I take the liberty to recommend to your excellency the colonel Menonville, one of the adjudants general, a gentleman of great learning and capacity, and my peculiar friend for a long time past your excellency is already acquainted with the subject of his errand, by a letter of Count de Rochambeau. I was always convinced that nothing good can be done in this country, but under the direction and the influences of your excellency; but there is no occasion where his concurrence may be more necessary. we must consider the french forces as apart of your armie, and consequently be carefull that every member be submitted to the head if great britain reaps some benefit by acting individually and by herself, we must [compensate] that advantage by acting always strongly united.

all the intelligence that we receive from westindies agree in the expectation of a large proportion, both of land and naval force. the operations in those countries are, no doubt, but the prologue of a drama which is to be performed here; for that we must prepare for great events. if your excellency knows my zeal for the common welfare, and my attachment for his persn , he shall believe that I will not, that I cannot deceive him by groundless hopes. may heaven grant me to see your excellency crowned with new Laurels, and those leaves crowned with the [never] fading flowers of glorious and ever lasting peace. I have the honor to be dear general your most humble and obedient servant

[le M. de] chastellux