From — de la Gonterie
ALS: American Philosophical Society
<Paris, October 30, 1777, in French: I have a plan that depends
on your approval, and will be abandoned if you disapprove. A
manufacturer of cloth suitable for soldiers and sailors would
like to send his stock on hand to New England, but the ill fate
of a recent shipment, which though consigned to the French
colonies was taken at sea, has persuaded him to try again only
if he can find a ship able to defend herself. I own such a ship
but, because France is neutral, must apply for American letters
of marque. Several months’ service on the Reprisal gives me
some ground for applying; the advantage to your country,
however, is more than enough reason to grant my request. I
have the means to arm the ship in complete secrecy, outside
France, and will give you in person any details you may want.>
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