American Commissioners to Bérard Frères, December 24, 1777

Passy, December 24th, 1777.

Gentlemen:

Mr. De Beaumarchais having satisfied us that he had a prior claim upon the cargo of the Amphitrite , according to an agreement between him and Mr. Deane, we desire you to deliver the cargo or the produce into his hands, or into those of his agents, at his disposition, with any deduction for the advances you may have made on account of the frigates. We are,

B. Franklin, Silas Deane, Arthur Lee.