John Bondfield to the American Commissioners
ALS: American Philosophical Society
<Bordeaux, June 27, 1778: The Belle-Poule’s engagement is considered
here a prelude to war; all foreign produce is being
bought up as speculation. Admiral Byron is apparently not
bound for America. These developments may further recruiting
there, which I am told needs a spur. The marquis
d’Almodóvar left on the night of the 25th. The nonarrival of
the galleons excites alarm; their insurance in England is considered
the sole hope of their not being attacked.>
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