I04 Letters to Benjamin Franklin 



From [C. G. F.] D[umas]. 1779. June 30. The Hague. 



de N[eufville] persisting in his ambitious schemes; disapproves of 

 conferring on him the eminent powers he demands. Conversation held 

 with the Baron de C. A. L. S. i p. XXXIX, 114. 



From The Continental Congress. 1779. June. Philadelphia. 



Enclosing Acts of Congress of the 5th and i8th inst. respecting bills 

 of exchange in favor of M. Beaumarchais; Congress earnestly disposed 

 to make him this payment ; would gladly have done it in produce had not 

 the state of the finances and the hazardous navigation rendered it im- 

 practicable. Flatter themselves that Franklin will be able to discharge 

 the drafts with punctuality. A. L. S. John Jay, President. I p. 



XIV, 228. 



From . 1779. July I. 



Quotes terms of decree by the King of Spain whereby all vessels 

 having merchandise on board belonging to the King's enemies may be 

 seized, brought into a Spanish port and the merchandise confiscated. 

 Asserts that according to this decree Capt. Conyngham's seizure of the 

 French brigantine " Le Gracieux " from Cadiz, with cargo on board 

 consigned to London, was lawful. Protest made by Spain against the 

 seizure. Calls Franklin's attention to several points of the case. L. 

 2 p. (In French.) LIV, 51. 



From John Hay, [Jr.]. 1779. July i. Passy. 



The persons in the expedition, to which Franklin has granted his 

 protection, are anxious to know what port in America would be the 

 safest for them to land ; their intention is to settle in Pennsylvania, but, 

 to avoid the danger of British cruisers, they would make for any other 

 port north or south of the Delaware. A. L. S. 2 p. XV, i. 



From Jno. P[aul] Jones. 

 I779- July I. On board "The Bon Homme Richard," off L'Orient. 

 Movements of the American squadron under his command. Disap- 

 pointed in the sailing powers of the " Bon Homme Richard " ; even the 

 "Pallas" sails faster; believes if the Court would give the ship which 

 they at first offered, it would be possible to make a useful and honorable 

 cruise with the force now under his command. A. L. S. 3 p. XV, 2. 



