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There have been sent by Mr Le Count de la Succrne Minister of the Marine two negroes who assert they are free and belong to the state of Pennsylvania or one of the neighbouring states. This assertion may be false but it is certain they are not the property of any of the inhabitants of this Colony, we have not therefore judged it our duty to keep them in confinement but every circumstance being considered had thought it proper to treat them as freemen and have therefore sent them to Philada in a vessel commanded by Capt Earle.—

We request your Excellency will receive them and treat them according to the laws of your republic.—

We pray you to be fully persuaded of the distinguished regard and respectful attachment with which we have the honor to be Sir Your excellency’s very hble and bery obed. Servt.