Monroe, James (1758-1831) to Comite des Finances [in French]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06683 Author/Creator: Monroe, James (1758-1831) Place Written: Paris, France Type: Letter signed Date: 9 August 1795 Pagination: 1 p. ; 29.4 x 19.8 cm. Order a Copy
Appealing to the Committee of Finances, he asks for justice on behalf of Jacques Le Ray. He relates what Le Ray's son, James, has told him about his father. The letter praises both father and son for their staunch defense of "the cause of liberty" and for aid to America in obtaining arms, and requests that Jacques' financial troubles be dealt with promptly.
Jacques Le Ray de Chaumont was one of the wealthiest nobles in France, and helped convince King Louis XVI to aid America during the Revolution. He also used his wealth to supply the Americans with arms and ships. The upheavals of the French Revolution brought him to financial ruin by 1789.
James Le Ray de Chaumont was the son of Jacques Le Ray. He moved to America in 1785, where he became a citizen and land owner.
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