Nantes Decr. 23d. 1777—
Honble Sir
I Arrived Saturday Night last, was much Surprised to find everything in Regard to my Ship,1 Just as I left them, no Contrary Orders from the Minister,2 so that I am afraid to take my people on board her Yet, She is all loaded Ready for Sea, only to take on bd. a few Stores &c, it is A great fortification [mortification] to me not being permitted to go on bd. my Ship, with my people; two English Frigates, one 74, Cruzeing off here, I am [&c.]
Sam Nicholson
L, CtHi, Silas Deane Papers. Addressed: “To/The Honble Silas Deane Esqr./A/Paris.” Docketed: "Capt. Nicholson/Nantes Decr 23/77."
1. Lyon, subsequently Continental Navy frigate Deane.
2. Gabriel de Sartine.
