Benjamin Franklin to Antoine-Raymond-Gualbert-Gabriel de Sartine, September 10, 1778

Passi September 10. 1778

Sir

Captain Daniel McNeill of Boston in the State of Massachusetts Bay Commander of the American Privateer, which has been so successfull against the Common Enemy in the North seas and White seas had the Fortune to retake a French Vessell 1 from a Guernsey Privateer, 2 after she had been in the Enemy’s Possession < , Start deletion, more than , End, > three days, which Prize he has brought into Port Louis.

He represents to Us that he has met with some Difficulties in disposing of her and her Cargo, which cannot be removed untill your Excellencys Sentiments shall be known upon the Matter. 3

We have the Honour to recommend his Case to your Excellencys Consideration, and to request that such Relief may be afforded him, as may consist with the Laws of the State, 4 his Majestys Interest, and the Treatys in Force between the two Nations. We have the Honour to be,