L30/14/306/64a

From Thomas Order to Shelburne, Treasury Chambers:

11 Jan 1783

From: 1783 To: 1783

Extract of letter enclosed [see L30/14/306/64b] written by Mr. French of the City. French is said to have messengers etc...ever upon watch at Dover, Calais etc. Orde is certain of the informant but as yet not permitted to name him. Regular supply of information promised and Orde sure of his discretion in keeping the arrangement concealed from Mr. French. The interception of this morning now of no consequence, Captain Roche, now at Versailles, on board the very Packet and probably knew more that M. Pitot, Orde assumes Rayneval knows of this as he saw French at Rayneval's lodgings. Orde surprised that nothing heard as, from the extract, it appears Mr. French was in receipt of letters yesterday dated as late as 6th. Supposed that de Castries will try to get the better hopefully unsuccessfully. News carried to France nothing more than that heard long since and which Shelburne communicated to Rayneval, excepting that regarding the "seven sail of the line". Latter talked of and expected to furnish de Castries with his strongest argument. Orde thinks he will not carry his point. Extended boundary and Restitution of Trincomali [Ceylon] may have to be accepted but all is still well.

item

Orde, Thomas,
French,
Roche,
Pitot,
Rayneval,
de Castries