Sartine to the American Commissioners
LS: Harvard University Library; copies: National Archives, Library of
Congress, Massachusetts Historical Society
<Versailles, October 7, 1778, in French: I have received your
letter of September 26 supporting the request of Mr. Izard for
the restitution of his belongings. I do not see how the commercial
treaty applies in this case as Mr. Izard’s name is not
mentioned in the bill of lading and as there is no proof the
baggage was not loaded by an Englishman for English use.
Were it the government’s decision, your assertion and that of
Mr. Izard would carry very great weight, but the council on
prizes has already assigned the King’s proceeds to the ship’s
captors. In addressing himself to the courts Mr. Izard can expect
the justice and consideration always accorded Americans.>
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