From John Paul Jones
als: American Philosophical Society; al (draft) and transcript: National Archives
L’Orient March 28th. 1780.
Honored and dear Sir,

I have received your Orders of the 18th. and have written to Nantes for particular information respecting the Anchorage off Noirmontier that I may take measures accordingly.— I am very glad that Doctor Bancroft who has been an Eye and Ear witness to the Situation of Affairs onboard the Alliance can explain to you every Circumstance. In the meantime I shall do my utmost either to go or send for the Bales of Cloth.— The Cannon are all on board; and you may depend on my best endeavours to fulfil your final Directions.

I beg leave in particular to refer you to Doctor Bancroft for a representation of some Circumstances that respect myself you will I am persuaded soon see the necessity that Obliged me to take the Steps I did in Holland—and I am afraid you will find the Busy Body C less worthy than you had formerly imagined.—

With the most sincere and affectionate Esteem and respect I am Dear Sir, Your most Obliged and most Obedt. Servt.

Jno P Jones

n.b. I understand there is a Quantity of Sheathing Copper belonging to the Continent at Nantes. I wish it could be Ordered to be Ship’d with the Shott for the Alliance.—
His Excellency B. Franklin Esqr. &c: &c:
Notation: J.P. Jones. L’orient March 28. 80
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