enever it is found. I have had overtures from
the king of Prussia in the commercial way, and have sent a person of
great confidence to his Court with letters of introduction from his
Agent here, with whom I am on the best terms. A loan may be obtained
for any sums at five per cent interest, perhaps less, if you make
punctual remittances for the sums now advanced. The Western Lands
ought to be held up to view as an encouragement for our soldiers,
especially foreigners, and are a good fund to raise money on. You may,
if you judge proper, have any number of German and Swiss troops; they
have been offered me, but you know I have no powers to treat. A number
of frigates may be purchased at Leghorn, the Grand Duke of Tuscany
being zealously in favor of America, and doing all in his power to
encourage its commerce. Troubles are rising in Ireland, and with a
little assistance much work may be cut out for Great Britain, by
sending from hence a few priests, a little money, and plenty of arms.
_Omnia tentanda_ is my motto, therefore I hint the playing of their
own game on them, by spiriting up the Caribs in St Vincents, and the
Negroes in Jamaica, to revolt.

On all these subjects I have written to you. Also on various
particulars of commerce. Our vessels have more liberty in the ports
of France, and Spain, and Tuscany, than the vessels of any other
nation, and that openly. I presented the Declaration of Independence
to this Court, after indeed it had become an old story in every part
of Europe; it was well received, but as you say you have articles of
alliance under consideration, any resolution must be deferred until we
know what they are. The want of intelligence has more than once well
nigh ruined my affairs; pray be more attentive to this important
subject, or drop at once all thoughts of a foreign connexion.

Had I ten ships here I could fill them all with passengers for
America. I hope the officers sent will be agreeable; they were
recommended by the Ministry here, and are at this instant really in
their army, but this must be a secret. Do you want heavy iron cannon,
sea officers of distinction, or ships? Your special orders will enable
me to procure them. For the situation of affairs in England I refer
you to Mr Rogers, Aid de Camp to Mons. du Coudray. I have presented a
number of memoirs, which have been very favorably received, and the
last by his Majesty, but my being wholly destitute of other than
accidental and grat