John Gilbank to the American Commissioners
ALS: American Philosophical Society
<Nantes, November 4, 1778: I am applying to you again for
money to meet my necessary expenses. Without assistance I
can neither avail myself of an opportunity to sail for America
nor fulfill my duty to Congress; my attachment to the American
cause precludes my receiving help from my family. Had I
not been captured on my last attempt to get to America, this
request would be unnecessary. From you I have a right to
expect protection, and I beg the honor of a reply as soon as
possible since I am informed that a ship will be ready to leave
in fifteen days.>
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