Separate and
Secret No 28
My Lord

I am secretly informed, that Mr Deane is going to Spain, by Mr D'Aranda's advice, and Mr Lee to Holland. Another Informer tells me, that Deane goes to Holland, and Lee to Spain. It is certain, that the Rebels are sending Agents to both those Countries, and if I am not greatly misinformed, they have already made agreements, with several individuals in Holland, for that sort of Assistance, which they have but too frequently received from this Country, and still continue to receive. I do not know particulars, but am Assured from pretty good Authority that the Rebels do draw Arms, and Ammunition, from Holland, and that too in large Quantities.

Mr [David] Allen, who during his Stay At Nantes, has given me every intelligence in his Power, informs me, that the American Frigate, the Reprisal, is Cruizing between Belisle and Nantes; He likewise informs me, that a Vessel is preparing to Sail for North America, Laden with Arms, and Ammunition; in order to conceal them, Bulkheads have been made fore and Aft, and Salt Stowed in the main-hatchway.

The Strong partiality of this Country to the Rebels, the thirst of Gain, and the intrigues of those, who wish to kindle a flame, would produce Attempts of this kind, even if the french Ministers sincerely endeavoured to check them. (How little that has been the Case hitherto, I need not say.) We shall I am confident, take the only effectual way to prevent these succours, by being very watchful to intercept them, off the coast of North America. Whatever french Ships are so intercepted, this Court, I am persuaded, will never Attempt to claim.

I am with the greatest Truth, and Respect, My Lord [&c.]