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- GLC#
- GLC04797
- Type
- Letters
- Date
- 13 November 1778
- Author/Creator
- Jones, John Paul, 1747-1792
- Title
- to Robert Morris
- Place Written
- Brest, France
- Pagination
- 4 p. : Height: 22.7 cm, Width: 18.1 cm
- Primary time period
- American Revolution, 1763-1783
- Sub-Era
- The War for Independence
Jones, Captain of the U.S.S. Ranger, informs Morris, a Continental Congressman, of recent events in France. Reports that in June, a highly esteemed gentleman (who Jones does not name) wrote him a secret letter promising him command of a large ship; the gentleman also indicated that the Ranger was to sail to the United States under another captain. Mentions the involvement of the Prince of Nassau (possibly Prince Charles Otton), and Monsieur de Sartine, head of the French Navy, in procuring the ship. Relates that Sartine promised him the command of several French vessels, but Sartine's promise also failed to materialize. Reports that as conflict between France and England ensued, he offered Sartine a plan to destroy English trade in the Baltic. Recounts several other disappointments regarding his expectations to assume command of French ships. Mentions Louis Guillouet, lieutenant general of the French Navy. Grounded in Brest until the spring, Jones states "the great obstacle I believe is- That the French Sea Officers, tho they would gladly think me in Disgrace,- are stung to the soul, and cannot look at me here but with Rivals Eyes." Mentions Monsieur de Chaumont (possibly Monsieur le Ray de Chaumont) and Genl. Whipple (possibly Continental Congressman William Whipple).
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