Marquis de Bouille letter to Vicomte d'Arrot, 1783 December 10

De Bouille writes that he will return the Silpson upon its return from Grenada but that the corvettes have all left for France. He commends d"Arrot for his severe treatment of the men and mentions that peace has been signed in Europe.

[English Translation]

I have the honor to respond, Sir, to your letters of 30 and 31 December. I was worried about your health, and I make my compliments to you in your recovery.

I send you the commission which you desire.

As soon as the Silpson will have returned from Grenada, I will return it to you in order to make up the deficiency in Barbadoes: I have no more of the corvettes they have all left for France.

You did very well to establish order and to use severity; it is the only means to lead men, and especially military [men].

It is fortunate that your hospital is going well; go there with aid, do please; I will send you another surgeon. I send you a man to command your schooner.

I send you a [illegible]; of which you want to have copies made, and to deliver one of them to Mr. Sombidan; and to the officer who commands the port in question ...

It seems that peace is signed in Europe; in this manner of which [illegible] has just finished.

Ink on paper