We are, Sir, &c.
JAMES LOVELL,
W. C. HOUSTON.
THE COMMITTEE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS TO B. FRANKLIN.
Philadelphia, July 11th, 1780.
Sir,
Congress having appointed the Honorable Henry Laurens to solicit a loan of money in the United Provinces of the Low Countries, in order to facilitate his success the enclosed resolution has been passed. We need say nothing to explain or urge it, except that it is thought a mark of attention and confidence due to those powers named in it, that their interest, if the state of politics inclines them to exert it, will have a good effect; and, that the want of money makes this loan a very capital object to the United States. You will, we are sure, give Mr Laurens every assistance in your power, and solicit the countenance of the Court where you reside to forward his negotiations.
Until Mr Laurens shall arrive, Mr Adams is commissioned and empowered to undertake that business, and, in case of his disability, Mr Dana is in like manner commissioned and empowered.
We are, Sir, your humble servants,
JAMES LOVELL,
W. C. HOUSTON.