Nantes Decemr 20. 1777. —
Honble Gentlemen
In expectation of hearing from you I have only at present to inform you that I am just returned from Painbeuf & have had the pleasure of seeing as fine a Ship1 as any of her size in any Navy.—I am in expectation of seeing Capt Nicholson soon and if our obstacles are removed I shall soon Finish the Expedition; the Ship is all rigged, Guns mounted & everything fitted. I have the honour to be [&c.]
Jona Williams J
L, PPAmP, Benjamin Franklin Papers, vol. 37, 126. Addressed: “The Honourable/The Commissioners of the/United States/Paris.” Docketed: “Mr Williams. Decr. 20./77."
1. Lyon, subsequently Continental Navy frigate Deane.
