The American Commissioners to John Paul Jones
LS: National Archives; AL (draft): Massachusetts Historical Society;
two copies: National Archives
<Passy, August 10, 1778: We are not authorized by Congress
to allow deductions from the seamen’s prize money or their
advances. As for your stores and furniture, M. Simpson will
undoubtedly deliver your private property upon request. We
cannot advise you regarding your indemnification, but we
hope you will be furnished the proper receipts upon request.
We shall recommend to Congress the men who landed with
you at Whitehaven. Should our letter miscarry, recommend
them yourself and include an extract of this paragraph. The
Ranger’s men have merited such honor that Congress may approve
of deductions from their wages to be paid in America,
so that they may have their prize money here.
We have received a letter concerning some prize plate you
placed in the hands of a gentleman who awaits your orders to
deliver it, which you will of course give.>
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