Chapter I: Front Matter (1)

THE

DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE

OF THE

AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

VOL. VII.

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. VII.

BOSTON:

NATHAN HALE AND GRAY & BOWEN;

G. & C. & H. CARVILL, NEW YORK; P. THOMPSON, WASHINGTON.

1830.

Steam Power Press--W. L. Lewis' Print.,

No. 6, Congress Street, Boston.

CONTENTS

OF THE

SEVENTH VOLUME.

JOHN ADAMS'S CORRESPONDENCE,

CONTINUED.

Page.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, December 14th, 1782, 3

The King of Sweden's compliment to the United
States.--The signing of the preliminaries announced to
Parliament.--Quotes a note from the Courier de
l'Europe.--Requests leave to return.

Robert R. Livingston to John Adams. Philadelphia, December
19th, 1782, 4

Mr Jefferson accepts his appointment.--Financial
arrangements for raising a revenue.

To Charles W. F. Dumas. Paris, January 1st, 1783, 6

M. Brantzen.--Conversation with Mr Oswald on freedom of
navigation.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, January 22d, 1783, 8

Preliminaries and armistice between England, and Spain,
and France, signed and sealed.--Terms England offers to
the Dutch.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, January 23d, 1783, 10

Grounds of Mr Adams's opinions of European politics.--Mr
Laurens's services.--The northern powers friendly to
America.--America has suffered by reposing confidence in
a certain minister.

To C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, January 29th, 1783, 13

Proceedings of Congress in reference to the armed
neutrality.--America is ready to accede to its
principles.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, February 5th, 1783, 14

Causes of the revocation of his commission for
negotiating a treaty of commerce with Great
Britain.--Recommends the appointment of a Minister to
England for negotiating a treaty of commerce.--Mr
Adams's idea of the qualifications necessary for an
American Minister, particularly at the English
Court.--Address and fluency in speaking French of little
importance.--Mr Jay's services and qualifications.

Robert R. Livingston to John Adams. Philadelphia, February
13th, 1783, 23

Financial embarrassments of the country.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, March 2d, 1783, 25

Transmitting an application from a French house at
Leghorn to be appointed consul or commercial agent of
the United States.

Robert R. Livingston to John Adams. Philadelphia, April 14th,
1783, 26

Ambiguous expressions in the declaration of the
cessation of hostilities.--Affairs of the Dutch.--Mr
Adams's accounts.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, April 14th, 1783, 28

Mr Hartley succeeds Mr Oswald.--Prospect of a general
congress at Paris.

To Robert Morris. Paris, May 21st, 1783, 30

The Dutch loan; perplexities and embarrassments.--Wishes
to be at home to persuade the Americans to pay taxes and
build ships.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, May 24th, 1783, 31

A temporary regulation of commerce with England will be
necessary.--The American ministers invited to London
with a promise that they should be treated as the
ministers of other sovereign states.--The English court
wishes to interchange ministers with America.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, May 30th, 1783, 34

Receives the ratification by Congress of the treaty with
Holland.--Delay in the negotiations of the definitive
treaty.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, June 9th, 1783, 35

"Letters from a Distinguished American," written by Mr
Adams.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, June 16th, 1783, 36

Ambiguities in the articles of the provisional treaty
occasioned by the critical state of affairs.--The Dutch
have been of important service in bringing about the
termination of the war.--Expresses a wish to return; is
unwilling to remain in Europe if the embassy to England
is given to any other person.--Policy to be pursued in
raising a loan in Holland.--Conduct of General
Washington during the discontent in the army.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, June 23d, 1783, 41

Obstacles in the way of agreeing upon a regulation of
commerce.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, June 23d, 1783, 42

Embarrassments of the English Ministry.--A party in
England in favor of restricting the commerce of the
Americans.--America and the West Indies are mutually
necessary to each other.--Thinks it politic to revive
the trade on the former footing, if necessary.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, June 24th, 1783, 45

Fictions of the European Gazetteers.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, June 27th, 1783, 46

Progress of the negotiations of the other
powers.--Expects to obtain nothing more favorable than
the terms of the provisional treaty.--Conduct,
character, and materials of the British Ministry.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, June 27th, 1783, 48

American ships arrive in England.--Dubious policy of
the Ministry.--The American Ministers would effect more
in England.--France does not desire a reconciliation
between England and the United States.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 3d, 1783, 51

The American Ministers make visits to the Ministers of
all the powers.--The coalition.--The commerce with the
West Indies.--Receives a visit from the Ambassador of
the Emperor of Germany.--The other Ministers return his
visit.

To Robert Morris. Paris, July 5th, 1783, 56

State of affairs in Europe at the moment of signing the
peace.--Expediency of signing it without consulting the
French Minister.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 7th, 1783, 59

The British Ministry avoid any definitive
propositions.--The West India commerce in regard to the
different powers.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 9th, 1783, 63

Mediation of the Imperial Courts.--Explains the
necessity for concealing the separate article from
France; and for signing the treaty without a previous
communication of it to the French Court.--The foreign
Ministers cease to treat the American Ministers with
reserve.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 10th, 1783, 67

French policy in regard to the fisheries.--Letter of M.
Marbois.--M. de Rayneval's correspondence with Mr
Jay.--France wishes the exclusion of the Americans from
the West Indies.

To Robert Morris. Paris, July 10th, 1783, 70

Means of raising a loan in Holland.

To Robert Morris. Paris, July 11th, 1783, 72

Necessity of sustaining the credit of the United States
by providing for the prompt settlement of all claims.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 11th, 1783, 74

Obligations of America to France.--Reasons for
maintaining a close connexion with France.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 12th, 1783, 75

Algiers.--Negotiations with Portugal.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 13th, 1783, 77

Reasons for forming a treaty of commerce with the
Emperor of Germany.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 14th, 1783, 81

Jealousy of American ships and trade in France and
England.--Proclamation of the English court permitting
intercourse between America and the West Indies in
British vessels.--Fish, potash and pearlash not
admitted.--This measure is the result of French
policy--Remedies to be applied by America.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 14th, 1783, 85

Exclusive policy of the European powers in regard to
commerce.--Views of Austria and Russia towards the Black
Sea, the Danube, the Archipelago and Turkey.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 15th, 1783, 88

Mr Hartley offers no definitive
propositions.--"Observations on the American States."

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 16th, 1783, 89

Visit to the Count de Vergennes.--Conversation relative
to the West India commerce.--Means of retaliating the
British restrictions on the commerce with their
islands.--The Americans ought to send ships to
China.--Doubtful complexion of British politics.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 17th, 1783, 94

Conversation with Mr Hartley on the English trade and
policy in the East.--Importance of forming commercial
connexions with the Dutch.--Conversation with the Duc de
la Vauguyon relative to the French and English policy in
Eastern Europe; on the colonial commerce.--The British
restrictive policy will produce wars.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, July 18th, 1783, 99

The United States must counteract French and British
policy by forming connexions with other
nations.--Necessity of a common authority in America for
managing foreign affairs, regulating commerce, raising a
revenue, &c.--The friendship of the Dutch must be
secured.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, July 23d, 1783, 103

Sugar trade, and sugar refineries may be carried on by
Americans as well as by the Dutch.--Conversation with M.
Visscher and M. Van Berckel on the trade with the Dutch
Colonies.--M. Van Berckel's remarks on a loan in
Holland.--Conversation with the Prince of Orange on the
ranks of foreign Ministers.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, July 25th, 1783, 109

Intrigues of the English to restore their former
connexions with Holland.--The Dutch complain of having
been deceived by the French Ministers.--No progress in
the negotiations between England and Holland.

To Robert R. Livingston. Amsterdam, July 28th, 1783, 112

Sugar trade.--American loan in Holland.--Loans of the
other powers there.

To Robert Morris. Amsterdam, July 28th, 1783, 115

The loan in Holland.--Suggests the expediency of sending
out ships loaded by the States with their respective
staples.--Probability of obtaining a loan in England.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, July 30th, 1783, 117

Trade with the Dutch Colonies.--Account of the limits,
&c. of the Dutch West India Company received from the
secretary.--General commerce with the European West
India Colonies.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, July 31st, 1783, 122

Conversation with the Sardinian Minister, who advises
the sending of a circular by Congress to the European
powers, giving an account of the Declaration of
Independence, of the acknowledgment by other powers,
&c.; recommends commercial connexions with Italy;
remarks on the Austrian policy towards Turkey.--Efforts
to detach Holland from her connexion with France.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, August 1st, 1783, 127

Conversation with the Portuguese Minister on commercial
matters.--Dr Franklin's treaty with Portugal.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, August 2d, 1783, 131

Conversation with M. Berenger on the European politics
of the day.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, August 3d, 1783, 133

Necessity of securing reciprocity in the commercial
treaties.--Dissatisfaction in Holland with France.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, August 10th, 1783, 136

Interview with the Spanish and Portuguese Ministers on
commercial subjects.--Extraordinary increase of the
commerce of the neutrals.--No progress in the
negotiation.--Causes of the delay.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, August 13th, 1783, 140

Exchange ratifications of the provisional treaty with Mr
Hartley.--The project of a definitive treaty produced by
Mr Hartley in the words of the provisional treaty.--Mr
Hartley objects to the mediation of the Imperial Courts.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, August 13th, 1783, 143

Probable policy of France in regard to
Turkey.--Situation of the Count de Vergennes considered
precarious.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, August 13th, 1783, 145

Expresses his discontent with Dr Franklin's negotiating
treaties with several powers without communicating with
other Ministers.--Remarks on the treaty with Denmark.

To Robert R. Livingston. Paris, August 15th, 1783, 149

The belligerent powers except Holland are
agreed.--Remarks of M. Brantzen on the conduct, policy,
and situation of the Count de Vergennes.--The Queen and
some of the council are opposed to him.

To the President of Congress. Paris, September 5th, 1783, 152

The definitive treaty signed, sealed, and delivered.--A
new commission necessary for negotiating a treaty of
commerce.--The Count de Vergennes was not desirous of
admitting the mediation of the Imperial Courts.--Mr
Adams regrets not having admitted the mediation.--Policy
of forming commercial connexions with the European
powers.

To Elias Boudinot, President of Congress. Paris, September
8th, 1783, 156

Accepts the joint commission for negotiating a treaty of
commerce with England.--Advises that it be extended to
the other powers.

To the President of Congress. Paris, September 8th, 1783, 158

Management of the European Journals.--Courier de
l'Europe.

To the President of Congress. Paris, September 10th, 1783, 160

Advises the opening of negotiations with all the Courts
of Europe, and with the Barbary powers.

JOHN JAY'S CORRESPONDENCE.

To the President of Congress. St Pierre's, Martinique,
December 20th, 1779, 171

Action at sea between the French and English.

To the President of Congress. St Pierre's, Martinique,
December 22d, 1779, 172

Repairs of the ship.

To the President of Congress. St Pierre's, Martinique,
December 24th, 1779, 174

An account of the condition of the ship, and the causes
of his favoring the steering for Martinique.

To the President of Congress. St Pierre's, Martinique,
December 25th, 1779, 190

Recommends Mrs Smith to the attention of Congress.

To the President of Congress. St Pierre's, Martinique,
December 25th, 1779, 191

Draws on the fund for the payment of his salary for a
hundred guineas, to be distributed among the officers of
the Confederacy.

To the President of Congress. St Pierre's, Martinique,
December 26th, 1779, 192

M. Gerard proposes to send home the Confederacy to
refit.--She is permitted to refit in Martinique, and a
French frigate is ordered to carry Mr Jay and M. Gerard
to France.--Mr Bingham's services.

To Arthur Lee. Cadiz, January 26th, 1780, 194

Requests of Mr Lee information.

To the Count de Vergennes. Cadiz, January 27th, 1780, 195

Recapitulation of former proceedings relative to
Spain.--Requests the interposition of the King in favor
of America.

To Don Joseph Galvez, Minister of the Spanish Court. January
27th, 1780, 199

Stipulation in the treaty between France and the United
States providing for the accession of Spain.--Mr Jay
appointed to carry it into effect.

To the President of Congress. Cadiz, January 27th, 1780, 202

Reasons for his landing in Cadiz.

Instructions to William Carmichael. Cadiz, January 27th,
1780, 203

Directions as to his conduct towards M. Galvez, the
Spanish Minister, and the French Ambassador, for
procuring information.

William Carmichael to John Jay. Madrid, February 15th, 1780, 207

Cordial reception by the French Ambassador.--Should have
been addressed to the Count de Florida Blanca.--Prospect
of reception by the Spanish Ministry.--M. Miralles has
been instructed to assist in the conquest of
Florida.--There is no coldness between the French and
Spanish Courts.

To the President of Congress. Cadiz, February 20th, 1780, 209

Mr Bingham advanced the hundred guineas distributed
among the officers of the Confederacy.

Count de Florida Blanca to John Jay. Pardo, February 24th,
1780, 210

Expresses his Majesty's satisfaction with Mr Jay's
arrival, and declares there is no obstacle to his coming
to Court in an informal character.

To William Carmichael. Cadiz, February 25th, 1780, 211

Was informed by M. Gerard that M. Galvez was the
Minister with whom all business with the United States
was to be transacted.--Wished to have discovered the
sentiments of Spain towards America, independently of
French influence.--Requests further information as to
the instructions to M. Miralles.

To the President of Congress. Cadiz, February 29th, 1780, 215

Transmitting papers.--Generally believed that the
American islands will be the theatre of the next
campaign.

To the President of Congress. Cadiz, March 3d, 1780, 216

M. Guatier of Barcelona desires to be American consul
there.--Necessity for consuls in Spain.

To the President of Congress. Cadiz, March 3d, 1780, 217

Reason for not making personal application to the
Ministry at first.--Policy of France.--M. Gerard's
opinion.--Spain is already at war with England.

De Neufville & Son to John Jay. Amsterdam, April 6th, 1780, 219

Congratulations on his arrival.

Answer to De Neufville & Son. Madrid, April 27th, 1780, 219

Their letters to Congress were received before his
departure.--The success of America important to Holland.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, May 26th, 1780, 220

Arrival at Cadiz.--Draws on Dr Franklin.--Extract of a
letter from Dr Franklin (April 7th, 1780), contradicting
the report that the Loan Office bills payable in France
were not honored.--Certificate of Mr Grand to the same
effect.--Correspondence with Mr Lee.--Letter of the
Count de Vergennes in reply to that of Mr Jay announcing
his arrival.--Reply of Mr Jay (Aranjues, May 9th, 1780),
to the Count de Vergennes assuring him of his confidence
in M. de Montmorin.--M. Gerard informs him that he
should address himself to M. Galvez.--Writes to that
Minister.--Answered by the Count de Florida
Blanca.--Letter of Mr Jay (Cadiz, March 6th, 1780), to
the Count, expressing the confidence of the United
States in the King's favorable disposition, and
declaring his intention of setting out for
Madrid.--Arrives at Madrid.--Questions from the Count de
Florida Blanca (dated March 9th, 1780), requesting
information on the civil and military state of the
American Provinces.--Reply of Mr Jay (Madrid, April
25th, 1780), to the preceding questions, comprising his
commission and that of Mr Carmichael, with details in
reply to the questions; the democratic nature of the
American governments renders a knowledge of their
affairs easily attainable. 1. THE CIVIL STATE;
population of each State; government of each State and
the Articles of the Confederation; disposition of the
people, who were at first only desirous of a redress of
grievances; but now determined on independence, with the
grounds of this opinion; there is no British party in
America; revenues; public debts; resources; possibility
of supporting their credit in the operations of
Government, in commerce, in the protection of the
national industry; advantages to result to Spain from
the independence of American States, in the reduction of
the British power, and in the commerce with America;
ability of the United States to furnish naval stores.
2. THE MILITARY STATE; number of the troops; the
commander in chief; means of recruiting by the militia;
deficiency of arms, of clothing; means of subsistence;
naval forces; the people will not submit; their
disposition towards the Kings of France and of Spain;
financial embarrassments; sending supplies to America
would be the surest means of humiliating Great
Britain.--Receives the resolutions of Congress drawing
on Mr Laurens and himself for L100,000 sterling
each.--Letter of Mr Jay (Aranjues, April 29th, 1780), to
the Count de Florida Blanca in consequence of the
foregoing resolution, giving an account of the financial
operations of Congress, and requesting aid from his
Majesty.--Conference with the Count on the subject of
the preceding letter; the Count states that Spain has
been subject to heavy expenses during the preceding
year, but that his Majesty intends to give America all
assistance in his power, and has directed him to confer
with his colleagues in the Ministry on this point;
wishes Mr Jay to contract to furnish Spain with frigates
and light vessels; promises to engage in the King's name
to pay the bills of exchange if presented; the
pretensions of America to the navigation of the
Mississippi an obstacle to a treaty.--Letter of Mr Jay
(Aranjues, May 12th, 1780), to the Count de Florida
Blanca stating his confidential connexion with the
French Ambassador, and wishing to know if he may
communicate to him the subject of the conference.--Reply
of the Count de Florida Blanca (Aranjues, May 14th,
1780).--Mr Jay's note to the French Ambassador informing
him of Sir J. Dalrymple's arrival at Madrid.--Note of M.
de Montmorin in reply, declaring his entire confidence
in the Spanish Ministry.--Extract of a letter from Mr
Jay (April 26th 1780), to Mr Adams informing him of Sir
J. Dalrymple's arrival at Aranjues.--Sir J. Dalrymple
requests permission to go through Spain, and a passport
through France.--Sir J. Dalrymple presents to the Count
de Florida Blanca Lord Rochford's project to prevent the
war by a confederation between France, Spain, Portugal
and England; the confederates to guaranty mutually their
Colonial possessions; to participate in the commerce of
the English Colonies under certain limitations, to be
settled by five persons, one from each country; to
settle the contested privileges of the Americans on just
principles; disadvantages resulting to Spain from the
independence of the English American Colonies, first by
promoting a contraband trade between the American States
and the Spanish Colonies, and secondly by exposing the
Spanish Colonies to the attacks of the Americans, who
will soon form establishments in the South Seas; all
Europe is interested in preventing the independence of
America.--The Gardoquis; Mr Jay is destitute of
resources; difficulty of conveying intelligence;
expenses of a Minister at the Spanish Court; coldly
treated by the Ministers of the Northern powers;
ignorance of American affairs in Spain; the secrets of
Congress well known to the Spanish and French Courts.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, May 27th, 1780, 282

Mr Laurens is not arrived.

To James Lovell. Madrid, May 27th, 1780, 283

Want of intelligence from America.

William Carmichael to John Jay. Aranjues, May 27th, 1780, 283

Destination of the Spanish fleet.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, May 28th, 1780, 284

Enclosing the preceding, the information in which he
considers authentic.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, May 30th, 1780, 285

Receives the resolution of Congress, desiring the
Ex-Presidents of Congress to lodge their public
correspondence in the Secretary's office.--Mr Jay did
this at the time of his retirement from the office.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, May 30th, 1780, 285

Bills drawn upon him are arrived.

De Neufville & Son to John Jay. Without date, 286

Bills drawn on Mr Laurens, who is not arrived.--Have
promised the holders to accept them.

De Neufville & Son to John Jay. Amsterdam, June 1st, 1780, 287

Are willing to accept the bills drawn on Mr Laurens,
provided they are permitted to draw on Dr Franklin at
seven or eight months.

De Neufville & Son to John Jay. Amsterdam, June 8th, 1780, 288

Have accepted the bills on Mr Laurens, and request that
some method of reimbursing them may be adopted.

Committee of Foreign Affairs to John Jay. Philadelphia, June
16th, 1780, 288

Reasons for drawing on him.--Have drawn for an
additional sum.

To De Neufville & Son, at Amsterdam. Madrid, June 18th, 1780, 290

Thanking them for their offer to accept the bills drawn
on Mr Laurens.

To De Neufville & Son. Madrid, June 25th, 1780, 291

Is uncertain whether he shall be able to reimburse them
for their advances.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, July 10th, 1780, 292

Remittances from America are necessary.

De Neufville & Son to John Jay. Amsterdam, July 13th, 1780, 293

Cannot accept any more bills.--Would undertake a loan if
authorised.

De Neufville & Son to John Jay. Amsterdam, July 28th, 1780, 295

Dr Franklin has offered to accept further bills drawn on
Mr Laurens; they will therefore continue to accept those
presented.

To De Neufville & Son. Madrid, July 29th, 1780, 296

Has not power to authorise them to raise a loan.--The
capture of Charleston will have no effect on the
determination of the Americans.

To De Neufville & Son. Madrid, August 16th, 1780, 298

Expresses his sense of their friendly conduct towards
America.

To Silas Deane. St Ildefonso, September 8th, 1780, 299

Desires to correspond with him.

To the President of Congress. St Ildefonso, September 16th,
1780, 299

It is necessary to cease drawing bills on him.--The King
of Spain has offered his responsibility to facilitate a
loan.

Instructions to John Jay. In Congress, October 4th. 1780, 300

Directing him to insist on the navigation of the
Mississippi.--The boundary.--Florida.

To De Neufville & Son. Madrid, October 4th, 1780, 302

Connexion between Holland and the United States.--Shall
recommend their house to Congress.--Spanish ordinance
establishing a paper currency.--Effect of this measure
on the bills drawn on him; wishes to know if money could
be raised in Holland for Congress on the joint credit of
Spain and the United States.

To James Lovell. Madrid, October 27th, 1780, 304

Difficulties of finding a safe conveyance for his
letters.--Receives little information from the
committee.--M. Dohrmer.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, November 6th, 1780, 306

The Abbe Hussey arrives at Madrid with Mr
Cumberland.--Notes of Mr Jay's conference with the Count
de Florida Blanca.--Conference of Mr Carmichael with the
Minister.--Note from the Count de Florida Blanca
(Aranjues, June 9, 1780); to Mr Jay on the subject of
aids; his Majesty is willing to become responsible at the
expiration of two years to the holders of the bills drawn
on Mr Jay, provided Congress will build four frigates and
some light vessels for the King; the Americans may send
for stores to the Spanish ports for this purpose; the
squadron manned by Americans and under Spanish colors to
intercept the English East India vessels.--Reply of Mr
Jay (Aranjues, June 9th, 1780); expectations of the
Americans from Spain; the holders of the bills will
prefer recovering the amount on protest, to waiting for
the payment two years; the Spanish treasure from America
may arrive before the bills become payable; Mr Jay is
authorised to pledge the faith of the United States for
the repayment of any sums his Majesty may lend; former
aids; Congress has not the resources necessary for
building ships; difficulty of manning them with American
sailors, who prefer sailing in privateers; the country is
not in a condition to undertake foreign enterprises; the
Americans will always be ready to cooperate with Spain
against the Floridas or elsewhere; unfavorable
conclusions will be drawn as to the condition of Spain,
if she cannot supply such aid to men in arms against her
enemy.--Mr Jay's reasons for not touching on other points
of the proposition.--Note from Mr Jay to the Count,
informing him of a new draft.--Reply of the Count,
promising to pay the bill, and declaring that no more can
be paid without consulting the King; the proposition of
the Count having been rejected, it becomes necessary for
Mr Jay to devise other means.--Reply of Mr Jay to the
preceding (Madrid, June 22d, 1780), proposing as a means
of paying the bills the advance of the L25,000 to L40,000
sterling promised; the sum necessary for building the
ships cannot be raised by Congress; America cannot pay
the debts occasioned by the war till peace; advantages
resulting to Spain by the furnishing of aid to
America.--Reasons for not pushing the treaty at this
time.--Letter from Mr Jay to the Count de Florida Blanca
(Madrid, June 28th, 1780), transmitting the resolutions
of Congress, directing that bills be issued redeemable in
specie in six years; this plan may enable the United
States to supply the vessels, his Majesty becoming
responsible for a certain part of the sum so
issued.--Note from Mr Jay to the Count de Florida Blanca,
stating that he has been called on to accept new
bills.--Reply of the Count de Florida Blanca, declaring
nothing can be done in regard to the new drafts without
consulting the King and the other Ministers; requests
further explanations of Mr Jay's plan for furnishing the
ships and engaging the responsibility of the King.--Note
from the Count de Florida Blanca to Mr Jay, requesting to
know when the bills lately arrived will become due.--News
of the capture of Charleston.--Mr Jay's notes of a
conference with the Count de Florida Blanca, July 5th;
capture of Charleston; death of M. Miralles; the Count
advises Mr Jay to be cautious of Messrs Joyce, who hold
the bills; regrets the precipitancy of Congress in
drawing; specie might have been remitted from the Spanish
Colonies directly to the United States; remarks on the
deranged state of the finances of the United States; the
difficulty of raising money in Europe; wishes to wait the
arrival of a certain person; Mr Jay observes, that
Congress have adopted measures for restoring the
finances; suggests that Spain might furnish aid by bills
on Havana; states in reply to a question of the Count,
that ship timber may be furnished from America; urges the
importance of accepting the bills; reminds the Minister
of the promise of clothing; evasive and uncertain nature
of this conference.--Note from Mr Jay to the Count de
Florida Blanca (Madrid, July 11th, 1780), informing him
that new bills have been presented; the Messrs Joyce
consent to have their bills payable at Bilboa.--Answer of
the Count to the preceding, desiring a delay till the
arrival of a certain person.--Mr Jay requests that Mr
Harrison be allowed to remain at Cadiz.--Note from the
Count de Florida Blanca (July 29th), granting Mr Harrison
permission to remain at Cadiz; still waits the arrival of
the person above mentioned.--Note from Mr Jay to the
Count de Florida Blanca (August 11th), announcing the
presentation of more bills.--Reply of the Count de
Florida Blanca, regretting that he must still wait the
arrival of a certain person.--Letter of Mr Jay (Madrid,
August 16th, 1780), to the Count de Florida Blanca,
stating that the holders of the bills grow
impatient.--Letter of Mr Jay to the Count de Florida
Blanca (Madrid, August 18th, 1780), informing him that
bills have been received by the Gardoquis, which will be
immediately presented.--Letter from Mr Jay to the Count
de Florida Blanca (St Ildefonso, August 25th, 1780),
urging the necessity of providing for the acceptance of
the bills.--Mr Jay's notes of a conference with the
French Ambassador, August 27th; Mr Jay gives an account
of his proceedings since his arrival, and requests the
Ambassador to obtain an answer for him from the Spanish
Minister; Mr Jay was encouraged to expect that he should
be supplied with money to meet the bills; the Ambassador
thinks that the Spanish Minister will pay the bills, and
promises to speak to him on the subject.--Subsequent
coolness of the French Ambassador.--Second visit to him;
he advises Mr Jay to write again to the Count de Florida
Blanca, praying an audience; Mr Jay declines making any
supplications, or purchasing by concessions the
acknowledgment of independence; declares his
determination to write on the subject of the treaty, and
if treated with the same neglect to return; conduct of
France.--Mr Jay consents to send Mr Carmichael to the
Minister.--Note from the Count de Florida Blanca
introducing M. Gardoqui.--Conversation with M. Gardoqui
on the subject of the bills; second conversation with M.
Gardoqui, who proposes the surrender of the navigation of
the Mississippi.--Objections to this
measure.--Conversation with M. Del Campo on the same
subjects.--Conversation with the Secretary of the French
Ambassador.--M. Gardoqui informs him from the Count de
Florida Blanca that no more bills can be paid by
Spain.--Letter of Mr Jay (St Ildefonso, September 14th,
1780), to the Count de Florida Blanca, requesting to know
if any aid is to be expected from Spain.--Answer to the
preceding, dictated by M. Del Campo, in the name of the
Count de Florida Blanca, to M. Gardoqui, declaring the
readiness of his Majesty to assist the States.--Letter
from Mr Jay to Count de Vergennes (St Ildefonso,
September 22d, 1780), giving an account of his
proceedings in Spain; requesting the aid of France in
meeting the bills.--Letter of Mr Jay to Dr Franklin (same
date), on the same subject.--Notes of a conference
between Mr Jay and the Count de Florida Blanca (September
23d); satisfaction of the King with the measures of
Congress for supplying the Spanish forces in the West
Indies; plan of the English Court to attempt an
accommodation with America; Mr Jay enters upon the points
mentioned in the paper dictated to M. Gardoqui; on the
manner of making known the King's responsibility; on the
King's being disgusted with the drawing of bills without
his consent, and without terms of recompense; the bills
were drawn on Mr Jay, and the faith of the United States
was pledged for the payment of any sum advanced; Mr Jay
wishes the evidence of an understanding between America
and England; Congress had given proofs of friendship by
sending a Minister to negotiate treaties of amity and
alliance; the delaying of the negotiations owing to the
Minister not sending the promised notes on the subject;
terms of such a treaty; Spain ought not to expect the
expenses of the war will be refunded; America will be
ready to render every assistance possible.--Mr Jay
returns to Madrid and accepts the bills.--Equivocal
nature of the Spanish policy.--Extract of a letter from
the Count de Vergennes to the French Ambassador, stating
that it will be difficult to make advances to Mr
Jay.--Letter from Messrs Couteulx and Co. to Mr Jay
(Cadiz, October 3d, 1780), complaining of the expenses
and difficulty of supplying and sending home American
seamen.--Mr Jay to Messrs Couteulx and Co. (Madrid,
October 15th, 1780), directing them to settle accounts
with Mr Harrison.--Difficulties in the conveyance of
correspondence.--A copy of the correspondence of the
Commissioners in France in the hands of a certain
foreigner.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, November 30th, 1780, 389

Enclosing copies of papers from Morocco.--Delays of the
Spanish Court.--Remarks on the enclosed account of the
revenues and expenditures of Spain for 1778.

From D'Audibert Caille to John Jay. Aranjues, April 21st,
1780, 392

Is authorised to declare the pacific intentions of the
Emperor of Morocco towards the United States.

To D'Audibert Caille, 393

Expresses his satisfaction with the disposition of the
Emperor of Morocco.

Copy of M. D'Audibert Caille's Appointment, 394

Copy of M. D'Audibert Caille's appointment to officiate
as consul of all nations who have no consul in Morocco.

Copy of the Declaration by the Emperor of Morocco, February
20th 1778, 396

Certificate of Pedro Umbert, that the above is
conformable to the truth.

Certificate of M. D'Audibert Caille. December 1st, 1779, 397

Certificate of M. D'Audibert Caille that Don Pedro
Umbert is employed for foreign affairs at the Court of
Morocco.

D'Audibert Caille to Congress. Sale, September 6th, 1779, 397

The Emperor of Morocco intends to be at peace with the
United States.

General State of the Revenues of Spain in the Year 1778, 399

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, November 30th,
1780, 401

Necessity of providing means for the safe conveyance of
the public correspondence.--His letters are opened and
many kept back both in Spain and the United States.

Instructions to John Jay. In Congress, February 15th, 1781, 403

Instructing him to recede from the demand of a free
navigation of the Mississippi below 31 deg..

James Lovell to John Jay. February 20th, 1781, 404

Has received no letters from him of late.

James Lovell to John Jay. March 9th, 1781, 405

Ratification of the articles of the Confederacy.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, March 22d, 1781, 405

Supplies from Spain.--Russian mediation.--M. Necker's
report.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, April 25th, 1781, 406

Spain insists on the exclusive navigation of the
Mississippi.--Letter from Mr Jay to De Neufville and Son
(Madrid, January 8th, 1781), renouncing the idea of a
loan in Holland separate from that negotiated by Mr
Adams.--Mr Jay's proceedings in regard to the payment of
the bills.--Advises that the unfinished ships be sold to
Spain.--Disposition of Portugal.--Dr Franklin.--Mr
Cumberland's mission.--Disposition of Spain.

The President of Congress to John Jay. In Congress, May 28th,
1781, 415

Expressing the satisfaction of Congress with his
conduct.--Instructs him to disavow any understanding
between the United States and Great Britain; to avoid
referring to the treaty with France in his negotiations
with Spain; to declare that facilities will be granted
for the exportation of naval stores for the Spanish
marine; to continue to provide as far as possible for
American seamen in Spain; to open a correspondence with
M. D'Audibert Caille.

To the President of Congress. Aranjues, May 29th, 1781, 419

Conversation with the Count de Florida Blanca on the
admission of letters.

James Lovell to John Jay. Philadelphia, June 4th, 1781, 420

The affair of the Dover cutter.

James Lovell to John Jay. Philadelphia, June 15th, 1781, 421

Case of Dumain and Lyon.

Robert Morris to John Jay. Philadelphia, July 4th, 1781, 421

Mr Morris is appointed Superintendent of
Finance.--Objects to be accomplished by this
office.--Expectations of aid from Spain.--State of the
finances.--Disposition of the nation.--State of the
army.--Advantages that will result to Spain by aiding
America.--The United States cannot be dangerous to
Spain.--Amount desired.

Robert Morris to John Jay. Philadelphia, July 7th, 1781, 435

Necessity of immediate aids.

Robert Morris to John Jay. Office of Finance, July 9th, 1781, 436

Proposes a plan for sending home American seaman.

Robert Morris to John Jay. Philadelphia, July 13th, 1781, 438

Reasons which induced him to adopt the enclosed plan of
a national bank.--Wants aid from Spain.--Suggests that
an attempt should be made to obtain money from Portugal.

Robert Morris to John Jay. Office of Finance, August 15th,
1781, 449

Directing to protest certain bills, assigning as a
reason his instructions.

James Lovell to John Jay. Philadelphia, August 15th, 1781, 450

Surrender of Pensacola.

To the President of Congress. St Ildefonso, September 20th,
1781, 451

Regrets that instructions should have been given the
American Ministers to concur in any terms to which
France should accede.

To the President of Congress. St Ildefonso, October 3d, 1781, 454

Conversation with the Count de Florida Blanca, who
complains that Congress has not shown any disposition to
oblige the King; remarks relative to M. Gardoqui.--Mr
Jay regrets that the instructions concerning the
Mississippi had not been kept secret; use that might
have been made of the claim.--Has another interview with
the Minister; stoppage of the letters from America; the
affair of the Dover cutter; cession of the claims of the
United States to the navigation of the Mississippi; the
Count remarks that these affairs can be settled at a
general peace.--Letter from Mr Jay (Madrid, July 2d,
1781), to the Count de Florida Blanca, declaring that he
has been instructed to cede the exclusive navigation of
the Mississippi.--Letter from Mr Jay (Madrid, July 2d,
1781), to the Count de Montmorin, communicating the
above.--Receiving no answer from the Minister, Mr Jay
calls upon him, and is informed that he cannot attend to
the matter.--Letters from Mr Jay (Madrid, July 13th,
1781), to the Count de Florida Blanca communicating his
instructions.--Note from the Count de Florida Blanca (St
Ildefonso, July 1st, 1781), to Mr Jay proposing to
attend to American affairs.--Mr Jay visits the Minister
with Major Franks; general conversation.--Renewed
delays.--Letter from Mr Jay (St. Ildefonso, September
16th, 1781), to the Count de Montmorin, enclosing the
draft of a letter to the Count de Florida Blanca, and
requesting the advice of the Ambassador.--Note from the
Count de Florida Blanca to Mr Jay requesting him to call
upon him.--Notes of the conference between Mr Jay and
the Count de Florida Blanca (September 19th, 1781); the
Count requests Mr Jay to draw up an outline of the
proposed treaties; aids; commercial connexion; treaty of
alliance; the Count observes that Congress has done
nothing to gratify the King; a person will be appointed
to confer further with Mr Jay.--Letter from Mr Jay (St
Ildefonso, September 22d, 1781), to the Count de Florida
Blanca requesting that some decisive measure be taken in
regard to American affairs.--Propositions toward a plan
of a treaty, with remarks; the subject of aids will
require a separate convention; also the regulation of
the mutual conduct of the parties during the war.--Mr
Jay's reason for limiting the duration of the offer
contained in the sixth proposition, relating to the
navigation of the Mississippi; arts of Spain.--Note from
the Count de Florida Blanca to Mr Jay, expressing a hope
that some progress will soon be made in the
consideration of the propositions.--Embarrassments in
providing for the payment of the bills.--Mr Harrison's
services.--Proposes the sending of an agent to Portugal.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, October 18th, 1781, 506

Has protested some of the bills.

Robert R. Livingston to John Jay. Philadelphia, November 1st,
1781, 507

Organization of the new executive departments.--The debt
of the United States not so large as might have been
expected.--British American recruits.--Proposes that
Spain should furnish a convoy between Havana and the
United States.--Plan for paying the French troops in
specie from Havana.

Robert R. Livingston to John Jay. Philadelphia, November
28th, 1781, 511

State of military affairs.--The Marquis de la Fayette.

THE

CORRESPONDENCE

OF

JOHN ADAMS,

ONE OF THE COMMISSIONERS TO FRANCE, MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY TO HOLLAND, AND ONE OF THE COMMISSIONERS FOR NEGOTIATING THE TREATY OF PEACE.

THE

CORRESPONDENCE

OF

JOHN ADAMS.

CORRESPONDENCE CONTINUED.

* * * * *

TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

Paris, December 14th, 1782.

Sir,

There is more matter than time to write at present. The King of Sweden has done the United States great honor in his commission to his Minister here, to treat with them, by inserting, that he had a great desire to form a connexion with States, which had so fully established their independence, and by their wise and gallant conduct so well deserved it; and his Minister desired it might be remembered, that his sovereign was the first who had voluntarily proposed a treaty with us.[1]

Mr Secretary Townshend announced, on the 3d of December, in a letter to the Lord Mayor, the signature of our preliminaries. On the 5th, his Majesty announced it in his speech to both Houses. Addresses of thanks, in both Houses, passed without a division.

There is a note in the _Courier de l'Europe_, of the 6th instant, worth transcribing, viz. "We mark these three lines in italics, to notice at present the assertion, which we shall consider more fully hereafter, that we do not owe to any of the causes assigned at present, even in the two Houses of Parliament, the peace, the blessings of which we consider as certain, but to the armed neutrality. This peace will be durable."

I have transcribed this note, because it falls in with an opinion, that I have long entertained. The armed neutrality, and even Mr Dana's mission to it, have had greater effects, than the world is yet informed of, and would have had much greater, if his hands had not been tied.

On the 4th instant, I wrote a resignation of all my employments in Europe, which I have now the honor to confirm, and to request, that the acceptance of it may be transmitted to me several ways, by the first ships.

I have the honor to be, &c.

JOHN ADAMS.

FOOTNOTE:

[1] See Dr Franklin's letter on this subject, dated June the 25th, 1782. _Franklin's Correspondence_, Vol. III. p. 371.

* * * * *

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO JOHN ADAMS.

Philadelphia, December 19th, 1782.

Sir,

The enclosed letter for Mr Dana you will open and peruse. It may possibly contain information, that may be useful to you, which it will be unnecessary to repeat here.

I mentioned in my last, Mr Jefferson's appointment; I have the pleasure of adding now, that I have received an account from him of his acceptance of the place. He will be here in the course of ten or twelve days, and sail with Count de Rochambeau, who proposes to return to France. The French troops have embarked with the Marquis de Vaudreuil, and are to sail for the West Indies, unless they should receive counter orders, by a frigate, which is now in the river. Her letters are not yet come up, as she unfortunately ran ashore at Dover; it is yet uncertain whether she will be saved.

The great political question, which at present engages the attention of Congress, is the means of providing for the payment of the public debts, or at least establishing such funds for the regular discharge of the interest, as may set their creditors at ease as to their capitals. It was imagined, that a duty of five per cent upon all imposts would afford a fund adequate to this. Congress accordingly recommended it to the several States to impose the duty. They have all complied, except Rhode Island. Her refusal renders the other laws nugatory, as they contain clauses suspending their operation until the measure is generally adopted. Congress are about to send down a committee to endeavor to persuade Rhode Island to comply with a measure, that they deem so essential to public credit. It is extremely difficult in a country, so little used to taxes as ours is, to lay them directly, and almost impossible to impose them so equally as not to render them too oppressive on some members of the community, while others contribute little or nothing. This difficulty is increased by the continued change of property in this country, and by the small proportion the income bears to the value of lands.

By a short letter just received from Mr Jay, it appears, that England has at length swallowed the bitter pill, and agreed to treat with the "Thirteen United States of America." I am still at a loss to account for this commission's being directed to Mr Oswald, while Mr Fitzherbert's continues in force; or is that revoked?[2] I will not trouble myself with guesses, as I must receive despatches today, that will explain the mystery, if either Dr Franklin or Mr Jay have kept their words with me.

I have the honor to be, &c.

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

FOOTNOTE:

[2] The two commissions were for distinct purposes; Mr Oswald's to treat with the American Commissioners alone; and Mr Fitzherbert's to treat for a general peace with the European powers, then at war with England.

* * * * *

TO CHARLES W.F. DUMAS.

Paris, January 1st, 1783.

Dear Sir,

Returning this evening from Versailles, where I had been to make the compliments of the season, I found your favors of the 26th and 27th of December. The letters enclosed shall be forwarded, as you desire.

The Dutch Ministers here have no occasion for my assistance. _Non tali auxilio._ I have the honor to be more particularly acquainted with M. Brantzen, who is certainly a very able man, and universally acknowledged to be so by all who know him. The arguments, which I know he has used with the British Minister, are such as can never be answered, both upon the liberty of navigation, and the compensation for damages. He is an entire master of his subject, and has urged it with a degree of perspicuity and eloquence, that I know has much struck his antagonists.

Unnecessary, however, as any exertions of mine have been, I have not omitted any opportunity of throwing in any friendly suggestions in my power, where there was a possibility of doing any good to our good friends, the Dutch. I have made such suggestions to Mr Fitzherbert. But with Mr Oswald, I have had several very serious conversations upon the subject. So I have also with Mr Vaughan and Mr Whiteford.

To Mr Oswald I urged the necessity of Great Britain's agreeing with the Dutch upon the unlimited freedom of navigation, from a variety of topics, some of which I may explain to you more particularly hereafter. Thus much I may say at present, that I told him, that it was impossible for Great Britain to avoid it; it would probably be insisted upon by all the other powers. France and Spain, as well as Russia, Sweden, Denmark, Prussia, the Emperor, and Portugal, as well as Holland, had already signed the armed neutrality. The United States of America had declared themselves ready to sign, and were ready. The combination being thus powerful, Great Britain could not resist it. But if she should refuse to agree to it with Holland, and the other powers should acquiesce, and Holland should make peace without it (which would never, however, be the case,) yet all would be ineffectual, for Holland would forever be able to make use of other neutral bottoms, and would thus enjoy the benefit of this liberty and reality, though denied it by treaty, and in appearance. It would, therefore, be more for the honor and interest of Great Britain to agree to it with a good grace, in the treaty with Holland. Nay, the wisest part she could act would be to set on foot a negotiation immediately for signing herself the Treaty of Armed Neutrality, and then admitting it into the treaty with Holland would be a thing of course. At one of these conversations Dr Franklin was present, who supported me with all his weight; at another, Mr Jay seconded me with all his abilities and ingenuity. Mr Oswald has several times assured me, that he had written these arguments and his own opinion, in conformity with them, to the King's Ministers in London, and I doubt not they will be adopted.

With respect to the compensation for damages, it is impossible to add anything to the arrangements M. Brantzen has urged to show the justice of it, and if Britain is really wise, she will think it her policy to do everything in her power to soften the resentment of the Dutch, and regain their good will and good humor.

The rage of Great Britain, however, has carried her to such extravagant lengths, in a cause unjust from beginning to end, that she is scarcely able to repair the injuries she has done. America has a just claim to compensation for all her burnt towns and plundered property, and indeed for all her slaughtered sons, if that were possible. I shall continue to embrace every opportunity that presents, of doing all the little service in my power to our good friends the Dutch, whose friendship for us I shall not soon forget. This must be communicated with great discretion, if at all.

My best respects to all.

JOHN ADAMS.

* * * * *

TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

Paris, January 22d, 1783.

Sir,

Upon a sudden notification from the Count de Vergennes, Dr Franklin and myself, in the absence of Mr Jay and Mr Laurens, went to Versailles, and arrived at the Count's office at ten o'clock on Monday, the 20th of this month. At eleven, arrived the Count d'Aranda and Mr Fitzherbert. The Ministers of the three Crowns, signed and sealed the preliminaries of peace and an armistice, in presence of Doctor Franklin and myself, who also signed and sealed a declaration of an armistice between the Crown of Great Britain and the United States of America, and received a counter declaration from Mr Fitzherbert. Copies of these declarations are enclosed.[3]

The King of Great Britain has made a declaration concerning the terms, that he will allow to the Dutch; but they are not such as will give satisfaction to that unfortunate nation, for whom, on account of their friendship for us, and the important benefits we have received from it, I feel very sensibly and sincerely. Yesterday we went to Versailles again to make our court to the King and royal family upon the occasion, and received the compliments of the Foreign Ministers.

The Count d'Aranda invited me to dine with him on Sunday next, and said he hoped that the affairs of Spain and the United States would be soon adjusted _a l'aimable_. I answered, that I wished it with all my heart. The two Floridas and Minorca are more than a _quantum meruit_ for what this Power has done, and the Dutch unfortunately are to suffer for it. It is not in my power to say when the definitive treaty will be signed. I hope not before the Dutch are ready, in six weeks or two months at farthest I suppose.

It is no longer necessary for Congress to appoint another person in my place in the commission for peace, because it will be executed before this reaches America. But I beg leave to renew the resignation of the credence to the States-General, and the commission for borrowing money in Holland, and to request, that no time may be lost in transmitting the acceptance of this resignation, and another person to take that station, that I may be able to go home in the spring ships.

I have the honor to be, &c.

JOHN ADAMS.

FOOTNOTE:

[3] Contained in the Correspondence of the Ministers for negotiating peace.

* * * * *

TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

Paris, January 23d, 1783.

Sir,

The letters you did me the honor to write on the 6th, and 18th of November, came safe to hand.

You do me honor, Sir, in applauding the judgment I have formed from time to time of the Court of Britain, and future ages will give me credit for the judgment I have formed of some other Courts. The true designs of a Minister of State are not difficult to be penetrated by an honest man of common sense, who is in a situation to know anything of the secret of affairs, and to observe constantly the chain of public events; for whatever ostensible appearances may be put on, whatever obliquities may be imagined, however the web may be woven, or the thread doubled and twisted, enough will be seen to unravel the whole.

My opinions, as you observe, sometimes run counter to those generally received; but the reason of this has generally been, that I have had earlier evidence than the generality, and I have had the satisfaction to find, that others have formed the same judgment, when they have had the same intelligence. I do not affect singularity, nor love to be in a minority, though truth and justice have sometimes obliged me to be so. You say, that nothing can be more conformable to your wishes than the instructions I transmitted. I am not surprised at this; it is very natural. Had I never been on this side of the Atlantic, I believe I should have been of your mind in this particular. At present I cannot be, and I believe, by this time, the Dutch regret having given them. You will hear enough of the reason of it. I have lived long enough, and had experience enough of the conduct of governments, and people, nations, and courts, to be convinced, that gratitude, friendship, unsuspecting confidence, and all the most amiable passions in human nature, are the most dangerous guides in politics. I assure you, Sir, if we had not been more cautious than the Dutch, we should have been worse off than they, and our country would have suffered much more.