[Extract]

. . . I have settled with Mr Gardoqui, who is now with me, from whom I have received every possible assistance, to dispatch a vessel with all possible expedition, laden with Salt, Sail and Tent Cloth, Cordage, Blankets, such warlike Stores as he can immediately procure, and an assortment of such Drugs as I think will be necessary for the three prevailing camp diseases. Those who furnish these Supplies, are very desirous of an expedition being ordered against Pensacola; in order that the possession of that place, may render the communication, between the southern Colonies & N. Orleans, from which they would wish to succour you, more sure and secret. The Capt. has my directions to make for Philadelphia, or any port to the southward, & wait your Orders. At Monsr Gardoqui's desire, I have given him a recommendation to all the american Captains, who may sail from Bilboa, whether in public or private service, to receive such stores as he shall send them for your use.

In my former letters from Bordeaux & Nantes, I took the liberty of remarking upon the deranged state of your commerce. I find here, that you have not sent any vessels to Bilboa, tho' as being the most convenient, it is most frequented by private vessels. It is a free port, has no custom house, & therefore business is dispatched with more secrecy & expedition. Rice, Indigo, tar, pitch, & turpentine, bear a good price there; and fish in Lent. By the provincial Laws of Biscay, tobacco is prohibitted; but it may be landed at the port of St Sabastian, some 14 leagues distant, & it sells well in Spain. But it must be strong virginia tobacco for this market. The House of Gardoqui has promised to collect from other places, such things as I have informed them will be proper for your service. As Monsr Montaudouine and Monsr Schweighauser at Nantes, & the Messrs Delaps at Bordeaux are the best & most respectable merchants; so the Gardoquis are at Bilboa. . . .