Letters to Benjamin Franklin 209 



Frojn Prince Dmitri de Galitzin. 1777. January 28. La Hague. 



One of Franklin's most sincere admirers; his love of science his ex- 

 cuse for writing to him. Lays before him certain conclusions he has 

 formed on the subject of electricity; begs to hear frankly whether he 

 approves or disapproves of his ideas. His residence always at the Hague 

 where he is the ambassador of the Empress of Russia. A. L. S. 7 p. 

 (In French.) V, 38. 



From Montaudouin. 1777. January 28. Nantes. 



Concerning the purchase and equipment of a ship bound for America. 

 Surprised at seeing M. Du Coudray whom he imagined had sailed In 

 the Amphitrite; causes of his return; hopes Franklin will see him at 

 once; lack of circumspection on the part of the agent at Port Louis. 

 A. L. S. 3 p. (In French.) V, 39. 



From Buisson de Basseville. 1777. January 28. Quimperle. 



Desirous of having a post in the service of America; was detained a 

 prisoner for four years in England in the last war and has thereby 

 acquired the English tongue. A. L. S. i p. V, 40. 



From Henry Echlin. 

 1777- January 28. Prison of the Abbaye St. Germain. 



According to Franklin's instruction, the bearer will wait to receive his 

 orders. Begs him to return the list with whatever he is pleased to join 

 to it. A. L. S. I p. V, 41. 



From Arthur Lee. 1777. January 29. Bordeaux. 



A letter received from London which says that ships are actually sent 

 for the 10,000 Germans; that the English hope for great advantages 

 from dissensions in Pennsylvania and that Burgoyne's destination is 

 changed from Virginia to Boston. Cornwallis's defeat in New Jersey 

 generally credited. Question of lightening the duties on exports and 

 imports to and from the United States. A ship lying at Nantes is costing 

 the Congress $100 freight per month; recommended her immediate 

 sale, which Mr. Morris ought to have seen to long before. Mr. Myrcle's 

 reputed character very bad. Repeated accusations made by the English 

 that the Americans have wantonly hung some Hessian prisoners; thinks 

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