Chapter I: Front Matter (1)

THE

DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE

OF THE

AMERICAN REVOLUTION.

VOL. IX.

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. IX.

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

NINTH VOLUME.

WILLIAM CARMICHAEL'S CORRESPONDENCE.

Page.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence. Amsterdam,
November 2d, 1776, 5

Sent by Mr Deane on a mission to Berlin.--Disposition of
the Dutch.--Financial credit of the different
powers.--Credit of the United States.--Plan for
attacking the English coasts.--The conduct of Congress
in relation to Portugal has made a favorable
impression.--Offers of a House in Amsterdam to discount
bills of Congress, drawn on certain conditions.

To William Bingham, at Martinique. Paris, June 25th to July
6th, 1777, 14

Reasons for opening a correspondence with him.--Causes
of the temporising policy of France.--The English loan
completed at home.--Dispute between Spain and
Portugal.--Warlike preparations of France and Spain.

To the President of Congress. Yorktown, June 17th, 1778, 19

Receives information of his appointment as Secretary to
the Commissioners.

To the President of Congress. Off Reedy Island, November
25th, 1779, 19

Acknowledges the reception of certain resolutions of
Congress.

To the President of Congress. Martinique, December 27th,
1779, 20

Naval operations of the English and French in the West
Indian Seas.

To John Jay. Madrid, February 18th, 1780, 21

Interview with the Count de Florida Blanca, who promises
to answer Mr Jay's letter.--Advises Mr Jay to prepare
for a journey to Madrid.--Mr Lee's correspondence.

To the President of Congress. Madrid, February 19th, 1780, 23

Favorable reception.--Kindness of the French Ambassador
and of M. Gerard.--English forces.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Aranjues, May 28th,
1780, 24

Difficulty of communication.--Dispositions of the
Spanish Court.--English policy in Spain.--Dispositions
of the other European powers.--Bills on Mr Jay.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, July 17th,
1780, 30

Mr Cumberland, English agent at Madrid.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. St Ildefonso, August
22d, 1780, 32

Finances of Spain.--Mr Cumberland.--Armed
neutrality.--Naval forces and operations of France and
Spain.--M. Gardoqui succeeds M. Miralles.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. St Ildefonso, September
9th, 1780, 38

Failure of the Spanish loan attributed to M.
Necker.--Scheme of the loan.--Unsettled policy of
Spain.--Armed neutrality.--The navigation of the
Mississippi the chief obstacle to the opening of
negotiations with Spain.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. St Ildefonso, September
25th, 1780, 43

Supplies from Spain.--Conference with the Count de
Florida Blanca.--The Count declares that Spain will
never relinquish the exclusive navigation of the
Mississippi.--Finances of the belligerent powers.--The
Count de Montmorin.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, October 15th,
1780, 47

The Spanish government finds it difficult to raise
money.--The armed neutrality and Holland.--Revolt in
Peru.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, November 28th,
1780, 50

Finances and financial operations of Spain.--Vigorous
preparations of England.--Spain aims at the exclusive
possession of the Gulf of Mexico.--The European powers
are jealous of the House of Bourbon.--Suggests the
expediency in securing the alliance of Spain by further
concessions.--Proceedings in Holland.--The Count de
Vergennes informs Mr Jay that France cannot pay the
bills drawn on him.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, December 19th,
1780, 56

Amount of bills drawn on Mr Jay.--Accession of Holland
to the armed neutrality.--Disposition of the
Emperor.--Mr Cumberland continues to reside at Madrid.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, January 4th,
1781, 58

England declares war against Holland.--Supplies promised
by Spain.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, January 29th,
1781, 59

Offer of mediation by the German Emperor and the Empress
of Russia.--Spanish policy in regard to America.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, February 22d,
1781, 62

Supplies.--Imperial offer of mediation.--Russia
unfavorably disposed towards England.--English
preparations.--French preparations.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, March 4th,
1781, 66

M. Gardoqui.--The correspondence of the American
Ministers is known to the European governments, by
opening the letters.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, March 11th,
1781, 68

Mr Cumberland intends to leave Spain.--Naval forces of
the belligerents.--Bad consequences of the mutiny of the
Pennsylvania line.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Aranjues, May 25th,
1781, 69

Secret armament preparing at Cadiz.--Difficulty of
communicating safely with America.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Aranjues, May 26th,
1781, 70

Naval operations.--Supplies granted by France.--Probable
destination of the force raising in the South of Spain.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Aranjues, June 2d,
1781, 72

Dismission of M. Necker disagreeable to the Court of
Spain.--M. Necker not favorable to the granting of
supplies to the United States.--His character.--Proposed
mediation by the Court of Vienna.

James Lovell to William Carmichael. Philadelphia, June 15th,
1781, 74

His communications have been valuable to Congress.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. St Ildefonso, August
16th, 1781, 75

Progress of the negotiations.--Loans raised by
Spain.--Bills on Mr Jay.--Apprehensions that the demands
of Spain may delay the general peace.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. St Ildefonso, September
28th, 1781, 78

The Court promises to appoint a person to treat.--M. Del
Campo.--Little prospect of a general negotiation.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, October 5th,
1781, 81

No progress has been made in the
negotiation.--Complaints against Commodore Gillon.--The
rebellion in Peru quelled.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Madrid, November 17th,
1781, 84

Arrest of an English agent.--No progress towards opening
a conference with Mr Jay.--Animosity of the Irish at the
Spanish Court against America.--Account of M.
Cabarrus.--Spanish expedition against their
Colonies.--French naval expeditions.--State of affairs
in Holland and France.

Robert R. Livingston to William Carmichael. Philadelphia,
December 20th, 1781, 91

Mr Carmichael's communications valuable to
Congress.--Commodore Gillon is not in a United States
ship.--Delays of Spain beget feelings of ill-will in
America.--Evacuation of Wilmington.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, December 20th, 1781, 94

Motives of his correspondence.--Delays of
Spain.--General satisfaction in Spain at the capture of
Lord Cornwallis.--Imperial and Swedish Ambassador desire
to favor the trade with America.--Advances by M.
Cabarrus.--State of the sieges of Gibraltar and
Mahon.--M. Cabarrus's plan of a new bank.--Spain
endeavors to discourage the commerce of foreigners in
her ports.--Attempt to exclude salt-fish, by the sale of
indulgences permitting the use of meat on fast
days.--Character of the Spanish Ministry.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, December 24th, 1781, 102

Mr Jay receives promises of supplies.--The Count de
Florida Blanca also promises to interfere with Portugal
in favor of the United States.--Probable consequences
of the death of the Empress.--Proceedings of England.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, Feb. 18th, 1782, 105

Difficulty of meeting the drafts.--Financial
embarrassments of the Spanish Court.--Capitulation of
Mahon.--Imperial mediation.--Reply of Lord Stormont to
the proposal.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, February 27th, 1782, 111

Mr Jay is unable to obtain supplies.--No progress made
toward negotiations.--The King of England is said to be
determined to push the war in America.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, April 14th, 1782, 113

Mr Jay obliged to protest bills.--Conduct of the Spanish
Minister on this occasion.--The Spanish Court delays
negotiations from policy.--Colonial
disturbances.--Reforms of the Emperor.

Robert R. Livingston to William Carmichael. Philadelphia,
May 1st, 1782, 120

Desires a continuance of his correspondence.--Affair of
Captain Huddy.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, June 12th, 1782, 122

The Spanish Ministers show no inclination to
treat.--Jealousy of the House of Bourbon among the
European powers.--Financial difficulties of
Spain.--Siege of Gibraltar.

Robert R. Livingston to William Carmichael. Philadelphia,
July 6th, 1782, 124

Complains of want of information.--Payment of salaries.

To Robert R. Livingston. St Ildefonso, July 8th, 1782, 126

Interview with the Count de Florida
Blanca.--Conversation with M. Del Campo.--New offer of
mediation from the Imperial Courts.

To Robert R. Livingston. St Ildefonso, July 22d, 1782, 129

Count de Florida Blanca's answer to the proposed
mediation.--The neutral powers desire a Congress.

To Robert R. Livingston. St Ildefonso, September 8th, 1782, 132

Interview with the Count de Florida Blanca.

Robert R. Livingston to William Carmichael. Philadelphia,
September 12th, 1782, 135

State of affairs in America.

To Robert R. Livingston. St Ildefonso, September 29th, 1782, 137

Failure of the attack on Gibraltar.--Financial
embarrassments of Spain.--State of the negotiations at
Paris.--The preparations for war continue.

Count de Florida Blanca to William Carmichael. St Lorenzo,
October 14th, 1782, 141

The English frigate carried into Cadiz by American
seamen is ordered to be sold, and the proceeds to be
deposited to the credit of Congress.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, October 29th, 1782, 142

The progress of the negotiations will be impeded by
Spain.

Robert R. Livingston to William Carmichael. Philadelphia,
November 28th, 1782, 144

America will make no peace inconsistent with her
engagements to her allies.--State of the military forces
in America.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, December 10th, 1782, 147

Terms of the treaty between Great Britain and the United
States.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, December 30th, 1782, 149

Dissatisfaction of Spain with the conclusion of the
treaty.--Letter from M. de Lafayette.--Financial
operations in Spain.--Receives the ceremonial visits of
the _Corps Diplomatique_.--Intends to leave Spain, if
the Court does not change its conduct.--Divisions in
Holland.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, January 18th, 1783, 154

Interruptions of the communication with
America.--Endeavors to induce the Ministry to receive
him formally.--M. Gardoqui will soon be despatched on a
mission.--The Ministry desires peace.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, February 21st, 1783, 158

Is formally received as _Chargé d'Affaires_ of the
United States, through the influence of M. de Lafayette.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, March 13th, 1783, 161

Dines with the Count de Florida Blanca.--Supposed
motives of the offer of mediation by the Imperial
Courts.--Reported confederacy of Russia, Austria, and
Prussia for the partition of Turkey.--State of affairs
in England.--Friendly propositions from other
powers.--The army and navy commissaries have agreed to
obtain supplies from America.--Proposes M. Josè Llanos
as Minister to the United States.--Recommends the
nomination of distinguished Spaniards as members of
American societies.

Robert R. Livingston to William Carmichael. Philadelphia,
May 7th, 1783, 169

The past conduct of Spain has not been such as to
conciliate America.--She ought not to exclude America
from the privileges allowed to Great
Britain.--Operations of the provisional treaty.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, July 19th, 1783, 172

Receives assurances of the favorable disposition of the
King.--The Spanish-Americans treat him as their
countryman.--Plans of Austria and Russia.--Mr Fox raises
difficulties to the conclusion of the Definitive
Treaty.--Points in the treaty with Spain.--Spanish
expedition against Algiers.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, July 22d, 1783, 179

Dispersion of the armament against Algiers by stress of
weather.--Slow progress of the negotiations at Paris.

From the Saxon Minister in Spain to William Carmichael.
Madrid, July 28th, 1783, 181

Establishment of commercial relations with America.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, July 29th, 1783, 183

Proceedings relative to the formation of commercial
connexions between Saxony and the United States.--Treaty
between France, Spain and Portugal.

To Robert R. Livingston. Madrid, August 2d, 1783, 184

M. Thieriot appointed Saxon Commissary-General of
Commerce in America.

To Robert R. Livingston. St Ildefonso, August 30th, 1783, 185

Interview with the Count de Florida Blanca.--Objections
of that Minister to his presentation.--Second interview
on the same subject.--The King consents to fix a day for
his presentation.--The presentation.

JOHN LAURENS'S CORRESPONDENCE.

Instructions to John Laurens. In Congress, December 23d,
1780, 199

Additional Instructions to John Laurens. In Congress,
December 27th, 1780, 201

To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, January 3d,
1781, 203

Method of obtaining supplies.

To the President of Congress. Boston, February 4th, 1781, 204

Delay of his departure.

To the President of Congress. Boston, February 7th, 1781, 206

Preparations for sailing completed.

To the President of Congress. L'Orient, March 11th, 1781, 207

Remains at L'Orient in expectation of an interview with
the Marquis de Castries.--Naval preparations at Brest.

To the President of Congress. Passy, March 20th, 1781, 208

Conversation with the Marquis de Castries.--Answer of
the Count de Vergennes to the application of Congress
for aid, granting six millions.--Urges the necessity of
further aid.--Naval forces of the belligerents at sea.

Memorial to the Count de Vergennes, 211

On the necessity of further aid in money, and of a naval
superiority of the allies.--Answer to the objections
made to the raising of a loan in France by the United
States.

Questions proposed to Colonel Laurens, with his Answers to
them. Paris, March 29th, 1781, 218

Advantages of augmenting the army.--Causes of the
weakness of the southern army.

To the President of Congress. Versailles, April 9th, 1781, 220

France consents to guaranty a loan of ten millions to be
opened in Holland.--Solicitations for supplies.

Memorial from Colonel John Laurens to Count de Vergennes, 222

Represents the grant already made to be insufficient and
requests supplies in arms, &c. on credit.--Desires the
amount of the loan proposed to be raised in Holland may
be advanced by France.--Urges the necessity of
maintaining a naval superiority in the American seas.

To the President of Congress. Paris, April 24th, 1781, 226

Remittance of the aid in specie.--Reasons for engaging
the South Carolina ship, the Indian, for the
conveyance.--Nature of supplies in arms, ammunition, &c.

Memorial from John Laurens to the Director-General of
Finance, 230

Urging the increase of the intended remittance of
specie.

To the President of Congress. Paris, May 15th, 1781, 231

Failure of the plan of obtaining remittances from Vera
Cruz.--Refusal of Holland to countenance the proposed
loan in that country.--Promises of additional succors
from France.

Count de Vergennes to John Laurens. Versailles, May 16th,
1781, 233

Disposition of the six millions granted by
France.--Additional grant of four millions.--The
proposed loan of ten millions shall be advanced by
France.--Military and naval operations.

To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, September 2d,
1781, 235

General account of his proceedings on his late mission
to France, as contained in the preceding letters.

To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, September 6th,
1781, 247

Confinement of Henry Laurens in the Tower.

CORRESPONDENCE OF C. W. F. DUMAS.

B. Franklin to M. Dumas. Philadelphia, December 19th, 1775, 255

Acknowledges the reception of certain works of M.
Dumas.--Requests him to sound the Ministers to discover
if America can expect countenance from any of the
European powers in declaring independence.--State of the
country.--Desires that skilful engineers may be sent
out.

B. Franklin to C. W. F. Dumas. Philadelphia, March 22d,
1776, 260

Introducing Mr Deane.

To B. Franklin, Chairman of the Committee of Secret
Correspondence. Utrecht, April 30th, 1776, 260

Conversation with the French Minister relative to
rendering assistance to the Colonies.--Writings of M.
Dumas.--Receives a letter without signature, desiring a
meeting at the Hague.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence. Utrecht, May
14th, 1776, 267

Interview with the writer of the letter from the
Hague.--Letter from Mr A. Lee recommending Hortalez.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence. August 10th,
1776, 271

Extract of a letter from Mr Lee, recommending Hortalez
to his confidence.--Correspondence with the person with
whom he had the interview at the Hague.--Interview with
the same person and with the Spanish Ambassador.--Mr
Ellis requests him to write to America that there is a
strong American party in England.

Arthur Lee to C. W. F. Dumas. London, July 6th, 1776, 276

Introducing Mr Ellis.--State of affairs in America.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, July 26th, 1776, 277

Desires to correspond with him.--Wishes to know if there
would be any personal risk in visiting Holland.

Arthur Lee to C. W. F. Dumas. London, August 13th, 1776, 278

The Colonial expenses of Great Britain were undertaken
for her own benefit.--Scotch hostile to America.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, August 18th, 1776, 280

Intends visiting Holland in a private character.--The
American Colonies do not desire aid nor alliances, but
only free commerce.

William Lee to C. W. F. Dumas. London, September 10th, 1776, 282

The declaration of Independence changes the character of
the contest between Great Britain and America.--England
uses every means to prevent the interference of France.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, September 11th, 1776, 283

If free commerce were allowed America, the Colonies
would need no assistance.--The English Ambassador is
acquainted with Mr Deane's official character.

Arthur Lee to C. W. F. Dumas. London, September 23d, 1776, 285

Sentiments of the English nation.--Character of the
English Ministry.

To the Committee of Secret Correspondence. September 30th,
1776, 288

Communicates his letters from America in a certain
quarter.--Reasons for signing an assumed name.

B. Franklin to C. W. F. Dumas. Philadelphia, October 1st,
1776, 290

Acknowledging the receipt of letters.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, October 3d, 1776, 291

Obtains an opportunity of sounding the sentiments of the
Prussian Cabinet.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, October 6th, 1776, 291

Disposition of the American people in regard to an
accommodation.--American commerce.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, October 9th, 1776, 294

Introducing Mr Carmichael.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, October 13th, 1776, 295

Treatment of an American citizen in Holland.

William Carmichael to C. W. F. Dumas. Amsterdam, October
22d, 1776, 296

Informing him of his intended visit.

Committee of Secret Correspondence to C. W. F. Dumas.
Philadelphia, October 24th, 1776, 297

Dr Franklin appointed Commissioner to the French
Court.--Committee of Secret Correspondence.

William Carmichael to C. W. F. Dumas. Amsterdam, October
27th, 1776, 298

Requesting certain papers.

Arthur Lee to C. W. F. Dumas. London, November 15th, 1776, 299

Disposition of the British Court.--The Rockingham party
proposes to secede from Parliament.--Cause of the
advantage gained by the English on Long Island.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Without date, 301

Difficulties of his situation.--Prospect of ultimate
success.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, December 13th, 1776, 304

Arrival of Dr Franklin in France.

William Carmichael to C. W. F. Dumas. Havre, January 21st,
1777, 304

Return from a tour in Germany.--Impolicy of the present
measures of France.

Arthur Lee to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, January 26th, 1777, 305

Want of intelligence from America.--Interest of Holland
to secure the commerce with America.

B. Franklin to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, January 29th, 1777, 307

Forwarding letters from America.

William Lee to C. W. F. Dumas. London, March 21st, 1777, 308

State of the British and American forces.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, April 2d, 1777, 309

Enclosing a remittance.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, April 12th,
1777, 310

Inadequacy of the allowance hitherto made him.

William Carmichael to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, April 28th,
1777, 312

Dangers of the temporizing policy of the European powers
toward America.--Mr Carmichael is offered a pension on
condition of bringing the Colonies to terms.--The
acknowledgment of the independence of America by the
European States is all that is necessary to her success.

The Committee of Foreign Affairs to C. W. F. Dumas.
Philadelphia, May 8th, 1777, 314

Desiring him to communicate information to the
Commissioners at Paris.

William Carmichael to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, May 9th, 1777, 315

English papers intercepted.--False rumors propagated by
the English Ministry.--Arrogant policy of that Court.

B. Franklin to C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, near Paris, May 12th,
1777, 317

Communicates advices from America.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Amsterdam, May 16th,
1777, 318

The author of 'Advice to Hessians,' threatened with
arrest.

Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, June 7th, 1777, 319

Reports of reconciliation spread by English
agents.--There will be no accommodation without an
acknowledgment of independence.--The balance of power in
Europe is a mere chimera.--One power must finally
preponderate.--Growing importance of Russia.

William Carmichael to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, June 13th,
1777, 323

American privateering.--Preparations for the war in
England.--Had the English operations been successful in
America, the same tone would have been assumed towards
France as Holland.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. June 14th, 1777, 326

Disposition of the Dutch towards America.--Success is
necessary to gain Holland.--The Dutch houses refuse to
take up the English loan.--Ignorance of American affairs
in Europe.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. August 22d, 1777, 327

Subject to persecutions on account of his agency in the
American service.--Dutch vessels captured by the
English.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, October
14th, 1777, 329

Meeting and proceedings of the States-General.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. December 16th, 1777, 330

Impression produced by the news of Burgoyne's
capture.--Proceedings of the States-General.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, April 14th,
1778, 332

Effect of the declaration of France in Holland.--The
Republic will maintain her neutrality.

To M. Van Berckel, Pensionary of Amsterdam. July 27th, 1778, 333

Communicating the treaty between France and the United
States.

M. Van Berckel to C. W. F. Dumas. Amsterdam, July 31st,
1778, 334

Disposition of the Regency of Amsterdam to enter into
amicable and commercial relations with the United
States.

To M. Van Berckel. The Hague, August 17th, 1778, 335

Rejection of the propositions of the British
Commissioners by the United States.--Extract of a letter
from W. Lee, complaining of the indecision of Holland.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, December 3d,
1778, 337

Amsterdam protests against the resolution of the States,
refusing a convoy to ships carrying naval stores to
France.

Memorial, presented by his Excellency, the Duc de la
Vauguyon, Ambassador of France, to the States-General of the
United Provinces. The Hague, December 7th, 1778, 338

Necessity that Holland should protect her commerce, if
she desires to enjoy the privileges of neutrality.

To the Commissioners at Paris. The Hague, December 18th,
1778, 340

The Admiralty gives an evasive answer to the Memorial of
the French Ambassador.--This answer adopted by the
States.--Amsterdam protests.--The English Court declares
its intention of seizing Dutch ships carrying munitions
of war to France.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, December
25th, 1778, 342

Resolution of the States and protest of
Amsterdam.--Desires letters of credence.--Inadequacy of
his compensation.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, January 1st,
1779, 345

Containing a note of the Duc de la Vauguyon, explanatory
of his Memorial; the answer of the States of Holland to
the same, and the protest of Amsterdam against the
answer.--The answer adopted by the
States-General.--English influence at the Dutch
Court.--The French Ambassador has a declaration of his
Court excluding Holland from the French order in favor
of neutrals.

To the Commissioners at Paris. The Hague, January 12th,
1779, 351

Proceedings of the States of Holland.--The American
interest gains ground.--The Duc de la Vauguyon presents
to the States-General the order excluding Holland from
the privileges of neutrals.--Proceedings in relation to
the same.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, March 1st,
1779, 357

Desires to be invested with the character of _Chargé
d'Affaires_ of the United States.--His past services.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, April 29th,
1779, 359

Assembly of the States of Holland.--Misrepresentations
on American affairs.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, May 15th,
1779, 360

Naval force ordered to be equipped by the
States-General, for purposes of convoy.

M. Chaumont to C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, September 2d, 1779, 364

Requesting him to render all necessary aid to the
squadron of Commodore Jones.--Catalogue of the vessels
composing the squadron.

To B. Franklin. The Hague, September 14th, 1779, 365

Proceedings in Holland and France relative to the
granting convoys to Dutch commerce.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, September
20th, 1779, 366

Intends going to Texel to meet Commodore Jones.

Agreement between John Paul Jones and Captain Pearson, 367

Relative to British prisoners in the squadron of
Commodore Jones.

The College of Admiralty of Amsterdam to the States-General.
Amsterdam, Oct. 8th, 1779, 369

On the request of Commodore Jones to be permitted to
land his prisoners.

Placard of 1756, referred to in the above letter, 370

Containing directions for foreign vessels bringing
prizes into Dutch ports.

From the College of Admiralty of Amsterdam to the
States-General. Amsterdam, Oct. 12th, 1779, 373

Proposing to grant permission to land the sick and
wounded from Commodore Jones's squadron.

Permission to land the sick and wounded of the English
vessels taken by Paul Jones. Extract from the records of
their High Mightinesses. October 15th, 1779, 375

Instructions of Holland and West Friesland to their
Deputies, 376

Directing them to order the squadron of Commodore Jones
to sail as soon as possible, according to the general
practice of Holland in regard to belligerents bringing
prizes into the Dutch ports.

The Duc de la Vauguyon to John Paul Jones. The Hague,
October 29th, 1779, 378

Informing him that he will receive instructions at
Dunkirk.

Sir Joseph Yorke to the States-General. The Hague, October
29th, 1779, 379

Demanding the seizure of the King's vessels in the hands
of Paul Jones, a pirate and rebel.

John Paul Jones to Lieutenant Colonel Weibert, in the
service of the United States, 381

Instructions for the care and safe keeping of the
wounded prisoners landed on the island of Texel.

John Paul Jones to the Duc de la Vauguyon. Texel, November
4th, 1779, 382

Interview with the Commandant of the Road.--Causes of
the delay of sailing.

M. Dumas to the Duc de la Vauguyon. Helder, November 9th,
1779, 384

Proceedings of Commodore Jones.

To the Duc de la Vauguyon. On board the Serapis, November
11th, 1779, 386

Visit to the Dutch Vice-Admiral in company with
Commodore Jones.

The Duc de la Vauguyon to C. W. F. Dumas. The Hague,
November 11th, 1779, 387

Landing of the prisoners.

The Duc de la Vauguyon to C. W. F. Dumas. The Hague,
November 12th, 1779, 388

Directing Commodore Jones not to sail till he has
received instructions.

To the Duc de la Vauguyon. Nov. 13th, 1779, 388

The Dutch Vice-Admiral urges the departure of Commodore
Jones.

The Duc de la Vauguyon to C. W. F. Dumas. Amsterdam,
November 17th, 1779, 389

The States of Holland adopt a resolution to compel
Commodore Jones to set sail.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, December
9th, 1779, 389

Urgency of the Dutch Vice-Admiral for the departure of
Commodore Jones.--M. Dumas reads to him a declaration,
promising to set sail with the first fair wind.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. December 10th, 1779, 391

Resolutions of the States-General relative to Sir Joseph
Yorke's demand of the seizure of Commodore Jones and his
prizes.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, December
11th, 1779, 395

Further proceedings relative to the squadron of
Commodore Jones in consequence of the transference of
the Commodore to the Alliance.

John Paul Jones to the Duc de la Vauguyon. Alliance, Texel,
December 13th, 1779, 396

Rejecting the offer of a letter of marque from
France.--Expresses his indignation at the offer.

John Paul Jones to B. Franklin. Alliance, Texel, December
13th, 1779, 399

Remarks on his treatment by the French Court.

John Paul Jones to C. W. F. Dumas. Alliance, December 13th,
1779, 400

Enclosing the preceding letters.

Vice-Admiral Reynst to John Paul Jones. Amsterdam, December
17th, 1779, 401

Requiring to be informed of the character of the
Alliance, and demanding that the French flag be hoisted
on board that frigate, or that she be put to sea without
delay.

John Paul Jones to Vice-Admiral P. H. Reynst. Alliance,
Texel, December 17th, 1779, 401

Refuses to hoist the French flag.--Is ready to put to
sea whenever the pilot will conduct his ship.

John Paul Jones to C. W. F. Dumas. Alliance, Texel, December
17th, 1779, 402

Thanking him for his advice.

M. de Livoncourt, French Navy Agent at Amsterdam, to John
Paul Jones. Helder, December 17th, 1779, 402

Requesting him to hoist the French flag.--Reasons for
addressing to him the commission alluded to in a
preceding letter.

John Paul Jones to C. W. F. Dumas. Alliance, at Sea,
December 27th, 1779, 403

Succeeds in getting to sea.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, December
30th, 1779, 404

Difficulties on account of the Alliance.--Desires to be
formally named agent of Congress.

B. Franklin to C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, January 27th, 1780, 405

Regrets his differences with the Ambassador.

To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. The Hague, March 15th,
1780, 406

Transmits the plan of a treaty between the United States
and Holland.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, March 21st, 1780, 407

Enumeration of his services and sacrifices.--Inadequacy
of his compensation.--Complains of William and Arthur
Lee.

B. Franklin to C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, March 29th, 1780, 412

Acknowledging the receipt of certain papers and
requesting information.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, April 13th, 1780, 413

Deliberations on the Russian Memorial to the
States-General.--Resolutions in favor of unlimited
convoys and declining succors to England, adopted by
several Provinces.--Necessity of an American Minister in
Holland.

B. Franklin to C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, April 23d, 1780, 414

Receives visits from gentlemen from Holland, who desire
information relative to the rumored treaty between
Amsterdam and the United States.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, May 21st, 1780, 416

Dissatisfaction of the northern powers with the conduct
of England.--Address of Amsterdam to the States.--Claim
of M. Van der Perre to a ship captured by Commodore
Jones.

John Adams to C. W. F. Dumas. Paris, June 6th, 1780, 417

Relative to a certain letter of General Clinton,
suspected of being a forgery.--Duplicity of the British
agents in America.

Protest of the City of Amsterdam. Extracted from the
Resolutions of the Council of that City of the 29th of June,
1780, and inserted in the Acts of the Provincial Assembly of
Holland, at the Hague, July 1st, 1780, 419

Urging a connexion with the neutral powers.

James Lovell to C. W. F. Dumas. Philadelphia, July 10th,
1780, 425

Services of M. Dumas.--Introduces Mr Searle.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, July 15th, 1780, 426

Intrigues of England in Holland and Germany.--Affair of
the choice of a Coadjutor of Munster and Cologne.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, July 22d, 1780, 427

Rumors unfavorable to America.--Declaration of Denmark.

William Carmichael to C. W. F. Dumas. Madrid, July 24th,
1780, 429

The Americans will not be discouraged by their
reverses.--False report of Mr Jay's being sent from
Spain.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, July 25th, 1780, 430

Past services.--Inadequate compensation.

John Paul Jones to C. W. F. Dumas. Ariel, Road of Croix,
September 8th, 1780, 433

Reception in Paris.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, September 12th,
1780, 435

Naval operations.--Affairs of Europe.

To B. Franklin. The Hague, October 3d, 1780, 437

Proposed terms of accession to the armed neutrality by
Holland.--Plan of the Empress.

Extract of Letters from London to C. W. F. Dumas. London,
October 6th, 1780, 439

Treatment of Mr Laurens in the Tower.

To the President of Congress. Amsterdam, December 19th,
1780, 441

Proceedings of the Provincial States of
Holland.--Accession of the Republic to the armed
neutrality.

Robert Morris to C. W. F. Dumas. Philadelphia, December
24th, 1780, 445

Attacks on his character.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, February 5th, 1781, 446

Proceedings in regard to the armed neutrality.--Reported
rupture between Russia and England.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, February 22d, 1781, 448

Delays in the decision of the Court on the conduct of
Amsterdam.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, March 5th, 1781, 449

Disposition of the Empress to support the demands of
Holland against England.--The proposed imperial
mediation will be founded on an acknowledgment of the
independence of the United States.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, March 22d, 1781, 450

Causes of the delays in Holland.--Proceedings of the
merchants of Amsterdam and Rotterdam relative to the
seizure of St Eustatia.

General J. H. Bedaulx to C. W. F. Dumas. Nimeguen, April
28th, 1781, 452

Requesting information concerning his nephew in America.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, May 1st, 1781, 453

Mr Adams visits the Grand Pensionary, preparatory to
presenting himself in the character of Minister of the
United States.--The Grand Pensionary, the President of
the States-General, and the Prince of Orange decline
receiving the Memorial of Mr Adams.--Mr Adams causes it
to be printed.--The President and the Privy Counsellor
of the Prince decline receiving a letter from Mr Adams,
announcing the completion of the
confederation.--Amsterdam demands the exclusion of the
Duke of Brunswick from the public councils.--Imperial
mediation.--Coolness of the Emperor toward the Duke of
Brunswick.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, August 23d, 1781, 460

French loan will be agreed to by the
States-General.--Correspondence between the Stadtholder
and Baron Lynden relative to the Duke of
Brunswick.--Anti-Anglican proceedings in
Holland.--Proceedings of the States of Holland in regard
to the Duke of Brunswick's letter to the
States-General.--French loan.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, October 11th, 1781, 467

Letter of Baron Lynden to the Prince of Orange in regard
to the Duke of Brunswick.

Robert R. Livingston to C. W. F. Dumas. Philadelphia,
November 28th, 1781, 468

Desires him to transmit journals and pamphlets.--Capture
of Cornwallis.--Congress cannot make any addition to his
allowance.

To the President of Congress. Amsterdam, January 7th, 1782, 471

The French loan has been taken up in one
day.--Diminution of English influence in Holland.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, January 15th, 1782, 473

Visit to the Secretary of the States-General and the
Deputies of the Province with Mr Adams, to demand
permission to present his credentials.

To the President of Congress. The Hague, January 30th, 1782, 474

Proceedings of the States-General.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, March 29th, 1782, 475

Friesland and Holland adopt resolutions in favor of the
reception of Mr Adams.

To Robert R. Livingston. Amsterdam, April 4th, 1782, 476

Purchases a hotel for Mr Adams.--Mr Adams will probably
be received without further delay.

John Adams to C. W. F. Dumas. Amsterdam, May 2d, 1782, 477

Declines the invitation to dine at Schiedam.--M. Dumas
ought to be appointed _Chargé d'Affaires_ of the United
States.

Verbal message of C. W. F. Dumas to the city of Schiedam, 479

Mr Adams declines the invitation to a dinner.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, May 10th, 1782, 479

Reception of Mr Adams.--Transmits Mr Adams's letter
recommending him to the attention of Congress.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, June 1st, 1782, 483

Attempts to effect a separate peace between Holland and
England.--Insincerity of the English in their proposals
of peace.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, August 16th, 1782, 487

Proceedings of the States of Holland relative to the
negotiations at Paris.

Robert R. Livingston to C. W. F. Dumas. Philadelphia,
September 5th, 1782, 488

Receives no communications from him.--Affairs in
America.

Robert R. Livingston to C. W. F. Dumas. Philadelphia,
September 12th, 1782, 489

Congress will take his requests into
consideration.--State of things in America.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, September 27th, 1782, 491

Proceedings in Holland relative to the naval force
ordered to join the French fleet.--Complains of the
neglect of Congress.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, November 15th, 1782, 494

Reasons for the infrequency of his communication.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, December 12th, 1782, 496

Riot at the Hague.--Representations of the Prussian
Envoy on the dissensions in Holland.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, December 17th, 1782, 500

Representations of the Prussian Envoy on a libel against
the Princess of Orange.--Reply to the same.--The
prisoners arrested on account of the disturbances at the
Hague allowed to escape.--Obtains passports for
Americans.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, January 11th, 1783, 503

Proposed mission of a Minister from the Republic to the
United States.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, January 20th, 1783, 504

Proceedings in Holland.--Minister to the United States.

Memorial of the Prussian Ambassador. January 20th, 1783, 505

On the opposition to the Prince of Orange.

To John Adams. The Hague, January 24th, 1783, 508

Is requested to consult Mr Adams, whether his powers
authorise him to accede to the armed neutrality, and to
enter into a similar negotiation with the allied
belligerents.

To John Adams. The Hague, January 28th, 1783, 509

Dissatisfaction of the Dutch with the conduct of France.

To John Adams. The Hague, January 30th, 1783, 511

Same subject.

To John Adams. The Hague, February 4th, 1783, 512

Same subject.--Reasons of the Count de Vergennes for
hastening the signing of the treaty.

To John Adams. The Hague, Feb. 18th, 1783, 514

Is requested to inquire if the United States will enter
into a convention with Holland, guarantying freedom of
navigation.--Considerations which authorise the American
Ministers to accede to this demand.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, March 4th, 1783, 515

Appointment of M. Van Berckel Minister to America.

To John Adams. The Hague, March 4th, 1783, 516

The States adopt a resolution, giving instructions to
their Plenipotentiaries in regard to a general peace.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, March 5th, 1783, 517

Requesting him to make preparations for M. Van Berckel.

To John Adams. The Hague, March 6th, 1783, 518

Guarantee of the freedom of navigation desired by
Holland.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, March 27th, 1783, 519

Domestic affairs of Holland.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, April 18th, 1783, 522

Same subject.--Is requested to inquire of Mr Dana if he
will negotiate a convention on the principles of the
armed neutrality with Holland.--The Secretary of the
States-General desires to be informed of the titles by
which Congress is to be addressed.

Robert R. Livingston to C. W. F. Dumas. Without date, 525

Impropriety of a foreign Envoy engaging in the parties
of the country where he resides.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, May 8th, 1783, 526

Proceedings in Holland.--Difficulties in settling the
articles of peace between Holland and Great Britain.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, May 25th, 1783, 528

Recommending Captain Riemersma.

Notes to the States-General. The Hague, June 5th, 1783, 529

Laying before them the treaty and convention between the
two Republics.

M. Fagel to C. W. F. Dumas. The Hague, June 19th, 1783, 530

Agrees to exchange ratifications of the treaty and
convention.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, June 20th, 1783, 530

Proceedings in Holland.

To Robert R. Livingston. The Hague, June 23d, 1783, 531

Exchanges ratifications of the treaty and convention
between the two Republics.

THE

CORRESPONDENCE

OF

WILLIAM CARMICHAEL;

CHARGÉ D'AFFAIRES FROM THE UNITED STATES TO THE COURT OF SPAIN.

William Carmichael was a native of Maryland. At the beginning of the revolution he was in Europe. From London he went over to Paris in the spring of the year 1776, and was there when Silas Deane arrived as a commercial and political agent from the United States. He lived with Mr Deane for some time in Paris, and aided him in his correspondence and the transaction of his affairs. It was suggested by the Prussian Minister, that the King would be pleased with information respecting American commerce, and would receive at Berlin any American who could give such information. Mr Deane proposed the enterprise to Mr Carmichael. He performed the journey in the autumn of 1776, by way of Amsterdam.

From Berlin he returned to Paris, where he lived on intimate terms with the American Commissioners, occasionally executing specific duties at their request, for more than a year, till he sailed for his native country. He arrived at Boston in May, 1778, and soon afterwards received an appointment which had recently been conferred on him by Congress, as Secretary to the Commissioners at the Court of France. It does not appear that he ever accepted this appointment, for on the 19th of November following he took his seat in Congress as a delegate from Maryland.

Mr Carmichael remained in Congress till Mr Jay was elected Minister Plenipotentiary to the Court of Spain. He was chosen Secretary of Legation to the same Mission on the 28th of September, 1779, and went to Spain in company with Mr Jay, and remained with him during the whole of that Minister's residence in Madrid. When Mr Jay joined Dr Franklin in Paris, June, 1782, to aid in the negotiations of peace, Mr Carmichael was left as _Chargé d'Affaires_ at the Court of Spain. After the peace he was regularly commissioned in that character by Congress, and recognized as such by the King of Spain.

He continued to reside there in the same capacity during the term of the old Confederation, and for some time after the organization of the new government under Washington. In the year 1793, Mr Short was joined with him in a commission for negotiating at Madrid a treaty between Spain and the United States. Several months were passed in this attempt, but without success. Mr Carmichael returned soon afterwards to the United States.

THE

CORRESPONDENCE

OF

WILLIAM CARMICHAEL.

* * * * *

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE.

Amsterdam, November 2d, 1776.

Gentlemen,

Previous to your attention to what follows, it will be necessary for you to know that I have lived with Mr Deane since his first arrival at Paris; that I took that city in my way from London to Nantes, to find a passage to my native country, and with despatches, which Mr Arthur Lee intrusted to my care, for the honorable Congress. Having a relapse of a disorder, which prevented me from travelling, I stopped at Paris, and endeavored to find out, by means of Count d'Estaing and other persons of eminence, the sentiments of the French Court respecting our affairs; and the moment I knew of Mr Deane's arrival, offered him all the services in my power, and, of consequence, we have lived together until the 10th of the present month.

At that time the agent of the King of Prussia, who had often, as Mr Deane has informed you, made proposals of a commercial nature, expressed a desire that some American would go to Berlin, and this he gave us to understand was at the instance of his Sovereign, who wished to have a clear idea of the nature of our commerce, and expressed a curiosity, which he wished to gratify, by a minute detail of our affairs. Mr Deane thinking this an opportunity not to be neglected to interest a Prince, who for several years has been dreaming of making his port of Emden, an Amsterdam, proposed it to me. However unequal to the task, I have cheerfully accepted it; happy to find any opportunity of showing with what a fervent zeal I am devoted to the glorious cause, which, at present, by interesting their humanity as well as policy, gives us so much consequence in the eyes of Europe.

Here I have endeavored to engage merchants to speculate in a direct commerce to America, to find out the sentiments of the people in general respecting us, to know whether, in case of necessity, the United States would be able to negotiate a loan, whether England would be able to obtain further credit, and by this barometer of the ability of Princes, to discover their present situation. On these heads I have written Mr Deane, but having an opportunity by the way of St Eustatia, and thinking none should be neglected of giving information, though mine, perhaps, may not be of importance enough to merit that title, I have taken the liberty of addressing the honorable Committee. Arriving but two days after the accounts had reached this city, of our misfortune on Long Island, I found many, even of the sanguine friends of America dejected, and those of England almost in a frenzy of joy. In this disposition, it is easy to judge, no hopes could be entertained of engaging merchants in a direct trade. I find they have the greatest inclination to serve us, and at the same time themselves, for no people see their interests clearer, but their fears that we shall be subdued, the confident assertions of the friends of England confirming these apprehensions, the prodigious sums they have in the English funds, with this unlucky business at New York, all conspire to prevent direct speculation.

As my letters from Paris introduced me to the first houses here, I have had the best opportunity of knowing their sentiments, and I can venture to say, that with many who are apparently adverse to us, it is interest combating with principle, for insulted, searched, and plundered as the Dutch were the last war, and are at present, there are individuals who by no means want sensibility to feel, though the public wants spirit to resent the injury. The States have, however, in answer to a fresh remonstrance of General Yorke, declared that their ports are open to vessels of all nations, and that their trade to and from their own Colonies shall be unmolested, their subjects complying with the ordinances issued by their High Mightinesses. In fact, their prohibition of exporting warlike stores, extends to all British subjects. I hope it will not be long before all Europe will own us in another character. It is very certain, that without a very material and apparent success of the British arms in America, a loan would be very slowly negotiated for England here. There is nothing hinders them now from selling out of the English funds, but their not knowing what to do with their money; for this country may be called the treasury of Europe, and its stock of specie is more or less, according to the necessity of the different Princes in Europe. It being a time of peace, the call has not been very great of late.

Having mentioned the credit of England, that of France is next to be considered, and I am very sorry to say that has been very low here of late. The dreadful mismanagement of the finances in the late King's reign, and the character of the late Controller General, M. d'Olugny, had reduced it so low, that it was impossible to borrow anything considerable on perpetual funds. Perhaps a Minister of Finance, in whose probity the world have a confidence, may restore their credit. At this moment that is in some measure the case, for the French stocks rise on the appointment of M. Taboreau. That it is possible for France to borrow may be demonstrated; for at the time M. Turgot was removed, he was negotiating a loan here, and was likely to succeed, for sixty millions of guilders. The credit of Spain is extremely good, and that kingdom may have what money it will, and on the best terms. The Emperor's credit is also good, not as Emperor, but from his hereditary dominion. Sweden and Denmark both have good credit. The former, the best; they have money at four per cent; and it is not long since the King of Sweden borrowed three millions of guilders at this interest, to pay off old debts at five per cent. His interest is paid punctually. Prussia has no credit here, but the King's treasury is full by squeezing the last farthing from the people, and now and then he draws a little money from this Republic, by reviving obsolete claims. The credit of the Empress of Russia is very good; for she has punctually paid the interest of twelve millions of guilders, which she borrowed in her war with the Turks, and has lately paid off one million and a half of the principal. These are the strongest circumstances she could have in her favor with a mercantile people. I have this statement of credit from persons employed in negotiating the several loans, and, therefore, can depend upon the truth of the information.

To come next to America, should time and necessity oblige her to look abroad for money. In the present state of affairs, it is not probable that a loan is practicable. But should success so attend our arms, that it should appear evident that we are likely to support our independence, or should either France or Spain acknowledge our independence, in either of these cases I believe we might have money, and when it was seen that we were punctual in our first payments of the interest, we should have as much as we pleased. The nature of the security, or the fund for the payment of interest, I have not been able to imagine. But, observing in a letter to Mr Dearethart, it was the writer's opinion, that the honorable Congress did not wish to circulate too much paper, for fear of depreciating its value, I thought that bills issued similar to those in circulation in the Provinces, and lodged in a public bank in Europe, might be accepted as a pledge or deposit for money borrowed by the United States. I beg pardon for the crudity of the idea, and would not have mentioned it here, but that having hinted at it in general conversation, people thought it might, on a future occasion, be adopted.

You will please to observe, that everything here mentioned came from an individual, who only as such avowed himself interested for his country's fate, and for its benefit sought information. Notwithstanding the rise of stocks, occasioned by our misfortune on Long Island, the Dutch are selling out, and my strongest representations have not been wanting to contribute a mite to this circumstance. The price of our product is great. Rice sells for twentyfive shillings sterling per cwt. and tobacco for eight stivers and four ---- per pound. You have been threatened, that the Ukraine would supply Europe with tobacco. It must be long before that time can arrive. I have seen some of the tobacco here, and the best of it is worse than the worst of our ground leaf. Four hundred thousand pounds have been sent here this year. The Russian Ambassador said at the Baron le Guerre's, Ambassador from Sweden, where I had the honor to dine, that Russia soon would be able to supply the market with that article. In this he spoke more like an Ambassador than as a merchant. I took occasion in reply to observe, that if that was the case, and on many other accounts, it was the interest of her Majesty that all intercourse between Great Britain and America should be broken off, for that then the former would be dependent on Russia for all those articles, which hitherto the latter had supplied her with.

Having expressed a desire of knowing these reasons at large, with the assistance of M. D---- and the approbation of Mr Deane, I purpose giving in a little memoir on the subject, which the Ambassador assures me shall be sent to St Petersburg. Not being so sanguine as to think, that it will prevent Russia from supplying England with troops, should the other demand them, but it may give a secret dilatoriness to their assistance, which may finally operate in our favor.

If it should be determined to send any cargoes of tobacco here, on the public account, it will perhaps be thought proper to convoy them. The frigates destined to that service might retaliate the injuries we have received by the destruction of Falmouth and Norfolk, by destroying the towns and shipping of Greenock and the port of Glasgow, or Ayre and Cambleton. I have been particularly informed of the situation of those places until the present moment. They have no batteries to protect, or soldiers to defend them, or quartered near enough in any numbers to be assembled for that purpose, and not a vessel of war on the whole coast larger than a tender, to receive men for the sea service. Their rendezvous might be the entrance of the northern channel, where, while they waited a junction, in case they should be separated, they might take the outward bound ships, and by the information obtained from them, insure their success. In returning, a party landed on the Isle of Bute, might destroy the house of that favorite. Little objects strike most forcibly little minds. This affair completed, which would alarm Britain and astonish Europe, the ships trading to the Baltic, with cargoes not only that suit, but are necessary for our Provinces, might be their next object. This ought all to be done in the months of March, April, and May. The destruction of the Greenland fishery, might be the last object of the expedition. I am confident, that not having a distrust of such attempts, the success would be more certain. Should there be a necessity of seeking shelter or refreshments, I have it from the Swedish Ambassador here, that we shall find both in their ports. I only hinted to him, that it was possible some of our adventurers might explore those seas in search of plunder.