A few days previous to my departure from Balte. in November last, I was applied to by the Messrs. Hoffmans1 for my opinion of an Operation they were then engaged in vizt. the supplying of cloathing for the crews of two French ships of the line.

I did not hesitate in giving my opinion that the French Goverment wou’d reimburse them & with thanks: at same time suggested the propriety of applying to you for a letter to our minister at Paris, to serve in case of need.

A Government situated as that of France now is, can not allways have a flowing treasury—nor will it be anxious perhaps to give to claims of this nature a preference—and although I have no doubt of its ultimate safety, a long delay may prove very injurious to these Gentlemen. This wou’d be the more to be regretted as these supplies have been furnished on the most equitable terms. And I assure you sir that I know this House to be most punctiliously honorable in all their dealings.

I had another motive for wishing that the attention of our Minister at Paris shoud be drawn to this affair—which is, that in the event of a negotiation there for more territory, this claim might be readily liquidated.

I take the liberty of enclosing their letter to me on this subject—and to ask the favor of a letter to General Armstrong in favor of their claim. Shoud you find it convenient, & think it proper, to speak to General Turreau on the subject, you wou’d gratify me very much—but your time must be so much press’d upon at this moment, that I dare not urge it. Pardon this intrusion, and believe me to be most respectfully Sir Your very humble Servt