John Paul Jones to Benjamin Franklin, March 28, 1780

L’Orient March 28th. 1780.

Honored and dear Sir,

I have received your Orders of the 18th. and have written to Nantes for particular information respecting the Anchorage off Noirmontier that I may take measures accordingly.— 1 I am very glad that Doctor Bancroft who has been an Eye and Ear witness to the Situation of Affairs onboard the Alliance can explain to you every Circumstance. In the meantime I shall do my utmost either to go or send for the Bales of Cloth.— The Cannon are all on board; 2 and you may depend on my best endeavours to fulfil your final Directions.

I beg leave in particular to refer you to Doctor Bancroft for a representation of some Circumstances that respect myself you will I am persuaded soon see the necessity that Obliged me to take the Steps I did in Holland—and I am afraid you will find the Busy Body C—— less worthy 3 than you had formerly imagined.—

With the most sincere and affectionate Esteem and respect I am Dear Sir, Your most Obliged and most Obedt. Servt.

Jno P Jones

N.B. I understand there is a Quantity of Sheathing Copper belonging to the Continent at Nantes. 4 I wish it could be Ordered to be Ship’d with the Shott for the Alliance.—

His Excellency B. Franklin Esqr. &c: &c: