John Paul Jones: Memorandum for the American
Commissioners
Copy: Harvard University Library
<[July 3, 1778:] I came to Paris when I learned on good authority
that the minister wanted to speak with me on a matter
of great utility to the United States. Permission to sell the
prizes, or an exchange of prisoners, was not in immediate
prospect; and something had to be done to assuage the Ranger’s
crew. The minister pledged me to reveal his plan to no
one, so that I may not do so even to you, unless you get me
released from my promise and allowed to inform him that you
insisted. But I can assure you that the plan is consistent with
my duty as an officer, and with American interests and the
friendship of France; it will contribute to the success of our
arms and cost nothing. Success, the minister emphasized, depends
on complete secrecy. The affair was not of my seeking,
and the trip to Paris accorded with my instructions and my
duty. I acted on principle, and know that my past conduct has
been amply approved.>
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