The American Commissioners to Jonathan Williams, Jr., 21 November 1777
The American Commissioners to Jonathan Williams, Jr.4
Copy: Connecticut Historical Society
Paris Novr. 21. 1777.
Sir
You are desired to get from Capt. Adams a particular Account of his being taken,5 in which he must ascertain as exact as is in his Power at what distance he was from the Coast of France when he was first Chased and when he was actually taken. He must make oath to his narration and send it up to us by the first Courier. If you have knowledge of other Vessels taken by English Ships of War near the Coast of France I wish you to enquire into the particulars of their Capture, and at what distance it may have happened and send up the Account to the Commissioners. I am &c.
SD
Mr Williams
4. Deane is clearly speaking for his colleagues.
5. John Adams, in the Lynch, was captured on May 19, released in England, and then arrested again: above, XXIV, 22 n, 131. When he escaped we do not know, but he was in Nantes by late October: Deane Papers, II, 200.