The above papers were referred to the committee of five, before mentioned, who on the 2d of August delivered in a report, whereupon Congress came to the following resolutions;
Resolved, That the Minister of France be assured, that Congress will at all times afford every countenance and protection to the Consuls and other servants of his Most Christian Majesty, with the powers and authorities to them delegated by their constituents.
That the several appointments of Consuls made, and which may hereafter be made and approved by Congress, be duly registered in the Secretary's office, and properly notified by the President to the Executive authorities of the respective States in whose ports such Consuls may reside.
That the measures taken by M. Holker to procure flour for the fleet of his Most Christian Majesty in the way of commerce, have from time to time been made known unto, and been fully approved by Congress; that the several proceedings and publications complained of by the Minister on that subject are very injurious to the servants of his said Majesty, and that Congress do highly disapprove of the same.
That the President and Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania be informed, that any prosecutions which it may be expedient to direct for such matters and things in the said publications or transactions, as may be against the laws of nations, shall be carried on at the expense of the United States.
That the Minister of France be informed that the President and Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania have taken proper measures to restore the flour taken from the agents of M. Holker.
THE PRESIDENT OF PENNSYLVANIA TO M. GERARD.
In Council, Philadelphia, July 31st, 1779.
Sir,
I have now the honor of addressing you in answer to the representation you were pleased to make to this Board on the 24th instant. When, to every principle of public affection, policy, and justice, there is added our experience of your personal friendship to America, and your attachment and engaging deportment to the citizens of Pennsylvania of every rank, all professions on our part to make your residence in the State happy, easy, and honorable, must be unnecessary. It is not easy, therefore, for us to find language to express our concern at any transaction which may disturb your repose, and interrupt the exercise of those functions discharged with so much honor to yourself and satisfaction to those, who are called to take any part in public affairs.