John Ross to William Temple Franklin (unpublished)
L’Orient 19 April 1780
Dear Sire

I wrote his Excelly. by the Monday post, and having Since seen a letter from a Gentleman at Paris, I wish I had not troubled him, however, as there is a prospect of accomplishing the Seraphis for the Service of the States in a more agreeable & convenient manner, he will make the proper use of my letter, by laying it aside.—

In consequence of an application made to Mr. Necker at my request, I obtained to day liberty to transport the Woolens at Noirmoutier from thence to L’Orient, to be shipped in the Alliance, duty free but the ship cannot take these in, as I wrote already—take an oppty. to mention this to your Grandfather at a convenient time, as his instructions are to be followed in particular respecting the dispatch of this property

If Capt: Jones shoud be provided for, through the favour & induldgence of Court to Serve the States, by the assignaton of the Seraphis—Captain Green a Continental officer, now here might proceed with the Alliance immediately to the Continent, if his Excellency approves.—This I only take the liberty to hint, in case any new arrangement shoud make it necessary to detain Capt: Jones.—I know the necessity of getting the Stores on board the Frigate Sent forward, atsametime, that several Vessel’s now ready to take the benefits of Convoy, are of some Consequence to the Country to proceed Soon—His Excellency will I am persuaded consider of both, and facilitate the Matter consistent with his own Opinion, on Consulting with Capt: Jones, shoud he be detained

Sincerely believe me to be Dear sir Your most obedt Servt

Jno. Ross

Wm T: Franklin Esqr.
Addressed: To / William T: Franklin Esqr. / Passy—
Endorsed: ansd 26 Ap. 80
Notation: M. J. Ross. L’Orient April 1780.
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