Jones, John Paul (1747-1792) to Jean Crevecoeur
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01145 Author/Creator: Jones, John Paul (1747-1792) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 17 July 1787 Pagination: 2 p. ; 22.9 x 18.7 cm. Order a Copy
Jones, noted for his leadership in both the American and Russian navies, encloses a separate letter (not included) for Crevecoeur, French consul in New York. Relates that he recently returned to New York from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the company of General St. Claire (possibly Arthur St. Claire, Governor of the Northwest Territory). States that he repaid a loan from Crevecoeur through Mrs. Ellsworth, and transmits a letter (not included) from Mrs. Ellsworth to Crevecoeur. States "I have the pleasure to make you my compliments on your being nominated (at my request) by the President to be elected a member of the American Philosophical Society." Reports that because of upcoming business with Congress, he might not be able to visit Colonel Jeremiah Wadsworth in Hartford, Connecticut. Requests that Crevecoeur discuss a contract with Wadsworth and transmit information regarding the contract to Jones before Jones' departs for France. Requests letters of introduction to the Duc d'Harcourt and other French notables. Expresses his hope that Crevecoeur's daughter is well.
The French-born Crevecoeur, an agriculturist and philosopher, wrote Letters from an American Farmer and Sketches of Eighteenth Century America.
New - York July 17. 1787.
Dear Sir,
I am but this moment returned here from Philadelphia in company with his Excellency Genl. St. Claire. Enclosed is a Letter which I received for you from the Author. I have paid the Louis d' or you were so obliging as to lend me into the hands of Mr. Ellsworth agreeable to your favor of the 9th. and she is now writing you a line to inform you of it, which I shall enclose. I expected all your little commissions, and I have the pleasure to make you my compliments on your being nominated (at my request) by the President to be elected a member of the American Philosophical Society _ I need not request you to write him to express your Sense of that Honor. -- As I have some Business with Congress I fear I shall not be able to go to Hartford to see colo. Wadsworth _ if I should not go there I shall take it kind in you to speak to him respecting the [Mast] Contract. If he will write to me in France, and let me know his proposals and the share he would allow me to hold in the Affair I will do my utmost to conclude a contract. I hope this may reach you so as to enable you to write Hon.ble M. St. John de Crevecoeur - Boston [2] and send me your Letters before the Packet sails. I should be thankful for your Letters of introduction to the Duc d'Harcourt and some other worthy's of your acquaintance who might feel an interest for my Character and honor me with their esteem.
If I can render you any Service it will give me pleasure to receive your orders. I am in hopes to hear before my departure that your Daughter is quite recovered or at least not of danger. Believe me sincerely
Dear Sir your most Obedient
and most humble Servant,
Paul Jones
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