesterday. These with those by Niles from Connecticut and those by the Saratoga from Baltimore are all that I have received from you or from any Body at Congress, which gives me Pain, because your other Letters must have miscarried, and I hold your Letters in so high Esteem that I cannot be willing to loose one.
     The Robbery of Folgiers Packet, by all that I can learn must have been committed by a Traitor who made his Escape to England. But Dr. F. and Mr. L. who were acquainted with this Transaction, will I suppose, devellope the Mistery as far as they are able. One of these Gentlemen has some other Suspicions, but I believe, the Fugitive to England was the only Thief.
     Mr. D. whom you mention is no doubt with you before now, but if the Count D’Estang has not been able to strike a decisive Blow before the Arrival of Biron, I should fear that some Misfortune has befallen, since the Junction of Biron and How. We are however anxious to know, the naval Maneuvres in America, as well as those of the Armies. Mr. D. complains of ill treatment, and claims great Merit, for his services. I shall not add to the ill treatment, nor depreciate the Merit: but it will never do for Congress to dread the Resentment of their servants. I have heard a great deal in this Country concerning his Conduct— great Panegyricks and rough Cen harsh Censures. But I believe he has nither the extravagant Merit, that some Persons ascribe to him, nor the gross faults to answer for, which some others impute, or suspect. I believe he was a dilligent servant of the Public, and rendered it useful service. His Living was expensive: but whether he made the vast Profit to himself that Some Persons suspect, I know not, or whether any Profit at all. One thing I know that my family will feel that I shall not imitate him in this faculty if it really was his. For which Reason I wish Congress would determine, what Allowance We shall have for our Time, that I might know whether my Family can live upon it or not.
     Extravagant Claims of Merit are always to be suspected. General Gates was the ablest Negociator you ever had in Europe, and next to him General Washingtons attack upon the Enemy at Germantown. I dont know indeed whether this last affair had not more Influence upon the European Mind than that of Saratoga—altho the Attempt was unsuccessfull, the military Gentlemen in Europe considerd it, as the most decisive Proof that America would finally succeed.
     And you may depend upon it, altho Your Agents in Europe were to plead with the Tongues of Men and Angells, although they had the Talents and the Experience of Mazarine, or the Integrity of D’ossat, your Army in America, would have more success than they.
     I foresee there will be Diversities of sentiment concerning this Gentleman, and perhaps warm Debates—perhaps there will be as much as there has been about a General in the Northern Department. All that I request is that I may not be drawn into the Dispute. Europe has not charms enough for me, to wish to stay here, to the Exclusion of abler Negociators, much less at the Expence of Heats and Divisions in Congress. How well united you were in the Choice of me I never was informed, and how soon attempts may be made to displace me I know not. But one thing I beg of my Friends, and one only that if any Attempt of that Kind should be made, they would give me up, rather than continue my Residence at the Expence of Debates in Congress, and by the favour of small Majorities.
     If I were capable of Speculating in English Funds, or of conducting private Trade, I might find opportunities here to make a private Profit, and might have Inducements from private Considerations to continue here: But this will never be my Case. And I am very well perswaded that Congress will never grant me So much for my services here as I could earn by my Profession in Boston, to which I will return with submission to old Ocean, old Boreas, and British Men of War, the Moment I am released from this station. I wish however that Congress would determine what allowance they will make, that honest Men may not be made, nor suspected to be otherwise. As to the public, I am fully perswaded, that its Interests are not at all concerned in my Residence here, as there is a great Plenty of Persons quite as well qualified.
     If I had Leisure my Friend to write you Descriptions of Cities of Villages of Gardens, of Groves, Parks, Forests, Buildings, Churches Palaces, Equipage Furniture, Gold, silver, Marble, lacce, Velvet, silk and Alabaster I could give you Pictures more charming than any Thing in Philadelphia: But yet I must confess that I am so much of Mrs. Climers Mind that I would rather live there than here. My most affectionate Respects to that worthy Lady and her sister, to Mr. Clymer her son and to the Children, and especially to the General, whom I shall ever love for his integrity his firmness and his Love to his Country.
     Dont forget to make my Respects to the Gentlemen who were formerly my Colleagues but are so no longer, as I learn my Constituents in the Massachusetts have displaced me from the Delegation. My Respects to Dr. Holten.


Title: From John Adams to James Warren, 26 July 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Warren, James

      My dear Sir
      Passi July 26. 1778

     Yours of 7 June by Captain Barnes fortunately reached me, Yesterday. I was much Surprised, you may well imagine at its Contents. But I Suppose, the Cause of their not electing you to the Council, must have been your Engagements in the Navy Board.
     I am unhappy to learn by the Newspapers, that our Constitution is likely to occasion much Altercation in the State, but notwithstanding all our Dissentions, there is a Mass of Prudence, and Integrity among our People, that will finally conduct them into the right Way.
     I wish now that I had accepted of your polite offer of your son. It is however I presume for his Interest, because, he may pursue Business there to much better Profit. If Mr. Austin should leave me, I should have occasion for a Clerk, which would afford a young Gentleman, a decent subsistence and no more. The Frigates, the Merchandise, the Negociations and the vast Correspondence, we have, render a Clerk, indispensably necessary for each of the Commissioners, and for some of them more than one. If your Son will accept of so humble an Employment,.
     Mr. Hancock Mr. Adams, and my respectable successor Dr. Holten, are gone to Congress, but you dont mention Mr. Paine. Where is he? Earning Twenty thousand dollars a year at the Bar? If he is I wish him Joy, and hope in Time to arrive at some Post of the same Honour and Profit. Dana I suppose is earning Thirty thousands. Upon my Word I think these Gentry ought to through their rich Profits into Hotchpotch with a poor Brother at Passi.
     Where is the Spirit and the Genius of America? To suffer the feeble Remnants of your our Ennemis, in Philadelphia and Rhode Island, to come out with such Insolence, and burn Houses and Vessells, without Retaliation, is intollerable.
     Will it ever do to think of Peace, while G. Britain has Canada, Nova Scotia and the Floridas, or any of them? Such a Peace will be but short. We shall have perpetual Wars with Britain while she has a foot of Ground in America. But if the belligerant Powers should be exhausted, so as to think of Peace, leaving Canada in the Hands of Britain, which I hope they will not, the Boundaries of Canada, must be ascertained, and of the Floridas too.
     I believe I can tell you a Piece of News. The Cabinet at London, have determined to send to their Commissioners in America Instructions to offer you Independance, provided you will make Peace with them Seperate from France, and make a Commercial Treaty with them, by which they may retain something like their late Monopoly.
     They certainly think that Americans are not Men of Honour. They believe them capable of violating their first Treaty, their first solemn sacred Faith, within a few Moments of its unanimous Ratification. Is it because they have seen, or heard any Thing like this Perfidy in Americans, or is it because they feel themselves capable of such Conduct and infer from thence that all other Men, are equally so?
     Is there a Man in America, who would not run all hazards, who would not suffer the last Extremity rather than stain the first Page of our History with so foul a Breach of Faith? Is there who would confess and prove to the World that America has no Honour, no Conscience, no faith, no Pride, for the sake of avoiding the Evils of War?
     But where and how did the King and Council obtain Authority to make Such an offer? They have no such Power. Parliament alone can do it.
     But they mean no such Thing. They mean only to seduce soldiers to Desertion. They mean only to draw in Congress or some public Body to break their Faith with France and to do some Act which shall forfeit the Confidence of all Mankind, and then they think they can manage America. Their object in this Piece of Policy as in all their others towards America, appears to me to be to seduce, to deceive, and to divide. They must however at length be brought to mingle some sincerity with their Policy, before they will succeed. I am as ever, yours


Title: From John Adams to Henry Laurens, 27 July 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Laurens, Henry

      Passy July 27 1778

     I thank you, my dear sir for your kind Congratulations, on the favourable Appearances in our American Concerns, and for so politely particularising one of the most inconsiderable of them, my Safe Arrival in France, which was after a very inconvenient Passage of forty five days.
     Your Letter to Mr. Izzard, I had the Pleasure to send to him immediately, in Paris, where he resides, the Court of Tuscany being so connected with that of Vienna, as to discourage hitherto his Departure for Italy. He did me the Honour of a Visit Yesterday, when We had much sweet Communion as the Phrase is upon American affairs.
     Your other Letter to your Daughter in Law, I have forwarded by a safe Opportunity. You may depend upon my conveying your Letters to any of your Friends by the best Opportunities and with Dispatch. The more of your Commands you send me the more Pleasure you will give me.
     War is not declared. That is no Manifesto has been published. But each Nation is daily manufacturing Materials for the others Manifesto, by open Hostilities. In short, sir, the two Nations have been at War, Since the Recal of the Ambassadors. The King of France, has given orders to all his ships to attack the English, and has given vast Encouragement to Privateers.
     The K. of G. B. and his Council have determined to Send Instructions to their Commissioners in America to offer Us Independency, provided We will make Peace with them, Seperate from France. This appears to me to be the last Effort to seduce, deceive, and divide. They know that every Man of Honour in America must receive this Proposition with Indignation. An immaculate Virgin would scarcely feel more Grief, more shame, more Horror, from an attempt made upon her chastity, by an old Debauchee, in a public Assembly. But they think they can get the Men of no Honour, to join them by such a Proposal, and they think that the Men of Honour are not a Majority. What has America done, to give Occasion to that King and Council to think So unworthily of her?
     The Proposition is in other Words this—“America, you have fought me untill I despair of beating you—you have made an Alliance with the first Power of Europe, which is a great Honour to your Country and a great stability to your Cause. So great, that it has excited my highest Resentment, and has determined me to go to War with France. Do you break your Faith with that Power, and forfeit her Confidence, as well as that of all the rest of Mankind forever, and join me to beat her, or stand by neutre and see me do it, and for all this I will acknowledge your Independency, because I think in that Case you cannot maintain it, but will be an easy Pray to me Afterwards, who am determind to break my faith with you, as I wish you to do yours with France.”
     My dear Countrymen I hope will not be allured upon the Rocks by the syron song of Peace. They are now playing, a sure Game. They have run all Hazards, but now they hazard nothing.
     I know your Avocations are Application is incessant, and your Moments precious, and therefore that I ask a great favour in requesting your Correspondence, but the Interest of the Public as well as private Friendship induce me to do it. I am with great Esteem your Frd & sert.


Title: From John Adams to William Vernon Sr., 27 July 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Vernon, William Sr.

      Sir
      Passi July 27. 1778

     Your Letter of 26 May with Duplicats of those of 9 March and 20 May, arrived safe at Passy by the Hand of Captn. Barnes the day before Yesterday. The two Letters for your Son shall be conveyed, by the first Opportunity to him, who has taken his Residence, at a Manufacturing Town in the Province of Guienne, where he will have an Opportunity to learn the Language, and see the first Springs of Commerce. He proposes soon to remove to Bourdeaux. Your son, sir, while I was with him conducted, with much Discretion and very agreably: and I have no doubt he will continue to do so.
     I am extreamly mortified at the Relation you give of the Conduct of Captain Thompson of the Rawley, of whose Abilities, and Qualifications for his Command I had a good opinion. I really know not the Cause, but the Continental officers of the Navy, have not answerd the Public Expectation. Discipline is the soul of a Navy. With it every Thing may be done—without it nothing. The Want of Discipline gives our Commanders a Diffidence in their Crews, from whence I fear proceeds the Dread of Fighting, that has appeared so often. The Voice of the World is very Severe against Thompson, but perhaps the Facts are not sufficiently, which I sincerely wish may be the Case.
     The News Papers are very acceptable and very Usefull. My Compliments to your Colleages and to Mr. Story. I am sir with great Respect, your humble & Obedient servant.


Title: Thomas Simpson to the Commissioners, 27 July 1778
From: Simpson, Thomas
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      May it please your Honours
      Brest July 27th. 1778

     I wrote you from Nantes that I had arrived there, and was to take my passage for America in the Providence, the 25. Mr. Livingston arriving from Paris informed me that you had appointed him to the command of the Ranger, but on Captain Jones delivering up my parole, you were pleased to honour me with that appointment.

     Your Honours letters to Captain Whipple, and Mr. Schweighasser coming to their hands advising them of it, and that I was to obey Captain Whipple’s instructions, he ordered me the 24th to proceed immediately for Brest, to take the command of the Ranger, and to get her ready for sea immediately, with not less than three months provissions on board. Mr. Schweighasser also gave me a letter to his friend here to supply me with every necessary I shou’d want for that purpose. I set out from Nantes the 24th in the evening, and arrived here the 26th. Find the Ship near ready, wanting a few stores, and her bottom to be cleaned for which only a few days will be required. Captain Whipple, and Mr. Schweighasser recommended my entring thirty or forty of the prisoners if possible to serve in the Boston, which I shall endeavour to do, and make no doubt I shall succeed. As soon as possible, shall procure a State of the Ranger in regard to her stores, and forward you. The prizes are not yet sold, Mr. Schweighasser has been kind enough to say, if their value cou’d be nearly ascertained, he will advance the money for the Ships company, which will set every thing on a proper footing.
     I have the pleasure to inform you that your appointment affords the greatest satisfaction to Officers, and men. And am with gratitude for the trust you have been pleased to repose in me Your Honours, most Obedient and very humble Servant.

      Thom Simpson


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Adams, 28 July 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Samuel

      My dear Sir
      Passi July 28 1778

     The Sovereign of Britain and his Council have determined to instruct their Commissioners to offer you Independance, provided you will disconnect yourselves from France.
     The Question arises how came the King and Council, by Authority to offer this? It is certain that they have it not.
     In the next Place, is the Treaty of Alliance between Us and France, now binding Upon Us? I think there is not room to doubt, it: for Declarations and Manifestos dont make the state of War they are only Publications of the Reasons of War. Yet the Message of the King of Great Britain to both Houses of Parliament, and their Answers to that Message were as full a Declaration of War as ever was made. And accordingly Hostilities have been frequent, ever since.
     This Proposal then is a modest Invitation to a gross act of Infidelity and Breach of Faith. It is an Observation that I have often heard you make, that “France is the natural Ally of the united States.”
     This observation is in my opinion both just and important. The Reasons are plain.
     As long as Great Britain shall have Canada Nova Scotia, and the Floridas, or any of them So long will Great Britain be the Enemy of the United States, let her disguise it as much as she will.
     It is not much to the Honour of human Nature, but the Fact is certain that neighbouring Nations are never Friends in Reality. In the Times of the most perfect Peace between them their Hearts and their Passions are hostile, and this will certainly be the Case for ever between the 13 united states and the English Colonies.
     France and England as Neighbours and Rivals never have been and never will be Friends. The Hatred and Jealousy between the Nations is eternal and ineradicable.
     We therefore, as on the one Hand we have the surest Ground to expect the Jealousy and Hatred of Great Britain, so on the other We have the Strongest Reasons to depend upon the Friendship and Alliance of France. And no one Reason in the World to expect her Enmity or her Jealousy, as she has given up every Pretention to any Spot of Ground on the Continent. The United states therefore, will be for Ages, the natural Bulwark of France against the Hostile designs of England against her, and France is the natural Defence of the united States against the rapacious Spirit of Great Britain against them.
     France is a Nation So vastly eminent, having been for so many Centuries what they call the dominant Power of Europe, being incomparably the most powerfull at Land, that united in a close Alliance with our states and enjoying the Benefit of our Trade there is not the smallest Reason to doubt, but both will be a sufficient Curb upon the naval Power of Great Britain.

     This Connection therefore will forever secure a Respect for our states in Spain Portugal and Holland too, who will always chose to be upon friendly terms with Powers who have numerous Cruisers at sea, and indeed in all the rest of Europe.
     I presume therefore that sound Policy as well as good Faith, will induce Us, never to renounce our Alliance with France, even altho it should continue Us for some time in War. The French are as sensible of the Benefits of this Alliance to them as We are, and they are determined, as much as We, to cultivate it.
     In order to continue the War, or at least that We may do any good in the common Cause, the Credit of our Currency must be supported, but how? Taxes, my dear sir Taxes. Pray let our Countrymen consider and be wise. Every farthing they pay in Taxes is a farthings worth of Wealth and good Policy.
     If it was possible to hire Money in Europe, to discharge the Bills, it would be a dreadfull Drain to the Country to pay the Interest of it. But I fear it will not. The House of Austria, have sent orders to Amsterdam to hire a very great sum, England is borrowing great sums and France is borrowing largely. Amidst such demands for Money, and by Powers, who offer better Terms I fear We shall not be able to succeed.

      Pray write me as often as you can & believe me your Frd & servant


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 28 July 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       La haie 28e. Juillet 1778

      Voilà, Messieurs, la quintessence de douze pages Hollandoises in folio, que je viens de par courir. Les dépêches de Cologne, Paris, Elseneur, Hambourg, Bruxelles, Londres, et Smyrne ne contiennent rien qui puisse vous interesser.
      On a ici la nouvelle sure d’une suspension d’armes en Allemagne jusqu’au ier. d’Août; et lon croit généralement que la paix s’ensuivra. Le Roi a fait venir ses principaux Ministres à Glatz pour examiner de nouvelles propositions faites par la Cour de Vienne.
      J’ai porté ce matin une Copie du Traité que le g—— F—— a fait faire par ses commis, et où l’on a omis les articles 11 et 12, au G—— P——. Il m’a reçu poliment, et promis de ne pas le laisser répandre, jusqu’à ce que vous m’ayiez écrit qu’il peut être publié. Il m’a demandé ce que je pensois du succès qu’auroit la Commission Britannique en Amérique. J’ai répondu que j’étois sur qu’il seroit mauvais. Il m’a demandé ce que je pensois de la négociation du Ms. d’Almodovar; j’ai dit que cela me paroissoit le dernier effort de la maison de Bourbon pour conserver la paix, et que je ne doutois nullement d’un parfait accord entre la France et l’Espagne. Il étoit de mon sentiment sur l’un et l’autre article. Enfin il me demanda si vous ne m’aviez rien mandé de l’état interne des choses en Amérique. Je sentis ce qu’il vouloit dire, et lui répondis que j’étois chargé de déclarer, que la plus parfaite union regnoit parmi le Congrès et dans les differents Etats; que ce qu’on débitoit de la mésintelligence entre le Congrès et le Général W. étoit la plus insigne Imposture, et que l’Amérique ne feroit point la paix, si la France n’y étoit comprise, et son Traité avec elle approuvé.
      J’ai aussi envoyé Mr. Van Berkel le Pensionaire d’Amsterdam, une pareille Copie, avec la Lettre dont voici copie.

          La h. 27 Juillet 1778

         “M. chargé par Mrs. les Plenipotentiaires des Etats Unis de l’Amérique de vous faire parvenir la Copie ci-jointe du Traité d’Amitié et de Commerce conclu entre la France et les dits Etats, avec le témoignage de la haute estime et considération qu’ils ont pour Vous en particulier et pour tous les honorables membres de la Régence d’Amsterdam en général; je m’acquitte de ces ordres avec toute la satisfaction et l’empressement que me dicte mon respectueux attachement aux intérêsts de cette Republique Mrs. les Plenipotentiaires vous prient de vouloir ne communiquer ce Traité que de maniere qu’il ne puisse s’en répandre des Copies, jusqu’à-ce qu’ils m’aient écrit qu’il peut être publie, et entre les mains de tout le monde. J’ai porté ce matin à Mr. le G—— P—— une copie pareille, avec la meme priere. Je joins à cela une proclamation du Congres, que je viens de recevoir, et dont je pense que la Communication vous fera plaisir. Elle va paroître dans les Gazettes en françois et hollandois, et doit autant satisfaire les Puissances maritimes, qu’elle fait honneur à l’équité et à la sagesse du Congrès.”

      La Poste va partir. Il ne me reste qu’un instant pour vous présenter les assurances du respect avec lequel je suis Messieurs Votre très humble & très obéissant serviteur

       Dumas

       Les Etats d’Hollande se rassembleront ici le 26 Août.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners: A Translation, 28 July 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       The Hague, 28 July 1778

      Here, Gentlemen, is the substance of twelve pages in folio, in Dutch, that I have just skimmed through. The dispatches from Cologne, Paris, Elsinore, Hamburg, Brussels, London, and Smyrna contain nothing of interest to you.
      One has here reliable reports of a suspension of arms in Germany until 1 August; and it is generally thought that peace will follow. The King has summoned his chief Ministers to Glatz examine some new proposals made by the Court of Vienna.
      This morning I took a copy of the treaty, made by the assistants of the Grand Facteur and omitting articles 11 and 12, to the Grand Pensionary. He received me politely and promised not to circulate it until you have written me that it can be published. He asked me what I thought of the British Commission’s chances for success in America. I answered that I was certain that they were very poor. He then asked me what I thought of the negotiation initiated by the Marquis d’Almodovar; I said that it appeared to me to be the last effort of the House of Bourbon to maintain the peace, and that I had no doubts concerning a perfect agreement between France and Spain. He shared my opinion on both matters. Finally, he asked me if you had told me anything about the internal state of affairs in America. I guessed what he meant and told him that I was directed to declare that the most perfect harmony existed in both the congress and the various states; that what was alleged about a misunderstanding between the congress and General Washington was a most flagrant case of slander; and that America would not make peace if France was not included and the Franco-American treaty approved.

      I also sent a similar copy to Mr. van Berckel, the Pensionary of Amsterdam, with a letter of which a copy is enclosed.

          “Sir
          The Hague, 27 July 1778

         I was directed by the Plenipotentiaries of the United States of America to convey the enclosed copy of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce concluded between France and the aforementioned states to you along with their expression of the high esteem and regard in which they hold you in particular and all the Honorable Members of the Regency of Amsterdam in general. I fulfill this mission with all the satisfaction and eagerness that inspires my respectful attachment to the interests of this Republic. The Plenipotentiaries kindly request you to communicate this treaty only in such a way that copies will not be circulated until they have written me that it may be published and placed before everybody. This morning, I took an identical copy to the Grand Pensionary with the same request. I enclose with it a proclamation of the congress, which I have just received, and whose communication will, I think, please you. It will appear in the gazettes, in French and Dutch, and ought to satisfy the maritime powers all the more since it is a tribute to the equity and wisdom of the congress.”

      The mail is about to leave. I have but an instant to present to you assurances of the respect with which I am, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       Dumas

       The Dutch States General will reconvene here on 26 August.


Title: The Commissioners to the Foreign Affairs Committee, 29 July 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Continental Congress, Foreign Affairs Committee

      Gentlemen
      Passi July 29. 1778

     We have the Honour of your Letters of May 14. and 15. We congratulate you on the general good Appearance of our Affairs, and are happy in your Assurances that it is your fixed Determination to admit no Terms of Peace, but such as are consistent with the Spirit and Intention of our Alliance, with France, especially as the present Politicks of the British Cabinet, aim at Seducing you from that alliance by an offer of Independance, upon Condition that you will renounce it, a Measure that would injure the Reputation of our states with all the World, and destroy its Confidence in our Honour.
     No authority from Congress, to make an Alteration in the Treaty by withdrawing the 11 and 12 Articles has yet reached Us, but We gave an Extract of your Letter to the Compte de Vergennes, When We exchanged Ratifications, who expressed an entire Willingness to agree to it. We wish for those Powers, by the first opportunity.
     We have not yet seen Mr. Beaumarchais, but the important Concern with him shall be attended to, as soon as may be. We have the Honour to be.


Title: The Commissioners to the Navy Board for the Eastern Department, 29 July 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Navy Board for the Eastern Department

      Gentlemen
      Passi July 29 1778

     We have received your Favour of the Eighth of June, by the Hand of Captain Barns of the schooner Dispatch, together with the Packetts, forwarded by the Hon. Council of the Mass. Bay. We, have according to your desire given orders to Mr. Schweighauser at Nantes to furnish the Captain, with such supplies as may be necessary to provide for his Return, and to defrey his Expences there. We have given him an order on our Banker for a Months Pay, to himself and his Crew, and a Gratification to him of one hundred Dollars, in lieu of Primage, which as you inform Us, is according to Contract.
     We thank you for the Gazettes, and shall always be obliged to you for similar favours, which are not less beneficial to the public, than amusing to Us. We have the honour to be, with great Respect, &c.

      We cannot avoid expressing our Surprize at the monstrous Sum to be advanced here in silver and Gold to the officers and Crew of this Vessell, if it was really the Intention of the Honourable Board that it should be paid so—We wish the Board had Specified the sums to be paid to each Person.


Title: John Ayres to the Commissioners, 29 July 1778
From: Ayres, John
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Bordoux July 29th. 1778

     I arived Yesterday in 26 days from Boston, with a packet for Your Excellencys With Positive Orders to deliver the Same with my Own Hands, which should have done with greatest Pleasure, but my Ill State of Health Prevents me that Honour. Therefore have desir’d Mr. Texier, a friend off Mr. Bondfield, to take the Charge, Which he Readily Accepted, and make no doubt will Come Safe to hand. I trust I shall grow Well Soon, and as I have a Commission, as Captain in the Continental Navy, if Anything turns Out, shall be glad to be Employd in my Own line of Duty, if not, Shall Wait Your Orders, and have the Packet Allways Ready. I am with the Greatest Respect Your Hble Servt.

      John Ayres


Title: Sartine to the Commissioners, 29 July 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

     Versailles, 29 July 1778. LbC (Adams Papers, French text of both letter and enclosure). For other contemporary copies of the French text of the letter and regulations, the latter as transmitted and later amended as a result of the Commissioners’ letter of 13 Aug. (below), and for English translations of the two documents made at the same time, see PCC, No. 83, 11, f. 467, 46Q–476. For printed translations of both the letter and regulations, the latter again as received and later revised, see Wharton, ed., Dipl. Corr. Amer. Rev.Francis Wharton, ed., The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States, Washington, 1889; 6 vols., 2:673, 685–687. After commenting favorably on the Commissioners’ letter of 16 July (calendared above) concerning aid to the islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon, Sartine sent the Commissioners a draft set of regulations on the sale of prizes and disposal of prisoners. He noted that the difficulties in these two matters experienced by American privateers in French ports would, with the Franco-American treaties, cease in France. He assumed that reciprocal arrangements could be made concerning French privateers in American ports and offered the proposed regulations to insure that such would be the case as well as to prevent future problems.
     On 22 Feb. 1779 the congress received the regulations, which took effect on 27 Sept. in France, and referred them to the Committee on Appeals (JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 13:219; PCC, No. 59, 11, f. 109–116). No further mention of them has been found.


Title: From John Adams to William MacCreery, 31 July 1778
From: Adams, John
To: MacCreery, William

      Dear Sir
      Passi July 31 1778

     I thank you for your favours of 25 and 27. the last of which I recived this Moment. The Baltimore Paper of the 6th. of June I had before received, from the Printer who was kind enough to think of me, but I am not the less obliged to you.

     I wish you Joy of the News, this Moment received from Versailles, of a Battle between D’orvilliere and Keppel, in which the former, had the Honour, and the Advantage. All Paris is rejoicing. We have not the Detail but a Battle between two such Fleets, without a Tryumph to G. Br. is a terrible Event to her. As France, has at land a superiority over her so indisputable, When the Superiority of naval Power comes to be problemetical it is high Time for G. B. to think, which she has never once done for fifteen Years.
     I am extreamly Sorry that any of our Americains should express themselves so unkindly of their Commissioners here. I hope they have not Reason. I am really surprized to find, that a failure in a punctual Return of a Visit, or in giving an Answer to a Letter of no Importance to the Public, should give so much Miff, as it does. I can Say with Truth, that if The Commissioners should make it a rule to return all Visits and answer all Letters, no Part of the Public Business would be done.
     Would the Gentleman you mention, (I know him not) wish that the Commissioners should every Time they receive any News, write Letters to every Part of this Kingdom to acquaint every Man with it? However, enough of this.
     In one of your Letters you say that you had several Things to say to me, but had not then time. I hope you will find an opportunity soon.


Title: From John Adams to Edmé Jacques Genet, 1 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Genet, Edmé Jacques

       Saturday Morning. Aug. 1. 1778

     M. Adams is not able to inform Monsieur Genet, the precise Date of the inclosed Law. It was made in the Course of the last Winter, in the Month of January, as Mr. Adams believes. He remembers it began to be carried into Execution, the Beginning of February immediately before his Embarkation, for Europe.
     Monsieur Genet, will observe that it is not a Simple Resolution, but a Solemn Act of the Legislature in all its Branches, and cloathed with all the Formalities of a perpetual Law.
     M. A. has the Honour to congratulate Monsieur Genet, upon the glorious News from Brest. He thinks it a most important, and in all human Probability a decisive Event. He wishes most sincerely that the Compte D’Estaing may have acquired as much Glory, as M. the C. D’orvilliere’s and that a few days may make Us happy in the News of it.
     M. Adams requests M. Genet, for the future to write to him, in French, which he supposes will be easier for M. Genet, and M. A. wishes to read every Thing in French for the present.


Title: To John Adams from Edmé Jacques Genet, 1 August 1778
From: Genet, Edmé Jacques
To: Adams, John

        ce ie. août 1778

      Genet a lhonneur de remercier Monsieur Adams qui n’ignore Sûrement pas que le Russel de l’Escadre de Byron est rentré à Plymouth le 23. en tres mauvais Etat, ayant été separé de l’Escadre le 8. juillet sur le grand Bane, par un violent coup de vent qui doit avoir également maltraité toute l’Escadre dont il ne donne pas de nouvelles.


Title: Edmé Jacques Genet to John Adams: A Translation, 1 August 1778
From: Genet, Edmé Jacques
To: Adams, John

        1 August 1778

      Genet has the honor to thank Mr. Adams, who must already know that the Russell, of Byron’s squadron, returned to Plymouth on the 23d, in very poor condition, after having been separated from the squadron on 8 July, at the Grand Banks, by a violent storm which must have damaged the entire squadron, but about which he cannot give any news.


Title: Pezerat to Benjamin Franklin and John Adams: A Translation, 1 August 1778
From: Pezerat, M.
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John

       Gentlemen
       Dijon 1 August 1778

      Although a stranger to you, I take the liberty of writing because I think that, as the representatives of a nation owing its existence to its virtues, you are sufficiently the friends of mankind to care to clarify for one of your fellow men the means by which he proposes to achieve happiness.
      In France, by the effect of a national prejudice, the labors of an active life, honorable as they are useful, demean the privileges of the nobility.
      A human being who has the misfortune of being both indigent and a gentleman is here, so to speak, unfortunate without resources. I would not recount this abuse in our constitution, of which you are no doubt aware, if my situation was not about to make me one of its victims.
      A father and mother, thirty-six and thirty-seven, respectively, both in good health; two sons, one going on four and the other two; the privileges, or rather the disadvantages, of the nobility; and a modest fortune; such is, Gentlemen, the sum of the connections by which my family is linked to society.
      Although my practice of law for eight years has facilitated, not without much expense, the recovery of a portion of my inheritance, I am, nevertheless, convinced that honesty in this profession on a small stage and in the far reaches of a province, together with talents that may be less than mediocre, do not enable me to leave anything substantial for the needs of my children.
      The conquest, if I may use such a term, that I have made over the collatéraux through the means of our rapacious laws should have been substantial, but those same laws, in the name of judges, court fees, counsels, attorneys, and process-servers, have taken almost half the amount. Everything considered, my fortune, together with that of a wife who would not be astonished by a journey on the seas that she has never seen and who will find everything wherever her husband and children are, would amount in hard currency to fifteen or sixteen thousand French livres.
      Convinced that I cannot hope to put my children at the level of their ancestors’ fortune and consigned to the prejudice, perhaps ill-advisedly, which ordains that we can never descend in class, I have thought that my small fortune employed in the clearing of some lands in America, could provide a solid establishment for my family.
      The French colonies, you will say, offer me the same prospect. I will not go into detail concerning the difficulties and expenses such a favor could cost me. Instead, I say to you that your republican state suits me because man is less degraded under such a constitution than under any other. This is why I have been thinking of joining your country if it is possible.
      After this exposition, I take the liberty of consulting you on my project and to ask you the following questions:
      1. Can the Republic of the United States give me some lands to clear? What would be the conditions under which they would be given? And what would be the extent reduced to the French standard, feet or fathoms of the king?
      2.Would the amount or rather the area of land that I imagine being put in production suffice for the subsistence of my family and could it be placed in production with the fifteen or sixteen thousand livres that I possess, deducting therefrom the amount needed to meet expenses during the clearing?
      3. Supposing my fortune was insufficient for this clearing, what other means could I count on for the completion of my farm? And what form of payment would be expected by those who furnished them?
      4. In the event that my plan for the clearing of land cannot be realized, could I hope to invest my small capital and ingenuity in an ironworks, of which I have some practical and theoretical knowledge?
      5. In any event, in order not to trust to the sea the resources that would be necessary for my survivors should something happen to me, would it not be possible, if I placed the sum that I have spoken of in your hands, gentlemen, to have you send me a draft in the value of analogous objects in keeping with either my plan to clear lands or operate an ironworks?
      6. Finally, would the profession of the Roman rite deprive me of some rights, and what handicaps would my religion pose for my civil status in America?
      I cannot conceal my shame from you in view of a letter so long as to take up time so precious as yours, but your love for humanity is the sole reason that I have turned to you for reassurance and pray that you will permit me to assure you of the admiration and respect with which I have the honor to be, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       PezeratElder Esquire, at Charolles in Burgundy, near Dijon

       Another question. The plan to operate an ironworks having been implemented, what treatment would be given to the workmen of this type that I could convince to follow me?


Title: James Moylan to the Commissioners, 1 August 1778
From: Moylan, James
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honorable Gentlemen
      L’Orient 1st. August 1778

     The Frigate Boston saild this morning with her three prizes. Captain Tucker happend accidentally to have mention’d to me, that he had your orders to take on board some goods here, but that as the wind was fair, he determind not to wait for them. If it is a disapointment to you, which in any manner can be remedied by loading them on a french bottom, I can give you freight for them on reasonable terms, by one that I shall dispatch in all the next month for America.
     I am much obliged to Mr. Franklin for having advanced Mr. Ogden Eight Guineas, in that gentleman’s way hither, which sum I desire my friend in Paris to pay him. I would have acknowledged that favor sooner, if Mr. Ogden had acquainted me therwith before. I have the honor to be respectfully Honorable Gentlemen Your assur’d hi sv

      James Moylan


Title: John Paul Jones to the Commissioners, 2 August 1778
From: Jones, John Paul
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Passy, Sunday Morning Augt. 2d 1778

     Captain Jones begs the Commissioners to oblige him with Copies of the following letters—or with the liberty of taking Copies of Monseigneur De Sartines letter to the Commissioners respecting Captain Jones, of their Answer to that letter, of the Commissioners letter to Lieutenant Simpson in consequence of Captain Jones’ proposition in his favor, and of the paper dated the 4th of July—which being a memorandum of what Captain Jones had to communicate in conversation, he made out but one Copy.


Title: From John Adams to James Warren, 4 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Warren, James

      My dear Sir
      Passy August 4. 1778

     Your kind Favor of July 1st. was brought here Yesterday from Bordeaux where Capt. Ayres has arrived, but was not deliver’d me till this day. This is only the second received from you. I have infinite Satisfaction in learning from all parts of America the prosperous Train of our Affairs and the Unanimity and Spirit of the people. Every Vessel brings us fresh Accessions of Ardour to the French and of Depression to the English in the War that is now begun in earnest.

     The Resolutions of Congress upon the conciliatory Bills, the Address to the people, the Ratification of the Treaty, the Answer to the Commissioners, the Presidents Letter, the Message of Governor Livingston and the Letter of Mr. Drayton are read here with an Avidity that would surprise you. It is not one of the least Misfortunes, of G. Britain, that she has to contend with so much Eloquence, that there are such painters to exhibit her attrocious Actions to the World and transmit them to posterity, every publication of this kind seems to excite the Ardour of the French Nation and of their Fleets and Armies, as much as if they were Americans.
     While American Orators are thus employed in perpetuating the Remembrance of the Injustice and Cruelty of G. Britain towards us, The French Fleet has been giving such a Check to her naval pride as she has not experienced before for many Ages. The Vessel which is to carry this will carry Information of a general Engagement between D’Orvielliers and Keppell which terminated in a disgracefull Flight of the British Fleet. We hope soon to hear of D’Estaing’s Success which would demonstrate to the Universe that Britain is no longer Mistress of the Ocean. But the Events of War are always uncertain and a Misfortune may have happen’d to the French Fleet in America. But even if this should be the Case, which I dont believe, still Britain is not Mistress of the Sea, and every day will bring fresh proofs that she is not. The Springs of her Naval power are dried away.
     I have hitherto had the Happiness to find that my Pulse beat in exact Unison with those of my Countrymen. I have venturd with some Freedom to give my Opinion what Congress would do with the Conciliatory Bills, with the Commissioners with the Treaty &c. &c. and every packet brings us proceedings of Congress, according in Substance, but executed in a Manner infinitely exceeding my Abilities.
     Nothing has given me more Joy than the Universal Disdain that is express’d both in public and private Letters at the Idea of departing from the Treaty and violating the public Faith. This Faith is our American Glory, and it is our Bulwark, it is the only Foundation on which our Union can rest securely, it is the only Support of our Credit both in Finance and Commerce, it is our sole Security for the Assistance of Foreign powers. If the British Court with their Arts could strike it or the Confidence in it we should be undone forever. She would triumph over us after all our Toil and Danger. She would subjugate us more intirely than she ever intended. The Idea of Infidelity cannot be treated with too much Resentment or too much Horror. The Man who can think of it with Patience is a Traitor in his Heart, and ought to be execrated as one who adds the deepest Hypocrisy to the blackest Treason.
     Is there a sensible Hypocrite in America who can start a Jealousy that Religion may be in danger? from whence can this danger arise? not from France, she claims no inch of Ground upon your Continent, she claims no legislative Authority over you, no negative upon your Laws, No Right of appointing you Bishops, nor of sending you Missionaries. Besides the Spirit for cruisading for Religion is not in France. The Rage of making Proselytes which has existed in former Centuries is no more. There is a Spirit more liberal here in this Respect than I expected to find. Where has been the danger to Religion of the protestant Cantons of Swisserland from an Alliance with France, which has subsisted with entire Harmony for 150 Years or thereabouts. But this Subject is fitter for Ridicule than serious Argument, as nothing can be clearer than that in this enlighten’d tollerant Age at this vast Distance, without a Claim or Colour of Authority, with an express Acknowledgement and Warranty of Sovereignty, this, I had almost said tollerant Nation can never endanger our Religion.
     The longer I live in Europe and the more I consider our Affairs the more important our Alliance with France appears to me. It is a Rock upon which we may safely build, narrow and illiberal prejudices peculiar to John Bull with which I might perhaps have been in some degree infected when I was John Bull, have now no Influence with me. I never was however much of John Bull. I was John Yankee and such I shall live and die.
     Is G. Britain to be annihilated? No such thing. A Revolution in her Government may possibly take place, but whether in Favor of Despotism or Republicanism is the Question. The Scarcity of Virtue and even the Semblance of it seems an invincible Obstacle to the latter. But the Annihilation of a Nation never takes place. It depends wholly on herself to determine whether she shall sink down into the Rank of the middling powers of Europe or whether she shall maintain the second place in the Scale, if she continues this War the first will be her Fate, if she stops short in her mad Career and makes peace she may still be in the second predicament. America will grow with astonishing Rapidity and England France and every other Nation in Europe will be the better for her prosperity. Peace which is her dear Delight will be her Wealth and her Glory, for I cannot see the Seed of a War with any part of the World in future but with Great Britain, and such States as may be weak enough, if any such there should be, to become her Allies.
     That such a peace may be speedily concluded and that you and I may return to our Farms to enjoy the Fruits of them, spending our old Age in recounting to our Children the Toils and Dangers we have encounter’d for their Benefit is the Wish of Your Friend & very humble Servant,

      John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Adams, 7 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Samuel

      My dear Sir
      Passi Aug. 7. 1778

     I had a few days ago the Pleasure of your Letter of the 21. of June, which is the only one as yet received. I have written Several to you, some of which I fear have miscarried.
     You mention a Difference of Sentiment, among the Commissioners before my Arrival, concerning a particular Gentleman, and desire me to investigate the Grounds of it. If I should take the Pains, I might write you, a few sheets of Tittle tattle, which would not be entertaining to read, nor pleasant to reflect on, or afford any Satisfaction in the End. The Gentleman you mention, whom I never Saw, is allowed to have Abilities, and he has several Friends who Speak of him in Warm terms of Friendship. But I dont know of any here who suspect him of Infidelity to our Cause, or Duplicity in it. Want of Confidence, is rather a loose Expression, and does not inform Us at all of the Grounds. As I have understood, there was Some Misunderstanding between your Correspondent and him, about a Journey to Germany. And afterwards another Misunderstanding between him and the two other Gentlemen after the Recommendations were obtained that you have seen, about Carrying to America, the Treaty which Mr. Simeon Deane carried.
     But there would be no End to Enquiries into the Grounds of little Miffs that arise here. A Failure in a punctual Return of a Visit—a Neglect to answer a Letter, whether it is of any Consequence, or not has in Some Instances been enough to make a Misunderstanding.
     The Commissioners are treated with great Freedom, here— one Gentleman writes to them from Spain and another from Nants, in a Strain that is rather offensive—another is very angry because the Commissioners, dont let him know of a good safe Opportunity to go to America, without Enquiring whether there is Reason or not for keeping it secret. And others take fire and write in great Wrath, if they are Modestly asked to render an Account of Monies they have received, by order of the Commissioners from their Banker. And from the Appearances of Things here I expect that America will be filled with verbal Relations and private Letters full of Complaints against one and another. This will be uncomfortable to you, and I am very sorry for it, without being able in the least degree to help it.
     Between you and me, I have a difficult Task. I am between two Gentlemen of opposite Tempers. The one may be too easy and good natured upon some occasions—the other too rigid, and Severe upon some occasions. The one may perhaps overlook an Instance of Roguery, from Inadvertence and too much Confidence—the other may mistake an Instance, of Integrity for its opposite, in a very honest Man, by too much Impatience and diffidence. Yet both may be and I believe are honest Men, and devoted Friends to their Country. But this is an ugly situation for me who do not abound in Philosophy, and who cannot and will not trim. The Consequence of it may very probably be that I may have the entire Confidence of neither. Yet I have hitherto lived in friendship with both.
     The best Rule in Congress, I should think would be to listen to no Relations that are not made in Writing and supported by affidavit, and to no private Letters, that are not laid before Congress—nor then any further than to summon call the Person charged to Account, give him Time to answer in Person or by Letter at least.
     The British Flag has been found to be far from omnipotent in Europe, and I hope in America before now. Keppel has certainly been obliged to fly before D’orvilliere—but We shall hear the other side of the Question in the London Papers tomorrow or next day. I beg of you to write me as often as you can and believe me your Frd.

      P.S. The Abbey Chalut, a very respectable Character requests me to write a request to you to inquire concerning Monsieur Mornay de Persey a Gentlemen de Langres, heretofore Lt. of Infanterie in the french Regiment of Vexin, who about 8 Months ago passed to America, to offer his services to the States. His Father and Family are in great Anxiety, to hear from him.
      Fleurys Father has also written to me in great distress for his Son, having never received a Line from him since he left France. You will gratify your Philanthropy and oblige me, if you can send any News of Either.


Title: To John Adams from Arthur Lee, 7 August 1778
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Adams, John

      Chaillot 7th. Augst. 1778

     Mr. Lee’s compliments to Mr. Adams. Mr. Lee has over and over again written to Mr. Williams that the Letters shoud be delivered to him whenever he chose to call, At Mr. Lee’s house and receive them, which he has refused in very indecent terms. It is this and this only that has prevented him from having them, for I have Mr. Lee has constantly left them out to be delivered to him when I He went out myself himself nor has he furnished any one of those things that I have Mr. Lee has required of him for near two months relative to the public accounts. He seems to me him to be making experiments how much he can provoke me him by every impertinence he can devise.


Title: To John Adams from William MacCreery, 9 August 1778
From: MacCreery, William
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Nantes 89th. August 1778

     I this day received the Letter which you did me the Honor to Write me under the 31st. Ultimo. Your other Letter to me was still longer on the way —which I mention to shew you that from some cause of which you may be ignorant, they do not come in the regular course of the Post.
     I return you compliments of congratulation on the late Naval affair between the French and English Fleets—in my expectations of which, I have been much disapointed. It seems as yet quite mysterious to me—but expect soon to know more clearly how too such Fleets met and parted without having done each other more injury. Certainly Kepple must have been affraid to risk a general Battle, in which a defeat must have proved fatal to his Nation.
     We have Accounts here of Byrons Fleet having been dispersed by a Gale of Wind and four of his Capital Ships put back. If this be true, and it gains Credit here—The Count DeStaing need fear nothing, and we may Shortly have a Clear Coast at home.
     I entirely coincide with you in opinion respecting visits and Letters of Compliment from the Commissioners. Certainly they must be highly to blame If they were to occupy their time in such a manner. No Man can reasonably expect any advice or intelligence from them, except what may concern the whole—for Instance—shou’d they hear of any particular Naval Armament going from England, and where they were boun’d—it wou’d be well enough to inform our Merchants in the different Ports, that they might regulate the Sailing of their Vessels accordingly. This I have no doubt they woud readily do. But by the by—I find there are many very willing to find fault—who perhaps cou’d not mend Matters.
     What I intended saying to you, is chiefly concerning a matter which affects—or at least will hereafter much affect, the Trade of America to this place. I mean to France. It is respecting our Sea-men wherein almost every Vessel meets with nearly the same trouble and difficulty. And I hardly know a Captain that does not go away disgusted, and cursing the place. There are in almost every Port a set of Petifoging fellows who urge Sea-men to go to Law for their Wages—and no Articles, however signed or executed in America, are binding here. The Vessel is allways cast because supposed to be the ablest to pay and the wages being large in America from the present scarcity of Men, and value of the Paper Currency, it comes exceedingly heavey to pay it here at the Par of Exchange. Besides, we are allways obliged in such case, to Ship other Hands in their Room, which comes so heavey—that few Voyages can bear it. I speak feelingly on this Subject, for it has caused me much trouble and expence. I know not how to remedy this Evil—unless our Agent, or Consul at each Port was vested with a Power to decide in such matters, without having recource to the civil Power of this Country— where, being commonly ignorant of the Language and Laws, we are allway obliged to confide in People, who scarce understand what justice means. The French themselves ought to be very carefull to make matters easy to us here if they value our Trade. For although it be the Love of Gain which generaly induce one People to Trade with another—if they do not find as much liberty and ease in pursuing it at one place, as at another—they will ever prefer the least troublesome and less expensive—perhaps it may be only necessity which oblige some People at present to labour under such difficulties. There is also other grievances—amongst them the Tide waiters here, who are some times insufferable.
     They insult People at pleasure, and are themselves the sole Arbiters of all disputes. In a late Frecas between them and some of our People, wherein the latter were exceedinly Maltreated, complaint was made to the Kings Procureur who lamented much that it did not come under his cognizance—as he wish’d much to Chastize, if not annihilate a band of miscreants, who are become a pest to Trade and society.
     I assure you, Sir, That it is my opinion, and I give it to you freely that if our Trade here meets with so much embarrassment—all the Parchment in France will not hold it. It wou’d be much better for us to pay even high Port charges, and meet none of these difficulties—than to have them and pay none.
     About 10 or 12 Merchant Ships under Convoy of the Providence and Boston and a 32 Gun French Frigate, Sail’d Yesterday Morning at 3 oClock from the Mouth of this River—both our Frigates are well Man’d.
     As my Vessels are now gone, I purpose returning in a few days to Bordeaux.
     A Ship from Boston is arrived here. She left it the 8th. July— but brings no News of any Sort—not even a Letter nor Newspaper for any American Whatever. Indeed French Vessels rarely do—and some People dont scruple saying that they are fond of suppressing Letters.
     A Letter dated in Mary Land the 18 May, forwarded to me ’tother day from Bordeaux—informs me that Pensylvania had, in her Act made to Pardon certain Offenders, excepted Jo: Galloway, S. Shoemaker, the Allens, Parson Duché and several others. Mary Land had not excepted any by name, but it was expected that the Tories wou’d be pretty severely handled. I am with the greatest Respect Dear Sir Your very Obedient Servt.

      Will M.Creery

      P.S.I have got a number of Contl. Loan office Certificates on which a Years Interest is due. Pray is the Interest on them Payable in France?


Title: The Commissioners’ Accounts with Ferdinand Grand: Doit Compte courant des Etats Unis par Messieurs Franklin, Lee, et Adams chez Fd. Grand, 9 August – 12 November 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To:

       9 August – 12 November 1778

      1778

      Debit
      Credit

      Payé a Monsr. Ar: Lee sur reçu
      {
       le 17 Juin 1200.
      }

      6000.

      le 9 Juillet 4800.

      Aoust 9
      Pour Solde du dernier Compte

      25995.
      5.
      6

      9
      Acceptations de Mr. Franklin aux traittes de Hy. Laurens de Philadelphie du 14 9bre. a 30 Jours de vue ordre Ganot 887., Espencers 900., 1617., de la Balan 900.
      4304.

      11
      Mandats de Mrs. Franklin Lee et Adams de ce Jour ordre B. Chew 360., a Wm. Tryon 360., E. Hinman 720
      1440

      14
      idem de Mrs. Franklin Lee et Adams ordre E. Barnes et E Ledger 10 Louis a chaque
      480.

      17
      Mandat de Mr. Adams a J. L. Austin
      720.

      19
      idem de Mr. Adams a Bureau
      360.

      20
      idem de Mrs. Franklin Lee et Adams a J. Murphy
      240.

      24
      Acceptation de Mr. Franklin a une traitte de Horneca Fizeaux & ce. du 20 Aoust a vue sur B. Franklin
      435.
      7.

      24
      Acceptation, de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de Horneca fizeaux & ce. du 20 Aoust a vue, sur Mrs. Les Deputes
      646.
      17.
      3

      26
      Mandat de Mrs. Francklin et Adams a Th: Barnes
      120.

      27
      idem de Mr. Adams a Hill
      319.
      15

      30
      idem de Mr. Francklin a Hill
      500.

      7bre. 1
      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de Horneca fizeaux & ce. du 27 Aoust a vue sur B. Franklin
      115.
      2.
      9

      3
      Payé a Mr. Arthur Lee sur reçu
      4800.

      4
      Mandats de Mrs. Francklin et Adams a Rolandeau 192. a J. Channing, J. Spencer, Wm. Daniel, D. Lymes, J. Fulford, Wm. Knap, D. Thomas, T. Choat 10 Louis chaque
      2112.

      7
      Mandats de Mrs. Lee et Adams a J. Fulford et J. Alsburn
      480.

      9
      Acceptations de Mrs. Francklin et Lee a traittes de J. Bonfield du 30 May a 3 uso. sur Mrs. Franklin Lee et Adams.
      82684.
      10.

      11
      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de hy. Laurens du 1er. Janvier a 30 Jours de vue sur les Deputes
      900.

      12
      Mandats de Mrs. Francklin, Lee, et Adams a Gilbank 360., J. Gales 240., G. Sledan 192., B. Wheland 192
      984.

      13
      Mandat de Mr. Adams ordre Hill
      236.

      17
      Mandats de Mrs. Francklin Lee et Adams ordre Capn. Dick, P. Richard, J Stirgis, C. Bulkeley 480. chaque, a Mon. Radford, J. Breton 360. chaque et C. Smith 240.
      2880.

      17
      idem de Mrs. Franklin et Adams, ordre B. Franklin 120., et D: Thomas 192.
      312.

      17
      Mandat de Mr. Adams ordre Wm. T. Franck
      229.
      6.
      9.

      19
      Acceptations de Mrs. Francklin a traitte de Hy. Laurens a 30 Jours de vue, ordre Fouquet 287., 573., 600
      1460.

      22
      Mandat de Mrs. Franklin et Adams a P. Hancock 600. a Ballioure 1259.10.
      1859.
      10

      24
      do. de Mrs. Franklin Lee et Adams a J. L. Austin L2400. a S. Miles, P. Carter 288.
      2688.

      26
      Payé a Mr. Arthur Lee sur reçu
      4800.

      26
      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a traittes de hy. Laurens du 14 9bre. a 30 Jours de vue ordre Dubourg 450. a Loyauté 717
      1167.

      30
      Mandats de Mrs. Francklin et Adams a J. Whelch 480. a Wm. Hamilton 360.
      840.

      8bre. 1
      Mandat de Mrs. Franklin et Adams, ord. Mr. Adams
      6000.

      8
      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de Mrs. Horneca fizeaux &ce. du 17 7bre. a vue, sur moy même
      574.
      17.

      8
      Acceptation de Mr. Franklin a traitte de D. Walsh d’Amsterdam du 22 Juillet a vue
      176.

      10
      Acceptation de Mr. Franklin a une traitte de Welch et Hamilton a Bruxelles du 21 7bre. a vue, sur moy
      192.

      17
      Acceptation de Mr. J. Adams a traitte sur lui de J. Bondfield du 23 7bre. a 15 Jours de date
      888.
      12.

      17
      Acceptations de Mrs. Franklin et Lee a traittes de J. Bonfield du 23 7bre. a 15 Jours de date 1404., 2952. 7.
      4356.
      7.

      19
      Mandat de Mr. Francklin a Hill
      701.
      4.

      24
      Payé a Mr. Franklin
      2400.

      24
      Acceptation de Mrs. Francklin a traitte de J. Bonfield du 29 7bre. a 15 Jours de date, sur Mrs. Franklin Lee et Adams
      7407.

      31
      Payé a Mrs. Francklin et Adams sur reçu
      4800.

      31
      Acceptation de Mrs. Franklin Lee et Adams a traitte de Heze. Ford du 7 Juillet ordre J. Ross 240. 120 et Maury 144.
      264.

      9bre. 3
      Acceptation de Mr. Franklin a traitte de C. G. F. Dumas de’Amsterdam du 21 7bre. a Uso sur les Deputés.
      2400.

      Payé a Mr. Adams sur reçu de 27 courant
      684.
      17.
      6

      Mandats de Mrs. Franklin Lee et Adams du 3 8bre a J. Granis, J. Woodward, T. Rogers, E. Downer, C. Sterry, R. Ewart du 9 8bre. a J. S Barnes, B. R Grinnel du 17 do. a Collas, du 19 do. a C. Barnes, J. Barnes, du 23 a Wm. Spencer du 26 a Whitmarsh du 6 9bre. a J. Lee a G. Rolls, a J. Revil 240. a chaque du 17 8bre. a Hy. Moore 360. a A. Kirk 288.
      4488.

      10
      Reçu de Messrs. Franklin Lee et Adams
      L370940.
      17.
      11
      }

      750000.

      a reçevoir des dits le 30 9bre.
      379059.
      2.
      1

      11
      Acceptations de Mr. Franklin Lee et Adams a traittes de Monthieu du 9 8bre au 10 9bre
      150713.

      11
      Acceptation de Mr. Franklin a une traitte de Bingham de la Martinique a 3 Mois de vue
      10000.

      11
      de même, datée du 16 Juillet.
      1682.
      11.
      8

      11
      Traitte de hy. Laurens du 14 Juin a 30 Jours de vue acceptée par.
      7792.

      Payé a Mr. Arthur Lee sur reçu du 27 8bre.
      2400.

      12
      Commission sur L750000 a /12; per cent
      3750.

      Ports de Lettres, Paquets Commissionaires &ce
      482.
      12.

      Pour Solde il revient a ces Messieurs
      439728.
      15.
      7

      L775995.
      5.
      6
      L775995.
      5.
      6

      Ainsi arreté double sauf erreurs ou Ommissions
      Paris le 22 9bre 1778
      Grand


Title: Benjamin Franklin and John Adams to John Paul Jones, 10 August 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John
To: Jones, John Paul

      Sir
      Passy Aug. 10 1778

     We do not think ourselves authorized to give any Orders concerning the Deductions to be made from the Seamen’s Price money or Wages, of what was advanced to them. The Resolutions of Congress must be complied with as to your Stores and Furniture, we suppose there can be no Difficulty, but that M. Simpson will as he ought to deliver you your private Property upon Request.
     We are not informed particularly what Receipts for your Indemnification you desire, and therefore we are not able to give any Advice concerning them. But we hope that all proper Receipts will be given you, such as you have a Right to expect, readily upon Request.
     We shall recommend the Men who Landed with you at White haven to the Favour of Congress, because we think they have merited it; but least our Recommendation Should miscarry, we wish you to recommend them yourself and inclose in your Letter an extract of this Paragraph of ours. As these People belonging to the Ranger have done themselves so much Honour in their expedition under your Command, perhaps Congress would approve of the Deductions being made from their Wages to be paid in America that the Men may have their Price Money here.
     We have received a Letter concerning Some Price Plate deposited by you in the Hands of a Gentleman who waits your Orders to deliver it, which we suppose, as you are upon the Spot, you will give of Course. We are Sir, with all due Respect Your most obedient and very humble Servants

      B. Franklin
      John Adams


Title: Sartine to the Commissioners, 10 August 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Versailles le 10 Aout 1778

      Depuis la letter, que j’ai eu l’honneur de vous écrire, Messieurs le 29 du mois dernier, le Commissaire des classes a Nantes m’a marqué que l’agent des Etats unis lui avoit remis des Prisonniers Anglois qu’il avoit fait enfermer au Chateau ou l’agent pourvoit a leur Subsistance.
      M. de la Porte, intendant a Brest m’a egalement ecrit au Sujet d’une prise du corsaire americain le Ranger dont le chargement deperit faute d’etre vendu; ce qui provient, Sans doute, des difficultes relatives a la perception des Droits, et a l’introduction de certaines especes de Merchandizes prohibées lorsquelles viennent d’Angleterre.
      J’attends votre Reponse pour terminer un Arrangement qui m’a paru egalement avantageux aux deux nations. J’ay l’honneur d’etre, avec un Sincere Attachment Messieurs, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

       De Sartine


Title: Sartine to the Commissioners: A Translation, 10 August 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Versailles, 10 August 1778

      Since the letter that I had the honor to write you on the 29th of last month, the Commissionaire des Classes at Nantes has informed me that the agent of the United States has entrusted him with some British prisoners whom he had confined in the castle, the agent providing for their subsistence there.

      Mr. de La Porte, Intendant at Brest, has also written me concerning a prize taken by the American privateer, the Ranger, the cargo of which is spoiling from not being sold. Without a doubt this is due to the difficulties regarding the collection of duties and the introduction of certain kinds of goods which are prohibited when coming from England.
      I await your reply in order to conclude an agreement that seems to me to be equally advantageous to both nations. I have the honor to be, with sincere attachment, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       De Sartine


Title: Peter Frederick Dobrée to the Commissioners, 11 August 1778
From: Dobrée, Peter Frederick
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Honourable Gentlemen
      Nantz 11 August 1778

     My Father in law has just now comunicated me the Honble. Mr. Lee’s Letter of the 4 Instant which he received Yesterday, together with sundry extracts which would greatly alarm me, was not I consious of my Innocence. I will not take too much upon those precious moments which you so laudably dedicate to your Country, to refute the false accusations contained in the anonimous Letter, but beg you would judge whether or not a Merchant happy in his situation in life and free from any kind of conscern in Vessells as is my Father would for the sake of others send his only Son as a Spy in so well an administered a Kingdom as is France And whether it is probable, that I who have my Establishment here, my Wife, Child and Relations would sacrifice my all to give advices to People who are almost Stangers to me, as I was sent very Young to School in England, and at my return staid but a very short time at Guernsey before I came here, where I have now been three Years—as to Jersey I have laid there one night by stress of Weather and hardly know any body in that Island. Is it possible that I should have carried on the treachery I am accused of, so long unpunished—is it not natural that if I found success in this dirty business that my Relations aught to have reaped the benefit whereas none of them have armed any Privatiers as you may yourselves learn if you would be indulgent enough to make inquiries. The Chevaillier de la Poterie and the Chevaillier de Villevocque arrived Yesterday from thence and gone off this morning for Paris they have been recommended to you by Mr. Schweighauser and are very proper Persons to question on that subject. You know Honourable Gentlemen what it is to be falsely accused and that at my time in life a stain on ones Reputation is of the greatest consequence, I must then earnestly entreat you to discover me the author of that anonimous Letter, (which to my sorrow has been so easily believed by Monsieur Le Ray de Chaumont,) as I am determined not to leave one Stone unturned ’till I have found the inventor of such Calumnies for neither my life or fortune will ever put a stop to my inquiries.
     My Worthy Father in law’s nomination to the Agentcy (altho’ he never asked it) has created him a number of deceitfull Ennemies who through the vilest Jealousy have since constantly endeavoured to hurt him, but his well established reputation and his unstained upright Character have set him above all their Machinations and having none to find but the Place of my birth that one has been attended to. The Continual hurry of Business and above all my Father in law’s Rheumatism hinders my setting off for Paris, nevertheless I would do it imediately was I persuaded that it might help to set things in their true light. If you indulge me with an answer be obliging enough to give me your much valued opinion and if so I will gladly and instantly take Horse to undergo any examination and if culpable ask to be dealt with with the utmost severity but if on the contrary I shall insist upon a publick Reparation of Honour from the Wretch who has so scandalously slandered mine, fully persuaded how ready you are to lend your helping hand to injured Innocence. I have the honor to be with the utmost veneration and respect Honourable Gentlemen Your most humble most obedient most devoted Servant,

      Peter Frederick Dobrée


Title: From John Adams to John Bradford, 12 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Bradford, John

      Sir
      Passi August 12 1778

     Your favour of 17 June is before me. I thank you, sir for your kind Congratulations on my safe arrival at Paris.
     Before this arrives you will have learn’d that War is commenced in Earnest between France and England. Never was a Nation in higher Spirits than the French, or lower than the English. The Events of War, it is true are always uncertain, but there have been few Conjunctions in human affairs, when Nations have had more promising Prospects, than the two Allies have at present. Poor old England is the Cry, at present on board the British fleet, as well as in the City of London, and well it may be. I am &c.


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Cooper, 12 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Cooper, Samuel

      My dear sir
      Passi August 6 12 1778

     Your kind favour of July 1st. is before me, and I feel myself much obliged to you for it, as well as for your generous Endeavours, to console my dear Mrs. Adams under her anxiety. Our Ennemies discover the Meanness of their Souls in nothing more than in the low Lyes they make and propagate merely to distress, private Families. A very great Number, have been fabricated, Simply to afflict that Lady and her Children, at least I never could divine any other Cause Motive.
     I have Sent, by several late opportunities, Such particular Accounts of the State of Affairs here, that I can transmit you nothing new at this Time, except that some french Men of War at Toulon have made Som valuable English Prizes, that the Brest fleet is again put out, and that the Spaniards, by their Activity and Expence in arming at sea, are thought by the World in general to be giving unequivocal Proofs of their Intentions: altho their Court is so deeply profoundly secret, that nobody can Say from any Thing that comes directly from them, what they mean.
     That the End of our Contest will be glorious, I have no doubt, and I wish with all my Heart it may Speedily arrive: Yet I cannot Say I am very confident it will be very Speedy. If there was the least Reason in the World, to believe that the Councils of the British Court would be wise, We might depend upon Peace, but We know that the very Reverse of what they ought to think of, they will do.
     Keppell has been Sadly mauled. Byrons Fleet is probably ruined by sickness and by Tempest, and God grant that D’Estang may have captivated How. Yet we are very anxious for News from D’Estaing. He sailed through the straights the Sixteenth of May, and We have no Intelligence of him, Since. This Nation is now very anxious and impatient to hear from him. I must refer you to the public Papers, which will go by this Conveyance, and wish you a good Night. Yours most Sincerely


Title: Arthur Lee and John Adams to Sartine, 13 August 1778
From: Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de

      Passi August 13 1778

     Your Excellency s Letter of the Twenty ninth of July, inclosing a Plan for a System of Regulations for Prizes and Prisoners, We had the Honour of receiving in due Time, and are very Sorry it has remained, so long unanswered.
     In general We are of opinion that the Regulations are very good, but We beg leave to lay before your Excellency the following observations.
     Upon the second Article We observe that the Extensive Jurisdictions of the Judges of Admiralty in America, which, considering the local and other Circumstances of that Country, cannot easily be contracted, will probably render this Regulation impracticable in America. In France, it will as far as We are able to judge of it, be very practicable, and consequently beneficial: But We Submit to your Excellencys Consideration, whether it would not be better, in America, after the Words “les dites Juges” to add, or the Register of the Court of Admiralty, or Some other Person authorized by the Judge. The Jurisdictions of the Courts of Admiralty, in America, extending for some hundreds of Miles, this Regulation would be subject to great Delays and other Inconveniences, if it was confined to the Judge. The fourth Article appears to be subject to the Same Inconveniences, and therefore to require the same Amendment.
     Upon the fourteenth Article, We beg leave to submit to your Excellencys Consideration, whether the heavy Duties upon British Merchandises and Manifactures if those are to be paid upon Prise Goods, will not opperate as a great Discouragement to the Sale of Prizes, made by American Cruisers, and whether it would be consistent with his Majestys Interest, to permit Merchandises and Manufactures taken in prizes made by Americans to be stored, in his Majestys Warehouses if you please, untill they can be exported to America, and without being subject to Duties.
     We know not the Expence that will attend these Regulations and Procedures, in the Courts of this Kingdom: but as the Fees of office in America, are very moderate, and our People have been accustomed to such only: We submit to your Excellency, whether it will not be necessary to state and establish the Fees here, and make the Establishment, so far public, that Americans may be able to inform themselves. We submit however
     As We are not well instructed in the Laws of this Kingdom, or in the Course of the Courts of Admiralty here, it is very possible, that some Inconveniences may arise in the Practice upon these Regulations, which We do not at present foresee. If they should, We shall beg leave to represent them to your Excellency, and to request his Majesty to make the necessary alterations.
     We submit these observations to your Excellencys Superiour Wisdom, and are have the Honour to be with sentiments of the most perfect Respect, your Excellencys, most obedient and most humble servants.


Title: From John Adams to the President of the Congress, 14 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: President of Congress,Laurens, Henry

      Sir
      Passi Aug. 14. 1778

     I have the Honour to inclose to Congress a few of the public Papers, which contain all the News that is passing. As it is uncertain by what Vessell the Gentleman will go who takes this, the Conveyance is too precarious, to send any Thing which ought not to be known to the Enemy.
     We are waiting with an impatient Anxiety, to hear from America, the last Accounts from thence having been brought by Captain Ayers and Barns from Boston neither of them later than the 3 or 4 July. We have no Advice of the Compte D’Estaings Fleet Since he passed the straights on the 16 May. I have the Honour to be &c.


Title: To John Adams from Edmé Jacques Genet, 14 August 1778
From: Genet, Edmé Jacques
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       A Vlles. ce 14. août 1778

      J’ai traduit ce jour ci une lettre d’un armateur américain à Nantes, en datte du 8. août, qui se plaint que deux de ses vaisseaux lui ont étá enlevés en sortant de Pamboeuf, et demande certaines facilités pour la Courses. Il m’a été impossible de lire Sa Signature, et c’est la seconde fois que je me trouve dans cet embarras. Je l’ai figurée sur le papier ci joint, pour vous prier de vouloir bien me la débrouiller, afin que désormais je sois en état de faire connoitre du ministrie le nom de celui qui écrit.

      J’attens que vous ayés reçu quelques nouvelles d’amérique pour faire paroitre le numéro 51. et je vous serai très obligé de me faire parvenir le plus diligemment possible, et par la poste, tout ce que vous croirés susceptible d’etre mis au jour. Je suis avec respect Monsieur Votre très humble et très obéissant Serviteur,

       Genet


Title: From John Adams to Edmé Jacques Genet, 14 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Genet, Edmé Jacques

       post 14 August 1778

     I Have the Honour of yours of the 14.
     By the Imitation you inclose, I have no dout that the Name of the Writer of the Letter you mention is John Ross. Such a Person there is at Nantes a Merchant who has been concerned in American Trade, who often corresponds with the Commissioners here by which means I am in Possession of many of his Letters and am become well acquainted with his Signature.
     I shall take a great Pleasure in forwarding to you the Intelligence from America, as soon as it arrives; God grant it may be as prosperous, as the other Events of the present Campaign. I am, sir with great Respect, your most obedient servant

      John Adams