To the Commanders of American Armed Ships (unpublished)

To all Captains or Commanders of Ships of War or Privateers, belonging to the United States of America or Citizens of the same. Greeting.

We the underwritten, Minister Plenipotentiary from the Congress of the said States to the Court of France, do hereby in their Name, strictly charge and require of you, as we do likewise pray and desire the officers and Ministers of all Princes and Powers in Amity with the said States, to permit and suffer the merchant Vessel called the [blank] commanded by [blank] belonging to Great Britain to sail from any of the Ports thereof to any Port or Place whatsoever, except those of the said States in North America, together with the marchandize wherwith she may be laden, without any Let, Hindrance or Molestation whatsoever, but on the contrary affording, the said Vessel, all such aid and assistance as may be necessary. Give at Paris, this First Day of Feby 1783.

B Franklin

By Command of the Minister Plenipotentiary

W. T. Franklin secy

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