John Bondfield to the American Commissioners
ALS: American Philosophical Society
<Bordeaux, February 2, 1779: Capt. Jason Laurence of the
schooner General Arnold arrived here yesterday by a Dutch
ship; he had been put on board by the Jersey privateer that
captured him. He informs me his ship belonged to General
Arnold and was the first launched in Philadelphia since its
recapture. He left there on November 4, carrying packets for
you and others as well as tobacco and bills of exchange, all of
which he destroyed when taken. This captain reports greater
unanimity than ever in Pennsylvania. The three frigates
burned by the British are under repair. No vessels from Europe
have arrived in Philadelphia yet, and none are bound for
here, although many are preparing in Chesapeake Bay. European
goods are scarce and expensive, salt being £7 10 s. the
bushel. Affairs in the east appear as favorable as can be expected;
with those in the south he is unacquainted.
Numerous privateers are off Bordeaux; four sturdy frigates
could clear them away. Insurance, even when available, carries
sixty per cent in interest costs.>
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