Bilbao 12th: Janry—78
Capt G. Cuningham Dear Sir
We duelly observe by your agreable & Estemed favour of the 8th. & 10th. Instant the disposition the Affaire you went upon stands in1 & yet hope the disposition the Affaire you went upon stands in & yet hope thro the Assistance of the friends youare recommended to that you will come out as you wish in which case should you want the advance you require we wrote In this opportunity to Messrs. Larralde2 that we will willingly discharge those Bills to the Amount you desire We have also Acquainted Mr. Beach not only to prepare the Cutter3 but desired him to call for money in Order to keep the people content on board & to fulfil your Orders which he has promised us that he will do & Accordingly expect him Tornmorow in the Compting house to receive Money for the purpose. five Sailors have come in from Nantz for the Cutter of which have apprized Mr. Beach & as there is time for no more we Only wish to see Mr. hodge safe in towne along With you4 & Cordially Remmaine [&c.]
Joseph Gardoqui & sons
Coppy
Copy, ScHi, Henry Laurens Papers, SCHS No. 31.
1. Conyngham traveled to San Sebastián to obtain release of the cargo he had taken from the Gracieux. James Gardoqui to Arthur Lee, 10 Jan., above.
2. Larralde, Diusteguy, et fils, merchants at Bilbao.
3. Continental Navy cutter Revenge.
4. John Beach, first lieut. of Revenge, and merchant William Hodge.