Jones, John Paul, 1747-1792 to Robert Morris
Order a pdf of this item here.
Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04797 Author/Creator: Jones, John Paul, 1747-1792 Place Written: Brest, France Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 13 November 1778 Pagination: 4 p. ; 22.7 x 18.1 cm. Order a Copy
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).
Citation Guidelines for Online Resources
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.