Benjamin Franklin to Charles Eugène Gabriel de La Croix, marquis de Castries, December 3, 1780

Passy Decr. 3. 1780.

Sir

The Arms for the Exportation of which Mr Williams has requested Permission, do really, belong to the Congress, being Part of a Quantity of old Arms purchased by us near three Years since, and repaired at Nantes. Your Excellency will much oblige me by granting the Passport required.

With great Respect, I am, Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servt.

B Franklin

His Exy M. le Marqs de Castries.—