The American Commissioners to Francis Coffyn
AL (draft): Massachusetts Historical Society; two copies: National
Archives
<Passy, July 13, 1778: Capt. Amiel brought us this morning
two letters from you enclosing testimonials to your good
character. We had no doubt of it, and your trouble was unnecessary.
A letter, it is true, did say that you were “somewhat
too busy, in some particular matters,” but this did not prejudice
us against you. If you send news to America, write the
Hon. James Warren at Boston or the Congressional committee
of foreign affairs; English newspapers are always acceptable.
But write nothing that is unconfirmed; misrepresentations that
are floating about mislead the people. Give the American seamen
you mention some employment, whether at Dunkirk, or
at Brest or Nantes, that will save expense to their country.>
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