Benjamin Franklin Papers

The American Commissioners to Franco and Adrianus Dubbeldemuts, 3 February 1778

The American Commissioners to Franco and Adrianus Dubbeldemuts7

Copy: Connecticut Historical Society

Paris 3d. Feby. 1778

Gentlemen

Mr. Dorsius of Charlestown South Carolina is a Gentleman we would recommend to you as one much employed, and of Confidence, and one very proper to act for you in your Affair at that Place. Should Mr. Dorsius be engaged in other Business, or should he or his Friends be so interested in that Privateer which made Prize of your Vessel (which is possible)8 that he cannot properly act for you, we advise you to apply to the Hon’ble Christr. Gadsden Esqr.,9 sending over the State of your Case and the Certificates properly attested by our Powers of Attorney. I am for myself and Mr. Franklin yours &c.

S.D.

Messrs. F & A Doubledemutts

[Note numbering follows the Franklin Papers source.]

7This was, we believe, a long delayed answer to a request from the Dubbeldemuts and their colleagues, in late November, now missing, for the name of a Charlestonian who would represent their interests; see their letters above, Dec. 8, 18.

8An excellent guess: Dorsius, according to William Bray’s deposition of Oct. 28, 1777 (National Archives), was the sole owner of the Experiment, one of the two privateers that had captured the Chester.

9One of the leading S.C. politicians and a brigadier general in the continental army: DAB.

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