Title: To John Adams from Henry Laurens, 15 January 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      York Town 15th Jany. 1778

     I was honoured on the 7th. Instant by the Receipt of your favour of the 9th. Ultimo by the hands of Mr. Thaxter.
     I desired that Young Gentleman to call on me the Morning after he arrived intending to have conversed with him and to have aimed at some plan for procuring a suitable employment for him, but I found that by the Interest of other friends he had been introduced into the Secretary’s Office. You may depend upon it Sir, if it shall hereafter be in my power, I will not fail to join those friends in order to give him a lift in proportion to his merit. For my own part long experience has convinced me that inaccuracy and confusion attend supernumerary Clerks in any Office. The Duties of mine demand the Eye and hand of the principal and afford sufficient, oftentimes heavy, employment for every moment between adjournments and Meetings of Congress, borrowing deeply of the Night and stirring very early every Morning but there is not half work enough for a Clerk who would have the whole day for the easy business of Copying which is all he ought to be entrusted with, I have a Young Man who serves me tolerably well in that branch and at intervals he finds other necessary work to do.
     You will learn Sir, that by the present conveyance I have dispatched an Act of Congress of the 8th. Instant to Your Council and two Copies to Gen. Heath, for suspending the embarkation of Gen. Burgoyne, it would have given me great pleasure if a Copy could have been obtained for you in time for the present conveyance but to this hour I have not been able to procure one for any State southward of this. This is one of the benefits arising from superabundant assistance, I could have Copied the whole with my own hand in twice 24 hours.
     I feel myself exceedingly anxious lest Great Britain should get the start of us in publishing in her own terms and Glossings an account of this great event at the seviral Courts in Europe, I believe the Committee of foreign Correspondence have yet only one Copy which I delivered no sooner than yesterday to Mr. Lovel and if I understood him he did not intend to transmit that by the present conveyance, I beg leave therefore to submit to your consideration the propriety of procuring immediately accurate Copies from the originals above mentioned and dispatch one by every Vessel that shall Sail for any part of France within a Month or Six Weeks from Boston, directed to our Commissioners at Paris, I would wish in order to guard against accidents to send at least six repeated Copies, the expence of Copying compared with the benefits which may arise from such early intelligence is not equal to a drop compared with the Ocean. Certified Copies under your hand will enable the Commissioners to represent our conduct in a true light at all the foreign Courts and to defeat wicked attempts to calumniate Congress which will be made by British Agents. I think our Act stands upon a firm bottom. It will appear when truly Reported to be as justifiable as it was necessary. Let us if possible for once take the lead of those who trust in lies and misrepresentation for success.
     Mr. Lovel will no doubt inform you of the trick played upon us by palming a bundle of blank Papers for a Packet of Letters and dispatches from our said Commissioners and according to the account which the bearer of the above-mentioned Counterfeit gives, this is the third Instance within a few Months past of Interception on the other side of the Water; in the present Case there is too much the appearance of unpardonable remissness in those friends of ours, who ought to be incessantly watchful.
     It appears to me, our circumstances there are deplorable and require immediate aid to keep us in any tolerable Credit with our self Interested friends and from being despised and hissed by our Enemies.
     Concerning the Captivity of Mr. Howe I wish for it as anxiously as you do, but I will not Insure it this Winter, Providence has favoured us in the discovery of his designs with the Troops of the Northern Hero and I trust enabled us to frustrate them, otherwise strings of Captivity might have appeared even about York Town.
     I flatter myself with hopes of your determination to accept the Commission which I lately transmitted you and of your proceeding very soon to attend the duties of it. I pray God to give you a speedy and pleasant passage and to protect you against the hands of our Enemies.

     My Compliments to Mr. S. Adams whom I long to see in Congress again and believe me to be with great Esteem and regard Dear sir Your most humble servant

      Henry Laurens


Title: To John Adams from Daniel Roberdeau, 21 January 1778
From: Roberdeau, Daniel
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      York Town Jany. 21st. 1778

     I acknowledge your favors of the 19th. and 24th. Ultimo, and with great pleasure find you obey the call of your Country. May it prove her advantage and your honor, of which I have not the least doubt, notwithstanding the deficiency you mention. I shall highly esteem a constant correspondence with you, which I shall endeavour to encourage and improve a friendship I so greatly value.
     A lex talionis has this day unanimously passed Congress. So matured by the repeated barbarities of our Enemies that a very long report from the board of war on the subject had an uncommon quick passage through the House, a fate you know unusual even on trivial occasions, but it would exceed the bounds of Letter to transcribe it and unnecessary as your State and most probably yourself will be furnished with a Copy by this Opportunity. The treatment of Canadian Prisoners on parole on their return home, being constrained by cruel usage and whippings to enlist with the British Troops coroborates the reasons for suspending the Convention at Saratoga. But I forbear a work of supererogation for our communicative friend Lovel is writing at the same table. May the Lord bless and preserve you I am with real regard Dear Sir, Yr. very affectionate friend & huml. Servt.

      Daniel Roberdeau

      P.S. A Committee is this day appointed to prepare a Manifesto which will exhibit species of Cruelty in our Enemies, unheared of among Nations called civilized, except from the same Tyrenical hand in the East Indies. “Vengeance is mine I will repay saith the Lord.”


Title: To John Adams from William Ellery, 22 January 1778
From: Ellery, William
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      York Town Jany. 22d. 1778

     I received a few days since a Letter from my good friend William Vernon Esqr., One of the members of the Navy Board in the Eastern department; in which he informed me that he was about to send his son, William, to France; with the View of placing him in a good, reputable, mercantile house; either in Nantz, Bourdeaux or Rochelle, and desired that I would obtain Letters recommendatory of him to the honorable Commissioners at the Court of France.
     It would give me great pleasure to oblige both the father and the son, and I know no way in which I could do it so effectually, if I should be so happy, as by introducing him to your favorable notice and attention.
     I remember Horace’s caution;—but I think I run no other hazard in recommending young Mr. Vernon to your notice, but that of being refused a favour, which I acknowledge I have but small pretensions to ask: A hazard which I hope you will think me excuseable in running for the sake of serving a friend.

     He was educated at Jersey College, and at the last commencement proceded Batchelor of Arts. I have inquired into his Character of President Witherspoon and Professor Houston, who was late Dep: Secry of Congress. They both speak well of his morals and behaviour while he was at College. I have some Acquaintance with him, and think that he is an amiable Youth. If he should have the honour of going a passenger in the Ship that carries you, you will have an opportunity of knowing him thoroughly before you reach your destined port. Heartily wishing you a safe and pleasant passage, and that health happiness and success may attend you I am most respectfully Yrs

      Wm Ellery


Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Rush, 22 January 1778
From: Rush, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

     Yorktown, 22 January 1778. RC (Adams Papers); printed: Benjamin Rush, LettersLetters of Benjamin Rush, ed. L. H. Butterfield, Princeton, 1951; 2 vols., 1:190–192. Whatever might be said about the graces needed at the French court, Rush praised the choice of the “perfectly honest” Adams as commissioner.
     Critical of American generalship, Rush yet dreaded the entry of France into the war that most Americans longed for because in his view such help would prevent the maturing of the nation, which could come about only by its remaining truly independent. Rush explained that he went to Yorktown to resign his commission and to complain formally about Dr. William Shippen’s administration of the hospital service.


Title: From John Adams to Henry Laurens, 4 February 1778
From: Adams, John
To: Laurens, Henry

      Sir
      Braintree February 4. 1778

     I had this Moment the Honour of yours of the 15. Ultimo and I thank you for your Kindness to Mr. Thaxter of whom I had not before heard, Since he left this Place.
     The Act of Congress inclosed in your Letter, I will take with me to Europe, for which Country I hope to embark in five Days in the Boston Frigate, not without Regret at having been delayed So long.
     I shall make out Six Copies of the Resolution, and give Directions for Sending one, by every Vessell, that shall sail from hence, untill they are all gone.
     I was disappointed in not finding, any Mention of the State of Burgoines Arms, which it Seems were damnified and unfit for Service; and Bayonettes and Swords which were without Scabbards; Circumstances which seem to be material; because those Injuries must have been done after the Convention, and in Violation of it, for no doubt the Intention of the Contracting Parties was, that all those Things Should be Surrendered without Injury.
     Your Account of the Trick, played upon Dispatches to Congress, is indeed alarming, and naturally excites Jealousies. If Mr. Lovell has received from me an Extract of a Letter, I received from Nantes, he may possibly have a similar Suspicion to mine, which does not ascribe this Trick to Ld. Stormont or his Emissaries.
     Certainly too much Vigilance and Caution cannot be used, in communicating Intelligence, between Congress and their Agents abroad. I am sir, in great Haste having many Things to think of and to do, in Preparation for my Voyage, with the sincerest Respect and Esteem your most obedient, and most huml sert

      John Adams

      Feb. 8

     P.S. Mr. Burgoine, is much agitated with the order to suspend his Embarkation. He has requested, an Interview with Mr. Hancock and Mr. S. Adams. The latter was ill and unable—the former by Advice of the House of Representatives, I hear is to meet him.


Title: To John Adams from William Vernon Sr., 9 February 1778
From: Vernon, William Sr.
To: Adams, John

     9 February 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 2:272–273. Vernon asked that his son be placed with a mercantile house in Bordeaux or Nantes and proposed a gratuity of £100, which would also cover board.


Title: To John Adams from Barnabas Deane, 10 February 1778
From: Deane, Barnabas
To: Adams, John

     Boston. 10 February 1778. printed (virtually verbatim): JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 2:272. Deane recommended his nephew Jesse, the only son of Silas Deane, to JA’s care for the trip abroad. He cautioned against allowing the boy to associate “with the Common hands on board” lest he form bad habits.


Title: To John Adams from James Lovell, 10 February 1778
From: Lovell, James
To: Adams, John

      My dear Sir

       Feb 10th. 1778

     The week after Mr. C—— was appointed secretary, I saw the P.S. of a letter to Mr. S.A. in which he is said to be a very unworthy person, but he has so good a Character in the estimation of Congress and from Maryland Gentlemen, that I did not think proper to move for a power of Suspension to be given to the Commissioners, as I find it is the opinion of some here that the secretary should be independent.
     I hope you will either give me your opinion before you go or write very early upon having conversed with Dr. Fr. and Mr. Lee.
     I did not know whether the Commercial Committee had forwarded to you the Resolve of yesterday, therefore I send it on the other page. We are most horridly spunged by Mr. Le Balme and others who resigning their Commissions apply in forma pauperis or on pretences of a variety of kinds. I do not think it will do to make the Resolve hinted at by Dr. F. to me “that the Commissioners should be directed not to give even a letter of civil Introduction to any Foreigner,” but such letters are pleaded as a sort of implied Convention. Avoid them. Affectionately Yours

      JL


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

     York, February 1778. RC (Adams Papers). Believing that JA could receive yet another letter in addition to those of 8 and 10 Feb. (above), Lovell wrote to wish him a happy voyage and to give him “an idea of our intended Progress into Canada” by quoting resolutions passed by the congress on 22, 23, 24, and 28 Jan. and 2 Feb. To provide JA with an understanding of the kind of representation present in the congress, Lovell also included the results of a successful vote to postpone choice of a quartermaster general until new arrangements were made for that branch of the army.
     The postponement passed 4 to 3, two states being tied, and four, including Massachusetts, not having enough members present to have their vote counted. Lovell’s nay vote was the sole vote from his state. The voting is recorded in JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 10:104. Since Thomas Mifflin had resigned in early Nov. 1777 and Nathanael Greene was not appointed until 2 March, Lovell probably regarded a vote for postponement as irresponsible (JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 9:874; 10:210).


Title: To John Adams from William Vernon, 9 March 1778
From: Vernon, William Sr.
To: Adams, John

      Dear sir
      Boston 9th. March 1778

     I hope in God this will find you safe arrived at your desired Port, and that you are happy in your appointment, at least as much so, as any Gentleman, who hath left connections as dear to him, as Life can possibly be. Nothing hath occured since you left us, in the Public way, but what you will find in the Papers, which are all transmitted to you by this conveyance, only that the Ship Warren left Providence the 16th. ultimo and got out safe thro’ the Fire of the Enemys Ships. The Providence and Columbus are prepareing to leave that Place of confinement, doubt not of their success.
     Inclosed is a Letter for my Son Billy which I beg the delivery of, I hope sir his deportment has been such, as not to forfeit your favors, and that with your kind assistance he is placed in such a situation, as he may by close application and assiduity acquire what I sent him abroad to attain viz. a competant knowledge of business in the Mercantile way, the Language and Customs of France &c. you are sensible sir he is arrived at that critical time of Life when Youth are most apt to run into extravagancy and dissipation, therefor its necessary, their minds shou’d be impressed with sentiments of honor and Virtue; I am perswaded you will at all Times give him your advice, and that he will strictly adhere to the injunctions I have laid him under, of invariably following your councils.

      I wish you health and all possible felicity and am most sincerely, Dear sir your Obedient Humble servt


Title: The Commissioners’ Accounts with Ferdinand Grand, 30 March – 30 June 1778
From: Adams, John
To:

       30 March – 30 June 1778

     Compte Courrant des Etats unis, par Messeiurs Franklin Lee et Adams, chez F. Grand

      1778

      Debit
      Credit

      30 Mars Pour Solde du precedent Compte

      554143.
      18.

      30 Mars Payé a Mr. Dean Sur reçu

      4800.

      Avril ler. Traitte de Rew de Nantes du 23 fevrier

      600.

      Mandat de Mrs. Francklin et Adams du 9 Avril

      4800.

      Payé a Mr. Arthur Lee le 10 de ce Mois

      4800.

      Mandat de Mrs. Francklin et Lee du 10 Avril

      307.

      Acceptations de Mr. Francklin aux traittes de Mr. Hancock de York Town du 15 Avril

      200490.
      13.
      4.

      Acceptations de Mr. Franklin aux traittes de Hy. Laurens de York Town du 9 Avril

      3648.
      15.

      Mandat de Mr. Adams du 18 Avril, a N. Noel

      231.
       4.

      Mandat de Mrs. Francklin Lee et Adams du 21 avril

      720.

      Mandat de Mrs. Francklin Lee et Adams du 20 dit

      360.

      Acceptation de Mr. Dean a une traitte de Hy. Laurens de York Town du 6 9bre 1777 a 30 Jours de vue

      900.

      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de Hy. Laurens a 30 Jours de vue

      6873.

      Acceptation de Mrs. Francklin et Dean a une traitte de Hy. Laurens du 14 9bre a 30 Jours de vue

      1187.

      Traitte de Mrs. Francklin Lee et Dean du 15 Avril

      7200.

      Mandat de Mrs. Francklin Lee et Dean a Hartley du 18 Avril

      3600.

      Pour 34 Affuts de Canons faits a L’Orient

      6214.
       5.

      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de S. et Z. Delap de Bourdeaux du 25 Avril a un Jour 3e de.

      3836.
       1.
      9.

      Mandat de Mr. Franklin du 9 May

      1918.
      11.

      Mandat de Mrs. Francklin et Adams du 9 dit

      4800.

      Payé a Mr. Arthur Lee sur reçu du 11 May

      2400.

      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de J. Hancock du 14 7bre. 1777.

      3200.

      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de J. Hancock du 14 7bre. 1777.

      7393.

      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de T et A Dubeldmuls du 14 May

      566.

      Mandat de Mr. Francklin du 26 May a Gornuin

      2418.

      Mandat de Mrs. Lee et Adams du 29 May
      360
      }

      720.

      360

      Payé a Mrs. Horneca Fizeaux & ce. a Amstr. pour Essay de 1250 fusils

      273.
       9.
      6.

      Acceptation de Mrs. Franklin et Lee a une traitte de £100 str. par Vernon et Warren Boston du 2 fevr. 29 15/16

      2405.

      Payá a Mr. Arthur Lee sur reçu du 6 Juin

      2400.

      Traitte de Moylan de L’Orient du 3 Juin a 1 Jour

      48001.
      7.

      Mandat de Mrs. Lee et Adams du 29 May. ordre Coffyn

      2698.
      11.
      9.

      Mandat de Mr. Adams du 12 Juin ordre D. Hill

      663.
      5.

      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de Mr. Hancock de Philadelphie du 14 7bre. a 30 Jour de vue

      7613.

      Mandat de Mr. Adams du 11 Juin. ordre de la cour

      365.
      5.

      Mandat de Mrs. Francklin Lee et Adams du 16 Juin

      4800.

      Payé a Mr. Adams sur reçu du 16 Juin

      2400.

      Acceptations de Mr. Francklin aux traittes de Hy. Laurens de York Town a 30 Jours vue
      900.

      287
      }

      8841.

      900.

      287

      900.

      430

      900.

      430

      900.

      430

      900.

      573

      287.

      717

      Acceptation de Mr. Francklin a une traitte de J. Hancock du 14 7bre. a 30 Jours de vue

      6000.

      Traittes de Mrs. Franklin Lee et Adams du 19 May ordre Monthieu

      450000.

      Acceptations de Monsr. Franklin aux traittes de Hy. Laurens du 6 9bre. a 30 Jours de vue
      900.
      }

      1800.

      900.

      Acceptation de Monsr. Francklin a une traitte de Hy. Laurens du14 9bre. a 30 Jours de vue

      2217.

      Acceptations de Mr. Francklin aux traittes de Hy. Laurens a 30 Jours dev ue

      7160.
      10.

      Traitte de Mr. Williams du 27 Mars a 15 Jours de date

      3020.
      1.

      traitte du dit du 1er. Avril
      1800.
      }

      7000.

      1600.

      1400.

      1200.

      1000.

      idem du 4 Avril
      10000.

      idem 6 do.
      1000.
      }

      4000.

      900.

    850.

     750.

      500.

      idem 4 do.
      4500.

      idem 27 Mars
      1728.
      5.
      }

      3231.
      17.

      951.
      12.

     552.

      idem 1 Avril
      1200.
      3.
      }

      2702.
      3.

      1500.

      idem 15 do.
      959.
      1.

      idem 1er. Avril.
      2000.

      idem 16 do.
      1049.

      idem 4 May
      1801.
      11.
      6.

      idem 5 May
      3000.

      idem 16 Avril
      1582.
      2.
      6
      }
      3640.
      6.

      2058.
      3.
      6

      idem du 26 Avril a Uso
      807.
      8.

      idem 28 Mars
      719.
      4.
      6
      }
      4019.
      4.
      6

      1000.

      1100.

      1200.

      idem du 23 May a 3 Jour
      1208.
      10.

      }
      5208.
      10.

      4000.

      idem 23 May
      1800.

      idem 30 May a 3 Jours date
      2100.

      idem. 2 Juin a 1 Jour
      2500.
      }

      2945.

      445.

      idem. 8 Avril
      357.
      9.

      idem
      {
      du 16 Avril
      1000.

      }

      2474.
      19

      du 22 Avril
      1474.
      19.

      Son Mandat du 18 Juin
      4500.

      ses traittes. du 22 Avril au 14 Juin
      {
      1100.

      1200.

      idem 16 Juin a 3 Jours
      3200.

      idem 9 Avril au 23 Juin
      256.
      16.

      idem, 16 do.... do.
      6033.
      12.

      idem 6 May a Uso
      2000.

      }
      9314.
      1.
      3

      2500.

      3000.

      1814.
      1.
      3

      idem 28 dit a Uso
      2769.
      2.
      10

      idem 29 Avril a 2 Uso
      1800.
      }

      4000.

      2200.

      sa traitte du 5 May a 3 Uso
      1301.
      17.
      9

      idem 4 Juin a Uso
      1944.
      12.

      }
      3028.
      12.
      4

      1084.
       .
      4

      idem du 8 May a 2 Uso
      1212.
      12.

      idem 9 Avril a 3 Uso
      1710.

      idem. do. a 3 Uso
      529.
      16.

      idem du 23 Juin au 3 Juillet
      {
      1100.

  1200.

      1300.

      idem du 9 Avril au 17 dit
      671.
      10.

      idem 8 Avril a 4 Usances
      1970.
      12.

      idem. 9 do....4 do
      {
      896.
      6.

     369.
      18.

      114281.
      14.
      11

      Mandat de Mrs. Francklin Lee et Adams du 16 Juin
      360.

      Reçu

      750000

      Reçu de Mr. Haywood

      4800.

      Commission sur £893063.3.3 a 1/2p%
      4465.
      6.
      9

      Ports de Lettres, Paquets. et autres fraix
      561.
      16.

      Pour Solde il me revient a compte nouveau

      697434.
      4.

      Livres 1452234.
      4.

      1452234.
      4.

      Ainsi arreté double sauf Erreurs ou Ommissions
      Paris le 30 Juin 1778.
      Grand


Title: To John Adams from Brouquen, 3 April 1778
From: Brouquen
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       Bordeaux Le 3er. Avril 1778

      Vous avés bien voulu me faire esperér que vous arretires Ches M. Le Marquis De Voyer Dargenson, aux ormes a Deux postes aprés Chatelereault. Je Le previens en Consequence; II sera ravi de vous voir, parcequil vous Connoit Deja beaucoup, et il vous seroit Difficile De ne pas L’ettre. Pour moy, Monsieur, Cest avec autant De plaisir que dEmpressement, que j’ay Cherché a avoir Cet avantage, ma Curiosité fixée sur votre reputation, est Le seul hommage que j’ay pu vous offrir, Receves aussy Celuy du respect, et de ladmiration, avec Le quel j’ay lhonneur D’Etre Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur,

       Brouquen


Title: Brouquen to John Adams: A Translation, 3 April 1778
From: Brouquen
To: Adams, John

       Sir
       Bordeaux 3 April 1778

      You were kind enough to let me anticipate your stopping at the Marquis de Voyer d’Argenson’s house, at The Elms, two stages after Chatelereault. I am informing him accordingly. He will be most pleased to meet you since he already knows much about you and, indeed, it would be very difficult for you not to be known. As for me, sir, I have sought this privilege with as much pleasure as eagerness, but so far the only homage I have been able to pay you is through my deep interest in your reputation. Receive as well the respect and admiration with which I have the honor to be your very humble and very obedient servant.

       Brouquen


Title: Louis Sonies, père et fils, to Gaillard Malibran & Cie., 4 April 1778
From: Sonies, Louis, Père et Fils (business),Adams, John
To: Gaillard Malibran & Cie (business)

     Bordeaux, 4 April 1778. RC (Adams Papers). A response to a recommendation of JA to the firm of Louis Sonies from a correspondent, “un ami,” in Boston, this letter introduced Adams to a Paris banking firm, Gaillard Malibran & Cie. It requested that the bankers render assistance to Adams when he arrived in that city, but the presence of the letter in the Adams Papers and the fact that the American Commissioners already had a Paris banker, Ferdinand Grand, make it unlikely that the letter was used.


Title: To John Adams from Silas Deane, 8 April 1778
From: Deane, Silas
To: Adams, John

      Dear sir
      Aix April 8th: 1778

     It is now two Years since I left America without the satisfaction of bidding You farewell, and of talking over with You many things then on my mind respecting Our Country and The great Cause in which We had been long engaged; To remedy this disagreeable Circumstance which at the Time gave Me pain, I wrote You a long Letter on my passage and sent it from Bordeaux; as I have never received any Answer I apprehend it miscarried. I have not indeed received any Letter from You since I  left Philadelphia, and am now (probably at the instant of your Arrival in France) obliged to embark for America without being able to see You, and in person to Congratulate You on the favorable issue of Our Negotiations at Versailles. In my Situation nothing less than the Capital Object before Me, to which I chearfully sacrifice every thing of a personal Nature could have forced Me to leave France without having first seen You, and learned the Cause of my recall. From my Arrival in France to this hour I have never received from the honorable the Congress, or their Committee or any Member the least hint that my Conduct had displeased them, except what might be inferr’d from the laconic Billet of Mr Lovel, inclosing an Order of Congress for my immediate Return, which I received about three Weeks since. Conscious of having rendered my Country great and important services, and happy in the Approbation not only of the Court at which I negotiated, but in that also of my Venerable Colleague, whose Name, and Character, is revered thro Europe I can but feel most Sensibly the treatment I have met with. Accused in my Absence of I know not what, censured I know not how, disgraced in the Face of all Europe (for such a recall as that sent to Me can be considered in no other Light) and ordered instantly to embark without the least information of what is laid to my Charge or who are my Accusers, are Circumstances I cannot reflect on without being sensibly affected. Doct. Franklin and Doct. Bancroft will explain to You in what manner, I improved those Circumstances to the service of my Country.
     I most sincerely wish that neither You nor any other person that has served his Country may ever be in a like Situation; but without Vanity I will add, should it be the case, that I wish they may improve the Circumstances that may affect them in the same manner, that I have done. I will not Attempt to give you in a Letter even an Idea of the Difficulties and embarrassments I have met with, nor of the anxious and Laborious Life I have led in Paris. My Freinds will do me Justice, and it is no secret either at Paris or Versailles nor is it one, that my Enemies envy and hate Me for That, for which if they are real Freinds to their Country, they owe Me their Esteem and Gratitude. You will see by the Freedom with which I write to You that I retain the same Freindship and unreserved Confidence in You as when I was honored with Yours in America, beleive Me sir I never thought I had misplaced my Confidence nor do I at present.

     When I first received my recall I determined, or rather I proposed not to return untill I could have settled and Closed the several Engagements which I had taken on the public Account during which period I hoped to have learned from America what was objected to Me and by that means also to have been able to carry out with Me the Necessary Vouchers for my Conduct. But the advice of Doct Franklin who was extremely Apprehensive for the situation of the Affairs of the Congress in America, and the desire of the Ministers here that Our Negotiation and Treaties should be fully explained and the Objections, (if any,) obviated, as early as possible, brought Me to the Resolution of proposing to them the plan on which I am now embarking, accordingly I assured them, that if it was adopted, I would leave every thing here in the present situation and set out immediately. I have hitherto been successful even beyond the expectations of Dr. Franklin to whom only (one other Freind excepted) the secret was entrusted. By this measure I am obliged to leave large Accounts open, and many Transactions unexplained, as several Accounts I had wrote for were not come to hand when I left Paris. This I foresaw from the first would oblige Me to revisit France as soon as possible and my determination is to return in October, or November, at the farthest if I meet no Accident. For tho’ I well know it is in my power to explain every transaction of mine to the satisfaction of any reasonable and impartial Man, yet I am equally sure that a Certain person will take every Opportunity to find fault and object, his unhappy disposition is too well known, to need my saying any thing on the subject. You will hear of it from all Quarters, and I wish that may be all and that in any Connection You may have with him You may be happier than either Dr. F. or myself have been.
     You will find Doct. F. universally and deservedly esteemed and Caressed And You will find others—but I will say nothing of Persons who consider Me as much their Enemy as I know them to be mine. Doct. Bancroft can be very useful to You, and as soon as You know him You will find that he merits Your Freindship and Confidence. I cannot at the same Time conceal, that I think he has been very hardly used, nor that it sensibly affects Me to see Merit like his Neglected. If what I am about To say appear assuming, You must forgive it and place it to the regard I have for You personally, and the Interest I take in whatever affects my Country. You cannot sir be too attentive toconciliate this grandthe French Nation in general and To the Gentlemen of importance, and influence in particular I know You too well to have the least distrust of your good Sense, and disposition, but as You are stepping into a New World and about to Act a part on a Theatre when the Scenes The Manners, and the Actors are all New to You, it is of the utmost importance, that You appear neither impatient nor disgusted. But I will not Trouble You further on this Subject, as I know You to be a Man Too wise to be above advice, and that You have in Dr. F. and Dr. B. persons who can give You the best. You will find Dr. F. in a Circle of Freinds and Acquaintance of the first Character in different Departments, and I have the pleasure of reflecting that I was noticed by them whilst at Paris and that I am still remembered by them, You will be introduced to them by Dr. F. of course I need say nothing on that head.
     As to Business I must say I am very anxious about Our Finances. Our resources are inadequate to the urgent Demands of America and unless a Loan which Dr. F. as well as myself have long laboured for can be effected, I fear that Our Credit will suffer, especially as the Congress have already begun to draw upon the Commissioners for other Objects, than simply the Interest of the Money borrowed in America. Much depends on the success of the Expedition now in hand, I have placed great hopes upon it, and still flatter myself that early as I propose my Return shall be, I shall bring with Me an Account of the British power being wholly reduced in America.
     For Me, whatever happens whither successful, or Not, in favor, or in disgrace Nothing shall divert Me from exerting the utmost of my Abilities such as they are in the service of my Country; or my Study to merit, and cultivate the Esteem and Freindship, of those who like You are its real Freinds. I have the honor to subscribe myself with the most sincere Esteem Dr sir Your most Obedt & Very huml. servt.

      S.D.


Title: To John Adams from Peter McIntosh, 9 April 1778
From: McIntosh, Peter
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Bordeaux 9th. Aprile 1778

     You may recolect when Onboard the Boston that Captn. Tuckar promised me payment for my Chest of Sailors Cloths which Cost me in London Twenty Two Guineas, He gave me only Ten for it and being very scarce of Money here, to carry me Home to England I got my Friend Mr. Gault to advance some for Me and by way of Payment to him I drew on Captn. Tuckar for the Ballance he owed Me say Twelve Guinas which Bill he has Refused to pay. Therefore I would not have troubled You with this providead he had acted Like a Gentleman by Keeping to his word. Mr. Gault Captain Wallas and Myself returns You our Cincear thanks for our Good Treatment when Onboard the Boston and Am with Great Respect Your Most Obedt. Servt.

      Peter McIntosh


Title: Household Accounts of Benjamin Franklin and John Adams at Passy, 9 April – 24 August 1778
From: Adams, John
To:

       9 April – 24 August 1778

      Debit
      Credit

      1778

      Livs.
      s
      d
      Livs.
      s
      d

      Brought forward
      11706.
      18.

      11418.
      17.

      9 April
      To Commissioners by an order upon Monsr. Grand

      4800.

      a Commissioner to Paris
      1.
      10.

      10
      Brunel Joiner for Work done at Passy
      124.
      5.

      Baton for the hire of Carriage and Horses for B. F. 2 Months less one Day
      660.

      Coachman
      3.

      Bringing of Mr. Adams’s Things from Paris
      3.
      12.

      15
      Dr. Franklin’s Shoemaker for Work brought home
      36.

      16
      Wheel-Wright for Work done for Mr. Deane
      168.

      Advanced Madame Lefark in Part of Account for Family Expences
      240.

      Pair of Shoe Buckles for Mr. John Adams. (Silver)
      36.

      Pair of Knee bucklesfor Do. (Stone)
      18.

      22
      Advanced John Adams Esqr
      480.

      23
      Wood Merchant
      440.

      Benjamin F. Baches’s Schooling
      451.
      18.

      24
      Dumont, his Wages from 10th. Decr. to 10th. April. his Allowance for Wine during that time and Washing from 10. Feb. to 10. April Likewise his Account of his Dinners, when at Paris-The whole ammounting to
      174.
      5.

      John Chandler by order of the Commissioners, to bear his Expenses to Bourdeaux
      180.

      25
      Made. Lefark for Washing for B. F. and Grandson from 14. Novr. to 14. March
      57.
      4.

      Nine hundred Glass Bottles for the Burgundy Wine
      243.

      1 May
      Advanced Made. Lefark in part of Account of Family Expences
      360.

      Hire of Horses for Mr. Silas Deane (by Account)
      120.

      Hill, Taylor, the Remainder of Mr. Silas Deanes Account
      278.

      4
      St. Louis, his Wages &ca. from 21 March to this Day
      34.
      12.

      St. Louis Account of his Dinners when obliged to dine from home
      41.
      18.

      Advanced B. Franklin
      72.

      6
      To Commissioners by an Order upon Mr. Grand

      4800.

      Advanced Mr. John Adams
      480.

      7
      Paid Blondin the remainder of his Account when in the Service of Silas Deane Esqr.
      414.
      1.

      Blondin´s Brother, Servant likewise of Mr. Silas Deane his Account
      244.
      16.

      Mr. Silas Deanes Account with the Sadler for Work done
      6.

      B. Franklin’s Account with Sadler
      11.
      10.

      8
      Dinner for some Americans at Versailles when Mr. Adams was presented to the King
      24.

      11
      Mr. Holker’s Account of Expences for conveying the Mocurr" rend="CSS(vertical-align: bottom)ent of General Montgomery from Paris to Rouen
      184.
      11.

      12
      Washerwoman
      18.

      13
      Advanced Me. Lefark in part of Account of Family Expences
      480.

      14
      Half a Pound of Sealing Wax and other Stationers Ware
      6.

      15
      Mr. Chaumont for I. Months hire of Carriage and Horses
      336.

      18
      Washing
      24.

      Passing the Ferry in going to Sourenne
      16.

      19
      Advanced Bn. Franklin
      288.

      Three Hatts for B. Franklins Coachman and Servants
      33.

      Stationers Ware
      13.

      Advanced Me. Lefark in part of Account of Family Expences
      1200.

      21
      Blank Book
      4.
      0.
      0

      22
      Maps of Europe and others
      12.
      10.

      30
      For the keeping of the Bay Horse from 1st. March to 10th. May at 30 Sols pr. Day.
      105.

      Postage of Letters that come under Cover to Mr.Chaumont
      32.

      4 June
      Dennis. (the Froteur,) his Wages from 26 Novr. 77. to 26 May 78 including Wine. Washing &ca
      159.
      6.

      5
      Advanced Me. Lefark in part of account of Family Expences
      360.

      Blondin. for I. Month in B. Franklin’s Service. including Wine Washing &ca
      61.
      17.

      6
      Dumont. his Account of Dinners. when from home. Postage of Letters. & other small Expences
      44.
      13.

      9
      Mr. Whithall, for Books for B. Franklin
      75.

      15
      To Commissioners by an Order upon M. Grand

      4800.

      Gave a poor Sailor from Dunkirk, by order of B. Franklin
      6.

      B. Franklins Shoemaker
      18.

      Advanced B. Franklin
      1800.

      Subscription for the Courier de 1’Europe
      48.

      19
      Paid Made. Lafark the Remainder of her Account for Family Expences from 8. of March to 8th. of this Month
      2246.
      15.

      (N.B. Her providing the Family ceased the 8. Day of this Month.)

      22
      Pd. Calais his Dinners when from Home, and Money he had advanced in paying Expresses to Versailles and Paris
      32.
       6.

      4 July
      Pd. Monsr. Brillon for 5 Vol. of Atlas Maritime
      120.

      5
      Pd. B. Fs. Washing from 18 May to this Day
      60.
      7.

      9
      Stationers Ware as by Account
      57.
      16.

      10
      Pd. the Tapissier for 6 Months hire of 2 Beds and other Charges
      78.

      13
      La Veuve Soubrilland, Traiteur, on Account of Silas Deane
      12.
      11.

      Silas Deanes Account with Blacksmith, at Passy
      80.
      10.

      B. Franklins Account with Do
      37.

      20
      Advanced Monsr. Montaigne (Maitre D’Hotel) in Part of Account of Family Expences
      288.

      22
      Pd. Calais, Dinners when from home and other small Charges
      48.

      8 August
      To Commissioners by an Order from upon M. Grand

      4800.

      Pd. M. Montaigne (Maitre d’hotel) the Family Expences from 8. June to I. July, having deducted the 288. Livs. Advanced him the 20. of June
      737.
      8.

      To Do. for Postage of Letters and Expresses to Versailles and Paris from 8th. of June to 1st. July
      283.
      11.

      To Do. for Family Expences from 1st. July to 1st. August
      2346.
      5.

      N.B. The Dinner of the 4. July, to Celebrate American Independency, amounts to 600 Livs. 7. Sols and is included in the Above Sum.

      M. Montaigne for Postage and Expresses from 1st. July to 1st. Agust
      127.
      14.

      Pd. Dumont (on his Departure) his Wages from 10 April to 10 August. Likewise his Account of Dinners when from home and other small Expences. the whole amounting to
      154.
      19.

      12
      Pd. Bowin, for 29 Cord of Wood, bought last June at Boulogne, at the Rate of 40 Livs. pr. Cord
      1160.

      Gave the Commis. to drink
      1.
       4.

      24
      Pd. B. Franklin’s Washer woman in part of Account
      39.
      15.

      Livs. 30332.
      13.

      Livs. 30618.
      17.

      Ballance due to Commissioners
      Livres 286.
       4.

      Error in the Article of the 6 Feb. 78. in putting the 88 Louis in livres—having put 30 Less—Deduct 30.
      Errors excepted
      Passy Septr. 14th. 1778
      W. T. Franklin


Title: The Commissioners to C. W. F. Dumas, 10 April 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Dumas, Charles William Frederic

     Passy, 10 April 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:44–46. Drafted by Benjamin Franklin and, according to Adams, “the only public Letter I believe which he wrote while I was with him, in that Commission,” it began by informing Dumas of Adams’ arrival and reporting on his voyage. The Commissioners then noted that the appointment of a minister to the Netherlands had been moved in the congress, but had been postponed until the sentiments of the Dutch government were known in order to avoid embarrassment. They pointed to the Franco-American treaties as evidence of the stability of American independence and expressed the American desire for close, friendly relations based in part on the similarities of “Circumstances and Constitutions.” Citing the advantages to the Netherlands of engaging in commercial intercourse with the United States, the Commissioners hoped that arms shipments could soon be resumed in order to remove any unfavorable impressions of Dutch intentions caused by their abrupt curtailment. Finally, the letter emphasized the strength of the Continental army and the fact that over 10,000 British troops were held prisoner.
     Charles William Frederick Dumas was the American agent at The Hague and a tireless advocate of the American cause (see sketch in Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 3:9–10). The importance of this letter stems from Dumas’ use of it in obedience to instructions from the Commissioners, as well as from the enclosed draft letter to the Grand Pensionary, Pieter van Bleiswyck. Dumas had advised the Commissioners to draft such a document in letters of 3 and 7 April (Cal. Franklin Papers, A.P.S.I. Minis Hays, comp., Calendar of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin in the Library of the American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia, 1908; 5 vols., 1:388, 391) and was here asked to approve it. See Dumas’ reply of 23 April and the final version of the letter to van Bleiswyck of 28 April (both below).
     The letter bears the earliest date of those copied into Lb/JA/4 (Microfilms, Reel No. 92), which contains copies of the Commissioners’ official correspondence between 10 April 1778 and 12 Feb. 1779. This Letterbook was later copied by John Thaxter and sent by Adams to the president of the congress in a letter of 7 Nov. 1779 (PCC, No. 84, I). It is one of two Letterbooks in a green binding (for the second, see JA to William Vernon, 12 May, calendared below) that Adams probably obtained on 9 May when he paid for “two blank Paper Books,” apparently because the “Business of the Commission had been delayed and neglected in a manner that gave me much uneasiness” and he was determined to put its affairs in order. JA made this comment in his Autobiography immediately before inserting a letter to Bersolle of 3 May (calendared below). That letter was the first copied into this book and apparently represents Adams’ initial effort to review the Commissioners’ files in order to bring the record of their correspondence up to date (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 2:327; 4:88). The presence in this Letterbook of a letter to Dumas of 10 April indicates that Adams decided that he should include letters sent even earlier than 3 May. This conjecture is supported by the dates, number, and order of the letters. Those for 10 (2) and 13 (5) April appear after
       the first and second

       letters of 19 May and before that of the 22d, and
       the first and second

       letters of 19 April appear between those of 16 and 23 June. This order seems to indicate that, on two occasions following the letter of 19 May, Adams decided to insert the letters that had gone out before 3 May, but managed to copy only nine. The failure of his effort can be seen in the absence of any Letterbook copies of the Commissioners’ correspondence between 19 April and 3 May, although it is clear from incoming letters that they were writing; thus a portion of their correspondence for the period is probably lost. For additional information on this Letterbook, particularly its use by John Adams to record drafts of the Commissioners’ correspondence and Arthur Lee’s contributions, see Introduction and notes 33 and 34.


Title: To John Adams from William Vernon Jr., 10 April 1778
From: Vernon, William Jr.
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Bourdeaux April 10th 1778

     After having consulted Persons who are well acquainted with the Commerce of both Bourdeaux and Nants, and the principal Houses in each, I have resolved to settle in this place, and accordingly I have chosen the House of Messrs. Feyers freres, provided they will agree to receive me into their family, for I am informed it is not the custom of this House to allow their Clerks the priviledge of boarding with them, which to me would be particularly disadvantagious, for should I live at a public boarding House, it is probable there would be either English or Americans there, who would certainly prevent me from learning the Language as soon as I otherwise should; if you will take the trouble of mentioning this particular in your letter to those Gentlemen, I shall esteam it a favour; it will be my study to give them the least trouble possible and to gain the good will and regard of the family.
     If they should decline to take me into their House, I imagine it would be better to look for another of reputation, than loose so principal an advantage; your advice upon this head will be gratefully acknowledged. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect your most obedient most humble Servant

      William Vernon junr.


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 10 April 1778
From: Bondfield, John
To: First Joint Commission at Paris

      Hond Sirs
      Bordeaux 10th Apl 1778

     Upon Mature deliberation and the advise of Experienc’d Officers at this Port Captain Tucker has alter’d his resolution of laying the Ship a Ground, as there are proper Conveniences to heave down large Ships he has brought his Ship up to the Hulks and getting all ready to have her hove down next Week which he and the Carpenter tels me will take eight Days. I therefore hope we shall get her out of the Carpenters hands before the Easter Holidays.
     The Captain has order’d the respective officers to make out their returns for the Stores wanted provissions excepted that Object entirely depending on your Honors Instructions all which will be duely Provided. The Schooner Ann, John Widger from Edenton arrived at this Port the 8th Instant he left Edenton 8 March. Brings no inteligence of any Nature had only two Letters on board and no Papers he mentions the Arrival of several Ships from France at that Port but knows not the Names of Ships or Masters. A small schooner left No. Carolina with him for this Place whose Captain we hope will be more Inteligent.
     A little Jersey Privateer that has infested this Coast lately has taken two french Vessels coming from Bilboa to this Port with Tobacco.
     The Officers of the Tobacco Farm Insisted of Captain Tuckers entering and Landing the Ships provission of that Article. I have waved Complying and the Officers have assented to wait for Instructions from their respective Boards on this head. In like manner permit me to request your honors Instructions for my Government in future.
     Should it be agreable that an Extra Stock of Medecines and Slops be shipt per the Boston as any quantity of each may be colected on Short Notice your pleasure shall be strickly adher’d too.
     The Underwriters have got the premiums up to so exorbitant a Pitch that unless Government will grant a Convoy the Trade with the United States will entirely Cease. The premiums at present to America only are 50 per Cent consequently to cover the amount of the outfit requires an equal advance for the Insurance. Freights thereby are proportiond a vessel of two Thousand pounds Value requireing four Thousand pounds Capital that in reality four Capitals for One or Sales @ 400 per Cent will not more than realize the Outfit and the same with the return Cargoes, which returns are so uncertain that none but Men of very extensive Fortunes can embark without Risque of Failing, and the Opulent Merchants from a regular path werein their Capitals are advantageously employ’d are not very Anxious to embark where such heavy Charges lay against them, with humble Submission permit me to recommend your honors perticular attention to this object as a means to greatly encrease the adventures from France.
     Captain Tucker has on board a quantity of Pig Iron if you approve a quantity say Twenty Ancors of proper Sizes may be purchased here very reasonably and taking out as much of the pig Iron as will nearly pay the value of the Ancors replace the object of Balast for which the Iron was put on board with good dry  Gravel. I have mentiond it to Capt. Tucker who commends the exchange.
     A french Ship from the West Indies Arriv’d last night fell in with an American Twenty Gun Ship to the Eastward of Cape Finister bound for France which ship may be hourly expected in some port on this Coast. I am Your honors Most Obedient & respectful Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: Benjamin Franklin and Arthur Lee to Vergennes, 10 April 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur
To: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de

      Sir
      Passy, April 10. 1778

     We have the Honour to acquaint your Excellency, that Mr. Adams, appointed by the Congress to replace Mr. Deane in the Commission here, is safely arrived, and purposes to wait upon you as soon as recovered a little from the Fatigue of his Voyage.
     The Ship in which he came is a Frigate of 30 Guns, belonging to the Congress. In her Passage she took a large Ship from London to New York, with a Cargo valued at 70,000 £ Sterling.
     The Congress had resolved to detain General Bourgoyne and his Army for Breach of Capitulation; and have now in all above 10,000 Prisoners of the Enemy in their Hands. The Remainder of the British Troops continue closely pent up in New York and Philadelphia, and in a suffering Condition for Provisions.
     Mr. Adams brings, among others, the enclos’d Resolutions of Congress, which it may be agreable to your Excellency to see. They will probably discourage the English Ministry in their Projects of tempting the Commissioners here, or the Congress there, to enter into Treaties, wherein every thing was propos’d to be granted us, except Independence. They have met with no Encouragement here, and it is from these Resolves certain they will meet with none there, especially after the Treaties come to be known, which Mr. Adams is confident will be ratified immediately.
     We have the Honour to be, with the greatest Respect, Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servants

      B Franklin
      Arthur Lee


Title: Samuel Tucker to the Commissioners, 11 April 1778
From: Tucker, Samuel
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      On Board Ship Boston, Burdeux April. 11th. 1778

     These may serve to inform your Honours of my present Situation, and how far advance’d, in Readiness; I am at the Pantoon and shall Careene my Ship on Tuesday next, and Expect by the last of the Week to have her finished as to heaving down; after that I hope in a short Time to be prepared for Sea. My Ship and Riging being so much shatered, it will take me some Time longer then I imaganed to get in Readiness, but having a Gentleman (John Brondfield Esqr.) to apply to who exerts himself in every Measure for the befenfit of the Ship will Expedite my geting ready. I hope your Honours may have Dispatchd Capt. Palmes before this comes to Hand. I should be extremely happy to hear from Paris. There is a small Schooner arrived here from Charlestown South Carolina, thirty Days passage, I’ve had a short Conversation with him, he brings us nothing new about our American Affairs, we have it here that four Days Past a Guernsey Privatere took two Spaniars from Bilboa and one small Brig from Bayone off the Mouth of this River. I’ve nothing more to add at Present, but Remain with the Greatest Respect, Your Honours Obedient Humble Servent

      Saml Tucker


Title: Benjamin Franklin and John Adams to J. P. Mercklé, 13 April 1778
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John
To: Mercklé, Johannes P.

     Passy, 13 April 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:52. In replying to Mercklé’s letter of 26 March (Cal. Franklin Papers, A.P.S.I. Minis Hays, comp., Calendar of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin in the Library of the American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia, 1908; 5 vols., 1:382), the Commissioners stated their desire to have nothing further to do with his affairs.
     Mercklé, described by JA as “a Dutchman and another Adventurer, who applied to Us for Assistance, without any fair Claim to it,” in May 1776 had applied to the congress and apparently convinced the Committee of Commerce to allow him to act as a commercial agent in Europe (Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:53; JCCWorthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789, Washington, 1904–1937; 34 vols., 4:403; Samuel Flagg Bemis, “Secret Intelligence, 1777: Two Documents,” Huntington Library Quarterly, 24:239 [May 1961]). By April 1778 the Commissioners had concluded that Mercklé was unfit to serve the United States in any capacity (Silas Deane to the Committee of Secret Correspondence, 10 Jan. 1777; Arthur Lee to Richard Henry Lee, 6 March 1777, Deane PapersPapers of Silas Deane, 1774–1790, in New-York Historical Society, Collections, Publication Fund Series, vols. 19–23, New York, 1887–1891; 5 vols., 1:455; 2:21; Commissioners to the Committee of Secret Correspondence, 17 Jan., 4 March, 7 Oct. 1777, Wharton, ed., Dipl. Corr. Amer. Rev.Francis Wharton, ed., The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States, Washington, 1889; 6 vols., 2:248, 278,405). For Mercklé’s reply and his effort to influence JA in his favor, see 27 April (below).


Title: The Commissioners to John Ross, 13 April 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Ross, John

     Passy, 13 April, 1778. printedJA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:50–51. In replying to a letter from Ross (not found) requesting compensation for monies spent and the return of papers taken by William Lee from the estate of Thomas Morris, who had died on 31 Jan., the Commissioners noted that Lee’s being in Germany made it impossible to deal with the question of the papers, and they requested that Ross put his accounts in order and submit them at once.
     John Ross, originally from Scotland and later a Philadelphia merchant and sometime agent of Willing, Morris & Co., had been employed by the Commissioners to produce clothing and munitions at Nantes (Papers of Robert Morris, ed. E. James Ferguson, Pittsburgh, 1973– , 1:169). For additional details concerning this increasingly bitter dispute, see the Commissioners to Ross, 3 May (calendared below), and Ross’ letters to the Commissioners of 18 Aug., note 3 and references there (below), and of 8 Oct. (ViU: Lee Papers).


Title: The Commissioners to Samuel Tucker, 13 April 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John,Lee, Arthur,Franklin, Benjamin
To: Tucker, Samuel

      Sir
      Passi, near Paris April 13. 1778

     We duely received your Letter, dated at Bourdeaux the 1st. Instant, and congratulate you, on your Safe Arrival, as well as on your good Fortune in taking, the Ship Martha, which We wish Safe to Port.
     We approve of your Zeal and Industry in taking upon you to get the Frigate, as far in Readiness as possible, for the Sea, during the Absence of Captain Palmes.
     As the Number of your Men, has been reduced to So small a Compliment, We recommend to you to engage as many, at Bourdeaux by honourable Means, as possible, and proceed to Sea.
     If your ship was fully manned, and in all Respects fitted for such a Cruise, We should recommend to you to take a Voyage towards the Entrance of the Baltic, or some other distant Seas, where the Ships Company might have an opportunity, of making ample Profits to themselves, as well as acquiring the Honour of Serving their Country in her most essential Interests, by Striking an important Blow to her Enemies. But We leave this entirely to your Discretion, as We do also an attempt to take or destroy any considerable Part of the Enemies Fishery at the Banks of Newfoundland, or any of the Seas adjacent.
     Having mentioned these Things, We leave it entirely to your own Judgment, to plan your Voyage homewards, and to touch at such Ports as you shall think necessary, in France, Spain, the West India Islands or North America, recommending it to you to do every Thing in your Power, to take as many Prizes as possible, and to get into safe Ports as many as you can man, and destroy all others. You are to be carefull to make Prisoners of all officers Passengers and seamen, who are British subjects on Board the Vessells you may take, and transport them to America, that they may be exchanged for our brave, but unfortunate Brethren, in the Hands of the Enemy.

     We recommend Mr. M. Livingston as your first Lieutenant, if upon Examination you find no Objection to him: the other Places you will fill up as you think best for the Service.
     You will take particular Care that these orders may not, in Case of Misfortune which God forbid, fall into the Hands of the Enemy. We wish you, a prosperous Voyage and are, sir, your humble servants

      B Franklin
      Arthur Lee
      Adams, John


Title: The Commissioners to Jonathan Williams, 13 April 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Williams, Jonathan

     Passy, 13 April 1778. printed: JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 4:51. The Commissioners informed Williams, Benjamin Franklin’s greatnephew and American commercial agent at Nantes (see sketch in Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 2:228), that because their funds were low Williams was to expend no further monies and that he was to close his accounts “for the present.” The Commissioners enclosed a copy of an agreement with Mr. Mercier, but reported that no record of an agreement between Silas Deane and Monthieu could be found.
     The Commissioners were probably answering Williams’ letter of 31 March (Cal. Franklin Papers, A.P.S.I. Minis Hays, comp., Calendar of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin in the Library of the American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia, 1908; 5 vols., 1:386). The effort to end Williams’ activities and settle his accounts dragged into August, involving him in a bitter dispute with Arthur Lee that led to a complete break between the two men. See Williams to the Commissioners, 18, 28 April; the Commissioners to Williams, 25 May (calendared); Arthur Lee to JA, 5 July, 7 Aug.; and Benjamin Franklin and JA to Ferdinand Grand, 10 July (all below).


Title: Étienne d’Audibert Caille to the Commissioners, 14 April 1778
From: Caille, Étienne d’Audibert
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

     Cadiz, 14 April 1778. RC (PPAmP: Franklin Papers). This letter, addressed to Franklin, Deane, and Lee, was docketed by JA: “Memoire Mr. Daudibert Caille. to be sent to the Emperor of Morocco.” D’Audibert Caille proposed that he be authorized to conclude an agreement with the Emperor of Morocco “aux mêmes conditions que plusieurs autres Puissances l’ont faitte avec ce Souverain” to protect American ships and seamen while also promoting trade.
     D’Audibert Caille was appointed consul for foreign nations by the Emperor in 1778 and, ca. 1785, William Carmichael apparently empowered him to act as American correspondent in Morocco (John Jay to the president  of the congress, 30 Nov. 1780, and enclosures, Wharton, ed., Dipl. Corr. Amer. Rev.Francis Wharton, ed., The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States, Washington, 1889; 6 vols., 4:169–174; d’Audibert Caille to Benjamin Franklin, 6 July 1784; and to William Carmichael, ca. 1785, Cal. Franklin Papers, A.P.S.I. Minis Hays, comp., Calendar of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin in the Library of the American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia, 1908; 5 vols., 3:201;4:327).
     Although there is no evidence that any action was taken on this letter, relations with the states of North Africa were important in regard to American Mediterranean trade and had been dealt with in both the Treaty Plan of 1776 and the Franco-American Treaty of Amity and Commerce of 1778. It was not, however, until ratifications of the Franco-American treaties were formally exchanged on 17 July that the Commissioners concerned themselves with the question. Then they invoked Article 8 of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce, which required the King of France to use his good offices with the Emperor of Morocco and other North African rulers. Not until 1786 did the United States negotiate a treaty with Morocco (vol. 4:292; Miller, ed., TreatiesHunter Miller, ed., Treaties and Other International Acts of the United States of America, Washington, 1931–1948; 8 vols., 2:8–9, 185–227; Ralph Izard to the Commissioners, 25 Aug.; the Commissioners to Izard, 25 Aug.; and the Commissioners to Vergennes, 28 Aug., all below).


Title: The Commissioners to John Bondfield, 15 April 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Bondfield, John

      Sir
      Passi near Paris Ap. 15. 1778

     We had this Moment the Pleasure of your Letter of the 10. Instant.
     You will please to furnish Captain Tucker, all such necessary Provisions for his future Voyage, as he shall require, recommending to him at the same Time, as much Frugality as may consist with the public service.
     We approve of your Proposal of exchanging the Ballast of Pigg Iron for Anchors as these are much wanted in America.
     We should Advise you to ship on Board the Boston a Chest of Medicines, and slops for the Use of the ships Company, acquainting Captn. Tucker with the Prices that he may know how the Sailors are to be charged.
     The other subject of your Letter shall be, attended to as soon as may be. We are &c.


Title: Vergennes to the Commissioners, 15 April 1778
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Versailles Le 15. avril 1778

      J ai lhonneur de vous renvoyér Messieurs, LEcrit Anglois et La lettre de Votre ami que vous m’avés fait Communiquér par M. de Sartine. Votre Correspondant Le qualifie exactement Lors qu’il le declare impolitique quant a la france et malignement insidieux par raport aux Etats unis de I amerique; Sous quelque Sens qu on Examine les Ecris, on decouvre par tout l’intention de vous séparér de vos amis. Le Congrès saura Surement Eviter un Ecueil Si propre a rendre votre independance au moins precaire.
      Je suis bien mortifié, Messieurs, de ne m Etre pas rencontré avant hier chez moi Lors que vous m’avés fait lhonneur d’y passér pour me remettre le plein pouvoir de M. Adams. J’ai lhonneur dEtre avec une tres parfaite Consideration Messieurs, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur.

       De Vergennes


Title: The Comte de Vergennes to the Commissioners: A Translation, 15 April 1778
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Versailles, 15 April 1778

      I have the honor to return to you the English document and your friend’s letter which you communicated to me through M. de Sartine. Your correspondent is quite right in declaring it undiplomatic toward France and maliciously insidious toward the United States of America. Whichever way one interprets these documents, the intent of alienating your friends from you seems all pervasive. The congress will no doubt know how to avoid a stumbling-block which would make your independence precarious at best.
      I am very sorry, sirs, that I was not at home two days ago, when I had the honor of your visit to present Mr. Adams’ letters of credence. I have the honor to be with a very perfect consideration, sirs, your very humble and very obedient servant.

       De Vergennes


Title: Joseph Belton to the Commissioners, 17 April 1778
From: Belton, Joseph
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Worthey Gentlemen
      Passy April 17th. 1778

     Being unforunately, on a Voyge from Baltimore to Charles Town, in January last, disabled at sea, through stress of Weather, which occasion’d my faling into the hands of Capt. Man, and carried into Dover in England, and sent on Board the guard Ship in the Downs, a Prisoner, from Whence at length I obtaind my liberty by an order from the board of Admiralty, And being in an enimies Countery, and antious to return to my friends, I fled into this, in the condition of most prisoners, empty in purs (at least of such currency as passes here,) and bairly Cloath’d, relying on the friends of Ameria for assistance; Which I hope worthey Gentlemen you will find it convenient to affoard me assistance, by granting me the lone of about Fifteen Guines, which I will become Obligated to discharge upon my first arrivel in America, or will give a bill upon my Father who resides in the State of Connecticut, and will call upon the thirteen united states as an endorser to the bill, that is I will deposit as much of the States Currency as shall be equivalent to an endorser. Your Assistance worthey Gentlemen will be esteemed as a favour by a Native of Groton in the State of Connecticut, North America, who is Your Most Obedient Humble Servant

      Joseph Belton


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

      Hon Sirs
      Bordeaux 18 Apl 1778

     Yesterday Monsr. Le Comte de Fumel Governor of the Castle call’d at my Lodgings to inform me that Monsieur De Sartine in answer to the Letter he wrote had sent him Instructions to pay all the Honors due to Ships of War of forreign States to the Boston Frigate and to every other Vessel belonging and in the Service of the United States of America, requesting I would give him Notice before the Frigate Sails that he may prepare the return due to her Salute.
     Her Carreen will be finish’d this Evening. The Holidays will break in a little on the other workmen but shall be attentive to get every part executed with dispatch, we are without any Arrivals on this Coast since I had the Honor to write you Last. I am with due Respect your honors Most Obedient Servant

      John Bondfield


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

      Nantes 18 April 1778

     Your Excellencies favour of the 13 Instant I have duely received. You may depend that I shall not make any new Engagements without your express Orders. I apprehend I shall very soon satisfy every demand on the public Account, ’till when I must beg a Continuation of your Approbation of my Drafts on Mr. Grand. Had I not been prevented by Illness my Accounts  would have been at present before you. I hope in about a Fortnight or three Weeks to lay them before you in person.
     I have hitherto employed the Workmen in repairing those of the Arms that required the least Repair, judging that their Value in America depended on their speedy arrival, and by this means I have now between 3 and 400 Cases ready. To finish the whole number compleat would I suppose require at least 2 Years. I have about 40 Men at Work every Day, and I pay them every monday morning, were the operation to be stopped, all these men must be sent at your Expence to their own Homes which are principaly at Leige about 200 Leagues from this, and the arms to remain in their present State would not be worth anything to the public; indeed if we can’t find some method of sending them to America, they can do the Public as little good when repaired. When I come to Paris I will give you the best Information on this and many other Subjects which the sudden Departure of Mr. Deane may render necessary: During his presence you could be well informed of all that is transacted here. I will try to get Freight on board the American Vessells, but do not expect to do much at present.
     I beg Mr. Adams’ acceptance of my Congratulations on his safe arrival. I have the honour to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellencies most obedient & most humble Servant

      Jona Williams

     Nantes April 21. 1778
     P.S. The Letter on the other side was intended for the last Post, but was unfortunately too late. I have nothing new to communicate to your Excellencies and have the Honour to be as before.

      JW


Title: The Commissioners to Gustavus Conyngham, 19 April 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur
To: Conyngham, Gustavus

      Sir
      Passi April 19. 1778

     We have received a Complaint from the remaining Part of your Officers and Crew, of an unfair distribution of Prize Money by Mr. Hodge. To prevent any Such Complaints in future, We desire that you will put your Prizes into the Hands of Messieurs Gardoqui at Bilboa, and into those of the Principal Merchant at Cadiz or Corogne Coruña, directing them to make a Speedy Distribution of the Prize-Money, among the Crew and Account to Us for the public Part. You will inform Us, at the Same Time of their Contents and what they are supposed to be worth.
     We wish to have, immediately an Account of what you have hither to taken, their Supposed Value and to whom committed. You will use your utmost Endeavours to make up your Crew and taking a Cruise where you can with Safety, come to Bourdeaux, Brest or Nantes. We can there examine into your Disputes and settle your future Establishment, with much more ease and Effect. When you make a Prize, you should take Copies of her Bills of loading, or an Inventory of her Contents, by Sending Us copies of which We can check the Merchants Accounts and prevent any Impositions.
     You will inform your ships Company of the Directions We have given to provide for their Satisfaction in future and We wish to be favoured with a Copy of your Commission. We are sir, your most obedient, humble servants

      B Franklin
      Arthur Lee
      John Adams


Title: The Commissioners to John [William?] Hodge, 19 April 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John
To: Hodge, John William

      Sir
      Passi April 19. 1778

     We find by our Bankers Account that you have received upwards of one hundred Thousand Livres of the public Money, for which there is no account from you among the Papers left by Mr Deane.
     Captain Cunningham of the Revenge writes Us, that you have claimed that Vessell as the Property of Mr Ross and you, and under your Direction. It appears too, as well by a Letter from the Merchant at Corogne into whose Hands the Prizes made by that ship were put, as by one dated from thence and Signed by the Remainder of the Crew, that you have assumed to yourself the Produce of those Prizes, and the Distribution, of the Prize Money. In the Execution of this, the ships Company, complains of great Injustice; and that in Consequence of your Conduct, the Vessell is almost entirely abandoned.
     We wish to hear you, before We determine upon the justice of these Complaints and the Propriety of your Proceedings. We therefore desire to have your State of the Matter, and the orders under which you Act, as soon as possible. The Vessell being confessedly half public Property. We shall direct Captain Conyngham touching his future Conduct. It is our desire that the full Prize Money be distributed among the remaining Officers Seamen and Marines, and who engage to abide by the Vessel, without any Deductions, or Reservations, that are not clearly just. We, are, &c.


Title: Vergennes to the Commissioners, 20 April 1778
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       a Versailles le 20 Avril 1778

      J’ai recû, Messieurs, la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’ecrire hier, pour representer l’interet dont il seroit d’assurer pardes Convoys le depart de vos batimens paur L’Amerique. Cet objet regardant uniquement, M. de Sartine, je vais lui faire passér la traduction de votre Lettre, et je Serai tres empressé, a vous faire Part de Sa Reponse. J’ai l honneur d’etre avec une tres parfaite Consideration, Messieurs, Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur.

       De Vergennes


Title: The Comte de Vergennes to the Commissioners: A Translation, 20 April 1778
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Versailles 20 April 1778

      I received, gentlemen, the letter that you did me the honor to write yesterday pointing out the advantages of providing convoys for the security of your vessels leaving for America. This matter concerns M. de Sartine only, I am therefore forwarding a translation of your letter to him and will send you his reply without delay. I have the honor to be with very perfect consideration, sirs, your very humble and very obedient servant.

       De Vergennes


Title: Ebenezer Smith Platt to the Commissioners, 21 April 1778
From: Platt, Ebenezer Smith
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Paris 21st. April 1778

     To the Honorable Commissioners of the United States of America.
     The humble Petition of Ebenezer S. Platt Most Respectfully Sheweth,
     That your Petitioner is a Native of America, and was a resident in the Province of Georgia, in the year 1775, And was Chosen a Member of the Parochial Committee of Savannah, in said Province.
     That in the month of July 1775, A Certain Ship Called the Philippa, whereof one Richard Maitland, was Master, Arrived off Savannah Harbour (Laden with Dry Goods, together with Nine Tons of Gunpowder, Four Hundred Stand of Arms, and some Lead, and Musket Balls) Where she was met by an Armed schooner, fitted out by Congress for that Purpose, who Boarded said ship at Sea, and took out all the Gunpowder, and Deposited it safe in the Magazine at Savannah. The Arms, and Musket Balls still remaining onboard, and for fear they should fall into the hands of People who were Inimicable to the Liberty of America—The Provintial Congress of said Place, (then sitting) thought Proper to send Persons Onboard to Protect the same, And accordingly your Petitioner, with two others of said Committee,  were by them appointed and received a Written Order therefor Signed by the President.
     That in the month of Jany. 1776 Your Petitioner Freighted two Vessels for Cape Nicholas Mole, With Intent to Purchase War-like Stores, and by Permission of Congress, Embarked onboard one of them himself, which unfortunately was taken within a few Leagues of her Destined Port, by his Majestys Ship Maid-stone Capn. Gardner, and Carried into Kingston in Jamaica. Where she was restored to your Petitioner again on Account of her being English Property; tho’ they obliged him to sell his Cargo.
     That your Petitioner in Consequence thereof sold his Cargo, and Purchased a Vessel with Intent, to Proceed back to America, When on the 28 day of March as your Petitioner was Proceeding to Sea, his Vessel was Boarded, and Taken, by a Boat from Onboard the Antelope, Ship of War,—Your Petitioner Carried onboard said Ship, and Confined in Irons, upon an Information laid by Capn. Maitland, of his having been onboard his Ship at Savannah in Georgia by Order of Congress.
     That your Petitioners Ship in Consequence thereof was Sold Without any Account being given thereof to your Petitioner. After which your Petitioner was removed by Habeas Corpus, before the Court at Kingston, Tryed, and Acquited, but for fear of his recovering Damages of the Admiral, was again remanded by the Cheif Justice onboard the Antelope as an Able Bodied Seaman.
     That your Petitioner remained three months longer onboard the Antelope, in Irons, and then was Removed onboard the Boreas, Frigate, And from thence onboard the Palas, Frigate, in which he was Caried to England, and sent onboard the Centaur, and from thence to the Barfleur, and from the Barfleur back again to the Centaur, And from onboard the Centaur sent onshore, and up to London, and Committed to Clerkenwell Bridewell, for two Days, When he was Caried before Sr. John Fielding, and One Justice Addington, and by them Committed on the 23 of Jany. 1777 to Newgate, where he remained fourteen Months in Irons—Destitute of every Family Friend or Connection, and Depending for his Daily support, upon the Charity of a few Humane People.
     That at length through the Interposition of the Committee for the Support of American Prisoners Your Petitioner was set at Liberty, in a Strange Country, Destitute of Money, and every Means of returning to his Native Country. And was by said Committee sent to Paris, Relying upon the Commissioners of America, for Assistance to Enable him to Return Home.
     Your Petitioner therefore hopes you will be Pleased to take his hard Case into Consideration And allow him such Assistance as you in Your Wisdom shall think Fit.

      Ebenezer Smith Plat


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Tucker, 22 April 1778
From: Tucker, Samuel
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Bourdeiux April 22d 1778

     These with my respects to your Honnour. I am Very glad to hear of your Safe arrival at Parris by a Gentleman Who Saw your  Honnour the Evening before you went to Verseils Who acquainted me your Honnour was Very well after your Long Journey and give me a great deal of Pleasure to hear of your Son Mastr. Jackey and Mastr. Jese being Very well as the fatigues of a Long Journey does not agree in General with Such Youth, But Hond Sir I Still Remain on board Ship and Seldom or Ever on Shore. You Honor knowing my Sutivation Situation Equally as well as I Can Explain it to you. The Multiplycity of Business draws my attention Strictly on board at my duty. A Lewtenant Would not be amiss to Ease me of Some of my trouble as the duty falls hard on Mr. Reed without my assistance. I need not Inform your Honnour of the Little trouble being a hardship but Rather a pleasure at Present but on my departing from hence the Offercer will be wanting. Sir if one Could be Recommended I Should be Very Glad but if none I must make it as Easy as Possible. My Offercers at Present and men are all in Good helth the doctor has no duty at Present. Gods name be Praisd. I Remain Your Most Obedt Humble Servt

      Saml Tucker

      NB I Should be Very happy to have a Line or two from your Honnour by the first oppertunity.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 23 April 1778
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Messieurs
       Amsterdam 23e. Avril 1778

      L’honorée vôtre du ioe de ce mois me parvint mardi passé 21e. Je la communiquai tout de suite avec les Pieces annexes au Grand Facteur, qui approuva le tout, et me promit de seconder l’opération par sa puissante intervention et médiation, quand j’aurai rompu la glace en présentant la Lettre: car jusqu’à ce temps il ne faut pas qu’il paroisse s’en mêler. Je partis tout de suite pour ici, où j’ai trouvél’Ami que vous savez, parfaitement dans les mêmes sentimens, et dans les dispositions les plus sincères de me seconder de tout son pouvoir, et de tout celui de sa ville. Je trouve, ainsi que le Facteur, le modele de la Lettre parfaitement bien, et que la démarche viendra le plus à propos du monde, et le plutôt le mieux. II m’a donné en môme temps de fort bonnes instructions sur ce que je devrai ajouter de bouche pour m’assurer de la réussite. Voici done la Lettre de retour—elle est si bien concue, qu’il n’y a pas un mot à changer. Vous aurez la bonté, Messieurs, de la faire mettre au net et en ordre sans perte de temps, et de me l’envoyer signée, et cachetée, avec l’adresse sur le dos en Anglois, telle que je l’ai mise en Francois au dos de votre Minute ci-jointe, laquelle il sera bon de me renvoyer aussi en même temps. Quant à la Lettre ostensible que vous m’avez écrite, Messieurs, je continuerai d’en faire bon usage et notamment aussi aupres de Mr. le Grand Pensionaire, quand je lui présenterai celle que vous m’enverrez pour lui.
      Messieurs du Committé d’Hollande repartirent de Lahaie le 17e En prenant congé du Prince Statholder; il leur a fait mauvais visage, à cause du refus d’augmenter les troupes; ajoutant que ce ne sera pas safaute s’il en arrive du mal à la Republique. Ces Messieurs se retirerent Sans rien répondre, mais en pensant, qu’ils pourraient bien prendre sur eux tout ce qui en arriveroit. Ils se rassembleront à LaHaie le 6 de May. Ainsi il sera bon de me mettre en état, de faire la démarche pendant la Séance, et, s’il se peut dés son commencement.
      Qu’il me soit permis ici de féliciter Mr. Adams de son heureuse arrivée, et de me recommander à ses bonnes graces. Je suis avec le plus respectueux dévouement Messieurs Votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur,

       D

       Je repars pour Lahaie.


Title: From John Adams to the President of the Congress, 25 April 1778
From: Adams, John
To: President of Congress,Laurens, Henry

      Sir
      Passi April 25. 1778

     Having had so short Notice of this Opportunity, I can only have the Honour of writing a few Lines, and of inclosing a few News Papers.
     If the Dispatches of the Commissioners, have not met with uncommon ill Fortune you must before this Time, have received the important News of the Treaty, as well as authentic Information of the Agonies of G.B.
     Whether she will plunge herself, with uniform and consistent Rashness into a War, with this Kingdom and with others, which will in such Case, probably be her Allies, Time must discover.
     They still flatter themselves, at London, with Hopes of dividing America, and they still believe that they have a formidable Interest in that Country. They still expect that their Commissioners will be able to make Parties, and introduce Discord.
     Nay, they yet expect that their Commissioners, will be able to prevent a Ratification of the Treaty.
     But, relying on a general Knowledge of the opinions Principles and Feelings of my Countrymen, and on the Resolution of Congress of the 22. of November, I have ventured, to give my opinion to the Ministry here, that the British Commissioners, would not be attended to and that the Treaty would be immediately ratified.
     This Nation and Court, I have every Reason to believe are Sincerely, and deeply Attached to the American Cause and to the new Alliance between the two Countries. And are determined to hazard much in Support of it. Mr. Deane I hope will reach Yorke Town before this Letter. If he should he will bring with him, the most decisive Proofs, of the Good Will of France both to our Country and to him. I am sir, with the Utmost Esteem and Respect, your most obedient, humble servant,

      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from William MacCreery, 25 April 1778
From: MacCreery, William
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Bordeaux 25 April 78

     I had the pleasure lately to hear of your safe arrival at Paris, and that you were, on the 13th. Instant presented to his Majesty. Hope you have got safe thro’ the fateigues of ceremony attending Courts, which is so apt to be disagreeable to Republicans. It gives me great pleasure, and it will afford yourself not a little satisfaction, that you are not disposed to find fault with customs and manners to which you are a stranger. Some People will fly into a violent Passion for what Frenchman sees no harm in, or for the least mistake made by a Servant, and immediatly Curse the whole Nation. This I’m credibly inform’d has been the Rule of a Gentleman in Paris, whom I have allready mentiond to you and has been the means of procuring him many Enemies. It is, I think, worse than a weakness, and ought to be studiously avoided. A great part, in my opinion, of the Policity of this Politic People consists in conforming themselves to the manners of the People with whom they negotiate, or have any intercourse, and if we consider it a little, what is it that gains on us more than a similarity of manners? You cant please a Frenchman more than by telling him that the French are the most Polite People in the World. It seems to afford him the highest Pleasure, whereas, tell the most of them that they are an Honest People—they won’t know how to take it!
     Altho’ I came here with an intention of settling during the War, beleive I shall soon return. When I left home I had a good prospect of getting effects out to establish a fund here; to enable me to do business by myself, but Chesapeak Bay having been block’d up immediatly after I came away, my Freinds have not been able to send me any thing, and shoud I wait inactive here untill the Navigation there is clear, I may probably loose the fine opportunity which now presents, of making a little Money. Shall therefore try to do something decisive for myself, which will at the same time help my Countrymen. I have not absolutely determined on going yet, but shall soon advise you if I do, that you may have an opportunity of sending any thing you please to America.
     I hope you will pardon the Liberty I take in recommending Mr. Delap of this place for Continental Agent at Bordeaux, believe me that it proceeds not only from an attachment to him, but a regard to ourselves, and of justice, to ourselves, because he is best capable of serving us, from his great fortune, Credit, and Candor. From a Love of justice, because he has endeavourd all along to serve us, and has essentialy  us and made himself a number of Enemies by it. I do presume that  consideration of what little offices I have done, merely as a member of the community, for the Public, You were so very good as to make me an offer of a place in the gift of the Commissioners. I do assure you Sir, that I never had views of any place or any emolument in doing whatever I have, I allways did, and allways will consider it as my duty to serve the Public wherever I’m able in the same manner. And tho’ it woud give me great pleasure to have their confidence reposed in me, and to serve them faithfully, I do not think myself at present capable of undertaking any thing of that nature in their Service. For no one ought to be employ’d at present but Men of Capital and Abilities. Whenever I may be qualified in these essential points, and an opportunity offers of exerting them in the Public Service, most gladly will I accept of any plan that I may be thot worthy of. I am with the greatest Respect D. Sir Your most Obedient and most Humble Servant

      Will M.Creery


Title: Samuel Tucker to the Commissioners, 25 April 1778
From: Tucker, Samuel
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Bourdeuex April. 25. 1778

     I am sorry to Inform your Honours of my Situation, which is now lying with my mainmast out and condemned. I thought proper to get a Jury sufficient to Condemn it, which Consisted of three Captains of Merchent Ships and Six Carpenters and Mr. Brondfield. Till the present Gentlemen, I’ve waited for your Honours Orders, with a clean hold, but this Day for fear of being hurried, I’ve began to take in my Ballast, as I suppose your Honours would have wrote me if your Intentions was to put any meterials on board for America. But not receiving a Line yet, I hope I am not doing amiss, on prepareing for a Cruze. I must acquaint you that my Ship was in a Worse Situation then I thought she was on my Arrival. I would acquaint your Honours that the Officers under his Christian Majesty has taken the Liberty of deluding my Men away and entring them in the Regements of the Irish Brigade. I apprehended five this Day, and I am determined to find out the Officers and enter my Complaint for Satisfaction, as they have taken several of my men before. The above Number were confined in a Private Room four Days and where to Embark to Morrow for St. Martins, but I am happy to think I disappointed them of their Intentions.
     Gentlemen, I should be glad to see Capt. Palmes return, as I wish to heare from your Honours. I am with Respect Your Obedient Humble Servt.

      Saml Tucker


Title: To John Adams from Fleury, 26 April 1778
From: Fleury, François Louis Teissèdre de
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       a St. hipolitte ce 26 avril 1778

      Les nouvelles publiques nous ont apris que le congré des provinces unies vous avoit deputé a la cour de france, ne desprouvés pas je vous prie monsieur que je minforme avec vous, si vous ny auries pas connu mr. defleury qui passa avec la probation de la cour a lamerique il y a environ dix huit mois. Ne refuses pas monsieur a un pere et une mere qui nont que ce seul enfant pour toute consolation de leur en donner des nouvelles sil a eu l’honneur detre connu de vous, et que je vous prie encore que lorsque vous ecrires a votre famille ou a quelqun de vos amis ils vous en donnent des nouvelles n en y ont pas recu nous meme depuis son depart, si contre mes esperances il arrivoit monsieur que mon fils eut besoin dans ce pais la de quelque secours je vous suplie de vouloir bien le lui procurer, detre persuadé de mon exactitude a votre premier avis de vous en faire faire le ramboursement. Je voudrois bien monsieur que vous me missies en meme de vous etre utile pour pouvoir vous convaincre de toute ma reconnoissance a vos bontés et de lattachement avec le quel je suis Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur,

       defleury

       Mon adresse est a mr. defleury conseignieur de la ville de st. hipolitte.


Title: Sartine to the Commissioners, 26 April 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Versailles Le 26 Avril 1778

      J’ai reçu, Messieurs la Lettre que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’écrire le 20 de ce mois.
      Lorsque la Sommation a été faite à Bordeaux, par les Officiers du Siège de l’Amirauté, à la Frégate des Etats-unis, Le Boston; les ordres du Roi n’etoient point encore parvenu dans ce Port, de traiter les Vaisseaux de guerre appartenant à ces Etats, comme ceux des Etats libres—alliés de la France. Ces ordres Se sont croisés, sans doute, avec le Lettre qui vous a été écrite de Bordeaux pour vous faire part de la démarche de l’Amirauté, qui n’aura point eu d’autre Suite aussitôt que les Intentions du Roi auront été connues. Je dois vous observer que dans tous les cas, il sera nécessaire que les Bâtimens Américains qui aborderont dans nos Ports, Se légitiment pour Vaisseaux de guerre des Etats-unis, lorsqu’en effet ils leur appartiendront; car vous n’ignorez pas que s’ils étoient purement Corsaires, ils rentreroient dans l’ordre des Bâtimens particuliers appartenant à d’autres Etats, qu’on ne force pas à Saluer; mais auxquels les Places et Forteresses ne rendent point de salut, lorsqu’ils le font. J’ai l’honneur d’être avec la plus parfaite considération, Messieurs, votre très humble & très obeissant Serviteur.

       de Sartine


Title: Sartine to the Commissioners: A Translation, 26 April 1778
From: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John

       Versailles, 26 April 1778

      I have received, gentlemen, the letter that you did me the honor to write on the 20th of this month.
      When the United States frigate Boston received a summons from the officers of the Admiralty Headquarters in Bordeaux, the King’s orders to treat men-of-war belonging to the United States as those of free countries—allies of France—had not yet reached that harbor. These orders must have crossed the letter sent to you from Bordeaux informing you of the démarche of the Admiralty, which will be without effect as soon as the intentions of the King are known. However, I must inform you that American vessels which drop anchor in our harbors must in any case identify themselves as men-of-war of the United States, when indeed they belong to them, for you know that if they were only privateers they would enter the category of private vessels belonging to foreign states, which are not compelled to salute and to which the stations and fortresses never return a salute even if given. I have the honor to be, gentlemen, with the most perfect esteem, your very humble and very obedient servant.

       de Sartine


Title: To John Adams from J. P. Mercklé, 27 April 1778
From: Mercklé, Johannes P.
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Amsterdam 27th April 1778

     I have the honor to note yours and Mr. Franklin Joint favour of the 13th Instant, but before I enter into particulars permit me to Congratulate you on your safe Arrival in Europe.
     I think, Sir, ’tis a duty I owe to you as also to my own Interest to make you Acquainted with the Purport of several letters I have had the honor to Address to Messrs. Deane and Franklin on the subject of a Number of Musketts I bought up at this place (by Contract) for the Congress, as also to point out to you in a true light in what manner your business is transacted in this City, by the house of Hornica fils & Co. I am fully persuaded, Sir, that had it not been for this house; this last parcell of Musketts would have been forward long are this; but those Gentlemen have taken upon them to say that they were Unmerittable and would not Answer the end intended. The Reason they give for this is the most frivilous Immaginable vizt. that the Musketts have not been proved. Happily, I have it in my power to Convince you to the Contrary, which many very respectable Merchants here would Attest provided their Evidence was Necessary. I am fully pursuaded there never was or has been better Musketts or better Work Shipped since the Commencement of this War, or at a more reasonable price,—however, I very plainly preceive the intention of Mess. Hornica & Co. in giving their Negitive to my forwarding them to France on your Account. As they Immagine ’twould be taking a Commission and Business out of their hands. This, Sir, was never my Intention or desire; and my Sole reason in being so desirous and urgent to the Commissioners before your arrival at Paris, Arose from the Embarras I was So unexpectly thrown into for the payment of the Musketts. I am sorry to say I have been Arrested for the Amount, and was Obliged Against my Intention and Interest to take up money to discharge the Same, at a very unreasonable discount. In reallity ’tis very hard that this Loss should fall on my Shoulders, as my only reason in doing the same, was to Assist the Honble. Congress and the American States—whose interest I have ever had at heart. But for the benifit of America, and to Avoid future disputes, I have detirmined to take them at my own risque, for which reason I shall Ship them onboard the first Vessell that sails for Curacoa. I would with the greatest pleasure have put them onboard my own Vessell, but by the last treaty between England and these States, such Merchandiz is prohibited. This Should not have Prevented me from doing it, was not my expedition from hence very Considerable (Say £30,000 Sterling) and these Articles might be the Means of my Ships being brought up in England, and Occasion a detention, which detention in Loss of time &c., would be Attended with more Expences than the real Value of the Musketts. This Sir is a true state of the Affair and which has caused my long stay here. I Cannot Conclude this long letter without Observing that the House of Hornica has treatened me in a Most unpresedented manner, nearly to an exclosure of my present expedition to Sir Jos: Yorke at the Haye. I’ll not trouble you any longer on this head, but leave it to yourself to Judge what kind of people you have in this City to transact Your business. I could make many other Observation here, but Immagined have already tired your patience. I shall therefore Conclude, wishing you all health and happiness, and believe Me to be Dr Sir Your very Obedt. servant

      Joh. Ph. Mercklé


Title: The Commissioners to Pieter van Bleiswyck, 28 April 1778
From: First Joint Commission at Paris,Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur
To: Bleiswyck, Pieter van

      Sir
      Paris, 28th. April 1778

     We have the Honour of acquainting your Excellency, that the United States of North America, being now an Independant Power, and acknowledged as such by this Court, a Treaty of Amity and Commerce is compleated between France and the Said States, of which we shall speedily send your Excellency a Copy, to be communicated if you think proper to their High Mightinesses, for whom, the United States, have the greatest Respect, and the Strongest Desire that a Good Understanding may be cultivated, and a mutually beneficial Commerce established between the People of the two Nations, which, as will be seen, there is nothing in the above mentioned Treaty to prevent or impede. We have the Honour to be with great Respect, Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servants

      (Signet) B. Franklin
      Arthur Lee
      John Adams
      Plenipotentiaries from the UnitedStates of North America.