From Benjamin Franklin to John Dalton et al., 22 December 1779
To John Dalton et al.
Copy: Library of Congress
Passy, Dec 22. 1779.
Gentlemen
I received yours of the 9th. Instant. Herewith you have the Order of Mr. de sartine for your Discharge.1 For your present Relief, and to bear your Expences to Nantes, you may draw a Bill upon me for two Hundred and forty Livres, which shal be paid here upon Sight.2 Be frugal and make the most of it.
Your friend and servant.
BF
Messr. Christopher Bubier and others Americans Prisoners at Coutances.
1. Sartine must have acted immediately on BF’s request of this day (his second letter, above).
2. On this date BF also informed the greffier (clerk) of the Admiralty of Coutances that he had written the American sailors they could draw on him for the 240 l.t. He begged the favor of the greffier “to assist these poor Men in finding some Person who will advance the Money to them upon their Bill, which shall be punctually paid here upon Sight.” Library of Congress.