Gentlemen
An Ardor for the Success of the present Continental Cause, will I doubt not excuse a seeming Impropriety in my addressing a Body with the Members of whom I have the Honor of claiming little or no Acquaintance.
I am here during the War, and my Connection with Mr Penet (for whose Character I refer You, Gentlemen, to the Secret Committee of Congress) influences me to request that preference in your Business which we have already been honored with from the Secret Committee of Congress.
Much pains have been taken to obtain a possibility of doing the American Business from hence, which I have the Satisfaction of informing you have met with such Success as renders it in our power to supply the Continent with any Articles they please.
The Articles wch may be imported to Advantage from hence, are Vitrey Linnens fit for coarse Shirting or Sails: Coarse Cloths for Soldiers or Negroes Cloathing and Blankets, with all kinds of Military Articles.
Letters directed to Penet & Rumsey to the Care of Mr John Gruel of this City; Messrs. Reculess De Basmarein & Raimbaux Merchants in Bourdeaux, or Mons Stepham Cathalon of Marseilles, will be carefully forwarded. With the utmost Respect, I am Gentlemen [&c.]
Nantes October 20th 1776.
