Not having any thing particular to Communicate I have deferred too long paying my tribute of thanks for the Civilities I received from you during my short stay at Paris. I saw the Minister soon after my Return, who was much upon the Fish to know why I paid you a Visit, I turned it off, by saying we had a long account to settle and that I flatterred myself my Visit had not been alltogether fruitless as I had endeavoured and I hoped with some success, to convince you that his Lordship was fully resolved to grant American Independence, of the Truth of which most Men entertained great Doubts, he said I did right and that alltho the Commission for that purpose had not been expedited, yet the Copy had, and the Commission itself shou’d sent as soon as the Chancellor returned to Town, all which I hope will be carried into execution. If in the course of this Business any thing shou’d occurr which may require a fuller Conversation with his Lordship that perhaps can be obtained from the Gentleman at Paris I shall be happy in being employed and you may depend upon my Zeal and discretion and you will oblige me much by a hint of Information how things go on.

I have sent the 4 Boxes of pepper Mint drops to Shelburne house which I hope you will receive safe and I have made application for another Cartel Vessell to carry what American Prisoners have been collected since the last sailed—with those who were left behind sick the No. is about 130 and I am promised that they shall be sent away as a Vessell can be procured for the purpose. If you have any Dispatches to send I can forward them by some of the Officers that go and perhaps it may be a safe and eligible mode of Conveyance. I have given Directions to Mr. Wren to pay a weekly allowance to the Prisoners 1s. to Officers   to Men. I am with the greatest Respect Dear sir Yours most sincerely