41John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 4 July 1778: résumé (Franklin Papers)
ALS : American Philosophical Society <Bordeaux, July 4, 1778: The Union left Edenton on June 6 and arrived here on the 2nd but unfortunately, after so short a passage, brought no news. Accounts come in of losses on the Carolina coast caused by pilots’ misconduct; the inhabitants mislead our ships or refuse help, and the state government should take notice. Mr. Sartine has invited local...
42John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 13 October 1778: résumé (Franklin Papers)
ALS : American Philosophical Society <Bordeaux, October 13, 1778: We learn from an American privateer which arrived at Corunna on September 30 that Admiral Howe tried to relieve Rhode Island. His and d’Estaing’s fleets were severely damaged in a storm; he has returned to New York and d’Estaing regained his post off Newport. The privateer took two packet boats from which he has brought into...
43John Bondfield to the American Commissioners, 27 June 1778: résumé (Franklin Papers)
ALS : American Philosophical Society <Bordeaux, June 27, 1778: The Belle-Poule ’s engagement is considered here a prelude to war; all foreign produce is being bought up as speculation. Admiral Byron is apparently not bound for America. These developments may further recruiting there, which I am told needs a spur. The marquis d’Almodóvar left on the night of the 25th. The nonarrival of the...