Letters to Benjamin Franklin 417 



From De La Porte. 1778. May 9. Belle He. 



A young French officer desires to enter the service of the Colonies; 

 has all the talents of a brave officer. A. L. S. 2 p. (In French.) 



IX, 138. 

 From Seguin, 1778, May 10. Lacepede. 



With reference to Jean Jerome Seguin who wishes to obtain some 

 employment in the United States. A. L. S. 3 p. (In French.) 



LX, 83. 

 From R[ichard] Price. [1778.] May 10. 



Is there any truth in the report that General Washington is grown 

 unpopular, that his army deserts in great numbers and that the suf- 

 ferings of the Americans are excessive? The Commissioners feel as- 

 sured that the terms they are empowered to offer by the Conciliatory 

 Bills, though much short of independence, will be accepted. Messages 

 to Franklin from various friends; Mr. Curtis and Mr. Webb both 

 broken and ruined. L. 2 p. IX, 140. 



From Douairiere Duchesse de Deux-Ponts, Comtesse de Forbach. 

 1778. May 10. Forbach. 



Her affection for him and her regrets that she will not see him 

 till the following winter. The interest she has in his glory and success 

 and the keen desire she has for news of all which concerns him. A. L. 

 S. 4 p. (In French.) IX, 141. 



From Aguiton. 1778. May 10. Paris. 



Sets out for London the next day and offers to execute any com- 

 mands Franklin may honor him with. L. i p. IX, 142. 



From de la Grange. 1778. May 10. Brancourt. 



Unable to support his family, consisting of a wife and five children, 

 on the slender pittance he receives; in want of the very necessaries 

 of life; begs assistance; refers him to various people for the truth of 

 these assertions. A. L. S. 2 p. (In French, in duplicate.) 



IX, 143 and 144. 



From Antoine Flottes de Raissan. 1778. May 10. Paris. 



His admiration for Franklin; begs for a moment's audience. A. L. 

 S. I p. (In French.) IX, 145. 



