"The manner of executing this plan, if adopted, would be very simple, and attended with no inconveniency; the Court shall take upon itself to satisfy the furnisher of the articles in question, and Congress shall receive the discharge for ready money, in their accounts with the Court." * * * * * TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Translation. Philadelphia, December 6th, 1778. Sir, The Minister Plenipotentiary of France, considering that it is of great importance for the interests of France and the United States of America to prevent, or to delay as much as possible, the repairs, and consequently the activity of the enemy's ships, and that one of the most efficacious means would be, to intercept the masts which they are obliged to bring from Halifax, is firmly persuaded, that this subject has not escaped the consideration of Congress, but believing that it is for the interest of the King, his master, that his Majesty should contribute to the measures which may effect this object, his intention is to offer a reward to the owners of privateers, who shall take or destroy vessels loaded with masts proper for ships of the line or for frigates. This encouragement seemed necessary, in order to turn the efforts of privateers in this direction, considering the low price of this commodity in proportion to other cargoes, but the said Minister did not wish to execute this plan without communicating it to Congress, and before knowing its opinion on this subject. GERARD. * * * * * TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Translation. Philadelphia, December 7th, 1778. Sir,