1From John Adams to Arthur Middleton, 24 April 1779 (Adams Papers)
Your Favour, of the 4 July 1778, I had not the Honour to receive, untill yesterday, which I very much lament because I fear I have lost an opportunity of rendering Some little service to the Commodore in his laudable Enterprise, at least of shewing every Respect in my Power to your Recommendation. In a Letter, which he did me the Honour to write me, I find he has made several able Propositions...
2From Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Middleton, 12 June 1779 (Franklin Papers)
Copy: Library of Congress I received the honour of yours per Commodore Gillon. It would have been a great Pleasure to me if I could by any Endeavours of mine have enabled him to accomplish the Ends of his Mission; But the Circumstances of the Times made it impracticable. I shall always pay great Respect to your Recommendation, being with Sincere Esteem, Sir Your most obedient & most humble...