To Benjamin Franklin from Jonathan Williams, Jr., 17 February 1780
From Jonathan Williams, Jr.
ALS: American Philosophical Society
Nantes Feb. 17. 1780.
Dear & hond Sir.
Mr de Chaumont informs me to day that the Furniture is to be reduced to 10.000 men & I shall conform accordingly.
I informed you some time since that he desired me to draw on him instead of you, and I accordingly sent Bills for his acceptance, he writes me now that he waits for your decision, I beg you will let me have these Bills returned as soon as possible as I shall want them much, I am already considerably in advance now. I do not desire to make a Bill payable before the Times you are to receive the Funds but I should have them to procure Cash, which I can now do with little disadvantage. Please to say also if I am to line the Breeches with Flannel2 & in general whether I am to observe the Directions of Congress only, because I find in some Instances Mr de C and the marquis de la Fayette differ from the Plan. I mean with regard to the Uniform &c.— I beg an Answer by return of Post & am ever with the greatest Respect ever yours affectionately
Jon Williams J
Addressed: a monsieur / Monsieur Franklin / Ministre Plenipotentiaire / des Etats Unis / en son Hotel a Passy / Paris.
Notation: Williams 17 Feb 1780
2. Congress ordered white-colored breeches lined with flannel. They were to be reinforced between the thighs (where they were apt to wear out), and have five buttons on each knee (fixed with leather thongs), one pocket, and a “falling Flap.”