Letters to Benjamin Franklin 89 



From Stephen Sayre. 1779. June 7, Amsterdam. 

 Once more requests letters of recommendation to the Governor of 

 Martinique, Guadeloupe or Dominica. Surprised at Franklin's silence 

 concerning the construction of a new kind of ship ; is sure he can con- 

 struct a ship far superior to any then in use; with a very few could 

 render the whole British navy totally useless. Has received letters 

 from London desiring to know how far and in what manner Franklin 

 would give aid to Ireland ; an American Commissioner needed in the 

 matter; offers himself for the position. Lord North receives constant 

 information of affairs in Paris, through one, Dr. Moore, an ex-clergyman 

 and " a dirty fellow." A. L. S. 4 p. XIV, 158. 



From [Jno.] Ross. 1779. June 7. Paris. 



Sending some American papers just arrived by a vessel from Phila- 

 delphia. N. in 3d P. I p. LXXI, 32. 



From Even. 1779. June 7. Bannalec. 



Offering his services to America; desires Franklin to procure him a 

 passage to America; will trust to the justice of that country to estab- 

 lish himself. A. L. S. 4 p. (In French.) XIV, 159. 



From J. Rocquette, A. Elserier & Brothers Rocquette. 



1779- June 7. Rotterdam. 



Enclose the two bills issued by the States of America, concerning 

 which they desire information. A. L. S. i p. XIV, 160. 



Fro ?« Jeremiah Peirce. 1779. June 8. Tenterden. 



A native of East Greenwich, Rhode Island ; his capture by an English 

 frigate, escape from Forton prison, enlisting on board a French cutter 

 and his present wretched situation as a prisoner; begs Franklin to pro- 

 cure his exchange; enclosing certificates. [Endorsement by Mr. Thomas 

 Viny, recommending Pierce as an honest fellow, to Franklin's kindness.] 

 A. L. S. 2 p. XIV, 161. 



From Felix Antony Castrioto. 1779. June 8. Lisbon. 



Has received no answer to his letters; such neglect is not merited 

 by the first foreigner who undertook in public the defense of America, 

 and who made a deep impression on many people's minds by his pamph- 



