As I think it will be more consistent for me not to appear at Court when you deliver to the Count de Vergennes the Act of Congress authorizing me to Accept the Order of Military Merit I take the liberty to inclose a Copy of the Letter, that was written to Congress by the Minister of the Marine, upon which that Act is grounded. By this means you will be the better enabled to convey to his Majesty, through his Minister, the Sentiments of Congress on an Occasion so personally interesting to me, and which his Majesty has been pleased to consider as an additional Tie between the two Nations. And as far as the good Understanding between the two Nations may be thereby promoted,—so far hope shall be the better enabled to promote the establishment of our future Marine. I am, Dear Sir, with much regard

Your most obedient and affectionate Servant