Jonathan Jr Williams to American Commissioners, October 11, 1777

Nantes Octor 11. 1777.

Honorable Gentlemen

I send inclosed the agreement made with the proposed Captain of the Lion 4 which I request you to sign your approbation of and return by the next post. The Sum is as small a one as I could possibly agree for, and I hope you will not think it too much. When 5 and 6000 Livres has been given, this does not seem very extravagant. The articles relative to the recommendation of him to Congress I hope you will comply with, as I believe it is that circumstance that has induced him to take 2400 Livres, and from the Character of the Man and what I can observe I realy think him deserving. The impossibility of getting the Vessell to sea without a French Captain will be a Reason with you for my acquiesing in these Conditions if any of them should appear unreasonable. I have the honour to be with great Respect Gentlemen Your most obedient and most humble Servant

J Williams J

The Honble The Commissioners of The United States.