William Lee to the American Commissioners
ALS: American Philosophical Society
<Frankfort-on-Main, January 23, 1779: In following my instructions
from the state of Virginia to procure cannon, arms,
and ammunition from the French ministry, I applied to Vergennes,
who thought it best that you should apply to the
prince de Montbarey, the business falling within the department
of the Secretary of War. Consequently, I request your
help and enclose a list of articles needed. The state will pay as
soon as circumstances permit and will send their commodities
to Europe for that purpose. I have no doubt that you will be
willing to render this service, and if you should succeed,
please inform me at which ports these articles can be delivered,
and I will have them shipped to Virginia.>
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