The committee to whom was referred the letter of 30th May 1780 from Monsieur de Sartine delivered in a report, whereupon,

Resolved,

That Congress entertain a high sense of the distinguished bravery and military conduct of John Paul Jones Esquire captain in the navy of the United States, and particularly in his victory over the british Ship of war Serapis on the coast of England which was attended with circumstances so brilliant as to excite general applause and admiration.

That the Minister plenipotentiary of these United States at the court of Versailles communicate to his most christian Majesty the high satisfaction Congress have received from the information of M: de Sartine that the conduct and gallant beheaviour of Capt John Paul Jones have merited the attention and approbation of his most christian majesty that his majestys offer of adorning Capt Jones with the cross of military merit is highly acceptable to Congress Extract from the Minutes