We apprehend, that by the 16th article of the treaty of commerce, Mr Izard has a clear right to a restitution of his goods. But perhaps it will be necessary for your Excellency to transmit to Marseilles a copy of the treaty, or some order relative to this property of Mr Izard, which we have the honor to request.
We have the honor to be, &c.
B. FRANKLIN,
ARTHUR LEE,
JOHN ADAMS.
COUNT DE VERGENNES TO THE COMMISSIONERS.
Translation.
Versailles, September 27th, 1778.
Gentlemen,
In your letter of the 28th ult. you remind me of the promise of the king, by the 8th article of the treaty of amity and commerce, signed the 6th of February last, to use his exertions with the Barbary Powers to provide for the security of the commerce and navigation of the citizens of the United States in the Mediterranean. I have communicated your request to M. de Sartine, to whose department it belongs, and you will see by the reply of that minister, of which I send you a copy, that he considers it reasonable, but requires further explanations before he can receive the orders of the king on this matter. I beg you gentlemen, to have the goodness to communicate them to me, and to be assured that the king will cheerfully do all in his power to satisfy the wishes of the United States, and promote their views with the different Barbary powers.
I have the honor to be, Gentlemen, &c.