Chapter I: Front Matter (1)

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THE DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
VOL. II.

THE DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE
OF THE
AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

BEING
THE LETTERS OF BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, SILAS DEANE, JOHN ADAMS,
JOHN JAY, ARTHUR LEE, WILLIAM LEE, RALPH IZARD, FRANCIS
DANA, WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, HENRY LAURENS, JOHN LAURENS,
M. DE LAFAYETTE, M. DUMAS, AND OTHERS, CONCERNING
THE FOREIGN RELATIONS OF THE UNITED
STATES DURING THE WHOLE REVOLUTION;

TOGETHER WITH
THE LETTERS IN REPLY FROM THE SECRET COMMITTEE OF
CONGRESS, AND THE SECRETARY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS.

ALSO,
THE ENTIRE CORRESPONDENCE OF THE FRENCH MINISTERS,
GERARD AND LUZERNE, WITH CONGRESS.

Published under the Direction of the President of the United States,
from the original Manuscripts in the Department of State, conformably
to a Resolution of Congress, of March 27th, 1818.

EDITED
BY JARED SPARKS.

VOL. II.

BOSTON:
NATHAN HALE AND GRAY & BOWEN.
G. & C. & H. CARVILL, NEW YORK.
1829.

HALE’S STEAM PRESS.
No. 6 Suffolk Buildings, Congress Street, Boston.

CONTENTS OF THE SECOND VOLUME.

ARTHUR LEE’S CORRESPONDENCE.

Page.

From the Committee of Secret Correspondence to
Arthur Lee. Philadelphia, December 12th, 1775, 5
Dumas.--Important to know the disposition of foreign
powers.--Necessity of secrecy.

To Benjamin Franklin. London, February 13th, 1776, 6

To Lieutenant Governor Colden. London, February 13th, 1776, 7
British preparations for the ensuing campaign.--Plan
of operations.--Reluctance of troops to serve.--Secret
wishes of the French government.

To Lieutenant Governor Colden. London, February 14th, 1776, 10
British forces; military; naval.--Character and
disposition of the troops.--Dr Church.

To Lieutenant Governor Colden. April 15th, 1776, 12
Address of the city of London; answer.--Disposition of
the English nation.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence. June 3d, 1776, 14
Disposition of France favorable.--Spain.--Necessity
of independency.

Record of the Committee of Secret Correspondence.
Philadelphia, October 1st, 1776, 16
Message from Mr Lee; his conferences with the French
Ambassador; offer of arms and ammunition through
Hortalez.--Proceedings of the Committee in
relation to the message; determine to keep it
secret, except in case of ill success.

The Committee of Secret Correspondence to Arthur Lee.
Philadelphia, October 23d, 1776, 18
Informing Mr Lee of his appointment as Commissioner
to the Court of France.

To Lord Shelburne. Paris, December 23d, 1776, 19

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence. Paris,
January 3d, 1777, 20
Acceptance of his appointment.--Joins Dr Franklin
and Mr Deane.--Doubtful politics of the French Court.

From the Commissioners in Paris to Count de Vergennes.
Paris, January 5th, 1777, 21
Applying for ships; arms; promise payment for
them.--American commerce to France and Spain.

The Commissioners to M. Gerard. Paris, January 14th, 1777, 23
Relative to the message of the King of France.

The Commissioners to Count de Vergennes. Paris,
February 1st, 1777, 24
Danger of America; German troops; blacks.--English
acquainted with the proceedings of France in favor
of America.--Dangers of France if England subdues
the colonies.--Interest of France to assist America.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence. Nantes,
February 11th, 1777, 27
Exertions of the British.--Measures to defend the
West India trade.--Commercial connexions of the
Committee in Nantes.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence.
Nantes, February 14th, 1777, 31
Agreement with the Farmers-General for
tobacco.--British offer of prisoners to
the East India Company.

From James Gardoqui to Arthur Lee. Madrid,
February 17th, 1777, 33
Advises him not to come to Madrid.--Proposes
a meeting between Grimaldi and Mr Lee at Burgos.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence.
Bordeaux, February 18th, 1777, 35
Plan of the British for the ensuing
campaign.--Tobacco.

To the Commissioners in Paris. Vitoria,
February 26th, 1777, 36

Memorial delivered by Arthur Lee to the
Marquis de Grimaldi. Burgos, March 5th, 1777, 38
Reasons for visiting Madrid.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence.
Burgos, March 8th, 1777, 40
Promise of supplies from Bilboa, New Orleans
and Havanna.

Memorial presented to the Court of Spain.
Burgos, March 8th, 1777, 41
Critical state of affairs.--Importance of American
commerce.--Policy of immediate assistance.--Danger
of Great Britain in case of war in Europe.--Impolicy
of allowing the reunion of the colonies by conquest
or conciliation.

Answer to the Memorial by the Marquis de Grimaldi at Vitoria, 44
Objections of Spain to an immediate declaration.

To the Count de Florida Blanca, Minister to the King of Spain.
Vitoria, March 17th, 1777, 45
Acknowledging the favors of Spain.--British oppressions.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence.
Vitoria, March 18th, 1777, 47
Account of the proceedings as already stated in
preceding letters.--Supplies furnished by Gardoqui.
--Situation of Great Britain.

From B. Franklin to Arthur Lee. Passy, March 21st, 1777, 54
New commission substituting Mr Lee instead of Mr
Jefferson; empowering Commissioners to treat with
Spain; particular commission to Dr Franklin for that
purpose.--America will assist France to conquer
the British West Indies, and Spain to conquer
Portugal.--Loan of £2,000,000.--Sir J. Yorke’s
memorial.--Proceedings of the States and of
Amsterdam thereon.

The Commissioners at Paris to Baron de Schulenburg,
Minister to the King of Prussia.
Paris, April 19th, 1777, 58
Congress propose to send a Minister to Prussia.

James Gardoqui to Arthur Lee. Madrid, April 28th, 1777, 59
Enclosing money.

A Minute of the sixteen enclosed Bills, 60

To James Gardoqui at Madrid. Paris, May 8th, 1777, 60

To Baron de Schulenburg. Paris, May 8th, 1777, 62

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, May 13th, 1777, 62

Baron de Schulenburg to Arthur Lee.
Berlin, May 20th, 1777, 63

To the Commissioners at Paris. Vienna, May 27th, 1777, 64

To Benjamin Franklin. Vienna, May 28th, 1777, 65

To Baron de Schulenburg. Berlin, June 5th, 1777, 65
Requests an interview.

To Baron de Schulenburg. Berlin, June 7th, 1777, 66
Commerce with America.

Baron de Schulenburg to Arthur Lee.
Berlin, June 9th, 1777, 68

To Baron de Schulenburg. Berlin, June 10th, 1777, 68
Insurance to America.--Value of American
commerce.--Danger of its reverting into the
hands of the British.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Berlin, June 11th, 1777, 70
Cautious policy of Prussia.--No danger to be
apprehended from Russia.--German Princes.--Hesse.
--European powers awaiting events.--Chatham’s
motion for a cessation of hostilities.

To the Commissioners at Paris. Berlin, June 15th, 1777, 72

To George Washington. Berlin, June 15th, 1777, 73
His plan of operations approved.--Prussian army;
discipline; arms.--Intention of writing the history
of the revolution.

Baron de Schulenburg to Arthur Lee.
Berlin, June 18th, 1777, 75
Commercial intercourse--Difficulties.

To Baron de Schulenburg. Berlin, June 20th, 1777, 76
Reasons for the admission of prizes, made by
the Americans, into Prussian ports.

Baron de Schulenburg to Arthur Lee. Berlin, June 26th, 1777, 78
Prizes, made by the Americans, not to be admitted
into Prussian ports.

To the Commissioners in Paris. Berlin, June 28th, 1777, 79
His papers stolen.--Suspects the English Ambassador.

To the King of Prussia. Berlin, June 29th, 1777, 80
Commerce with America; objections answered.--Justified
by usages and law of nations.

To the King of Prussia. Berlin, July 1st, 1777, 85
Complains of the loss of his papers;
requests an audience.

The King of Prussia to Arthur Lee.
Potsdam, July 2d, 1777, 86
Mr Lee may communicate with Baron Schulenburg.

To the Commissioners in Paris. Berlin, July 6th, 1777, 86
Recovery of his papers.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, July 29th, 1777, 87
Account of his proceedings at Berlin.--Odium in
Germany against the princes who let their troops to
England.--Situation of Russia.--British credit low
in Germany and Holland.--Disposition of European powers.

To M. Gerard, Secretary to Count de Vergennes.
Paris, August 1st, 1777, 91

Committee of Foreign Affairs to Arthur Lee.
Philadelphia, August 8th, 1777, 91
Paper currency.

To Baron de Schulenburg. Paris, August 13th, 1777, 93
Commercial affairs.

To James Gardoqui, at Madrid. Paris, August 18th, 1777, 94

Count de Vergennes to Mr Grand. August 21st, 1777, 95
American Privateers in French ports.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris,
September 9th, 1777, 96
English trade in French ships.--Success of
American cruisers in European seas.

To Baron de Schulenburg. Paris, September 21st, 1777, 97

To James Gardoqui, at Madrid. Paris, September 25th, 1777, 97
Military Supplies.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, October 6th, 1777, 98
Receives a commission to the Court of Spain.--Supplies
from Gardoqui.--Hortalez.

Baron de Schulenburg to Arthur Lee. Berlin, October 8th, 1777, 102
Commerce with America.

To Baron de Schulenburg. Paris, October 23d, 1777, 103
Requests information of British affairs in Russia,
Denmark and Germany.

To Baron de Schulenburg. Paris, November 13th, 1777, 104
William Lee appointed Commissioner to Berlin.

To Messrs Gardoqui and Sons at Bilboa.
Paris, November 15th, 1777, 105
Supplies consigned to Mr Gerry; for whom
intended?--Authorised to sell the prizes
of American cruisers.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, November 27th, 1777, 106
Prussia declines opening her ports to American
armed vessels.--Extract of a letter from the
Prussian Minister; Great Britain will receive
no reinforcements in Europe.--Decline of
English credit.--Further extracts from Prussian
Minister’s letter; desirous of information
relating to America.--King’s speech; discontents
in England.--Preparations in France, Spain, and
Holland.--Circular to captains of American armed
vessels relating to violations of neutrality.

Baron de Schulenburg to Arthur Lee.
Berlin, November 28th, 1777, 111
William Lee’s mission.

To Dr Berkenhout. Paris, December 3d, 1777, 111
America expects to receive, not make overtures;
folly of British measures.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, December 8th, 1777, 112
Extract of a letter from M. Gardoqui; goods shipped
to Mr Gerry.--King of Prussia refuses a passage to
Anglo-German troops.

The Commissioners in Paris to Count de Vergennes.
Paris, December 8th, 1777, 113
Urging an answer to propositions for a treaty.
--Supply of three millions from France.

To Count d’Aranda. Paris, December 9th, 1777, 115
Enclosing memorial of Commissioners to Vergennes.

To Baron de Schulenburg. Paris, December 11th, 1777, 115

The Commissioners in Paris to Lord North.
Passy, December 12th, 1777, 116
Treatment of American prisoners by the British.

To Lord Shelburne. Paris, December 14th, 1777, 119
Enclosing a copy of the preceding.
--Clinton’s cruelties.

Baron de Schulenburg to Arthur Lee.
Berlin, December 18th, 1777, 120
Congratulations on the surrender of Burgoyne.
--The King’s favorable disposition waits only
for France.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, December 19th, 1777, 121
Favorable effects of recent intelligence
from America.--Edmund Jennings.

Baron de Schulenburg to Arthur Lee.
Berlin, December 23d, 1777, 122
The King of Prussia refuses a passage
to Anglo-German troops.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, January 5th, 1778, 123
Dispositions of Spain; of Prussia.--Plans of
the British Ministry; alarmed about Canada.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, January 15th, 1778, 125
Spain promises three million livres in the course
of the year.--Supplies shipped from Bilboa.--Fall
of British consols.

Baron de Schulenburg to Arthur Lee.
Berlin, January 16th, 1778, 125
Requests regular information on American affairs.
--King of Prussia ready to follow France in
acknowledging independence.--Purchase of arms
in Prussia.

To Messrs Franklin and Deane. Chaillot, January 30th, 1778, 127
Objections to the 12th article of the treaty.

Messrs Franklin and Deane to Arthur Lee.
Passy, February 1st, 1778, 129
Have requested that the 11th and 12th articles
may be omitted.

Messrs Franklin and Deane to M. Gerard.
Passy, February 1st, 1778, 130
Requesting the omission of the 11th and 12th
articles of the treaty.

M. Gerard to the Commissioners. Versailles, February 2d, 1778, 130
The 11th and 12th articles have been approved
by the King, and cannot be changed without
inconvenience.--The sixth article changed.

To Baron de Schulenburg. February 2d, 1778, 131
General Howe’s situation in America.---Military
operations in the north.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, February 10th, 1778, 133
Enclosing the memorial and letter to Count de
Florida Blanca.--The war with Portugal
concluded.--Probability of a declaration of
war against England by France, Spain, and
Portugal.--Gardoqui’s remittances.--Propriety
of separating the political and commercial
agents.--Views of Spain on Pensacola.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, February 15th, 1778, 134
Beaumarchais’s demands.--Testimonial of
Count Lauragais on this subject.

To Messrs Franklin and Deane. Chaillot, February 26th, 1778, 136
The return of the despatches by Mr Simeon
Deane.--Complains of the proceedings of the
other Commissioners therein without his
knowledge.--Necessity and advantages of a public
acknowledgment of the Commissioners by France.

Messrs Franklin and Deane to Arthur Lee.
Passy, February 27th, 1778, 137
Result of Mr Deane’s visit to Versailles, on
account of the return of the despatches.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, February 28th, 1778, 138
Temporising conduct of Spain.--Comparison of
the conduct of England and France towards the
Colonies.--Prospect of a war in Germany.

To the President of Congress. Paris, March 19th, 1778, 140
Congratulations on Mr Laurens being chosen President
of Congress.--Policy of Spain.--Pensacola.--The
Commissioners are to be presented to the King of
France.--The English Ambassador leaves France abruptly.

To Benjamin Franklin. Chaillot, March 27th, 1778, 141
Uncertainty of the measures of Spain.

To Messrs Franklin and Deane. March 31st, 1778, 142
Requesting a settlement of the accounts relating
to the expenditures of the Commissioners.

James Gardoqui & Co. to Arthur Lee. Bilboa, April 1st, 1778, 142

Invoice of seventyfive Bales of Merchandise shipped on board
the George, Captain Job Knight, for Cape Ann, consigned
to Elbridge Gerry, on account of Arthur Lee, 143
Enclosing an invoice of merchandise shipped to
Elbridge Gerry, on account of Arthur Lee.

M. Gerard to Arthur Lee. Versailles, April 1st, 1778, 144
Requesting letters to Mr Lee’s friends in America.

To M. Gerard. April 1st, half past one o’clock, 1778, 144
Mr Lee before ignorant of M. Gerard’s destination.

M. Gerard to Arthur Lee. Versailles, April 1st, 1778, 145
M. Gerard’s mission not publicly avowed.

To Benjamin Franklin. Chaillot, April 2d, 1778, 145
Surprised to hear of M. Gerard’s mission, and
Mr Deane’s return.--Complains of Dr Franklin’s
silence.--Requests explanations.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, April 2d, 1778, 148
Propriety of determining the rank of the United States
in their intercourse with European powers.--Departure
of Mr William Lee to Germany.--Gardoqui’s shipments.
--Complains of the reserve of his colleagues.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, April 5th, 1778, 150
Succors from Spain through the Havanna promised.--The
accounts of the Commissioners never settled.--How
kept by Mr Deane.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, April 8th, 1778, 151
Complains of the secrecy observed towards him by
his colleagues.--Hostile acts of Great Britain
and France.--Views of France relative to the
fisheries.--Probability of a war in Germany.--Russia
and the Porte.--Importance of securing
Holland.--Encloses a memorial for Holland.

Memorial for Holland, 153
Enclosed in the preceding.--Colonial commerce
originally free; restricted by England; navigation
act; effect of this monopoly in Holland.--Importance
of the commerce of the States to Holland.

To Count de Vergennes. Chaillot, April 24th, 1778, 156
Agents employed by the English Ministry in France
and America to excite a mutual jealousy.--Mr Hartley
at Paris.

Count de Vergennes to Arthur Lee.
Versailles, April 24th, 1778, 157
Intrigues of Mr Hartley referred to in the
preceding letter.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, May 9th, 1778, 158
Situation of affairs in Europe.--Folger’s
affair.--Sums drawn by the Commissioners.

Committee of Foreign Affairs to Arthur Lee.
York, May 14th, 1778, 159
Supplies of Hortalez & Co.--The enemy’s cruisers
have prevented the making remittances.--Commercial
to be put under the direction of a Board.--Intend
to make remittances to Hortalez & Co. and the
Gardoquis.--Depreciation of the paper currency.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, May 23d, 1778, 162
Despatches received by Mr Adams.--The orders for
supplies from Spain renewed.--Sailing of an English
fleet to America.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, June 1st, 1778, 162
Confusion of Mr Deane’s accounts.--Policy of
the European powers.--Payment and number of
foreign Agents.--British plan of operations in
America.--Supplies from Spain.--Necessity of
settling the boundary between the territories of
Spain and the United States; of regulating port
duties, &c.--French naval force delayed.

To M. Dumas. Chaillot, June 4th, 1778, 168
Commerce with America.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, June 9th, 1778, 169
British naval expedition stopped.--Confusion
in Great Britain.--Exchange of prisoners
agreed to.--German affairs.--Mr Williams’s
accounts.--Appointment of Commercial Agents.

To Count de Vergennes. Chaillot, June 14th, 1778, 171
Explanation of the 12th article of the treaty.

Count de Vergennes to Arthur Lee. Versailles, June 15th, 1778, 173

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, June 15th, 1778, 173
Supplies from ports of France and Spain.--Politics
of Germany; of the North.--Embarrassments of Great
Britain.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, July 1st, 1778, 175
An engagement between a French and English ship;
French subjects permitted to fit out privateers.

To Count de Florida Blanca. Paris, July 18th, 1778, 176
Enclosing the resolutions of Congress relative
to the negotiation of a loan of two millions
sterling.--Requests that application may be made to
the King of Spain for the same.--Sacrifices of the
United States.--Depreciation of paper money.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, July 29th, 1778, 178
Engagement between the English and French
fleets.--German affairs.--Impracticability of
despatching cruisers to the East Indian seas.--The
11th and 12th articles of the treaty to be omitted.

James Gardoqui to Arthur Lee. Madrid, August 13th, 1778, 179
Cannot obtain the loan required in Spain.

James Gardoqui to Arthur Lee. Madrid, August 20th, 1778, 180
Suggesting the cession of Florida and supply of
ship timber to Spain, as a means of obtaining the
loan.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, August 21st, 1778, 181
Difficulty of obtaining a loan.--M. Holker.

To James Gardoqui. Paris, August 27th, 1778, 183
Importance of a loan to the United States.--Peace
the natural policy of the United States.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, August 31st, 1778, 186
Requesting instructions as to the cession of
Florida, and the supply of ship timber to Spain, on
condition of supplies of money.

To James Gardoqui. Paris, September 1st, 1778, 187
Mr Lee ready to treat with full powers.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, September 9th, 1778, 187
Remittances received.--Encloses the accounts
of articles shipped.

James Gardoqui to Arthur Lee. Madrid, September 28th, 1778, 189
Complains of the capture of Spanish property by an
American privateer.--Probability of obtaining the
loan in Spain; on what terms.

To Count de Vergennes. Chaillot, September 28th, 1778, 190
Conversation relating to M. Holker.--The duties.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, September 30th, 1778, 191
General reluctance to war.

To James Gardoqui. Paris, October 6th, 1778, 192
Necessity of decision on the part of Spain.

To Count de Vergennes. Paris, October 12th, 1778, 193
Indecision of Spain.--Interference of France
requested.

Count de Vergennes to Arthur Lee.
Versailles, October 17th, 1778, 195
Advising the suspension of his proposed measures
at the Court of Spain.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, October 19th, 1778, 195
Aspect of affairs in Holland.--Ports of the
two Sicilies open to vessels of the United
States.--Deceived in the fusils from Prussia.

To Baron de Schulenburg. Chaillot, October 21st, 1778, 197
Complains of the fusils received from Prussia.

Count de Vergennes to Arthur Lee.
Versailles, October 24th, 1778, 199
D’Estaing’s squadron separated by unfavorable
winds.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, November 4th, 1778, 199
Preparations of Great Britain.--Will receive no aid
from Russia.--English Whale fishery on the coast of
Brazil.--Instruments for abolishing the 11th and
12th articles exchanged.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, November 15th 1778, 201
Preparations and plans of Great Britain.--The
effect of a general war.--Prospect of a loan or of
supplies in Holland.--Capture of Spanish property
by Captain Cunningham.--Arms ordered by Virginia.

To James Gardoqui. Paris, December 4th, 1778, 204
Requests the shipment of blankets on the old
plan.--Desires to know whether American produce
and prizes may be sold in Spanish-American
ports.--D’Estaing’s fleet.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, December 5th, 1778, 205
Lord Suffolk’s speech.--Plan of the British to
destroy everything before them.--France declares
the goods of the enemy, in neutral ships, lawful
prize.--Spain admits the sale of French prizes, and
the entrance of American vessels.--German affairs.

To Count de Florida Blanca. Paris, December 17th, 1778, 207
Proclamation and manifesto of the British
Commissioners, threatening to destroy the
Colonies.--Cruelties of the British in America.

To the Baron de Schulenburg. Paris, December 25th, 1778, 210
The Prussian fusils.--Counter-manifesto of Congress
to the manifesto of the British Commissioners.

To Count de Florida Blanca. Paris, December 27th, 1778, 213
Enclosing copies of absolution and manifesto of
Congress in reply to the British manifesto.

To Count de Vergennes. Chaillot, Jan. 3d., 1779, 214
Proposals of Dr Berkenhout.

Count de Vergennes to Arthur Lee.
Versailles, January 4th, 1779, 214
Advice in regard to Dr Berkenhout.

To Count de Vergennes. Chaillot, Jan. 8th, 1779, 215

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, January 5th, 1779, 216
English influence in Holland.--Expenses of
England.--Military establishment.--Fourteen
regiments to be sent to America.--Beaumarchais.
--Mr Lee’s account.

Count de Vergennes to Arthur Lee.
Versailles, January 10th, 1779, 220
Mr Lee’s answer to Dr Berkenhout.--English
convoys.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, January 15th, 1779, 221
Proceedings in Great Britain; Admiral Keppel’s
trial; general excitement there; losses at sea;
financial embarrassments.

Dr Price to Arthur Lee. Newington-Green, January 18th, 1779, 222
Acknowledges the reception of a letter with the
resolution of Congress.

John Adams to Count de Vergennes. Passy, February 11th, 1779, 224
Mr Deane’s Address to the people of America.
--Mr Lee’s services and fidelity.--Character
of his two brothers.

Count de Vergennes to John Adams.
Versailles, February 13th, 1779, 227
Of Mr Deane’s Address.--Promises Mr Adams
an interview.

Count de Vergennes to Arthur Lee.
Versailles, February 15th, 1779, 228
Desiring an interview.--Mr Lee’s note, giving an
account of the interview.

Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee. Passy, February 18th, 1779, 229
Transmitting resolutions of Congress.

To Benjamin Franklin. Chaillot, Feb. 18th, 1779, 229
Acknowledging receipt of preceding.

Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee. Passy, February 18th, 1779, 230
Requesting Mr Lee to send him public papers
belonging to his department.

To Benjamin Franklin. Chaillot, Feb. 21st, 1779, 230
Declines sending the papers belonging to the
Commissioners.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, February 25th, 1779, 231
Mr Deane’s representations to Congress; confusion
and incompleteness of his accounts.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Nantes, March 7th, 1779, 234
Mr Deane.--Proceedings of Dr Franklin since his
appointment as Minister.

Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee. Passy, March 13th, 1779, 236
Reasons for asking for the papers of the
Commissioners in Mr Lee’s possession.--Offers Mr
Lee copies of those in his own hands.

Arthur Lee to Benjamin Franklin. Paris, March 19th, 1779, 238
Relating to public papers in his
possession.--Reasons for retaining them.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, April 22d, 1779, 239

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, April 26th, 1779, 240
Reinforcements of the British force.--Ministry
intend making great exertions.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, May 21st, 1779, 241
Peace between Russia and the Porte.--Probability
of the peace of Teschin.--Politics of
the German powers.--Power, credit, and
importance of Spain.--The States-General grant
convoys.--Discontents in the English army
and navy.--Irritation of Scotland.--State of
Ireland.--Disposition of the King.--Successes
of the English privateers.--Successes in
India.--Prince Ferdinand.--De la Luzerne appointed
to succeed M. Gerard.--M. de Marbois Secretary of
the embassy.--Treaty of Teschin.

To the President of Congress. Paris, May 31st, 1779, 246
Requesting his recall.

To Count d’Aranda. Paris, June 7th, 1779, 246
Enclosing the following.

To Count de Florida Blanca. Paris, June 6th, 1779, 247
Enclosing a Memorial to the Court of Spain.

Memorial to the Court of Spain. Paris, June 6th, 1779, 247
Importance of prizes to the English.--Recommends
an embargo on Spanish ships, or convoys to protect
them.

John Adams to Arthur Lee. L’Orient, June 10th, 1779, 249
Testimony to Mr Lee’s services and fidelity.

To the President of Congress. Paris, June 21st, 1779, 250
Recall of the English and Spanish Ambassadors
respectively.--Propositions in the
House of Commons.

To Count de Florida Blanca. Paris, June 27th, 1779, 251
Enclosing a memorial on the operations of the
English in Georgia.

Memorial to Count de Florida Blanca. Paris, June 27th, 1779, 252

Committee of Foreign Affairs to Arthur Lee.
Philadelphia, July 16th, 1779, 253
Destruction of Fairfield.

Count de Florida Blanca to Arthur Lee.
Madrid, August 6th, 1779, 254
Acknowledges the receipt of his letters
on English affairs.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, August 10th, 1779, 255
Junction of the Spanish and French
fleets.--Preparations for the invasion of England;
and the blockade of Gibraltar.--West India and
Baltic fleets safely arrived in England.

To Benjamin Franklin. Paris, August 14th, 1779, 256
Requesting Dr Franklin to consult Count de
Vergennes as to the propriety of applying to the
Court of Spain on the subject of an alliance.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, August 24th, 1779, 257
Mediation of Russia between the European
belligerents.--Embarrassments of
England.--Combined fleet on the English coast.

To the President of Congress. Paris, September 10th, 1779, 259
Complains of the mode of proceeding in Congress
relative to himself.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, September 19th, 1779, 260
Complains, of the treatment by Congress.--Requests
instructions relative to the boundaries between the
territories of Spain and the United States.

Benjamin Franklin to Arthur Lee. Passy, September 30th, 1779, 262
Unable to supply Mr Lee with money for his support
in Spain.--Advises his return to America.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, October 13th, 1779, 262
Admiral Rodney appointed to the command in the West
Indies.--Meditated invasion of England.

Committee of Foreign Affairs to Arthur Lee.
Philadelphia, October 13th, 1779, 264
Announcing Mr Jay’s appointment to
Spain.--Enclosing the resolution of Congress
allowing Mr Lee’s return to America.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, October 21st, 1779, 264
Disposition of England unfavorable to peace.--Debt
of England.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, November 6th, 1779, 265
Requests a decision on the accusations
against him.--Impracticability of a loan in
Europe.--Requests a fixed allowance.--Plans of
the French and British cabinets for the ensuing
campaign.--Spanish ultimatum.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, November 30th, 1779, 271
Change in the British Ministry.--Ascendancy of the
war party.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, December 8th, 1779, 273
King’s speech.--Memorial of the English Ambassador
at the Hague.

To Count de Florida Blanca. Paris, December 16th, 1779, 273
Plan of operations in the south.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, December 25th, 1779, 274
Exertions of the English for the ensuing campaign.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, January 19th, 1780, 275
Receives the King’s picture on taking leave.

To John Jay, Minister from the United States of America at
Madrid. L’Orient, March 17th, 1780, 276
Necessity of secrecy at the Court of
Spain.--Gardoqui.

To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, October 7th, 1780, 278
Deposits the King’s picture with the
President.--Requests a hearing before Congress.

To the President of Congress.
Philadelphia, December 7th, 1780, 280
State of Europe.--League of the neutral
powers.--Difficulty of obtaining a loan in
Europe.--Necessity of a Secretary of State for
Foreign Affairs.--Importance of Russia.

WILLIAM LEE’S CORRESPONDENCE.

Instructions to William Lee. Philadelphia, July 1st, 1777, 289
Commissioner to the Courts of Vienna and
Berlin.--Instructed to propose treaties of
friendship and commerce with those Courts, and to
solicit the acknowledgment of the independence of
the States.

To the President of Congress. Paris, Oct. 7th, 1777, 291
Acknowledges the receipt of his instructions.

To Charles Thomson, Secretary of Congress.
Paris, November 24th, 1777, 292
Anglo-German troops.--Supplies from the North.

To Charles Thomson. Paris, Dec. 18th, 1777, 294
Prussia forbids the passage of the German troops;
desirous of commerce with America.

To Charles Thomson. Paris, January 2d, 1778, 296
Emperor discountenances the use of German troops
by the English.--Commerce through Emden.

To the President of Congress. Paris, Jan. 22d, 1778, 298
Imperfection in his commission.

To the President of Congress. Paris, February 28th, 1778, 300
Threatened rupture between Austria and
Prussia.--Situation and measures of the British
Ministry.--Spain.

To the President of Congress. Paris, March 23d, 1778, 302
Acknowledgment of the independence of the United
States.--France will not join either party in case
of a German war.

The Committee of Foreign Affairs to William Lee.
York, May 14th, 1778, 304
Resolution of Congress providing for his
pay.--Unanimity and firmness of Congress; the
nation.--Mr Lee’s powers to be enlarged.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, September 12th, 1778, 306
War in Germany.--Retires from Vienna to
Francfort.--Draft of a treaty between Holland and
the United States.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Francfort, October 15th, 1778, 310
Plan of a treaty with Holland.--State of German
affairs.

Plan of a treaty with Holland, 313

From the Committee of Foreign Affairs to William Lee.
Philadelphia, October 28th, 1778, 334
Return of the British Commissioners.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Francfort, February 25th, 1779, 335
States-General determine to protect their
trade.--Prospect of a peace in Germany, under the
mediation of France and Russia.--Commerce with
Prussia.

To the President of Congress. Paris, March 16th, 1779, 339
Answer to Mr Deane’s charges.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, March 25th, 1779, 346
Conferences between Prussia and Austria at
Teschin.--Danger of England’s obtaining recruits
from the German free corps.--Dr Franklin declines
joining him in consulting with Count de Vergennes
on German affairs.--Mr Deane’s charges.

Ralph Izard and Arthur Lee to William Lee.
Paris, June 22d, 1779, 349
Propriety of waiting for the decision of Spain,
before an application to Prussia to acknowledge the
independence of the United States; of changing the
channel of application.

James Lovell to William Lee. Philadelphia, July 17th, 1779, 350
Communicating his recall from Vienna and Berlin.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Francfort, September 28th, 1779, 351
Effect of Dr Franklin’s refusal to assist him
at the French Court.--Rescript of the Spanish
Ambassador.--Answer of the Prussian Minister to
his application for an acknowledgment of the
independence of the United States.--Mediation of
Russia.--Commerce with Prussia.--British Ministry
disposed to acknowledge the independence of
America.--Disposition of the king.

To the President of Congress. Brussels, February 10th, 1781, 356
Britain determines not to send more troops to
America.--Secret proposals of the Ministry to
France and Spain.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Brussels, April 12th, 1781, 357
Mr Lee’s accounts.

James Lovell to William Lee.
Philadelphia, September 20th, 1781, 358
Enclosing the decision of Congress in regard to the
settlement of his accounts.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
Brussels, March 31st, 1782, 359
Change in the British Ministry.--General
disposition to peace in England.--Opposition of
the King.--Propriety of sending a Minister to the
Austrian Netherlands.

RALPH IZARD’S CORRESPONDENCE.

Instructions to Ralph Izard. Philadelphia, July 1st, 1777, 367

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Paris, October 6th, 1777, 369
Interest of the Italian powers to diminish the
power of England.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, December 18th, 1777, 370
Friendly disposition of the Tuscan Minister in
France; advises a delay of Mr Izard’s visit to
Italy.--Effect of the surrender of General Burgoyne.

Arthur Lee to Ralph Izard. January 28th, 1778, 372
Requesting his opinion on the twelfth article of
the treaty.

To Benjamin Franklin. Paris, January 28th, 1778, 372
Objections to the twelfth article.--Complains of Dr
Franklin’s reserve.

Benjamin Franklin to Ralph Izard. Passy, January 29th, 1778, 375
Circumstances prevent his explaining the motives of
his conduct.--Advice to Mr Izard.

To Benjamin Franklin. Paris, January 30th, 1778, 376
Recriminations.--Twelfth article.

The Committee of Foreign Affairs to Ralph Izard.
York, February 5th, 1778, 378
Depreciation of the currency.--Importance
of a loan.

To Henry Laurens, President of Congress.
Paris, February 16th, 1778, 379
Proceedings relative to the twelfth
article.--Complains of the reserve of Dr Franklin
and Mr Deane.--Preparations for war in France and
England.--Want of funds.

Benjamin Franklin to Ralph Izard. Passy, March 27th, 1778, 385

To Benjamin Franklin. Paris, March 29th, 1778, 385
Reminds him of his promise of an explanation of his
conduct.

Benjamin Franklin to Ralph Izard. Passy, March 30th, 1778, 386
Reasons of his delay in giving his explanations.

To Benjamin Franklin. Paris, March 31st, 1778, 387
Requests a speedy explanation.

To Henry Laurens. Paris, April 1st, 1778, 388
Secrecy of Dr Franklin and Mr Deane relative to
M. Gerard’s mission.--Disputes on the Bavarian
succession.--Mr Deane’s unfitness for his
place.--Proposes a commission for Naples.

To Benjamin Franklin. Paris, April 4th, 1778, 390
On the subject of explanations.

Benjamin Franklin to Ralph Izard. Passy, April 4th, 1778, 391
Promises to explain the reasons of his conduct.

To Henry Laurens. Paris, April 11th, 1778, 391
Expresses a wish to be sent to England.--Titles of
American Ministers in Europe.

To Benjamin Franklin, Paris, April 25th, 1778, 394
Subject of the explanations.

John J. Pringle to Ralph Izard. Paris, April 26th, 1778, 395
Interview with Dr Franklin on the subject of Mr
Izard’s complaints.

Committee of Foreign Affairs to Ralph Izard.
York, May 14th, 1778, 399
Enclosing the resolve of Congress providing for his
support.--Treaties ratified by Congress.--Future
treaties to be made on the basis of mutual
benefit.--Enlargement of his powers.

To Arthur Lee. Paris, May 18th, 1778, 401
Objections to the fifth article of the treaty.

Arthur Lee to Ralph Izard. Chaillot, May 23d, 1778, 406
Objections to the fifth article.--Cession of
territory to Spain.

To Benjamin Franklin. Paris, June 17th, 1778, 408
Mr Pringle’s interview.--Subject of the
explanations promised by Dr Franklin.

To Henry Laurens, President of Congress.
Paris, June 28th, 1778, 417
Objections to the treaties.--Complains of Dr
Franklin.--German affairs.

To Henry Laurens, President of Congress.
Paris, July 25th, 1778, 422
Ratification of the treaties received in
France.--Objections to the eighth article.--Mr Lee
not received publicly at Vienna.

From the Abbé Niccoli to Ralph Izard.
Florence, July 28th, 1778, 426
Advises him not to come to Florence.--State of
Tuscany.--Improbability of his obtaining a loan
there.--Recommends an attempt in Genoa.

To the Commissioners. Paris, August 25th, 1778, 429
Relative to obtaining a loan in Genoa.--Barbary
cruisers.

From the Commissioners to Ralph Izard.
Paris, August 25th, 1778, 430
Advise an application to Count de Vergennes on the
subject of a loan in Genoa.--Intend to present him
a memorial on the interposition of France with the
Barbary powers.

To the Abbé Niccoli. Paris, September 1st, 1778, 431
Urging a loan.---Trade to Leghorn.

To Count de Vergennes. Paris, Sept. 2d, 1778, 433
Requesting the assistance of France in obtaining a
loan from Genoa.

To Henry Laurens, President of Congress.
Paris, September 12th, 1778, 434
Relative to the 11th, 12th, and 5th articles of
the treaty.--Policy of Spain.--France declines
interfering in the business of a loan.---The
fisheries.--Confusion of the commercial business of
the United States in France.

The Committee of Foreign Affairs to Ralph Izard.
Philadelphia, October 28th, 1778, 440

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, January 28th, 1779, 441
Cannot be publicly received at Florence.--Dr
Franklin refuses to accept his draft.--Requests
permission to return to America.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, March 4th, 1779, 444
Requests leave to return.

The Committee of Foreign Affairs to Ralph Izard.
Philadelphia, July 17th, 1779, 445
Communicating his recall.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, September 29th, 1779, 446
Relative to the payment for his services.

To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, August 6th, 1780, 448
Announces his arrival.--Offers information
respecting affairs in Europe.

HENRY LAURENS’ CORRESPONDENCE.

Instructions to Henry Laurens.
In Congress, October 26th, 1779, 453

Committee of Foreign Affairs to Henry Laurens.
Philadelphia, December 11th, 1779, 454
Enclosing acts of Congress for drawing on him for
£100,000.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Charleston, January 24th, 1780, 455
Relative to the bills of exchange mentioned in the
preceding letter.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Charleston, February 14th, 1780, 457

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Charleston, February 24th, 1780, 458
Proposes to embark for Martinique.--Ships indigo on
account of the United States.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs.
Vestal--British frigate, St John’s, Newfoundland,
September 14th, 1780, 461
He and his papers captured.--Ordered to England by
the Governor.

To the President of Congress.
Tower of London, December 20th, 1781, 462
Cruel treatment in the tower.

To the President of Congress. Amsterdam, May 30th, 1782, 463
History of his confinement in the tower.--Declines
his appointment to treat with Great Britain.--His
services while in confinement.--Lord Shelburne
declares that he “shall part with America with
regret.”

To the President of Congress. Nantes, September 5th, 1782, 472
Applies for a passport from England.--Dr Franklin
offers to supply his expenses.

Robert R. Livingston to Henry Laurens.
Philadelphia, September 17th, 1782, 476
Announces his appointment as Secretary of Foreign
Affairs.--Congress declines accepting Mr Laurens’
resignation.

Robert R. Livingston to Henry Laurens.
Philadelphia, November 8th, 1782, 477
Union and firmness of the States.--Military
intelligence.--Death of Colonel Laurens.

To Lord Cornwallis. Paris, December 9th, 1782, 479
His exertions to effect the release of
Lord Cornwallis.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, December 15th, 1782, 480
Acknowledges the receipt of certain acts of
Congress.--Repairs to Paris in compliance
with the order of Congress to assist in the
negotiations.--His services in England.--Declines
receiving any further sums of money.--Signing of
the preliminary articles between Great Britain and
the United States communicated to Russia.--Exchange
of Lord Cornwallis.--Requests permission to return.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
Paris, December 24th, 1782, 484
Mr Hartley’s motion in the House of Commons on
a reconciliation with America.--Little prospect
of a general peace.--Notions in England of a
_reconciliation_ with the _colonies_.
--Attempts to excite jealousies of France.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Paris, January 9th, 1783, 487
Little prospect of a definitive treaty.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. London, March 15th, 1783, 488
Visits London.--Urges the withdrawing of British
troops from America previous to any intercourse
between the countries.--Provisional treaty, if
obtained without the concurrence of France,
disgraceful to the American Ministers.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. London, April 5th, 1783, 491
Third bill of the provisional establishment of
trade with America dropped.--Mr Laurens’s supposed
American bill for regulating commerce with Great
Britain.--The new Ministry arranged.--Conference
with Mr Fox.--United States included in the Foreign
Department.--Mr Hartley appointed to negotiate a
definitive treaty of peace.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. London, April 10th, 1783, 493
Leave given to bring in a bill repealing certain
bills prohibiting an intercourse with the United
States.--Deputation of merchants urge the opening
of a communication with America.--Mr Laurens
insists on the previous withdrawing of the troops.

Robert R. Livingston to Henry Laurens.
Philadelphia, May 8th, 1783, 495
Enclosing the resolution of Congress permitting his
return.--The provisional treaty ratified.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. London, June 17th, 1783, 496
Delays of the British negotiator.--Weakness of the
new Ministry.

Articles proposed by the American Commissioners to Mr Hartley, 499

Mr Hartley’s proposed Article of Agreement, delivered
by him to the American Commissioners for their
Consideration, May 21st, 1783, 500

Observations and Propositions of Mr Hartley,
left with the American Ministers, May 21st, 1783, 502

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Bath, June 27th, 1783, 505
Regrets that the British troops were not removed
previous to a free communication between the
countries.--His accounts.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Bath, July 17th, 1783, 507
Recommending the Rev. Mr Wells and Mr
Carpenter.--Mr Deane reported to have been active
in drawing up a treaty of commerce in London.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Bath, July 17th, 1783, 508
Requested by Dr Franklin to return to Paris.--Complies.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
Ship Washington, off Poole, August 2d, 1783, 508
Intends to apply to the Ministers for information,
as to the reception of an American Minister in
London.

To L. R. Morris. London, August 9th, 1783, 509
His accounts.

To the Ministers of the United States at Paris.
London, August 9th, 1783, 510
Conference with Mr Fox.--With the Duke of
Portland.--Second conference with Mr Fox.--The
meeting at Philadelphia.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
London, August 9th, 1783, 515
His accounts.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
London, September 11th, 1783, 517
The definitive treaty only a re-confirmation of the
provisional treaty.--Mr Jennings’s accusations.

To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
Dover, September 16th, 1783, 520

To Charles Thomson. Bath, March 28th, 1784, 520
Term for exchanging ratifications
extended.--Extension of the Intercourse
Bill.--Trade of the United States with the British
West Indies.--Disposition of the English towards
America.

David Hartley to Henry Laurens.
Golden Square, March 26th, 1784, 523
Proposed term for the exchange of ratifications
extended.

To the President of Congress. London, April 24th, 1784, 524
Proclamation for extending the American
intercourse.--Restrictions on the American
trade to the West Indies.--Effects of a
retaliation.--Opposition to a reconciliation
with America.--The King opposed to the late war;
willing to receive an Ambassador from the United
States.--Plan for the King’s abdication, and
rescinding the alienation of the Prince of Wales’s
inheritance.--Mischief done by the loyalists in
England.

To the President of Congress. London, April 30th, 1784, 527
Bitterness in England against the United
States.--Mr Deane and others oppose the interests
of the United States.

THE CORRESPONDENCE OF ARTHUR LEE,

COMMISSIONER FROM THE UNITED STATES TO THE COURT OF FRANCE.

ARTHUR LEE was a native of Virginia, and born on the 20th of December, 1740. His early education was finished at Eton College, in England, whence he proceeded to Edinburgh, with a view of preparing himself for the medical profession. Having gone through with the usual courses, he took the degree of doctor of medicine. After leaving Edinburgh, he travelled in Holland and Germany, and then returned to Virginia, where he commenced the practice of physic. Not well satisfied with this calling, he resolved to abandon it, and apply himself to the study of the law. He went over to London, and became a student in the Temple, about the year 1766.

From this period till the beginning of the Revolution, Arthur Lee held a correspondence with his brothers, and several other persons in America, respecting the political state of things in England, and the transactions relating to the Colonies. He was warmly attached to the interests of his country, and was appointed by the Assembly of Massachusetts to be Agent for that Colony, as successor to Dr Franklin, who left England in the spring of 1775. In December, of the same year, the Committee of Secret Correspondence requested Mr Lee to act as their secret agent in London, and to transmit to them any information, which he might think important. He wrote to the Committee several letters, while acting in this agency.

When Commissioners to the Court of France were appointed, Mr Jefferson, one of the number, declined accepting the appointment, and Arthur Lee was put in his place, October 22d, 1776. He proceeded from London to Paris, where he met the other Commissioners. In the spring of 1777 he went to Spain, by the advice of his colleagues, with the design of procuring aid from the Spanish Government for the United States, in which he was partially successful. On his return to Paris, he made a short tour to Vienna and Berlin for similar purposes, and maintained for some time a correspondence of a political nature with Baron de Schulenburg, one of the Prussian Ministers. Meantime he received from Congress the appointment of Commissioner to Spain, but he never went out of France while acting under this commission. It expired when Mr Jay was made Minister Plenipotentiary to that Court.

Arthur Lee returned to the United States in September, 1780, and the next year he was chosen a Representative to the Assembly of Virginia. By this body he was sent a Delegate to Congress. While in that capacity, he was made one of a commission to form treaties with the Indians on the Northwestern frontiers, and was occupied several months in the duties of that expedition. He died in Virginia, after a short illness, on the 12th of December, 1792.

THE CORRESPONDENCE OF ARTHUR LEE.

FROM THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE TO ARTHUR LEE.

Philadelphia, December 12th, 1775.

Sir,

By this conveyance we have the pleasure of transmitting to you sundry printed papers, that such of them as you think proper may be immediately published in England.

We have written on the subject of American affairs to Monsieur C. G. F. Dumas, who resides at the Hague. We recommend to you to correspond with him, and to send through his hands any letters to us which you cannot send more directly. He will transmit them via St Eustatia.

Mr Story may be trusted with any despatches you think proper to send us. You will be so kind as to aid and advise him.

It would be agreeable to Congress _to know the disposition of foreign powers towards us_, and we hope this object will engage your attention. We need not hint that _great circumspection and impenetrable secrecy_ are necessary. The Congress rely on your zeal and abilities to serve them, and will readily compensate you for whatever trouble and expense a compliance with their desire may occasion. We remit you for the present £200.

Whenever you think the importance of your despatches may require it, we desire you to send an express boat with them from England, for which service your agreement with the owner there shall be fulfilled by us here.

We can now only add, that we continue firm in our resolutions to defend ourselves, notwithstanding the _big threats_ of the ministry. We have just taken one of their ordnance storeships, in which an abundance of carcasses and bombs, intended for burning our towns, were found.

With great esteem, we are, Sir, your most obedient humble servants,

B. FRANKLIN,
JOHN DICKINSON,
JOHN JAY.

TO BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.

London, February 13th, 1776.

The enclosed will easily explain itself. The intelligence you should observe, and take measures accordingly. A fund for necessary expenses should be fixed here, in such hands as can be confided in. You know who is to be trusted. From experience I can say, (though without any connexion or commerce with them) the New England men are fittest to be trusted in any dangerous or important enterprise. Show this only to R. H. L.[1] of Virginia, and he will _guess_ from whence it comes.

The intelligence, if it gets to hand in time, should be communicated as soon as possible to every part of America, that she may be prepared.

[1] Richard Henry Lee.

TO LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR COLDEN.[2]

[Enclosed in the foregoing.]

London, February 13th, 1776.

Dear Sir,

Your letter of the 30th of November, 1775, announcing the appointment of a Secret Committee reached me a few days since. Miscarriages will be manifold indeed, if you have not frequently heard from me. All my solicitude has been about my letters reaching you; every disguise was necessary to effect that. I am, however, much obliged to the General for the step taken to secure me.

You will be curious to know what are the ministerial intentions, and their force for the next campaign. The following is their army upon paper,--Hessians, 12,000; Brunswickers, Woolfenbutlers and Waldeckers, 5000; six regiments under Lord Cornwallis, 3000; eight more to sail in the spring, 4000; Highlanders, 2000; now in America, 8000.

The sailing and destination of this armament is thus. Those under General Lord Cornwallis are now embarked at Cork, and wait for sailing orders, their destination, Virginia. By the treaty just now signed, the Germans are to be ready on the 27th of this month to march to the seacoast and embark, but for what part of America is not exactly known; the march by land is near six weeks, so that they cannot sail before April. The second embarkation from Cork will be about the same time, and it seems probable that their destination will be against Canada, under General Burgoyne, who is soliciting that command. In the meantime, the 29th regiment, with General Carleton’s brother, is to sail from hence immediately to reinforce Quebec, supposing that they can get high enough up the river, as far as the Isle of Orleans, to make good their march by land. The regiments under Lord Cornwallis are the 37th, 33d, 54th, 15th, 28th, 46th. Those for the spring are the 34th, 53d, 62d, 3d, 9th, 11th, 20th, 24th. Lord Howe is appointed to the command at sea, but the commander on land is not known; certain however it is, that there are two Lieutenant Generals, and one of them old, that go with the Germans, so that it must be one of great reputation and old in the service to command over them. It is therefore conjectured Count de Lippe will be the man. He commanded the army in Portugal during the last war. They are taking up East Indiamen for the transport service, supposing they will be able to beat off the cruisers. A great number of artillery and waggon horses are to be sent, and a train of large battering cannon is preparing, which it would seem can only be intended against Quebec, should it be taken by General Montgomery.

The English and Irish troops go with infinite reluctance, and strong guards are obliged to be kept upon the transports to keep them from deserting by wholesale. The Germans too, I am well informed, are almost mutinous, but the Landgrave of Hesse is an absolute tyrant, and must be obeyed. It is therefore conceived, that if the Congress have proposals prepared in English and German, to distribute among them when they land, which no precautions can prevent, multitudes will desert.

Upon the whole, the ministry, if every thing favors them, may have about thirty thousand men in America by the latter end of June. They will have no horse but two regiments of light dragoons, that are now there, and Burgoyne’s, which is to go. If the Americans have horse well trained to the woods, it will harrass such an army infinitely; and if they act upon the defensive, entrench well, harrass them continually, cut off their convoys, and if ever they hazard an engagement, make their push upon one wing; it is imagined here, that no General on earth can make the campaign decisive, and it is hardly possible this country can stand another. They have found it impossible to recruit in England, Ireland, or Scotland, though the leading people of the last are to a man violently against America. They have therefore been obliged to draft from the other regiments to complete those which are going, so that when the whole are embarked, there will be scarce 2000 men remaining in Ireland, and as many in England, besides the foot guards and cavalry. I am well assured, that the French Government will wink at the exportation of arms and ammunition. A General of the first abilities and experience would go over, if he could have any assurance from the Congress of keeping his rank; but that being very high, he would not submit to have any one but an American his superior, and that only in consideration of the confidence due to an American in a question so peculiarly American.

Let me have your opinion of all these things. The opposition gains ground, and the nation begins to feel; but America must trust to her own arm and Heaven for protection. The resolutions of January the 2d[3] do you infinite honor, and will undoubtedly serve the cause. Your conduct, I trust, will be noble, as that is great and good. I know your attachment to the country you have adopted. Prince Ferdinand’s recommendation of the General mentioned above is in these words. “As to experience, intelligence and valor, I do not know whether another can be found to equal him.” Your letter of the 30th of November, 1775, cost 19_s._ 6_d._ postage, there was so much superfluous paper; would not a packet sent to some of the Canary Islands, and committed to proper care, reach us safest and soonest? If there is any friend there to be trusted, the opportunities from thence hither are frequent. Cover mine and address it to John Horsfall, Treasurer, Middle Temple.

[2] The name of Lieutenant Governor Colden of New York, to whom this and two other letters are directed, was doubtless assumed by Mr Lee for the purpose of disguise, in case the letters should fall into the enemy’s hands. Colden was a royalist.

[3] See the Journal of Congress for January 2d, 1776.

TO LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR COLDEN.

London, February 14th, 1776.

Dear Sir,

The enclosed list is the ministerial army upon paper. In effect it will amount to about 15000 Germans and 18000 British; their destination I can now give you with some certainty; 4000 Brunswickers and Waldeckers, with 500 Hessians from Hanan, are now at Stade, a port in Hanover, ready for immediate embarkation and destined for Canada, to be joined by the twentyninth regiment, and 1000 drafted from the Foot Guards, under Colonel Matthews. There is to be another embarkation in the spring from Ireland for Canada, and the whole is to be commanded by General Burgoyne, and Carleton I believe recalled.