Benjamin Franklin Papers

The American Commissioners to Thomas Simpson, 16 May 1778

The American Commissioners to Thomas Simpson

AL (draft):7 Library of Congress

Passi May 16th. 1778

Sir:

We have received your State of your Arrest.8 As you cannot be tryd here according to the regulations of Congress we have desired Capt. Jones to procure you a Passage to America by the first Opportunity and provide you with whatever may be necessary for your defence.

We are sorry for this event and hope you will be able to justify your conduct. We are &c.

To Lieutenant Simpson of the Ranger

Notations: To Lieut. Simpson of the Ranger May. 16. 78 / [in John Adams’ hand:] Letters and other Papers March 1778

[Note numbering follows the Franklin Papers source.]

7In Arthur Lee’s hand and probably not sent. Two others of his were not, the commissioners to Grand and to Jones the next day; on the 25th Simpson complained that he had heard nothing.

8Above, May 8.

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