Passy July 4th. 1778
Gentlemen
When Congress thought proper to Order me to France it was proposed that the Ranger should remain under my direction and be Commanded by a Lieutenant—and as the French Ministry have now in contemplation Plans which promise Honor to the American Flag, the Ranger might be very Useful to Assist in carrying them into execution.1
Lieutenant Simpson has certainly behaved amiss; yet I can forgive as well as resent—and upon his making a proper Concession, I will with your Approbation, not only pardon the past—but leave him the Command of the Ranger.—2 By this means, and by some little promotions and Attentions that may be consistent, I hope to be able to satisfy the Rangers Crew so that they will postpon thier return as long as the Service may require.3 I have the Honor to be [&c.]
Jno P Jones
L, ViU, Lee Family Papers. Addressed: “Thier Excellencies/The American Plenipotentaries/at the Court of/France.” Docketed: “Capn. Jones about/Lt. Simpson”; “J.P. Jones/to/Amen. Pleni./4 July 1778.”
1. See Jones to the American Commissioners, 3 July, above.
2. As seen in Lieutenant Thomas Simpson to the American Commissioners, 3 July, above. Simpson still believed he was to be court-martialed.
3. In a draft of this letter, Jones wrote: “If Lieutenant Simpson remains Obstinate a Court Mart.” DNA, PCC, item 168, vol. 1, p. 171 (M247, roll 185).
