Hamburg 
101 (1775) 
Vergennes to La Houze 
Sept. 23. Respecting rumor of negotiation 
between England and Russia for purpose of securing a corps 
of 20,000 Russian troops to serve against American insur- 
gents; Russia to be rewarded by important establishments 
in new world; although this seems highly improbable, all 
measures must be taken to secure correct information on 
subject (f . 260) . 
Oct. 19, 30, Nov. 12, 26. Concerning negoti- 
ation for Russian troops (ff. 384, 396, 399, 412). 
La Houze to Vergennes 
Oct. 6. Five Hessian battalions to embark on 
English vessels, presumably for Port Mahon, to allow 
national troops there to be sent to America; not likely 
that Russia would send 20,000 troops to America, regardless 
of inducements that might be offered (f . 373) . 
Oct. 16, Nov. 13, 24. Concerning despatch of 
Hessian troops to America, and negotiation for Russian 
troops (ff. 380, 401, 409). 
[This correspondence illustrates French concern over 
the rumor of Russian aid to England, and the indirect 
efforts made to dissuade the Russian government from ac- 
cepting any such proposal.] 
102 (1776-1777) 
Correspondence of La Houze, Vergennes 
Subjects Treated 
Embarkation of Hessian troops for America, delays, 
and difficulty of procuring vessels (ff. 58, 64, 75, 76, 
87, 204, 212, 354, 361) . 
Purchase of supplies in Hamburg and Altona by English 
(f . 60) . 
Protest against sale of German troops to English 
(ff . 82, 85, 91, 251, 307) . 
England's situation as regards her colonies (f. 129). 
Detention and later release of two American vessels 
at Hamburg ( f f . 135 , 147 , 150 ) . 
Hanover ordered to supply ten battalions for American 
service (ff. 237, 241, 251). 
Rumor of American privateer causes marine insurance 
to go up at Hamburg; rates go down when rumor is shown to 
be false (ff . 273, 281, 286). 
Other Material 
[1776, Apr. 22]. List of Hessian troops levied for 
service in America. 
686 
