Letters to Benjamin Franklin 383 



From [C. G. F.] D[uinas] to The American Commissioners. 

 1778. March 27. The Hague. 



Arrival of their good friend, the Factor. Awaits only an important 

 letter from them before setting out for Amsterdam ; explains the several 

 preliminary steps before the proper moment arrives for Franklin to ap- 

 pear on the scene; impossible to push affairs further without important 

 instructions from them. A. L. S. 2 p. (In French.) XXXIX, 26. 



From Due de la Rochefoucauld. 1778. March 27. Brest. 



At last America and France are declared friends, and Franklin, 

 Minister Plenipotentiary. Anxious to know if Mr. Deane is really re- 

 turning to America; desires to see him before he sails. Expects to dine 

 with Captain Jones in a day or two on board one of the French frigates. 

 Begs for news. A, L. S. 2 p. (In French.) VIII, 199. 



From Arthur Lee. 1778. March 27. Chaillot. 



Decided that, owing to his connection with the Spanish Court, he 

 could not venture as far as Germany; his brother has therefore set out. 

 Concerning the business of the loan bills. A. L. S. i p. VIII, 199^. 



From John Johnstone. 1778. March 27. St. Malo. 



Narrating a series of misfortunes befallen him since he sailed from 

 Dartmouth on the 27th of June. Is now at St. Malo, in France; begs 

 Franklin to obtain his freedom that he may return to his native 

 country. A. L. S. i p. VIII, 200. 



From Recules de Basmarin et Raimbaux. 

 1778. March 28. Bordeaux. 



The close bonds between France and America. The admiration due 

 to Franklin's talents and the homage due his character. L. S. 2 p. 

 (In French.) VIII, 201. 



From [Capt.] Emanuel Pierre De la Plaigne. 

 1778. March 28. Bordeaux. 



Difficulties and discussions he has had with Messrs. Bayard & Co. 

 on the score of passengers ; fears that they will not keep to their agree- 

 ment. Expects to leave for I'lsle de Re the following Monday. L. S. 

 3 p. (In French.) VIII, 202. 



