We have maturely considered your letter of the 30th past, and though we cannot see the mischievous consequences of the 12th article which you apprehend, yet, conceiving that unanimity on this occasion is of importance, we have written to M. Gerard this morning, that we concur in desiring that article and the preceding to be omitted, agreeable to his first proposal. We have the honor to be, &c. B. FRANKLIN, SILAS DEANE. MESSRS FRANKLIN AND DEANE TO M. GERARD. Passy, February 1st, 1778. Sir, Mr Lee having signified to us, that on further consideration he has changed his sentiments relating to the 12th article, and that he cannot join in signing the treaty if that article remains in, and as unanimity on this occasion is of some importance, and the articles 11th and 12th seem not perfectly consonant with the declared spirit of the treaty, which is to leave each party free in its regulations of commerce, we concur in requesting (if it can be done without occasioning delay) that these two articles be omitted, agreeable to your own first proposition. We have the honor to be, &c. B. FRANKLIN, SILAS DEANE. M. GERARD TO THE COMMISSIONERS. Translation. Versailles, February 2d, 1778. Gentlemen, I have acquainted his Majesty’s Ministers with the fresh demand respecting the 11th and 12th articles of the Treaty of Commerce. The king having approved these two articles, agreeable to your unanimous wishes, they cannot be submitted to a new examination without inconvenience and considerable delay. I am, therefore, charged to send you the French copies of the two treaties, that you may have them transcribed side by side with the English translation, and when this is done, I trust you will give me notice. The only remark, which I have to offer, is on the 6th article of the Treaty of Alliance. It stands the same as when it was read, with the addition of the Bermudas, concerning which there was a question in our last conference. I have found another change in one of the sheets of observations, which have been sent to me. I should wish that the object of this addition should be treated in a conference. I have been charged to explain to you the reasons, which prevent the Ministers from agreeing to it, and I am ready to fulfil this object. I have the honor to be, &c. GERARD. _P. S._ The translation of the two treaties appears to me well made, and I have no remarks to add in regard to it. TO BARON DE SCHULENBURG. February 2d, 1778. Sir,