Report to Versailles

“Three important things are missing, a good navy, provisions and money: they are agreed with me. I am
going to give you a word for word account of three particular conversations I had with Mr. Franklin and
three other smart men who make up the Privy Council. 4 As a private citizen, I came in through the port.
There is a Frenchman, who I trust, and who has gained a good share in the confidence of the
Deputies. This French man is named Daymons, he recommend a meeting at the Library of the city. 5 All
that you will send to me will come to his address, and my packets will be marked AB and they will be
returned to me.”

Bonvouloir’s response to the “Privy council”

I will answer, Misters. Do me the honor to ask me as positively as possible, and I instruct you, as
much, as can be instructed by a particular man who has no part in public affairs. But I will answer you
according to my conjectures, in the public voice.
1. You ask what is the intention of France with regard to the Colonies of the North of America, I do
not believe in getting ahead of ourselves. The situation is scabrous and demands many
precautions. I will not take it on alone. The case is too delicate.
2 °. France is in a good position to provide you two good engineers, perhaps even more. The only way is to
request. I have done it for you, Misters .without guaranteeing success, although I hope it has good
corresponding results.
3 °. Whether you can get weapons and other ammunition, directly in France, in exchange for your
commodities. I do not see a large inconvenience on the part of France. I will represent you, likely with
good results, without my being responsible for anything. You can undertake it at your own perils and
risks. For England may not leave you alone; and you must not hope to be dejected.
I do not advise you to send everything to the same port. It could make noise. Sirs, if you will are given a
free entry and exit in the French ports, you would be openly declaring yourself, and the war would be able
to reach you. Maybe you should close in on Lesieux [French Port] if needed. I have the honor to repeat to
you, sirs, that I do not answer for anything; I am of low rank, I have associates with good connections.
That's all. If I am happy enough to succeed I will be overpaid by the honor of your trust, and the pleasure
of serving you. 4