[Extract] My dear sir
I have Time only to write you a few Words by Captn Landais who is appointed by Congress to the Command of the new Ship of War Alliance.1 This Gentleman is esteemed for his Experience & Knowledge in Marine Affairs & will go first to Portsmouth to direct in the Construction of the Ship designd to be built there.2 I wish you would (with the other Gentlemen of your Board) assist him with a good popular as well as able Lieutenant—popular, because as he is a frenchman, it may be difficult for him to procure a sufficient Number of American Seamen. He is in hopes of geting french Sailors out of the Vessels that are or may be at Boston &c. . .
Adieu my Friend S Adams
York Town [Pa.] June 19–78
L, MHi, Warren-Adams Collection, Adams Papers. Addressed below close: “Hon J Warren." Docketed: “Mr S. A Lettr/June 19–78."
1. Congress' appointment of Capt. Pierre Landais, Continental Navy, is dated 19 June. JCC 11:625.
2. Continental Navy ship of the line America.
