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The article discusses how U.S. statesmen Benjamin Franklin promoted the concept of free maritime commerce between nations. The author notes how the capture and sinking of the ship "William P. Frye" by German naval forces violated a treaty between the U.S. and Prussia that Franklin had cosigned. Franklin had been appointed by the U.S. Continental Congress to a committee focusing on foreign relations and promoted a treaty with France containing provisions regarding commercial shipping and the confiscation of goods belonging to enemy nations. Franklin's views on privateering are noted. The adoption of free maritime trade rules by Russia and a treaty between the U.S. and Sweden regarding free trade are noted.

The article presents an examination into the ecclesiastical influence of the Anglican Bishop of London over the affairs of the Episcopal Church in the U.S. colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries. Details are given highlighting Anglican church history in the colonies from it earliest settlements to the Revolutionary War, focusing on the hierarchical authority structures which influenced the appointment and work of several parishes and administrators. Debates surrounding the establishment of American bishops are discussed. Profiles of the administrations of several Bishops of London are also given including Thomas Sherlock, Gilbert Sheldon, and Robert Lowth.