TO THE COMMITTEE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS.
Paris, May 23d, 1778.
Gentlemen,
In consequence of your despatches by my colleague, Mr Adams, I lost no moment to press the renewal of the order for the supplying you with such stores as you want, and as that country affords, from the Court of Spain. I have the satisfaction to inform you that such orders are given, and I am assured will be carried into execution as speedily as possible.
We mean to apply for the loan desired to the monied men of Holland, and in my particular department, I shall endeavor to take the favorable opportunity of the arrival of the flotilla to urge the same in Spain.
War is not begun in Germany or Great Britain; but it seems to be inevitable.
I have sent orders to all the ports in France and Spain to communicate the account of the sailing of a fleet of thirteen ships from England against America, to all the captains who sail for the United States or the French islands. This I conceived would be the most certain means of communicating the alarm, and preventing surprise.
The ministry here are also to convey a letter from us, by every opportunity, to the same purpose.
I have the honor to be, &c.