Massachusetts Council to American Commissioners, January 5, 1779

Council Chamber Boston January 5th. 1779

Gentlemen,

The Marquis De La Fayette having taken leave of this Board, being soon to embark for France, 1 We take this opportunity in justice to his Merit to express our high sense of that Gentlemans Attachment to the American Cause. His exertions & bravery in the Field do him great Honor, which we doubt not the whole Continent have a grateful Sense of, & the prospect of further Services from that Gentleman affords great Pleasure to this State in particular & the United States in general— In behalf of the Council I am, Gentn. With great Respect Your most Obdt. Hble Servt

Jer: Powell 2 President

State of Massachusetts Bay— The Honble Benja: Franklin Arthur Lee & John Adams Esqrs.