To Thomas Jefferson from Philip Mazzei, 20 May 1780
From Philip Mazzei
Paris, 20 May 1780. Gives a sketch of the plan of operations by the French land and naval forces recommended by Mazzei in influential quarters. Has sent a copy of his plan to Rochambeau by the Comte de Deux-Ponts, “to whom I gave a letter of recommendation for you dated March 27th.” Postscript: John Adams before sailing for America made “the first and strong motion towards sending us effectual assistance,” and Adams has been “warmly seconded in his absence” by Lafayette.
RC (Vi); 4 p.; in a clerk’s hand, signed by Mazzei; endorsed by a clerk; at head of text: “17 [i.e., dispatch No. 17]. 1st. Copy.” The “2d. Copy” of the same dispatch is in CtY; 3 p.; also a letter signed. First copy printed in , i, 350–2.
Mazzei’s letter of recommendation for Guillaume, Comte de Deux-Ponts, addressed to TJ and dated 27 Mch. 1780, has not been found.