Folio 94: St. Paul to Weymouth. He asked Vergennes about the reports of French arming....

Folio 94: St. Paul to Weymouth. He asked Vergennes about the reports of French arming. Vergennes, who seemed `not quite at ease', positively denied arming but said it was reasonable for France to make preparations in her ports, as she must be prepared and `Britainhad once done them a great deal of harm, when they were not prepared'. St. Paul was not satisfied with the distinction drawn between arming and preparing but felt it wise to appear to accept the assurances of friendship. Sartine had given the same answer to a friend shortly after the committee. St. Paul is reliably informed that Maurepas and Sartine are as desirous for peace as Spain is for war and that part or whole of Spain's fleet is destined for the West Indies. He comments on the weakness of French naval forces and officers and believes that St. Germain's reforms will take several years to give France any real advantage. Turgot's plans will also take time to develope. Vergennes said Pombal intended to give Spain satisfaction. Changes in the French government are expected. Maurepas remains in favour. Turgot's position is precarious. His friend Dangeville is losing ground with the king. Malesherbes is about to retire. Sartine may succeed him. Clugny has been sent for. Chaffault's squadron is back in port after suffering damage in bad weather. There are increasing disputes between French and Spanish subjects in St. Domingo. He gives details reported to him of French troops in the West Indies. A Russian officer called Valcor or Valcourt is said to have passed through Paris to join the [American] rebels. There are enclosures missing here.

Date and place: 1776 May 8 Paris.