Versailles, 24 August 1776
[Extract]
Its quite possible, Sir, that contraband leaves our ports for the Colonies. On our shore, it is only merchandise; at sea, we do not meddle with it unless it is under the protection of our flag and in destination to our possessions. However, I believe that the Dutch take better advantage of this opportunity than we do; they are more skillful than our merchants.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.