Sartine to the American Commissioners
Copies: National Archives, Massachusetts Historical Society, Library
of Congress (two)
<Marly, October 19, 1778, in French: I have received your letters
about Mr. Izard’s complaints. The ship with its cargo has
been declared a valid prize; for the government to meddle with
the law would create a dangerous precedent. If Mr. Izard’s request
is in conformity with the treaties his claim will be favorably
received and the cost of addressing a petition is not great.
Had his ownership been proven earlier, it would have only
been a question of verifying it. I am sorry to say, however, he
will be unable to avoid the indispensable formalities His Majesty
has established for allies as well as subjects.>
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