r himself in America by the first
possible opportunity. If he arrives there, you will, we are persuaded,
find him of great service, not only in the operations of the next
campaign, but in forming officers for those that may follow. We,
therefore, recommend him warmly to the Congress, and to your
countenance and protection.

Wishing you every kind of felicity, we have the honor to be, with the
highest esteem, &c.

B. FRANKLIN,
SILAS DEANE.

* * * * *

AGREEMENT

_Between the Commissioners and certain French Officers._

1st. It is agreed that the Congress of the United States of America
shall grant to the Chevalier du Portail, now Lieutenant Colonel in the
Royal Corps of Engineers of France, the rank of Colonel in their
service.

2dly. The Congress of the United States of America will grant to Mons.
de Laumoy, now Major in the Royal Corps of Engineers of France, the
rank of Lieutenant Colonel in their service.

3dly. The Congress of the United States of America, will grant to
Mons. de Gouvion, now Captain in the Royal Corps of Engineers of
France, the rank of Major in their service.

4thly. Messrs Le Chevalier du Portail, de Laumoy, and de Gouvion,
shall be at liberty to quit the service of the United States, provided
it is not during a campaign, or during any particular service, unless
ordered so to do, by the king of France; and the Congress may dismiss
them, or any of them, whenever they may judge it proper.

5thly. If all or either of these gentlemen should be made prisoners by
the king of Great Britain, the Congress shall use all due means to
obtain their liberty.

6thly. These gentlemen shall use all possible diligence in preparing
for their embarkation, in order to reach Philadelphia, or wherever
else the Congress of the United States may be, to obey their orders.

7thly. The pay of these gentlemen shall be such; as is given to
officers of their rank in the service of the States of America, and
shall commence from the date of this agreement.

8thly. These gentlemen shall procure and provide for their own
passages, in such ships, and in such manner, as they shall think
proper.

The above agreement is entered into and concluded by us, this 13th day
of February, 1777.