We have not been favored with a line from you since the 25th of May, which we lament exceedingly, but of which we cannot complain, since we doubt not but you have written, although we have not been so fortunate as to receive your letters. We had reason from your promise to expect a monthly packet, and this expectation prevented us from looking out so early as we should have done for a vessel or two from ----. We have heard, with pleasure, by means of Mr Carmichael, through Mr Bingham, that Mr Lee had successfully accomplished his business at the Court of Prussia.[47] We remember that you informed us, the object which carried him to Berlin was, besides procuring that Prince's acknowledgment of our independence, obtaining open ports for our commerce, and the liberty of selling our prizes therein. We hope the interference of that powerful Prince will effectually prevent Russian or German auxiliaries, from being sent hither by Great Britain. As the Marine Committee have already sent some, and will order more, of the continental ships of war to France under your directions, permit us to suggest an expedition, which appears likely to benefit us and distress the enemy. We are informed, that two or three well manned frigates, despatched early in February, so as to arrive at the Island of Mauritius in June, being provided with letters of credence, and for such refreshments, or aid of stores, &c. as may be necessary from the minister to the French Governor of that Island, may go thence to cruise on the coast of Coromandel, twenty days sail from the Island of Mauritius, where they will be in the way to intercept the China ships, besides distressing the internal trade of India. The prizes may be sold at Mauritius, and bills of exchange be remitted to you in Paris. We would observe, that in passing to Mauritius our vessels had better call at Goree, than at the Cape, to avoid the vigilance and the apprehensions of the British cruisers. Another beneficial attempt may be conducted along the coast of Africa. The French and Dutch settlements, and perhaps the Portuguese, will purchase the prizes and give bills on Europe. We think your plan of getting one of the new constructed ships of war, equal to one of sixty four guns, built for the use of these States in Europe, is a very good one, and it may be employed to very beneficial purposes. The heavy iron cannon, which you propose to send, will be welcome for fortifications and for vessels; and here they cost abundantly more than you can furnish them for from Europe, besides the delay in getting them, which frequently distresses us greatly. And surely your determination to supply us with materials wanted here for shipbuilding, is very wise, since it is by marine force, that the most destructive wound may be given to our enemies.