Copy of a Letter sign’d Benjn Franklin and addressed to the Honble. The Commissioners of the Board of Treasury.

Immediately on the receipt of your letter of the 14th instant enclosing a copy of one from Mr. Barcklay to you, I causd a fresh search to be made for the papers you require respecting the Vouchers of Mr. Ross’s Accounts deposited in my office when in France, and after the most careful and diligent examination nothing of the kind is found in my possession. When I was about to leave that kingdom, I orderd all papers relating to the public Accounts and everything deposited with me as Consul (I having acted in that capacity before Mr. Barclay’s arrival) to be put into his hands which was done.

I cannot therefore but be of opinion that tho he may not have taken notice of those Vouchers, yet they will be found with the other papers of his office when these shall arrive in America.

I have however enquird of Mr. Ross, whether he cannot supply the deficiency who informs me, that he has an authenticated copy which he is ready to produce, if necessary, but as he sent four similar Copies by four different ships all of which arrived safe & delivered their respective Cargoes of the Goods to the Commercial Committee, he is very sure some of these copies must still exist & may be found among the Papers of that Committee. I have the honor to be with great regard, Gentlemen, Yr. most obedt. &c &c