Title: From John Adams to Edmé Jacques Genet, 4 January 1779
From: Adams, John
To: Genet, Edmé Jacques

       Passy, 4 January 1779

     The resolve of Congress of the 10 October, that you have inserted in your No. 62 is another Forgery. It has internal Marks of it enough.
     1. Congress are not so much allarmed. They know the Ennemy have not the Power, tho they very well know they have the Will to do the Mischief.
     2. Congress, would never recommend the building of such Hutts. There are Houses enough in the Country to receive the Inhabitants of the Towns, even in Case of such an Extremity.
     3. Congress would never recommend the Burning the Houses of the Tories. They would sooner banish or Harry them and confiscate their Houses to carry on the War.
     A simple glance is sufficient to any Man who knows the country and the Congress to perceive Marks of the Beast, in such ridiculous Fictions. Yet they impose of British Mobs, Ministers and Members of Parliament.

      John Adams


Title: The Commissioners to J. D. Schweighauser, 4 January 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Schweighauser, John Daniel

      Sir
      Passy Jany 4. 1779

     We are honoured with yours of without a date. We wrote you on the Second of this Month to which We refer. We have written to Mr. Gilbank several Times that We could furnish him with no more Money, and that We should protest his Bills. If he will not believe Us, When the Bills arrive if they ever do, which We hope they will not, our Protest Refusal and the consequent Protest Will Convince him. We have been trifled with too much by that Gentleman, and hope We shall be so no more.
     We have made the most pressing application in our Power to Mr. De Sartine, the Ministry, for the Convoy, and hope to suceed, but have not yet an Answer. We approve of your Tenderness to the Prisoners. We wish to hear whether you have recovered the Cargoe of the Therese.


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Cooper, 4 January 1779
From: Cooper, Samuel
To: Adams, John

      My dear Sir
      Boston 4th. Jany. 1779

     Four days ago I received the Favor of your Letter of Aug: 12th., and it gave me the highest Pleasure to hear you were well. The Marquiss de la Fayette will do me the Honour to take the Charge of this Letter who carries with him the Esteem and Affection of the Army and the States. His Intrepidity and Discretion, his Conduct in the Field, in Council, and in all private Circles have gained him an uncommon Reputation. He has done our Country no small Service, and reflected no little Honour upon his own with which at this trying Season we are so happy as to be allied.

     You will know before this reaches you the Affairs of the Count d’Estaing, who is in my Opinion an Officer of great Ability and Merit, and accomplished every Thing that human Prudence and Fortitude could effect in his Circumstances. The Winds and Weather were against him; and tho he felt his Disappointments most sensibly, he commanded himself greatly upon every trying Occasion, and conducted with equal Wisdom and Resolution. He did every Thing in his Power for the Service on which he was sent, and tho not equal to what would have been done, had he arrived sooner, it was yet much. I had the Pleasure of spending a day, not long before he left us with your good Lady and a Number of the Count’s Officers at Col. Quincy’s in Braintree. All admired the good Order, and polite Behavior of the Officers of the Fleet of which the Count gave the Example as well as the Orders Injunction.
     You will see by our Papers that Mr. Deane has opened a public Contest here. He attacks the Family of the Lee’s—and is supported by a Number of Pens. Common Sense defends them—Congress seem to be divided upon this Point—I have had no Letters from any of our Friends there, and know little more than the public Papers. As Mr. Deane is to have an Hearing before Congress,of which he complains he has been denied, the Matter may perhaps be stopped, and the Discussions in the Papers cease. At present we form no Judgement here, and take no Side, waiting for further Information and the Decision of that Body. We must expect Altercations and Divisions of this Kind, and perhaps by awakening in the People a more particular Attention to our public Affairs, they may produce common Good.
     Our Enemies still keep a Garrison in New York and Rhode Island, and the Count it is supposed is now in the West Indies. Byron has been torn to Pieces with Storms, and wasted by Sickness, and was not able to follow the Count till six or seven Weeks after his Departure; The latter had all the Appearance of a good Season off, having escaped by Detention here, the Storm that shatter’d Byron’s Fleet, and obliged him to repair from this Coast to Newport, in Order to refit—Referring you to the Papers, that go by this Opportunity, and to the Marquiss for Details of News, I am, my dear Sir, with the warmest Respect and Attachment, Your most humble servant

      Saml: Cooper


Title: To John Adams from John Boylston, 5 January 1779
From: Boylston, John
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir

       January 5th. 1779

     When I wrote you Per G. Tailer requesting the favour of your Advice and Assistance in procuring him a speedy return to America I did not thereby mean your assistance in any pecuniary Advance but only your recommendation to him of the first good oppertunity for his return to his Native home, as I suspect many Such Juvenile, Volatile, and capricious Subjects, have been and may be to you and your Worthy Colleague very troublesome. Let the said G. T. for this reason know that no Bill on me will be paid of his draft.
     Adieu; my sincerest and best wishes attend you,

      J. B.


Title: The Commissioners to Gabriel de Sartine, 7 January 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Sartine, Antoine Raymond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de

      Sir
      Passy Jany 7. 17789

     We have the Honour to inclose to your Excellency two Memorials concerning a French Vessell retaken from an English Privateer by An American Privateer the Hampden commanded by Captain Pickering.
     As there is nothing in either of the Treaties between his Majesty and the united States, respecting such Rescues and Recaptures the Laws of each State must govern the Cases of the Vessells carried into it, and no La untill Some new Regulation Shall take Place and. The Sale was made before the new Regulations took place and we apprehend that no Law or Ordinance can justly be made to have a Retrospect or a Retroactive Effect.
     We beg the favor of your Excellency to order what appears to you just in this particular case.


Title: John Lloyd and Others to the Commissioners, 7 January 1779
From: Lloyd, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Sirs
      Nantes January 7th. 1779

     Having been induced to believe, and to expect, in consequence of The Treaty of Alliance, Friendship, and Commerce, entered into, by, and between, His most Christian Majesty, and, The Honorable Congress, of The United States of America; That every possible encouragement, and protection would be readily granted, to our Commercial intercourse, with this Kingdom. We presumed, under that confidence to address Monsieur de Sartine, the Minister of the Marine, and Your Honors, to solicit a protection for a respectable number of Vessels, destined with very valuable, and consequential Cargoes, to different States. The Minister did us the honour to acknowledge immediately, the receipt of our letter, but, was pleased to refuse, a compliance with our request. Notwithstanding which, we flattered ourselves, that by the means of your interest, and by the exertion of your influence, at the Court of Versailles, we should obtain it. With that hope, we have waited for Your Honors, explicit information; although we must confess, that it has not been without anxiety, and impatience, as our own, and our Vessels detention, are attended with many disagreeable circumstances, and destructive consequences: insomuch, that we should in future, even prefer the risque of capture, to any reliance upon an application for protection.
     The American Merchants, and Adventurers carry on their Commerce at present, to this Kingdom, under so many disadvantages, that we presume, to think, they ought to have every possible assistance, and attention, and without it is given, and granted to them, we are very apprehensive, that they will be soon discouraged from pursuing of it.
     As we have been induced to say, thus much, Permit us to inform Your Honors, that we are very desirous, to know, What are the particular privileges, benefits, and exemptions to which we are intitled, by virtue of the Treaty of Commerce? As hitherto, we have not found any difference, in the mode of conducting our business, for the same imposts are exacted, which were required, when our Vessels first entered this Port.
     We take the liberty farther to observe, that we think it is essentially requisite, that the Import, and Export Duties for which the Americans are to be held liable to the payment of, should be precisely ascertained, and the same made publick by authority, as well to prevent imposition as for the Merchants government, and satisfaction.
     There are several of us, on the point of embarking for different States, we are therefore solicitous to have Your Honors information, respecting these particulars, that we may carry to America certain intelligence relative thereto, and from the best authority.
     We are, with all due respect Your Honors Most Obedt. and most Hble Servts.

      John Lloyd
      William Blake
      M Livingston
      Laurence Brooke
      Alexr. Dick
      H Thompson
      Jno. Gilbank
      Jno. Ross
      Cha: Ogilvie
      Jos. Wharton
      Danl. Blake
      J. P. Whitall
      Phil Rd. Fendall
      Matthew Mease
      Robert Brooke
      Jas. Grahame


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 9 January 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Sirs
      Bordeaux 9 Jany 1779

     I had the Honor to pay my respects to you the 1st. Instant since which am without any of your Commands. The Convoy for the French Islands left this yesterday and with them three small Cutters for the States of America. We have a Vessel from Edenton arrived at Bayonne sail’d in October of course no News only Tobacco is at ten pounds that Currency the hundred weight by which the Traders in making returns at this day sink great part of their Capital, there is no forming any conjectures to what hight the price of Goods will get to. They are at Present above all conceiption and that Owing to too great an emission of Paper as the motives which produced the quantity are no longer there being more than is nessessary for all emergencies. Could a plan be put in practice to reduce the quantity there might be a prospect of its retaking a Substantial value, its present State is hurtful and affects the Credit in Europe. I saw a return a few days past from Martinico transmitted to a Merchant at this City of the present Circulating Currency in the United States amount Seven hundred Million of Livres, tho’ the sum is incredible yet allowing the prices giving for every Article say near 20 for I taking therefore 19/20ths. from the Sum will make 35 million of livres or one and half Million Sterling a sum that its very probable may exist. The grand difficulty lays how to sink the 19/20ths. and thereby reduce the Current Circulation to its true Standard, it is to be done with ease provided Funds could be raised on this side the Water to support the operation. In the Present Course Forreigners reaping the high Price by their Sales throwing their Stock so accumulated into the Funds of the States become Creditors of Consiquence. Interest paying to them is a dead blank and if management is not timely observed they may become holders of so much as to draw the attention of their respective Goverments who may at an unseasonable Period form a National Debt of it and demand a reimburssment difficult to perform. I am informd Purchases have been made of Continental Paper to very considerable amount at great discompt by Men of the first distinction in the Kingdom who Act not from Momentary Views and from these Circumstances I form my remarks of the danger that may attend heavy debts due contracted to Forreigners in the present reduced State of the Paper Credit.
     From the above digressions permit me to go a little farther. France is now borrowing 40 million of livres. The Loan its said is filld with a considerable Surplus. Has France sufficient confidence in the States that independent of the Sums advanct by convention will she advance a further Sum on the same plan as borrowd for themselves say on Annuities at 8 1/2 and 10 Per Cent could a Capital of two Million be granted and the Money appropriated to the purpose of sinking the Continental Paper not for paying the Interest to Forreigners which tho’ a most favorable plan for giving it Credit in reality only encreases the debt. I dare engage with two Million Livres Capital to sink thirty Million of Paper, This continued for few Years would so change the face of the Country that no difficulty would succeed to execute every Publick Operation dependant on the Funds without any new Emissions.
     Certain Operations are now on Foot that will bring if successful America in debt to France many Millions and if continued must in the end Create a debt that America will find difficult to Cancel. Should the Publick Creditors be neither Landholders nor yet Inhabitants the Natives must be Rackt with Taxes to discharge debts not revertable amongst them but entirely detatcht and reversable in the State to whom the debt is due and that contracted by an advance of 20 for I on the Capital.
     Two young Men Arrived this morning by a dutchmen from Weymouth, they were taken by an English Privateer. The One had a ball thro his thigh the other in the Shoulder. Their situation dont permit them to perform any Labourious service. I shall get them a Passage so soon as oppertunity offers to America being destitute of Money or Credit I shall be assistant to them as far as required. Some allowance in Circumstances of this Nature should be granted.
     The first payment for the fifty six pieces Cannon now Carting Casting by your order is payable in February. Twenty four Thousand Livres for which I shall when wanted Pass my drafts on you. By Letters from Nantes I have the Satisfaction to find the Governor Livingston and the Chasseur were advanct in their Loading and would be ready to Sail when order’d. I was informd a Convoy was appointed. Mr. Livingston writes me it is uncertain. I pray your advices on this head that we may pursue such measures as will be most Seasonable. The Retardment by Contrary Winds have greatly broke in upon our plans, it was intended the ships at this day should have been on the Coast of America. I have the Honer to be with due Respect Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: The Comte de Vergennes to the Commissioners, 9 January 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       a Versailles 9. Janvier 1779

      J’ai reçu, Messieurs, la Lettre, Sans datte, que vous m’avez fait l’honneur de m’ecrire. Ne doutez pas que nous ne prenions son contenu en Consideration, Selon que les Circumstances le permettront: Vous en avez un sûr garant dans l’interet Sincere que le Roi prend à la prosperité des Etats-Unis. J’ai l’honneur d’etre tres parfaitement, Messieurs, vôtre très humble et tres obeissant Serviteur

       De Vergennes


Title: The Comte de Vergennes to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 9 January 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Versailles, 9 January 1779

      I have received, gentlemen, the undated letter that you did me the honor to write. Rest assured that we will, as much as circumstances will permit, take its contents into consideration. You may rely on the sincere interest that the King takes in the prosperity of the United States. I have the honor to be very perfectly, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       De Vergennes


Title: The Comte de Vergennes to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 9 January 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Versailles, 9 January 1779

      I have communicated to M. Sartine, gentlemen, the letter in which you request that an escort be provided for the vessels about to sail, which are bound for ports in the United States. This minister has just replied that it is not possible to provide an escort for the entire crossing, but the vessels in question will be conducted to waters where they can be safe from the attacks of enemy privateers. Therefore, gentlemen, would you be so kind as to indicate to me the ports where these ships, which are about to sail for North America, can be found so that M. Sartine may give orders for the convoys. I have the honor to be very perfectly, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       De Vergennes


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 12 January 1779
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Messieurs
       Lahaie 12e. Janv. 1779

      Les Et. d’Hollande se rassemblent demain. Notre Ami arrive ce soir; et je vais lui souhaitter bon succès. L’on est de plus en plus embarrassé ici. Au lieu d’agréer la Réponse au Memoire, envoyée comme je vous l’ai marqué à Mr. De Berkenrode, Mr. l’Ambassadeur a reçu un Exprès de sa Cour, dont nous saurons bientôt le Message en même temps que le Résultat des Délibérations des Etats d’Hollande. En attendant je vous transcrirrai ici la Note explicative du dit Mémoire, remise par Mr. l’Ambassadeur le 196 Xbre au Grand Pensionnaire, et dont S. E. m’a fait donner copie.
      “Le Roi, déterminé à se procurer une entiere certitude des Résolutions ultérieures des Etats Généraux, se flatte que L. H. P. s’expliqueront d’une maniere nette et précise sur les caracteres de la parfaite neutralité dont Sa Maj. se persuade qu’elles ne veulent pas s’écarter. Elle s’attend qu’elles conserveront au pavillon des Provinces-Unies toute la liberté qui leur appartient comme une suite de leur indépendance, et à leur Commerce toute l’intégrité que le Droit des Gens lui assure, et que les Traités lui confirment. Mais cette liberté deviendroit illusoire, et cette intégrité seroit altérée, si L. h. p. ne la maintiennent pas par une protection convenable, et si elles consentent à priver leurs sujets des convois, sans lesquels ils ne peuvent jouir, dans toute leur étendue, des Droits qui leur sont acquis, et qu’ils réclament. Une Résolution, de quelque nature qu’elle soit, dont l’effet les frustreroit d’une protection aussi légitime, soit pour toutes les branches de leur Commerce en général, soit en particulier pour celle des provisions navales de toute espece, seroit regardée, dans les circonstances présentes, comme un acte de partialité, dérogatoire aux principes d’une absolue neutralité, et entraîneroit inévitablement les consequences annoncées dans le Mémoire qui à été remis à L. H. P. C’est notamment sur cet objet essentiel, et sur l’intention ultérieure d’observer une neutralité ainsi caractérisée, que le Roi demande à L. H. P. une réponse claire et précise.”

       13e.

      L’Assemblée d’aujourd’hui s’est bornée à de simples formalités. Je sai de très-bonne part, qu’Amsterdam aura la permission de commercer aux Isles françhises en Amérique, tant directement, que par voie de St. Eust. et Cur. et j’ai été autorisé d’en avertir certaines maisons amies, pour qu’elles puissent spéculer d’avance là-dessus.

       14e.

      On vouloit résoudre aujourd’hui, à la pluralité, un délai de 4 mois encore quant aux Convois pour les Bois de Construction. Pour le coup, Harlem s’est rangé absolument, et sans réserve, du côté d’Amsterdam; et Alcmar a pris la chose ad referendum: ce qui a beaucoup déplu à un grand personnage présent: le G—— P——se récrioit aussi beaucoup sur cela, et vouloit engager les Députés de cette Ville à accéder au sentimens de la pluralité; mais ils ont allégué les ordres de leur ville, pour s’en excuser. Ceci est cause que la Résolution ne pourra être prise que la semaine prochaine. Elle sera telle, néanmoins, que la Cour de France la regardera comme dérogatoire à la parfaite neutralité; car la pluralité l’emportera toujours; mais alors Amsterdam, Harlem, et peutêtre Alcmar, protesteront, &c.
      Vous voyez, Messieurs, que l’opposition non seulement se soutient, mais gagne du terrein; cette opposition n’étoit presque rien il y a 6 mois; c’étoit un foible roseau, qui ne se soutenoit qu’en pliant lorsque Borée souffloit: aujourdhui c’est un corps solide et robuste, bien appuyé, qui résiste à tous les efforts du Parti Anglois, qui les rompt, et qui parviendra enfin à l’emporter sur ce parti, et rendre à la republique son ancienne dignité.
      Les Anglois Rois de la Mer ont été mal étrennés le jour de l’an par leur sujette: leur flotte pour N. York est presque entierement détruite; et le rivage françois et flamand est couvert de leurs débris. Dieu donne à l’Amérique la paix la plus glorieuse, et à vous, Messieurs, d’être longtemps les joyeux temoins de sa prospérité; ce sera ma joie aussi tant que je vivrai. Je suis avec un trés grand respect Messieurs, Votre trés humble et trés obéissant serviteur

       Dumas


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 12 January 1779
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 12 January 1779

      The States of Holland reassemble tomorrow. Our friend arrives tonight, and I will wish him great success. People here are more and more perplexed. Instead of agreeing to the response to the memorandum, which as I mentioned was sent to M. Berkenrode, the French Ambassador received an express from his court, the contents of which we will soon learn at the same time as the results of the deliberations of the States of Holland. In the meantime, I will transcribe here the explanatory note to the memorandum presented to the Grand Pensionary by the Ambassador on 19 December, and of which His Excellency gave me a copy.
      “The King, determined to obtain complete assurances regarding the future resolutions of the States General, flatters himself that Their High Mightinesses will explain themselves, in a clear and precise manner, on the character of the perfect neutrality from which His Majesty persuades himself that they do not wish to deviate. He expects that they will maintain under the flag of the United Provinces all of the liberties vested in them as a result of their independence; and for their trade, the complete integrity assured them by the law of nations and confirmed by their treaties. However, this liberty could be illusory and its integrity altered if Their High Mightinesses did not maintain it by an adequate protection and decided to deprive their subjects of the convoys, without which they cannot enjoy, to their fullest extent, the rights which they have acquired and which they claim. A resolution, of whatever nature, whose effect would be to frustrate so legitimate a protection, either of all branches of their commerce in general or that in all kinds of naval stores in particular, would be regarded in the present circumstances as an act of partiality, derogatory to the principles of absolute neutrality, and thus would inevitably bring about the consequences set forth in the memorandum which has been delivered to Their High Mightinesses. It is particularly on this essential point and on the subsequent intention to observe a neutrality so characterized that the King requests from Their High Mightinesses a clear and precise response.”

       13 January

      Today’s assembly dealt with simple formalities. I know from a good source that Amsterdam will have permission to trade with the French Islands in America, either directly or by way of St. Eustatius and Curaçao; and I have been authorized to convey this information to certain friendly houses so that they can speculate in advance.

       14 January

      Today the assembly sought to resolve, by a plurality, upon a fourmonth delay in regard to convoys for ships’ timber. For the moment Haarlem has ranged itself absolutely and without reservation on the side of Amsterdam; and Alkmaar submitted the matter ad referendum, thus greatly displeasing an important personage who was present. The Grand Pensionary, himself, also protested and sought to induce the delegates of that town to accede to the judgment of the plurality, but they have cited the orders of their town in excusing themselves. This is the reason that the resolution will not be adopted until next week. It will be such, however, that the Court of France will regard it as being derogatory to perfect neutrality, for the plurality always prevails; but then Amsterdam, Harlem, and maybe Alkmaar, will protest, etc.
      You see, gentlemen, that the opposition is not only powerful, but gains in strength. Six months ago it was virtually nothing; a feeble reed, which survived only by bending whenever the north wind blew. Today it is a force, solid, robust, and well founded, which resists, disrupts, and in the end will prevail over all the efforts of the English party and return to the Republic its former dignity.
      On New Year’s Day the English Kings of the Sea were ill-rewarded by their vassal. Their fleet bound for New York was almost completely destroyed, and the French and Flemish coasts were strewn with its debris. May God give America the most glorious peace, and to you, gentlemen, at long last the joyous evidence of his prosperity, which will also be my greatest joy as long as I live. I am, with great respect, gentlemen, your very humble, and very obedient servant

       Dumas


Title: Ralph Izard to the Commissioners, 12 January 1779
From: Izard, Ralph
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Gentlemen
      Paris 12th. Jany. 1779

     I had the honor of writing to you, on the 2d. instant informing you that the credit which I had received from the Commissioners was exhausted, and that I shoud be obligd to you if you woud let me know whether it was most agreable to you to renew it, or that I shoud draw on you for what money I might have occasion for. As this matter appeard to require no great deliberation, I expected to have been favord with an immediate Answer. I find myself in arrear with the Banker to the amount of 2 or 3000 Livres and think it proper that the Account shoud be settled. I have therefore drawn on you for 500 Louis dores payable to his order, and you will be pleasd either to accept it immediately or inform me that you will not do it, that there may be no time lost in laying the matter before Congress. I have the honor to be Gentlemen yr. most Obedt. Hbl. Servt.

      Signd. Ra. Izard


Title: Arthur Lee and John Adams to William Lee, 13 January 1779
From: Adams, John,Lee, Arthur
To: Lee, William

      Sir
      Passy Jany 13. 1779

     The Letter which you did Us the Honour to write Us on the 15 December, We have received. As We have heard nothing further of the Congress in Germany, which you inform Us was talked of, We presume that no such Measure will take Place.
     However, whether there be a Congress or not, We cannot comply with the Terms of the Gentleman you mention, nor Advise him to take any Steps in the Business.
     We have also the Honour of your Letter of the 9th december, informing Us of your draught upon Us, for Twenty four Thousand Livres, at one Months date payable to Mr. Grand. The Bill of Exchange itself has also been presented to Us, and accepted. We have the Honour to be &C.


Title: The Commissioners to John Lloyd and Others, 13 January 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Lloyd, John

      Gentlemen
      Passy Jany 13 1778 i.e. 1779

     We had Yesterday the Honour of your Letter of the seventh of this Month, and at the same Time that of a Letter from his Excellency the Comte De Sartine Vergennes, Copy of which We inclose. We have this Day written to his Excellency, requesting, that the Convoy may be sent without delay to Nantes, where the Vessells are waiting for it.
     We are very sorry, that the Kings service will not Admit, of a Convoy for the Vessells now Ready at Nantes, quite to America, but We have made Use of several Applications for which favour We have made several Applications, But We hope the Convoy will go beyond the Western Islands.
     We have answered every Letter We have received upon this subject, on the same day on which We received it, or on the next day, and We have transmitted to you, every Intimation We have received concerning it from the Minister, either the same day or the next day following.
     You desire to be informed what Particular Priviledges, Benefits and Exemptions, you are intitled to, by Virtue of the Treaty of Commerce? To which We answer that the Citizens of the United states are not intituled to any Priviledges, Benefits or Exemptions, but such as are stipulated in the Treaty of Commerce. This Treaty is public, and has been printed perhaps in every News Paper in Europe. We send you however an authentic Copy enclos’d.
     Our Countrymen, We suppose are Treated in Relation to duties of Import and Export like other Nations the most favoured in Friendship with France, and like French subjects. But it is extreamly difficult to obtain any Alterations or particular Exemptions in our favour, as the whole affair of Duties and Finances in this Kingdom is a system which it is not easy to alter. If however you will be so good as to state to Us the Duties you have paid, We will lay it before the Minister, and endeavour to obtain the Satisfaction you desire.
     Notwithstanding which Several Branches of American Trade might be carried on with this Kingdom, to more Advantage than any other Country of Europe, and a little Patience however and Perseverance, will insure you and your Posterity forever, the Right of trading to all the Countries of the World, and of preferring such as shall give you the best Terms, instead of being compelled like slaves to carry all the produce of Your Industry to one selfish Land Nation, and to bring purchase all you wanted from one little Spot. That the Year 1779 may produce you such a Blessing, and that you may all arrive safely in our Country, and be there ready to enjoy it, is the Wish of, Gentlemen your Countrymen and most obedient humble servants


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 16 January 1779
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Messieurs
       Lahaie 16 Janv. 1779

      Je sais que vous avez reçu mes Lettres des 2 et 8 Dec. J’ai eu l’honneur depuis de vous en écrire 3 autres, du 18–24 Dec., 1–3 Janv., et 12–15 Janv.
      Hier 15 au soir, au moment où j’avois expédié ma derniere, Mr. l’Ambassadeur me fit chercher, pour aller confirmer de sa part à notre Ami, que ce matin il présenteroit un Mémoire au Président de L. H. P. avec le nouveau reglement du Roi, qui exclut le Commerce et la Navigation de la Republique des faveurs dont la France laisse jouir les neutres sur mer et dans ses Ports, et les conserve au Pavilion seul d’Amsterdam; et qu’après cela il iroit (quoique centre l’usage) faire la tournée des Hôtels de toutes les Villes d’Hollande, et témoigner à leurs Pensionaires respectifs le regret et la répugnance avec laquelle le Roi se verra forcé par elles-mêmes à publier le dit reglement.
      J’attendis à l’hôtel jusqu’à 2 h. après minuit, pour rendre à Mr. l’Ambassadeur, qui soupoit ailleurs, la réponse de notre Ami. Il expédia la même nuit un Exprès é sa Cour; et je me tiens prêt, ce matin, à aller rapporter de sa part à notre Ami, la maniere dont tout se sera passé.

       16e au soir

      Ce matin Mr. l’Ambassadeur, après avoir présenté son Mémoire, &c. au Président de LL. h: P. a fait sa ronde, pour en donner connoissance au Grand Pensionnaire d’Holl. et au Greffier de L. h. P., puis aux Pensionaires des Villes de Dort, Amsterdam, La Brille et Rotterdam. Il a été près de deux heures avec les Députés de cette derniere Ville. Il a témoigné à tous le regret du Roi, d’avoir dû leur retirer ses faveurs, et en laisser jouir Amsterdam seul. Tous ont témoigné plus de mécontentement de cette distinction, que de la privation, et d’en craindre je ne sai quelles funestes suites. Ils prétendoient que c’étoit une chose sans exemple, et contre leur Constitution, de trailer avec une Ville seule. Mr. l’Ambassadeur leur a repliqué que c’étoit mal voir; qu’il n’y avoit ni Traité ni Convention quelconque entre la France et Amsterdam; qu’on laissoit tout simplement celle-ci continuer de jouir de ce dont elle jouissoit auparavant; et que la Republique devroit, au contraire, être bien aise de ce que, par le moyen de cette ville, elle ne perdoit pas tout. La Semaine prochaine il verra les Pensionaires des autres Villes.
      Du reste, j’ai opinion que tout ceci s’arrangera encore à l’amiable que la Republique, voyant combien la chose est sérieuse, prendra le parti de donner satisfaction à la France.

       17e.

      Je n’ai fait que rendre compte aujourdhui à Mr. l’Ambassadeur, de l’entretien que j’eus hier avec notre ami. Je dois retourner demain chez Mr. l’Ambassadeur qui aura alors quelque commission à me donner. Je ne vous dis, Messieurs, que l’essentiel des choses, et vous épargne le détail de mes allées et venues, et des messages dont je suis chargé réciproquement. Après le résultat, qui seul est interessant, le récit des minuties, par lesquelles il a fallu passer avant d’y parvenir, seroit superflu et ennuyant. Je vous dirai seulement, que mon entremise sauve l’éclat que feroient des entrevues trop frequentes, qu’on ne manqueroit pas d’épier.

       18e.

      Il n’y a rien de nouveau aujourd’hui. Demain les Etats d’Hollande se rassembleront, et nous saurons le parti qu’aura pris Almar, et quelle resolution aura pris la Province. Je suis avec un très-grand respect, Messieurs Votre très-humble et tres obeissant serviteur

       Dumas


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 16 January 1779
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 16 January 1779

      I know that you received my letters of 2 and 8 December. Since then, I have had the honor of writing you three more, dated 18–24 December, 1–3 January, and 12–15 January.
      Yesterday, the 15th, in the evening, just as I was sending off my last, the French Ambassador sought me out in order to have me meet with our friend to confirm, on the Ambassador’s behalf, that this morning he will present a mémoire to the President of Their High Mightinesses together with the King’s new order excluding the commerce and navigation of the Republic, excepting only that under the flag of Amsterdam, from the favors that France permits neutrals to enjoy at sea and in its ports and will, although it is contrary to custom, afterwards make the rounds of the town halls of all the towns of Holland in order to express to their respective pensionaries the regret and repugnance of the King at being forced by them to issue the said order.
      I waited at the Embassy until two in the morning to give the Ambassador, who was dining elsewhere, our friend’s answer. The same night he sent an express to his Court, and this morning I hold myself in readiness to report, on his behalf, to our friend on what happened.

       16 January, in the evening

      This morning the Ambassador, after presenting his memorandum, &c., to the President of Their High Mightinesses, made his rounds to inform the Grand Pensionary of Holland, the greffier of Their High Mightinesses, and the Pensionaries of the towns of Dordrecht, Amsterdam, La Brille, and Rotterdam. He spent nearly two hours with the deputies of this last town. He expressed to everyone the King’s regret at having to rescind, except in the case of Amsterdam, his favors. All expressed their displeasure, more at this discrimination than the deprivation, and seemed to fear I know not what bad consequences. They claimed that it was unprecedented and contrary to their constitution to treat with only one town. The Ambassador replied that this was untrue, that there was no treaty or convention whatsoever between France and Amsterdam, and that it was being permitted continued possession of what it already enjoyed and, to the contrary, the Republic should deem itself lucky that, thanks to Amsterdam, it did not lose everything. Next week he will see the Pensionaries of the other towns.
      As to the rest, I think that all this will resolve itself quite amicably and that the Republic, seeing how serious this is, will decide to give full satisfaction to France.

       17 January

      I did nothing today but give an account to the Ambassador of yesterday’s meeting with our friend. Tomorrow I am to meet again with the Ambassador, who will then have some message to give me. I will tell you, gentlemen, only the essentials and spare you the details of my comings and goings and the messages with which I am charged as a result. After the outcome, the only interesting part, an account of the minutia by which it was achieved would be superfluous and boring. I will say only that my intervention avoids the sensation that would result from too frequent visits which one would not want noticed.

       18 January

      There was nothing new today. Tomorrow the States of Holland will reassemble, and we will learn of Alkmaar’s decision and the resolution adopted by the Province. I am with very great respect, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       Dumas


Title: To John Adams from Pahin Champlain de La Blancherie, with a Contemporary Translation, 18 January 1779
From: La Blancherie, Pahin Champlain de
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       Paris le18e. Janvier 1779

      J’ay l’honneur de vous envoyer les details relatifs a l’Etablissement de la correspondance generale sur les sciences et les arts que j’ay preparé depuis quatre ans, et dirigé particulierement depuis le comencement de l’année derniere; la consistence qu’il a acquise d’abort par la recomandation de l’academie des sciences, et ensuite par des temoignages recues de la protection de Leurs Majestés, me font esperes que vous voudrés bien, Monsieur, contribuer au succès de cette entreprise par tous les moyens qui dependront de vous, et principalement en honnorant de votre presence, l’assemblée ordinaire des sçavants des artistes et des etrangers distingués qui en font partie; et surtout celle de mecredi prochain, la premiere aprés les vacances d’automne.
      J’ose vous demander cette grace au nom des sea van ts et des artistes empressés de vous rendre juge de leurs travaux, et protecteur de leurs talens; je ne serai pas moins flatté qu’Eux, Monsieur, de pouvoir vous rapporter une partie de ma gloire et de mes succès.
      Je suis avec un Respect infini Monsieur Votre très humble et très obeissant Serviteur

       La Blancherie


Title: Richard Price to the Commissioners, 18 January 1779
From: Price, Richard
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      London Jany. 18. 1779

     Dr. Price returns his best thanks to the Honourable Benjamin Franklin, Arthur Lee, and John Adams Esquires, for conveying to him the resolution of Congress of the 6th. of October last, by which he is invited to become a member of the united States, and to give his assistance in regulating their Finances. It is not possible for him to express the Sense he has of the honour which this resolution does him, and the Satisfaction with which he reflects on the favourable opinion of him which has occasioned it. But he knows himself not to be Sufficiently qualified for giving Such assistance; and he is So connected in this country, and also advancing So fast into the evening of life, that he cannot think of a removal. He requests the favour of the honourable Commissioners to transmit this reply to Congress, with assurances that Dr. Price feels the warmest gratitude for the notice taken of him, and that he looks to the American States as now the hope, and likely Soon to become the refuge of mankind.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 19 January 1779
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Messieurs
       Lahaie 19e. Janv. 1779

      Ma derniere étoit du 16–18 de ce mois. Aujourd’hui, contre toute attente, et à notre grande surprise, il ne s’est rien passé du tout à l’Assemblée d’Hollande, si ce n’est qu’on y a lu le dernier Mémoire de Mr. l’Ambassadeur, mais on n’a rien mis en délibération. J’ai été aujourdhui 5 fois chez Mr. l’Ambassadeur, autant de fois chez notre ami (une fois au bout de la ville, où il dînoit). J’ai écrit ce billet au premier. “Demain il y a besogne des Amirautés d’Hollande. Je le tiens de trèsbonne part. Je conjecture que c’est la cause de l’inaction d’aujourd’hui et qu’il y aura un nouveau préavis. Je passerai ce soir encore où votre Exc. sait.” Je lui avois écrit celui-ci le 15. “On compte, et l’on est persuadé, que S. E. ne fera mention nulle part du secret confié des Déliberations d’hier, des 4 mois; puisque la résolution n’en étant pas encore prise, on demanderoit, qui vous l’a dit? et que, d’ailleurs, la raison du délai de répondre au Mémoire suffit, pour n’avoir besoin d’alléguer qu’elle seule, &c.” Tous les autres détails de mes messages seroient aussi tédieux à lire qu’à écrire. Les 2 pensionaires d’Amsterdam, après avoir rendu compte le 16 à leur ville de la visite ministérielle de Mr. l’Ambassadeur, ont reçu la réponse, et iront demain matin la rendre publiquement à Mr. l’Ambassadeur chez lui. Celui-ci n’attend que la Résolution finale des Etats d’hollande, qui sera prise après-demain, pour l’envoyer par un Exprès à sa Cour.

       20e. au soir

      Les deux Pensionaires d’Amsterdam sont allés ce matin de la part de leur ville chez Mr. l’Ambassadeur, rendre grace, et dire qu’Elle espere, que Sa Maj. voudra bien ne pas priver les autres Confédérés des faveurs qu’Elle veut bien lui conserver. Delà ils sont allés chez le Grand Pensionnaire lui donner connoissance de cette démarche. Au lieu des Aigres mines et des altercations auxquelles ils s’attendoient, tant à l’Assemblée des Etats aujourd’hui, qu’ailleurs, ils ont été agréablement surpris de se voir traités par-tout avec beaucoup d’égards. Ceux des autres Villes, et notamment de Rotterdam, recherchent leur intercession pour leurs Villes. Mr Des Marchands de Rotterdam sont venus implorer la protection de Mrs. D’Amsterdam, qui les ont renvoyés, comme de raison, à leurs propres Magistrats. Mr. l’Ambassadeur, de son côté, a été notifier ce matin au Grand Pensionnaire, d’abord de bouche, et puis, à sa requisition, par une note en forme de Lettre que le Roi a fixé le 26 Janvier, pour publier son nouveau reglement, s’il ne reçoit pas d’ici-là une réponse telle qu’il l’a demandée. L’Ambassadeur et notre Ami ont actuellement ensemble une entrevue secrete, que je leur ai ménagée. J’attends le jour de demain avec la derniere impatience. J’ai dit à notre Ami, que j’espere, lorsque nous aurons amené à bonne fin l’importante affaire du jour, que nous reprendrons celle de notre projet; il m’a dit, assurément.

       21e. au soir

      Rien n’est fait encore. L’Avis de l’Amirauté, proposé aujourd’hui aux Etats d’Hollande, est en contradiction avec lui-même. Ils annullent, à la verité, leur fameuse résolution du 18e Nov., quant à la restriction des Convois (d’où l’on vouloit exclure alors les bois de Construction). Mais ils voudroient suspendre la résolution à prendre quant à l’extension de ces Convois, jusqu’aux temps où ils regleroient leurs équipages. Ce n’est que pousser le temps par les épaules; c’est l’hydre de Lerne, à laquelle il recroît d’autres têtes, à la place de celles qui ont été abattues: Car on est d’accord sur tout le reste. Il n’y eut hier qu’altercations et rproches, auxquels ceux d’Amsterdam ont répondu avec autant de modération et de décense, que de fermeté. Tout a été renvoyé aujourdhui à demain; et si l’on veut décider l’affaire à la pluralité, Amsterdam protestera encore. Je n’ai fait que courir toute la journée; et j’ai fini par ménager encore une entrevue cette nuit. G—— F——m’avoit envoyé ce billet à 3 heures. “Mr. D—— est prié de vouloir bien aller où il sait bien, à l’heure où doit finir l’Assemblée, et de venir ensuite faire rapport de ce qu’il aura appris.” J’avois prévenu ses desirs; et je sortois de là en rencontrant le porteur de billet.

       22e. au soir

      Encore rien de fait à l’Assemblée d’Hollande. Mr. le Grand Pensionnaire avoit proposé un Plan de résolution, qu’Amsterdam n’a pu agréer, parce qu’il y a des termes qui ont paru captieux, et dont on pourroit faire l’explication auprés de la Cour de L—— d’une toute autre maniere qu’auprés de celle de France. La principale est celle-ci: on voudroit suspendre la Résolution, pour l’extension des Convois, jusqu’au 26, jour où l’Amirauté doit régler les Equipages et Armemens. Or cette extension ne signifieroit auprés de l’une des Puissances que la force des Convois; auprés de l’autre, la suspension de convoyer les bois de construction. Ceux de Harlem ont donc proposé des Amendemens. Si tous y acquiescent, on pourroit prendre demain une Résolution unanime, qui contenteroit peut-être la France. Quand notre Ami m’a raconté ces ambiguités, je l’ai bien fait rire par la comparaison des chats, qui tombent toujours sur leurs pattes: il l’a trouvée trés-juste.

       23e. au soir

      Encore irrésolus. Toutes les villes, cependant, sont d’accord avec Amsterdam sur le plan proposé par Harlem. Mais un grand personnage, avec la Majorité de la Noblesse, dispute encore sur les termes. En attendant, un Courier s’expédie aujourd’hui à Paris, pour obtenir, s’il est possible, un dernier délai d’une semaine, par complaisance pour Amsterdam, qui a fortement intercédé. Reste à savoir si ce Courier pourra arriver à temps d’ici au 26. Ce qui est sûr, c’est que, s’ils ne prennent pas ici le bon parti dans la semaine, le 4 du mois prochain le nouveau reglement sera promulgué en France sans plus de renvoi.

       24e.

      Je fais partir la présente, comme la précédente, sous couvert d’un ami à Rotterdam; où elle sera mise à la poste. J’en use ainsi pour dépayser les curieux indiscrets. Je suis avec un trés grand respect, Messieurs Votre trés humble et trés obeissant serviteur

       D

       Amsterdam a déclaré aujourd’hui qu’elle restera ferme et inebranlable, et ne se laissera ni forcer ni tromper. Expression bien forte.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 19 January 1779
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 19 January 1779

      My last was of the 16–18 of this month. Contrary to our expectations and to our great surprise, nothing happened today at the Assembly of Holland. There were no deliberations, only the reading of the Ambassador’s latest memorandum. Today I have had five meetings with the Ambassador, and as many with our friend (once at the edge of town where he was dining). To the Ambassador I wrote the following note: “Tomorrow there will be work for the Admiralties of Holland. I have this from a very good source and surmise that this is the reason for today’s inaction and will produce a new preliminary advisory. I will return this evening to Your Excellency knows where.” On the 15th I had written him the following: “One expects and is persuaded that His Excellency will disclose nothing concerning the secret—the four month’s delay—confided from yesterday’s deliberations because, since the resolution has not yet been adopted, he would be asked: Who told you so? Moreover, the reason for the delay in responding to the memorandum is sufficient to have no need to unburden oneself, &c.” All the other details of my messages would be as tedious to read as to write. Amsterdam’s two pensionaries, having on the 16th rendered their town an account of the Ambassador’s official visit, have received its response and tomorrow morning will present it officially to the Ambassador. He awaits only the final resolution of the States of Holland, which will be adopted the day after tomorrow, in order to send it by an express to his Court.

       20 January, in the evening

      This morning, on behalf of their town, Amsterdam’s two pensionaries went to the Ambassador to pay their respects and state that the town of Amsterdam hopes that His Majesty would be kind enough not to deprive the other towns of the confederation of the favors which he is willing to retain for it. They had already gone to the Grand Pensionary to inform him of their démarche. Instead of the bitter looks and altercations for which they had prepared themselves, when at the Assembly of States and elsewhere today, they were pleasantly surprised to be treated everywhere with much respect. The representatives of the other towns, notably Rotterdam, seek Amsterdam’s intercession on their towns’ behalf. Mr Some Rotterdam merchants have gone so far as to beg the protection of the gentlemen of Amsterdam, who, with reason, sent them to their own magistrates. For his part, the Ambassador this morning informed the Grand Pensionary orally and then, at his request, by letter that the King had chosen 26 January to promulgate his new regulation, if by then he had not received a response such as he had requested. The Ambassador and our friend are at present having a secret conference arranged by me. I await tomorrow with the greatest impatience. To our friend I expressed my hope that, once we have brought this important affair to a satisfactory conclusion, we will be able to resume our old project; he agreed.

       21 January, in the evening

      Nothing has yet been done. The Admiralty’s advisory, proposed today to the States of Holland, contradicts itself. In fact, they are rescinding their famous resolution of 18 November with regard to the limitation of convoys (from which they would then exclude ships timbers), but would suspend the pending resolution concerning the extension of these convoys until such time as they would have assigned their crews. This is only playing for time. It is like the Hydra of Lerna, whose heads keep growing back to replace those chopped off, for everything else had been agreed upon. Yesterday there were only disputes and recriminations to which the gentlemen from Amsterdam responded with as much moderation and decency as firmness. Everything has been delayed today until tomorrow and if the matter should be decided by a plurality, Amsterdam will protest again. I have made the rounds all day and finished by arranging another meeting tonight. At 3 P.M. the Grand Facteur sent me the following note: “When the Assembly adjourns, Mr. Dumas will kindly go to the place that he knows well and report back to me on what he has learned.” I anticipated his wishes, and was just leaving there when I ran into his messenger.

       22 January, in the evening

      Again nothing has been done in the Assembly of Holland. The Grand Pensionary proposed a solution to which Amsterdam could not agree because some of its terms seemed specious and subject to differing interpretations by the Courts of London and France. The essential point is this: the resolution for the extension of the convoys would be suspended until the 26th, when the Admiralty would assign crews and ships. But to one of the powers this extension would indicate only the strength of the convoy and to the other only the suspension of the carrying of ships timbers. Consequently, Haarlem’s representatives have proposed some amendments. If everyone agrees, a unanimous resolution, which might satisfy France, could be adopted tomorrow. When our friend recounted these ambiguities, I amused him greatly by comparing the situation to that of cats who always land on their feet. He found it very appropriate.

       23 January, in the evening

      Again indecision. All the towns agree, however, with Amsterdam on the plan proposed by Haarlem. But an important personage, with a majority of the nobles, still disputes its terms. Meanwhile, today a messenger was sent to Paris to secure, if possible, a final delay of one week out of consideration for Amsterdam, which strongly interceded. It remains to be seen whether this messenger will be able to get there by the 26th. What is certain is that, if they do not take the correct course here during that week, on the 4th of next month the new regulation will be promulgated in France without further delay.

       24 January

      I am sending this letter, as I did the preceding, under cover of a friend from Rotterdam, where it will be taken and posted. I do this to confuse the curious gossipers. I am, with very great respect, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       D

       Today Amsterdam declared that it would remain firm and resolute, permitting itself to be neither coerced nor deceived. A very strong statement.


Title: Arthur Lee to Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, 20 January 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Chaillot Jany. 20th. 26th 1779

     My fever not being yet sufficiently removd to permit me to come to you; I write to you to submit the absolute necessity there is of informing the Minister without delay of the State of our Finances and that the Supply we have askd is immediately necessary. It is possible they may wait for such information before they put the intention we are told they have of supplying us in execution. We wrote them we shoud pay the Bills drawn by order of Congress as long as our funds lasted; and they will naturally expect to be advisd, when these are so nearly exhausted, as to demand a farther supply.
     I have the honor to be with great respect Gentlemen Yr. most Obedt. Humble Servt.

      Arthur Lee


Title: John Lloyd and Others to the Commissioners, 21 January 1779
From: Lloyd, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Honourable Gentlemen
      Nantes January 21st. 1779

     We had the honour to receive your letter of the 13th of this month in due course, and are thankful for Your Honours polite attention to us.
     We are obliged for the transmission of the Copy of the letter which Your Honours received from His Excellency The Count de Vergennes, and with pleasure observe, that in consequence an application had been made to His Excellency, to request, that the Convoy might be sent here without delay.
     It is with concern We inform Your Honours, that the weather has been, and still continues so very severe, as to prevent any navigation upon the River, and that We have been obliged for the preservation of our Vessels to lay them on Shore, but so sudden and unexpected was the appearance of the Ice, that we could not do it before they had received more or less damage, and which We are sorry to say cannot be repaired until after the River opens. We flatter ourselves, that the injuries which they have sustained will not be found so considerable, but that they may be refitted in a few days, and which shall be done with all possible dispatch, as soon as the weather permits.
     We are sorry, that the King’s Service will not admit of a Convoy for our Vessels, quite to America. Your Honours repeated applications for that purpose, merit our grateful thanks. We however hope, and flatter ourselves, that we shall be protected beyond the Western Islands.
     We are obliged to Your Honours, for the authentick Copy of the Treaty of Commerce, it being the only one we have seen. Your Honours will be pleased to excuse our saying, that we are surprised you should observe to us: “That it has been printed perhaps in every News paper in Europe.” Certainly Your Honours cannot imagine, that We who are so materially interested ought to give faith to such a mode of communicating a transaction of so great, and so important a nature.
     The Treaty having been finally, and formally ratifyed We presume to request, that Your Honours will be so obliging as to let us know What Port, or Ports, is, or are, made free, pursuant to the 30th Article?
     As the risque of falling into the hands of the Barbary Corsairs, is, a circumstance that gives us serious concern, We should be glad to receive an acceptable information respecting the consequences of the gracious promises contained in the 8th Article, and We pray Your Honours to favour us with your advice, how we ought to proceed, to protect ourselves, and properties, from their violence, and depredations. We did not intend that any expression in our letter should induce Your Honours to think, that we complained of impositions. But, we beg leave to observe, that the Subjects of France can readily, and precisely obtain a certain account of the Imposts, which they are liable to pay, in each of the United States, and it is a knowledge, that we think essential for conducting with satisfaction a Commercial intercourse between the two Countries. However, if the System of Duties and Finances in this Kingdom, is such, as will not permit any alteration, we must submit.
     We agree with Your Honours that several branches of American Trade might be carried on with this Kingdom, to more advantage than any other Country of Europe.
     With respect to the great, and noble object of our present Contest, Your Honours may be confident, that Patience and Perseverance, shall on our parts never be wanting to obtain it, and We heartily concur in wishing, that the present Year may produce to us the blessing, we have in prospect.
     We request that Your Honours will accept our thanks for your friendly wishes, and be assured, that We are with due respect Honourable Gentlemen Your Countrymen and most Obedt. Servants

      John Lloyd
      Danl. Blake
      Phil Rd. Fendall
      Jno. Ross
      Jos. Wharton
      Laurence Brooke
      Robert Brooke
      William Blake
      H Thompson
      Matthew Mease
      Cha: Ogilvie


Title: Arthur Lee to Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, 22 January 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John

      Gentlem.

       Jany. 22d. 1779

     M. Monthieu calld on me yesterday, but I was too ill to see him. I suppose it was to urge the payment of his demand, which I am by no means yet satisfyd is due. The Papers he has given in, instead of vouching it, render it suspected. The only true and sufficient Voucher is the receit which Mr. Williams did give, or ought to have given to M. Peltier de Doyer at the time he saidys he deliverd to him the goods chargd to the Public. It is impossible that men one year engaged in Merchandize, coud have faild the one asking and the other giving a Receit for goods really deliverd. It is to no purpose to remark the contradictions and defects of the Papers given in. They are abundant, but the want of the necessary and usual receit gives such an appearance to the business that I cannot think myself justifiable in giving my consent to pay the demand. I am only sorry that I have consented to the payment of so much already on the faith of a man who had no receit to shew.
     I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect and esteem &c. &c.

      A L.

      P.S. The delivery of Mr. Williams’s receit is the more necessary, as it is that only which shoud satisfy us, that the Articles deliverd were for the public and make Mr. Williams accountable for them, as having been receivd by him for the public use. The evidence Mr. Peltier has given in to us, says only, that he delivered certain Articles to Mr. Williams, but not to whose use nor with any mark or numbers, nor has it any date of year, month, day or place. We know perfectly well that Mr. Williams was shipping goods for himself and others as well as for the Public. It might therefore be true that M. Peltier did deliver such goods, but it will not enable us to determine for which of these uses they were deliverd. Neither does Mr. Williams in his Letter say that what he receivd was for the public use, nor does he specify what he has receivd, so as to render himself liable for the re-delivery.
      N.B. M. Montieu had assurd us that he had the receit and woud send it to us.


Title: Robert Niles to the Commissioners, 22 January 1779
From: Niles, Robert
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Honourable Gentlemen
      Nants the 22d of January 1779

     On my arival here Mr. Dobree told me he was informed By a line from you that I had Said that I was taken By a Privateer that belonged partly to his father—and Desired me to give him in Wrighting What the Captain Said. But as it is a matter that Concerns my Country and You being part of the legislative body of my Country To Whom I am accountable for my Conduct—I told Him I Rather Chose to leave it With you and if you thought Proper to give a Coppy or the original I Should be Content. I Shall now Relate Matters in such a Manner as if Called upon I Shall be Ready and Willing To make oath to the truth of them. Viz. Capt. de lagarde Of the mars Cutter Privateer belonging to Jersey Accidentally Said Mr. Dobree of Guernsey was one of His owners. On his mentioning the name of Dobree I Asked if he had a Son in Nants—He answered yes. I then Told him I knew the young gentleman and that he had married A Daughter of Mr. Scheiwghauser in Nants. He answered Yes he is married Some where there. I then told him I Should Acquaint the Commissioners of it as Soon as I arived in France. These Gentlemen are undenyable facts. I have the honour To be your most Obedient humbl Servt

      Robt Niles

      I have heard Capt. de le gard of the Mars Cutter say when interogated by Capt. Niles that Mr. Dobree was part owner of his Privateer and that the said Mr. Dobree had a son in France which I believe he said remained in Nantes.

      Saml. Brehon


Title: John Bondfield to the Commissioners, 23 January 1779
From: Bondfield, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Sirs
      Bordeaux 23 Jany 1779

     The 9th Instant I had the honor to pay my respects to you and to request your information tutching the Convoy we Solicited for the Ships at Nantes.
     I meet with some difficulty in expediting of our Ships. They being American property must of course be furnishd with American Pass’s. I have to request you will favor me with your Pass’s by return of Post for the following; Vessels otherways met at Sea are subjected to be taken by our Own Ships as well as by the Enemy.
     (The Brig Molly. 120 Tons) a Prize taken from the English bought at Rochelle.
     (The Ship Le Chasseur 250 tons) a Prize taken from the English bought at Rochelle.
     (The Ship Mary Fearon 350 tons) a Prize taken from the English bought at Lorient.
     (The Ship Governor Livingston 500 tons) a Prize taken from the English bought at Rochelle. For this Ship we have your Commission of Letter of Marque that may serve the Place of a Pass tho every Vessel belonging to America clear’d out in France ought to have one from you to serve instead of Register no Court or office being yet establish’d to grant the latter. These four Vessels are the Sole Property of James Price, William Haywood and John Bondfield.
     Letters from Cadiz mention the Capture of an American Vessel sent into Gibralter having on board Tobacco and Rice. He reports an engagement betwixt Comte d’Estaing and an English Fleet the latter end of November but no pert particular Circumstances.

     Letters from Martinico mentions their Ports being blockt up by English Cruizers. That they dayly expected the Arrival of Cte. D’Estaing. We are without other Inteligence. The Arrival of a Vessel at Morlaix from the States you will have been duely Advised. With due Respect I have the Honor to be Sirs Your most Obedient Humble Servant

      John Bondfield


Title: William Lee to the Commissioners, 23 January 1779
From: Lee, William
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Gentlemen
      Frankfort Jany. 23d. 1779

     In consequence of directions to me from the State of Virginia, to endeavour to obtain from the French Ministry a quantity of Canon, arms and ammunition, for the use of that State, I applyed accordingly to Count de Vergennes, when his Excellency replyed, that was a business in the department of the Secretary at War, and that he tho’t it best to get you to apply to Prince Mont Barry for them: accordingly I am now to request that you will endeavor to procure these articles, of which a List will follow this, for the State of Virginia, which will not only be a service to that State, but of an essential benefit to the common cause of America.
     The State is willing to engage to pay for these things, as soon as ever circumstances will permit it, to send their Commodities to Europe for that purpose. I have no doubt of your willingness to render the State this Service and if you are fortunate enough to succeed, on your informing me at what Ports in France these articles can be most conveniently deliver’d, I will endeavour to have them convey’d to Virginia.
     I have the Honour to be with the Highest Consideration Gentlemen Your most Obedt. & most Humble Servt.

      W. Lee

     A List of Canon &c. wanted by the State of Virginia

      16 Iron Canon
      —of 36 lb. ball.

      20 Do. Do.
      —of 24 lb. Do.

      16 Brass Do.
      —of 24 lb. Do.

      50 Rounds of grape shot
      }
      for each size of the canon

      30 Do. Chain and Double headed Do.

      Carriages, Rammers, Ladles, and all the necessary apparatus for the above Canon

      2 Brass Mortars of 10 Inches bore

      200 Shells for Do.

      6 Brass 5 Inch Howitzers

      2 Do.—8 Inch Do.

      11 Do.—5 1/2 Inch Do.

      100 Shells for each Howitzer, with fusils, match Stuff, carriages and every thing compleat

      20,000 Stand of Fusils with Bayonets compleat.

      30 Tons of best Canon powder.

      20 Ditto of Do. for Fusils.


Title: Jonathan Williams to the Commissioners, 23 January 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Honourable Gentlemen
      Nantes Jan: 23 1779

     I had the honour of writing you December 12 1778 inclosing a Letter from Messrs. Horneca Fitzeau & Co. relative to 13 Bales cases and Barrells marked  No. 1 to 13 which are the property of Mr. Simeon Dean and which were delivered to Mr. Schweighauser on a supposition that they belonged to the commissioners as mentioned in my said Letter. I have not had the honour of an answer on this Subject.
     I now inclose you Mr. Schweighauser’s receipt for the goods I delivered him the first article of which is the Bales cases &ca. above mentioned. I hear that one of these Cases still remains in Mr. Schweighausers possession. I therefore request you to give orders for it to be returned to me and to direct Messrs. Horneca Fitzeau and Co. to replace the others here.
     I have also the Honour to inclose you Mr. Schweighausers receipt for the magazine and its appartenances. I should long since have forwarded these receipts, but waited for the delivery of the remainder of the Gunstocks. This is now done and the man who furnished them demands his money which I must pay agreeable to my Contract, but Mr. Schweighauser declines giving me a receipt for them, for what reason I can’t conceive, but I suppose he has writen to you on the Subject. I beg you will please to give him the necessary Directions that I may pay the man his money and finish the affair.
     I delivered from the magazine to Mr. Montieu ships sundry articles agreeable to the inclosed note charged at the estimated prices, as that Gentleman chooses to settle the matter with you I have taken it from the account and beg you to settle it with him accordingly.
     I have the honour to be with great respect Honourable Gentlemen Your most obedient & most humble Servant.

      Jona. Williams


Title: The Commissioners to John Lloyd and Others, 26 January 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Lloyd, John

      Gentlemen
      Passy January 26. 1779

     We had Yesterday the Honour of your Letter of the Twenty first of this Month.
     You desire to know what Port or Ports, is or are made free, pursuant to the Treaty? We believe that none have as yet been determined on. At present all the Ports of France, are open, to American Vessells of all Denominations, and we are at present rather doubtful whether it would be politick in Us to apply to have any Distinction made. If the Appointment of free Ports would, relieve Us from the payment of Duties, of Import or Export, We should apply immediately. But as We apprehend, this Advantage would not be the Consequence. The Limits of the free Port would be prescribed, and the same Duties must be paid upon removing Goods within or without those Limits as are now paid upon Imports and Exports. Goods however might be, brought into Such free Ports from abroad and there landed and stored for a Time, and then exported without paying Duties, but whether this would be any great Advantage to our Trade, at present you are better Judges than We. We should be glad of your Advice upon this Head, and if you think of any Advantages, of considerable Moment that would arise We shall be always ready to apply, for such an Appointment.
     We are sorry it is not in our Power to give you any acceptable Information respecting the Eighth Article of the Treaty which relates to the Barbary Corsaires. All We can Say is, that We have applied to the Ministry upon this Head, some Months ago, and received Satisfactory Expressions of the Disposition of this Government to do every Thing which is stipulated in that Article of the Treaty. But Some Things remain to be determined by Congress, to whom We have written upon the subject and We must necessaryly wait their Instructions.
     There are two Enquiries to be made, vizt. which of all the Nations who now Trade with France is the most favoured, and what Duties are paid by that Nation. These Duties, and these only, We suppose, We are to pay, and as soon as Circumstances will permit, (two of Us having been for a fortnight very ill, and one of Us continuing so) We shall apply to the Ministry for an Ecclaircissement upon this Head, which We will endeavour to communicate to you, as soon as We shall obtain it.
     We have received an Answer to our last Application for a Convoy from their Excellencies the Comte De Vergennes and M. De Sartine, but the Answers convinced Us that M. De Sartine was Under Some Misinformation or Misunderstanding relative to the Business, which obliged Us to write again. As soon as We shall be honoured with an Answer, We will communicate the Result of it to you. Mean Time, We have the Honour to be with great Respect, Gentlemen, your most obedient humble servants


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to the Commissioners, 27 January 1779
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Messieurs
       LaHaie 27e. Janv. 1779

      Enfin j’ai la satisfaction de pouvoir vous apprendre, que les choses ont tourné au gré d’Amsterdam. Hier les Etats d’Hollande prirent la Résolution d’annuller celle du 18e. Nov. passé, qui exceptoit des Convois les Bois de construction, et de protéger leur Commerce dans toute l’extension que lui assurent les Traités; suspendant, du reste, toute délibération ultérieure sur cette matiere, jusqu’à-ce que les Amirautés de toutes les Provinces, actuellement occupées à régler les armemens et équipages avec L. H. P., aient fini leur besogne. Quant à la réponse à donner à Mr. l’Ambassadeur de France, ce sera demain que l’Assemblée provinciale devra s’en occuper. Après quoi elle se séparera; et notre Ami partira après-demain. Je ne suis plus en peine de cette réponse. Reste à savoir si elle n’arrivera pas trop tard en France. Car je sai de bonne part, que L. H. P. ont reçu des Lettres là-dessus de leur Ambassadeur à Paris, qui doivent les inquiéter. Il y a vu le nouveau Reglement tout imprimé. Quoiqu’il en soit, il est toujours sûr, que ce qui vient d’arriver ici est une victoire signalée sur l’influence Angloise.
      Je profiterai de l’inaction où l’on sera ici pendant quelques semaines, pour expédier des paquets en Amérique pour le Congrès.
      Les Papiers Anglois du 9, 12, 14 &c. de ce mois manquent par toute la Republique. On les retient en Angleterre, nous ne savons pourquoi. Ce ne sera donc pas ma faute, si ceux que je suis accoutumé d’envoyer au Congrès manquent, ou sont retardés. En attendant, il aura toujours la suite des Papiers de Leide et du Bas-Rhin.

       28e. Janv.

      L’Assemblée d’Hollande siegera encore demain et samedi. Aujourd’hui il ne s’y est rien fait d’important. Demain l’on y résoudra la réponse à la France; mais, comme je l’ai dit, il n’y aura point de difficulté là-dessus. Les Etats-Généraux ont pris aujourd’hui la même résolution que prirent les Etats d’hollande le 26. Voilà ce que j’ai appris de notre Ami, et rapporté à Mr. l’Ambassadeur un moment après que l’Assemblée s’est séparée.

       29e.

      Contre toute apparence, on n’a rien résolu aujourdhui. La réponse proposée par l’Amirauté, étoit si obscure et si ambigue, qu’Amsterdam a averti qu’elle protesteroit à nouveaux fraix: qu’il n’y avoit qu’à communiquer tout uniment à la France la Résolution de 26e. courant par laquelle la Republique révoque celle du 18 Nov., qui avoit déplu à la France, et embrasse la plus exacte neutralité. On n’a point voulu suivre cet avis; et l’on a de nouveau prolongé l’Assemblée jusqu’à Mardi ou Mercredi prochain. On voudroit nous tromper, dit notre ami, mais on n’y réussira pas.
      Je suis avec un vrai respect, Messieurs, Votre très-humble et trés-obeissant serviteur

       D


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 27 January 1779
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Gentlemen
       The Hague, 27 January 1779

      Finally I have the pleasure to inform you that things have turned out to Amsterdam’s liking. Yesterday the States of Holland resolved to annul the resolution of 18 November, which excepted ships timbers from the convoys, to protect their commerce to the fullest extent guaranteed by the treaties, and, moreover, to suspend any further deliberation on this matter until the Admiralties of all the provinces, now busy with Their High Mightinesses assigning ships and crews, have finished their task. As to the response to be given to the French Ambassador, the Provincial Assembly will occupy itself with that tomorrow, after which it will adjourn, and our friend will leave the following day. I no longer am concerned about the answer. It remains to be seen whether the message will not arrive in France too late, for I learn from a good source that Their High Mightinesses have received letters on the subject from their ambassador in Paris, which must worry them. There he has seen the new regulation already in print. Regardless of what happens, it is certain that what has happened here marks a signal victory over the English influence.
      I will take advantage of the several weeks’ lull here to send some packets to America for the congress.
      The British newspapers of 9, 12, 14, &c. of this month cannot be found in the Republic. They are being held back in England, we know not why. It will not, therefore, be my fault if those that I usually send to the congress are missing or late. In the meantime, it will still have the rest of the papers from Leiden and the Lower Rhine.

       28 January

      The Assembly of Holland will sit again tomorrow and Saturday. Today it did nothing of importance. Tomorrow it will decide on the answer to France, but, as I have said, there will be no difficulty regarding it. Today the States General adopted the same resolution as that passed by the States of Holland on the 26th. I learned this from our friend and reported to the Ambassador shortly after the Assembly adjourned.

       29 January

      Contrary to all expectations, nothing was decided today. The response proposed by the Admiralty was so abstruse and ambiguous that Amsterdam warned that she would protest anew, and that all that was needed was to communicate unanimously to France the resolution of the 26th, by which the Republic revokes that of 18 November which had so displeased France, and embrace the most exact neutrality. They would not follow this advice and again prolonged the Assembly until next Tuesday or Wednesday. They would deceive us, said our friend, but they will not succeed.
      I am with true respect, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant

       D


Title: John Lloyd and Others to the Commissioners, 28 January 1779
From: Lloyd, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Nantes January the 28th. 1779

     The Memorial of several of the American Gentlemen, Merchants, and Commanders of Vessels at Nantes, whose names are underwritten—
     Sheweth—
     That, the Merchants of America, during the War, are at an inconceivable expence in fitting out their Vessels—in navigating, and insuring them—and often the prospect of repayment, and adequate profit, is destroyed by detention, through accident, or misconduct:
     In the Port of Nantes there are many American vessels, which probably will be prevented sailing with the Convoy, by the unjust conduct of the Seamen, and the want of a proper Officer to adjust the disputes between American Captains, and their Sailors; At this time, Seamen, knowing there is no power to oblige them to a conformity with their engagements, have abandoned the Vessels, after receiving two months advance, to navigate them back to America—have entered on board french Vessels—have insulted their Officers openly, and are forming combinations to incite all their Brethren, to follow their own atrocious, and most dishonorable behaviour.
     Your Memorialists, desirous, if possible, to prevent unnecessary trouble to your Honours, applied by deputation to the Commissary of Marine, of this Port, to grant them relief: They are happy in paying a tribute to his Zeal to serve America but found he had no power to liquidate the Disputes alluded to; and in consequence referred them to you.
     That by the 29th. Article of the Treaty of Friendship, and Commerce, They observe that Consuls, Vice Consuls, Agents, and Commissaries are to be appointed in the respective Ports of each Dominion; and your Memorialists having understood that Mr. Schweighauser was invested with the name of American Agent for Nantes, made application also to him, but were informed he had no Authority to redress the grievances they complain of.
     Your Memorialists, therefore convinced of the propriety of the said Article of the Treaty, request your Honors that Consuls may be appointed, as soon as the exigency of Public Affairs will admit of it—and in the meantime, that your Honors will nominate some Officer, or Officers with competent powers to take cognizance of the present differences, and for the prevention of future ones; for your Memorialists have apprehensions, and they believe many instances may be adduced, of persons who find it their Interest to foment Quarrels, in order to gain by the Parties, and that your Honors may be satisfyed of the truth of these Complaints, They beg leave to refer you to the enclosed grievous Case of Josiah Darrell Commander of the Brig Polly, belonging to the State of South Carolina; a Case by no means singular, because others of a similar nature, they could transmit were it necessary.
     Your Memorialists, sensible of the important Business which daily commands your attention, have reluctantly addressed your Honors; but as a free Commerce, is one of the main objects, and pursuits of America, and as the removal of embarrassments from it, is, They apprehend, worthy your consideration, and within your Controul, They are induced to lay before you the preceding Representation of Impediments and Grievances and to solicit your Redress.

      John Lloyd
      Danl. Blake
      William Blake
      Phil Rd. Fendall
      Jos Wharton
      Jno. Ross
      H Thompson
      Jno: Gilbank
      Cha: Ogilvie
      Wm. Robison
      Matthew Mease
      F. Speak
      Charles Jenkins
      Josiah Darrell
      John Joyner
      Stephen Johnson
      Robert Brooke


Title: Jonathan Williams to Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, 31 January 1779
From: Williams, Jonathan
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John

      Honourable Gentlemen
      Nantes Jan. 31 1779

     I am well informed that two Indorsements have been made on the Accounts I have had the Honour to present to the Commissioners, one of which contains Accusations as injurious to my Reputation as they are false and malignant. The first of these Indorsements is on my Account dated Sept. 10 1778 and is written in the following Words.—

        “N B The Order from B Franklin and John Adams Esqrs. to the public Banker for the Payment of all Mr. Williams’s Demands is dated the 10th July, yet he charges a Louis d’or a Day from that Time to the 11th of August, besides the whole Charge being such as was never heard of before.”
        (signed) A Lee

     The Charge here mentioned appears to me reasonable, and is by no Means unprecedented. I left Nantes by Order of the Commissioners to lay my Accounts before them—I was a long Time in Paris for the sole Purpose of having them settled, and I returned as soon as I thought myself justifiable in so doing. Five Louis Per Day is certainly not an Object for a Merchants Absence from his Business.
     The second Indorsement contains Accusations of a most criminal and atrocious Nature, and which if true would deservedly brand me with the Name of Villain; but I trust in God my Character (hitherto unimpeached) will stand the piercing Eye of Justice, and this Appelation be elsewhere more effectualy applied.
     On the Back of my Accounts settled May 30. 1778 is thus written.—

         “At Chaillot 6 of October 1778

        “I have examined the within Accounts, the Articles of which may be distinguished into such as are without Orders or manifestly unjust, or plainly exorbitant, or altogether unsatisfactory for want of Names, or Dates, or Receipts, or any other Voucher whatsoever. Being also perfectly satisfied from his own Accounts that Mr. Williams has now and has long had in his Hands upwards of an hundred thousand Livres belonging to the Public, and which have not been employed to the Public Use, or by Order of those who were entrusted with the Public Money, I do refuse to concur in passing these Accounts or allowing the Balance demanded and do protest against such Use of the Public Money.”

         signed A Lee

     This violent Attack on what is most dear and valuable to an honest Man was so privately made, that I am indebted to Accident only for the Knowlege of it. He who can deliberately massacre the Reputation of an other, must not only be lost to the exquisite Feelings of Humanity in himself, but must delight in glutting his Soul with the Carnage of Characters.
     The Accusation of my Transactions being without Authority, is an Affront to the Characters of Doctor Franklin and Mr. Dean for I have their express Orders to support me in them—but if I had not, would the sending Cloathing for thirty thousand american Troops be considered as a Crime—That my Charges are “exorbitant” I deny, and I pledge myself to prove that the whole Profit issueing to me from the Public Business for eighteen Months, and for shipping Supplies to the Amount of near three Millions two hundred thousand Livres (of which only about two hundred thousand Livres were taken) does not exceed an averaged Commission of one and a quarter Per Cent. Compare this, Gentlemen, with the common Charges on American Business in Nantes, and you will find that if five Per Cent was to be charged only on the Sale of three Cargoes of Tobacco (and this is the usual Charge) it would more than equal all the Reward of all my Services. In short the being usefull to my Country and the Establishment of my Reputation, have been Considerations with me superior to any Emolument, as is evinced by the moderate Commission I charged.

     Mr. Lees Assertion that I have upwards of an hundred thousand Livres Public Money in my Hands, I have Charity to think he does not believe to be a Fact; and surely the Protest is an Insult on you who have approved my Drafts for the Money which is here said to be used for private Purposes.
     My Character, Gentlemen has been too long wounded by Mr. Lee—my Accounts too long unsettled, and as it is my Intention to depart soon to America, I humbly conjure you to fix on some Method whereby my Reputation can be vindicated from such unjust Slanders, or my Conduct publicly reprehended and condemned. To this Purpose as the major Part of the Public Debts under my management were contracted in and near Nantes, and as the Persons live in this Neighbourhood, I earnestly request you to order an Examination of my Accounts. There are here several Gentlemen of Character Residents of America who are well versed in commercial Transactions—permit me to mention their Names—Mr. William Blake, Mr. Daniel Blake, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Fendall, Mr. Wharton, Mr. Ridley, Mr. Ross, Mr. Lloyd and Mr. Oglivie. Choose if you please, all these Gentlemen to scrutinize my Charges and Vouchers, or refer them to any three of them, and I will recall every Allowance for my Services, whether under the Name of Commission, or otherwise, and for these as well as for the whole of my Accounts, I will abide by their Decision.
     It is Justice I want;—Justice is my Due—and it is equaly indifferent to me who are my Judges, so that Honesty and Impartiality are the Umpires.
     I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect Honourable Gentlemen Your most obedient & most humble Servant

      Jona. Williams


Title: The Commissioners to John Lloyd and Others, 1 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John
To: First Joint Commission at Paris,Lloyd, John

      Gentlemen
      Passy Feb. 1. 1779

     We have this Moment the Honour of your Letter of the Twenty Eighth of last Month, and shall give the earliest Attention to its important Contents, but We are unhappy to think that it is not in our Power to give effectual Relief.
     By the Treaty Consuls &c. are to be appointed, in the respective Ports, But the Power of appointing, Such important officers is wholly with the Congress—they have not delegated it to Us, and it is not probable that they will delegate it at all, at least it is our Opinion that so important a Trust, would not be so safe in any other Hands, as in theirs. We therefore cannot presume to appoint any such officers. Indeed We have not Power to appoint any officers, but Agents to execute our any Orders We may have occasion to send to the seaports. Excepting that Congress, Some few days before they received the News of the Treaty passed a Resolution impowering Us to appoint commercial Agents for the united States. But Supposing, that this Resolution would not have been passed if they had then been apprized of the Treaty, and expecting that soon after the Ratification of the Treaty they would, appoint Consuls, We have as yet done nothing in Consequence of that Resolution.
     We have long since written to Congress advising and requesting that Consuls might be appointed, and We have expected every day for Some Months, Intelligence of such appointments.
     There is nothing therefore remains in our Power to do, at present for your Relief, but to lay your Letter, And the other Representation which accompanied it, before the Ministry, which We will do without Loss of Time, and request their Advice upon it, and their Interposition in your favour as far as they shall judge it consistent with their Characters to interfere. We have the Honour to be, with very great Respect, Gentn. your most humble servants


Title: John Lloyd to the Commissioners, 4 February 1779
From: Lloyd, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Nantes feby. 4. 1779

     The Letter which Your Honors have been pleased under date of the 26th of last month, to address to several American Gentlemen, came duly to hand.
     Although I am not authorized to reply to it, nevertheless I should think, there would be a failure in the points of respect, and politeness, if the receipt of it, was not acknowledged. The reason why it is not done jointly, I believe proceeds from the Gentlemens being disinclined to give any advice, upon the head of the Free Ports. The subject is important, and as the Commerce of all the States is interested therein, I imagine they apprehend that they might be justly censured by their Countrymen should they presume to say what Your Honors ought to do in the matter.
     The weather is become very moderate, and I hope in the course of a few days the River will be so free of Ice, as to permit the Vessels to be got ready for Sea.
     With great respect I have the honor to be Your Honors Most Obedt. Serv,

      John Lloyd


Title: To John Adams from John Boylston, 6 February 1779
From: Boylston, John
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir

       Feby. 6th. 1779

     Least it might possibly have escap’d the joynt notice of you and your Most worthy Colleague Doctr. Fr——k——d I tho’t it most needful to inform you that from publick reports as also private opinions the Friends of A——m——a have but too much reason to fear that you have about you insidious and dangerous Parricides in the Persons of Freres Lee Men who readily adopt any Measures which may promote their own interest tho’ derogatory to that of their parent Country whose In——d——ce intirely depends on a Harmony and Unity of Sentiment.
     Self preservation being the first Law and it being necessary to eat to live I heartily wish that no person whose indigent circumstances may expose them to corruption or Stock Gambling, may be in any manner employ’d by you C——ng——ss during the continuance of this present dispute.
     Pray be pleas’d to acquaint G. Tailer that I advise him to return home by the very first opportunity for as poverty is shun’d as contagious he will not find a single friend when reduc’d to a single shilling. When I wrote you my wishes to assist him I meant with your advice only. My best wishes attend you and your most worthy—being with great esteem Dr. Sr.


Title: The Comte de Vergennes to Benjamin Franklin: A Translation, 6 February 1779
From: Vergennes, Charles Gravier, Comte de
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

       Versailles, 6 February 1779

      I have communicated to M. Sartine, gentlemen, the letter that you did me the honor to write on the 24th of last month. This minister has replied that it is not now possible to promise you that he will provide special escorts for the vessels bound for the United States all the way to the North American ports, nor even beyond the meridian of the Azores, but that your vessels will be escorted, with those belonging to his Majesty’s subjects, to waters where they will have little to fear from privateers. Those vessels which are presently being prepared at Nantes and are bound for America the United States and can promptly go down the river, will be escorted to the Isle of Aix this month, and will be escorted beyond the Capes, and even farther; that is to say, as long as they wish to follow the same route as the convoy of French vessels bound for the American islands.


Title: Arthur Lee to Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, 8 February 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John

      Gentlemen

       Feby. 8th. 1779

     Having not seen the Letter of Mr. Williams to which one of those sent me is an Answer I cannot form any judgment of it.
     As there are no marks mentiond by which Mr. Deanes claim to any of the Goods in the possession of the public Agent can be ascertaind—as all the Goods in question, were, when receivd, declard to be on account of the public; and as I perceive in the Banker’s Accounts very large Sums of public money paid for Goods purchasd in Holland, which Goods I am satisfyd these are; I cannot think it consistent with my duty to concur in delivering them to any person upon so indefinite a claim.
     I have the honor to be, with the greatest esteem & respect, Gentlemen Yr. most Obedt. Humbl. Servt.

      Arthur Lee


Title: The Commissioners to Jonathan Williams, 9 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris
To: Williams, Jonathan

      Sir
      Passy Feb 9. 1779

     We have received your Letters of the 12 Decr. and 23 of January. In the first You propose that We should write to Messrs. Horneca and Fitzeaux to pass the Amount of the Goods you mention to our Debit. In that of 23 of January, you propose that one of the Cases Still remaining in Mr. Schweighausers Hands should be delivered to you, and that We should give orders to Mess. Horneca &c. to replace the others, at Nantes.
     As this Business was brought upon Us, by Accident or Mistake, without our Knowledge or Consent, it appears to Us that the Public ought not to be put to any extraordinary Expence or Risque about it. But still it is our Desire that Justice may be done, and therefore We think that the most equitable Way will be, for Us to give orders that these Goods be delivered to Mr. Deane in America, if they arrive there, and then they will be his Loss if they do not.
     If this is agreable to you, We will readily give orders that the Case which remains in Mr. Schweighausers Hands be delivered to you and the others delivered to Mr. Simeon Deane or his order in America.
     We are &c.


Title: John Julius Pringle to the Commissioners, 9 February 1779
From: Pringle, John Julius
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Lee, Arthur,Adams, John,First Joint Commission at Paris

      Gentlemen
      Paris 9 Feby. 1779

     Having heard that it is your intention to dispatch some person to England to negotiate an Exchange of Prisoners, I presume to offer you my services on that occasion. Having ever professed the purest attachment to the Cause and Interests of my Country, and ready to embrace every opportunity within my power of demonstrating it, the present will be extremely agreeable to me. If therefore no person should offer more able or likely to give entire satisfaction in the discharge of this commission, I shall think myself highly honoured and obliged if you will be pleased to intrust it to me, pledging myself for the prompt and faithful discharge of it, and shall be happy to defray myself the Expences I may incur on account of it.
     I have the honour to be Gentlemen, Your most obedt. hble. Servt.

      J. J. Pringle


Title: Benjamin Franklin and John Adams to J. D. Schweighauser, 10 February 1779
From: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John
To: Schweighauser, John Daniel

      Sir
      Passy feby 10 1779

     Capt. Jones has represented to us his Desire and Intention of returning to the Countess of Selkirk, some Plate which his People took from her house.
     We apprehend that Congress would not disapprove of this Measure, as far as it should depend upon them; and We therefore consent on the Part of the United States that this Plate should be return’d. This Consent is to be understood to extend no farther than to the share to which the U.S. may be suppos’d to have a Claim. The Claim of the Officers and Men, Cap. Jones must be responsible to them for. This Plate in the whole is represented to be worth about 100 Guineas.


Title: Arthur Lee to Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, 10 February 1779
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Franklin, Benjamin,Adams, John

      Gentlemen
      Chaillot Feb. 10th 1779

     I perceive by the letter you have sent me that Mr. Deane’s claim is ascertaind by marks, and therefore have signd the letter. But I think enquiry shoud be made after those goods which were bought with the public Money in Holland, and which those now given up were supposd to be.
     I am unwilling to sign the Letter to Capn. Jones, because it does not contain the whole of the facts on that Subject, and gives an opinion which in my humble judgment belongs to Congress only to give after an examination into the whole of that officers conduct.
     I have proposd to Capn. Jones that we shoud certify upon His commission, that it is still in force and he remains in the american Service. This as I conceive will relieve us from what may be hereafter embarrassing the entering into a question which will probably come before a proper Court of enquiry; and at the same time will silence those who report he is dismissd from the american Service.
     I have to complain to you, that I have receivd a very indecent Letter from Dr. Bancroft telling me of my having made “By letter a direct and personal opposition to his appointment”—and demanding to have a Copy of my letter to you, “that he may judge whether my particular opposition to him arises from a regard for the public Good, or from personal Enmity.” That the A communication of the dissent of any particular Commissioner to the person affected by it, cannot but have the effect of exposing that Commissioner to the abuse and malevolence of that Individual, you must be sensible; and that such communications must put an end to all confidence among the Commissioners, and make it impossible to carry on the business of the public.
     I have the honor to be Gentlemen your Mo. obt. Hble. Sert.

      Arthur Lee