FROM THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE
TO BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.
Baltimore, January 1st, 1777.
Sir,
Congress, relying on your wisdom and integrity, and well knowing the importance of the case, have appointed you their Commissioner to negotiate a treaty of friendship and commerce with the Court of Spain.[1] The idea of Congress on this subject you will find in the instructions sent by this opportunity to yourself, and the other Commissioners, at the Court of France. Your commission for this special service we have now the honor to enclose you.
We are, with great respect and esteem, honorable Sir, yours, &c.
B. HARRISON,
R. H. LEE,
J. WITHERSPOON,
W. HOOPER.
TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE.
Paris, January 4th, 1777.
Gentlemen,