Lafayette has learned that the Continental Congress lacks funds for his voyage; hence, he acquires the sailing ship Victoire with his own money, for 112,000 pounds.

He journeys to Bordeaux, where Victoire is being prepared for her trip, and sends word asking for information on his family's reaction.

The response, including letters from his wife and other relatives, throws Lafayette into emotional turmoil.

Soon after departure, he orders the ship turned around and returns to Bordeaux, to the frustration of the officers traveling with him.

The army commander here orders Lafayette to report to his father-in-law's regiment in Marseilles.

De Broglie, who hopes to become a military and political leader in America, meets with Lafayette in Bordeaux and persuades him that the government actually wants him to go.

This is not true, though there is considerable public support for Lafayette in Paris, where the American cause is popular.

Lafayette wants to believe it, and pretends to comply with the order to report to Marseilles, going only a few miles east before turning around and returning to his ship.

Victoire sets sail for the United States on April 20, 1777.