From the Committee of Secret Correspondence
ls: Library of Congress; University of Pennsylvania Library; copies: Library of Congress, National Archives (four)
Baltimore 1 January, 1777
Honorable Sir

Congress relying on your wisdom and integrity, and well knowing the great Importance of the Case, have appointed you their Commissioner to negotiate a treaty of friendship and commerce with the Court of Spain. The Idea of Congress on this Subject you will find in the instructions of Congress sent by this opportunity to yourself and the other Commissioners at the Court of France. Your Commission for this special service we have now the honor to inclose you. We are with great Respect and Esteem Honorable Sir Your most obedient and very humble Servants

Benja Harrison
Richard Henry Lee
Jno Witherspoon
Will Hooper
Doctor Franklin
Endorsed: Letter from Committee of Correspondence to B. Franklin, acquainting him with his Appointment to the Court of Spain Jan. 1. 1777
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