Letters to Benjamin Franklin 6i 



From John Adams. 1779. April 13. Nantes. 



Glad that he approves of clothing the petty officers and will do 

 his best to justify the confidence placed in him. The lack of obedience 

 and discipline on board must cause delays of all kinds. Much pleased 

 at Franklin's flattering reception at Court; hopes that Spain, as well 

 as France, will soon declare in favor of the same generous cause. 

 England's fondnesss for war, and obstinacy in carrying it on. Master 

 Johnny acts as interpreter, companion, secretary and domestic to his 

 papa. A. L. S. 3 p. XIV, 31. 



From John Adams. 1779. April 13. Nantes. 



The reason for the discontent on board seems to be the depreciation 

 of paper pay and the nationality of the captain (Landais). Has 

 promised the officers and men as much money as, with their clothes, 

 will make two months' pay; without this indulgence, is convinced 

 the ship would never get to sea. A. L. S. 2 p. XIV, 32. 



From Jona[than] Williams, Jr. 1779. April 13. Nantes. 



His difficulties in procuring a trial. His opinion of falling in 

 love and marriage; sees more reasons in favor of matrimony than he 

 used to in the past. A. L. S. 2 p. XXXVIII, 25. 



From [Sir] James Jay to The American Commissioners. 

 1779. April 14. Paris. 



Asks for reason for his exclusion from taking passage on the vessel 

 with M. Gerard and Mr. Deane. A. L. S. 3 p. 



A. E. by Franklin. " Being sure that there has been no intention 

 nor inclination to offend Sir James Jay, and not being conscious of 

 having done or said anything that ought to give him offense, his note 

 is perfectly unintelligible to the gentlemen it is directed to." 



LXI, 57 and 58. 



From James Hutton. 1779. April 14. 



Thanking him for the kind paper of protection for their vessel; has 

 sent it to England to his brethren; hopes for the same kind of pass- 

 port from M. de Sartine. Difficulties attending the release of Cap- 

 tain Mugford, the mate and two sailors, which must be accomplished 

 before they can sail. A. L. S. 2 p. XIV, 33. 



