John Bondfield to the American Commissioners
ALS: American Philosophical Society
<Bordeaux, November 21, 1778: The Inspector of Artillery visited
the port yesterday to inspect M. Bertin’s cannon. On the
basis of appearance alone, their quality seems good, but this
must be confirmed by testing. I herewith enclose a list indicating
their specifications. Other cannon belonging to the same
company made from the same mold can be procured from
other ports. To test such heavy artillery will be expensive. If
you decide to order it, remember to specify the quality of
powder as well. M. de La Touche has ordered a frigate to
accompany our vessels from La Rochelle to Nantes where M.
Schweighauser has goods ready to load. The latest vessel to
arrive here sailed from Alexandria September 20. You have all
the intelligence we have.>
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