Autograph Draft version of document 12. "American credit is again on the brink of destruction, and France alone can save it." Floridablanca paid Jay's bills until he sent bills for April on March 15. He received no answer to this request until March 25 when he received a letter from Gardoqui (copy enclosed) of that date notifying him that clothing would be sent but that bills probably would not be paid. Although Spain declines to pay the bills, the court will pay the remaining balance of the 3 million reals ($150,000) after deducting loans from it. Asks Franklin to submit the problem to the French. "Almost anything will be better than having all these bills protested." If French back the Spanish loan, Jay hopes to receive the money punctually. The de Neufvilles are very interested in the payment of these bills. Montmorin has always been friendly and has spoken to Floridablanca about the bills but to no effect.
Subjects
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829