I received, gentlemen, the letter that you did me the honor to write yesterday pointing out the advantages of providing convoys for the security of your vessels leaving for America. This matter concerns M. de Sartine only, I am therefore forwarding a translation of your letter to him and will send you his reply without delay.2 I have the honor to be with very perfect consideration, sirs, your very humble and very obedient servant.

JA's failure to copy letters in chronological order until after 14 July and his leaving 34 pages blank preceding the first letter copied probably indicate that by mid-July he decided to record letters received from Vergennes and Sartine and to review the Commissioners' files and copy other letters previously received. His intention was not, however, realized, for many such letters were not copied. In writing his Autobiography, JA consulted a number of the letters contained in this Letterbook and incorporated them into the text, often as English translations.