The American cause wavered. The triumphs of Lord Howe filled England with rejoicing and Passy with alarm.
In the midst of the depression at Passy there came a messenger from Massachusetts who brought to Franklin the news of Burgoyne's surrender. When Dr. Franklin was told that this messenger was in the courtyard of Passy, he rushed out to meet him.
"Sir, is Philadelphia taken?"
"Yes, sir."
Franklin clasped his hands.
"But, sir, I have other news. Burgoyne and his army are prisoners of war!"
Great was the rejoicing at Passy and in Paris. The way to an alliance appeared now to open to the envoys.
"O Mr. Austin," Dr. Franklin used to say to the young messenger from Massachusetts, "you brought us glorious news!"
The tidings was followed by other news in Passy. December 17, 1777, was a great and joyful day there. A minister came to the envoys there to announce that the French Government was ready to conclude an agreement with the United States, and to make a formal treaty of alliance to help them in the cause of independence.
The cause was won, but the treaty was yet delayed. There were articles in it that led to long debates.