From Joseph Compagnoni
ALS: American Philosophical Society
<Lugo in the Romagna, November 30, 1777, in French: I wrote
you on September 21 to the following effect: Your literary
merit and your patriotism move me to dedicate to you a small
rhymed work on a war that has brought Europe the good
fortune of having you back. The poem, entitled “Il Washington,”
will not offend reason or virtue and, though most favorable
to the colonies, will not hurt English sensitivities. If you
will accept, I shall embrace the opportunity to testify to your
talents and love for your country; these are qualities that tie
men together in the knot of virtue and community. I confidently
expect your response. Thus far my letter, which I résumé
on the chance that it did not reach you or that your
answer has been lost. The work is already in print; I wait only
on word from you.>
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