Most Exe. Sir:
I have informed the King of the contents of your letter of the 22nd of last month and he is happy to learn that some assistance is on the way; for after the advantages which English arms have obtained in those parts the assistance may be even more urgent and necessary in order to encourage the insurgents and preserve them in the system they have adopted; the King and all his cabinet believe it is so important to ensure that the war is prolonged that a means is being contemplated here for us to furnish fresh assistance directly to the colonies in revolt; when the method has been resolved and determined you will be informed. May God keep you many years.
Madrid, 9 December, 1776
1. AHN, Estado, Legajo 4072, LC Photocopy.