258 Letters to Benjamin Franklin 



As soon as his wounds permit, expects to reimbark for America where 

 he looks forward to shedding his blood once more in such a glorious 

 cause. A. L, S, 2 p. XVIII, 129. 



From J[ohn] Torris. 1780. June 11. Dunkirk. 



Bemoans the detention of the " Black Princess " ; the opportunities 

 she is missing of making prizes and distressing the enemy, and the 

 great expense of her maintenance; will answer for the innocence in 

 this matter of the good-natured and brave Capt. Macatter; accuses 

 the Commissary at Morlaix of jealousy and of exceeding his preroga- 

 tives. Encloses a copy of the testimony of Capt. Macatter and crew. 

 (4 p. In French.) A. L. S. 3 p. XVIII, 130. 



Fro?n John Rainey. 1780. June 12. Amsterdam. 



Concerning Continental Loan-Office Certificates in his possession 

 which are greatly reduced in value, and which he is anxious to dispose 

 of in Holland, France or Spain; asks Franklin's advice in the matter, 

 as such a step might prove detrimental to the credit of the United 

 States. Report from London of Lord G. Gordon having gone up 

 to the Parliament Houses with 5,000 men and a petition against the 

 Popery Bill, etc. The prevailing opinion is that if Charleston can hold 

 out, the English will withdraw their troops from the United States. 

 A. L. S. 5 p. XVIII, 132. 



From The Commodore of the Navy of the State of South Carolina. 

 1780. June 12. L'Orient. 



Has the direction of one vessel for the service of South Carolina and 

 is about to buy others ; asks Franklin to aid him in procuring the necessary 

 officers and seamen and to grant passes to such as he may engage; 

 believes such assistance to be due him, in spite of the uniform oppo- 

 sition his efforts have met with in Europe; expects to purchase the 

 prize-ship, " Serapis." Apologizes for interfering, but is strongly of 

 the opinion that Capt. Landais should either be allowed to assume the 

 command of the " Alliance " or be shown the order from Congress for- 

 bidding such a step. A. L. S. A[lexander] Gillon, 2 p. 



XVIII, 133. 



