To Thomas Jefferson from Thomas Mifflin, 20 December 1793
From Thomas Mifflin
Philada., 20th: Decr. 1793.
Sir
I think it proper to communicate to you, the answer which I have received to the letter, that I addressed to the French Minister, relative to the case of the French Sailors that are confined in the Jail of Philadelphia, particularly as it contains a request, which I do not, at this time, think myself authorised to grant. I shall be happy, however, to know the sentiments of the General Government on the subject. I am, with great esteem, Sir, Your mo: obedt. Servt:
Thomas Mifflin
FC (PHarH: Secretary’s Letterbooks); at foot of text: “To Thomas Jefferson, Esqr, Secretary of State.” Enclosure: Edmond Charles Genet to Mifflin, 16 Dec. 1793, thanking him for his role in the arrest of the faithless deserters and for his willingness to assist in the future, and advising that he will shortly take advantage of his good offices to transport them under a secure guard to New York, where they will be placed under arrest on the Normande and to which port he would have brought them sooner had he not feared their presence there would create disturbances (Tr in DNA: RG 59, MLR; in French; on verso: “Copy”). Enclosed in TJ to George Washington, 21 Dec. 1793.