Chapter C: A. De La Luzerne (3)

Your memorialists do therefore most earnestly entreat, that your Excellency will be pleased to take this Memorial into consideration.

Council Chamber, in Roseau, the 23d day of November, 1781.[5]

ABRAHAM SHAW, _President in Council_.

House of Assembly, Roseau, this 23d day of November, 1781.

J. MORSOU, _Speaker of the House of Assembly_.

FOOTNOTES:

[5] Extract from an authentic copy of the capitulation, granted by the Marquis de Bouillé to the Island of Dominica.

"ARTICLE 7th. That they (the inhabitants of Dominica) shall pay no other duty to his Most Christian Majesty, than they have paid to his Britannic Majesty, without any charge or imposts. The expenses attending the administration of justice, the Minister's stipends and other customary charges, shall be paid out of the revenue of his Most Christian Majesty in the same manner as under the government of his Britannic Majesty.

"Granted, and that the inhabitants of Dominica may freely export their produce to all parts, on paying into the custom house the duties, which the inhabitants of the French Islands pay in the Islands or in Europe; but the expenses for administration of justice shall be paid by the Colony.

"ARTICLE 17th. The merchants of the Island may receive vessels to their address from all parts of the world, without their being confiscated, and they may sell their merchandise, and carry on their trade; and the port shall be entirely free, for them for that purpose, paying the customary duties paid in the French Islands.

"Granted, until the peace, English vessels excepted."

* * * * *

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Office of Foreign Affairs. February 20th, 1782.

Sir,

I was yesterday honored with your note, covering the papers, which relate to the ship Resolution's cargo, and the brigantine Eeirsten's. With respect to the first, I believe there is little doubt, that that part of the cargo, which is condemned would be acquitted upon a rehearing, and proving, that it was the property of capitulants. The case of the brigantine is much more intricate, and carries strong marks with it of a fraudulent design to protect British property, contrary to the spirit of the capitulation. One of the Judges who condemned this vessel assures me, that there was strong proof, that the cargo belonged to British owners, even after she parted from Ostend, nor was there any evidence that the bottom was neutral. The capitulation does not certainly tend to cover any other property of the capitulants, but that which should be shipped from the Island, or to the Island from a neutral port, otherwise its trade with Britain would stand upon the same footing as it did before the capture. However, I have not had such a view of facts, as will enable me to give an opinion upon the subject, and if I had it would not fall within my department to determine upon it.

The line in which justice will most speedily be done, will be for the parties who conceive themselves aggrieved to petition Congress for a rehearing. If, Sir, you shall approve it, I will lay before them your note, with the papers annexed, and my opinion thereon. I doubt not, that they will readily adopt such measures as are most consistent with justice, and the respect they will feel for your recommendation.

I have the honor to be, &c.

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

* * * * *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

Translation.

Philadelphia, March 8th, 1782.

Sir,

I have the honor of informing your Excellency, that I am about to take a journey to Virginia, and shall probably be absent some weeks. M. de Marbois will remain here during this interval, as _Chargé d'Affaires_ of his Majesty. Be pleased to honor him with your confidence, in case that circumstances shall render it necessary for him to make any communication to Congress.

If your Excellency has any commissions, with which to intrust me, for Virginia, I entreat you to be assured of my punctuality in performing them.

I am, Sir, respectfully, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

Translation.

Philadelphia, April 17th, 1782.

Sir,

I have repeatedly applied to the Department of War, to have a settlement made of the accounts of M. de la Radière, an officer of Engineers, and General Baron de Kalb, both of whom died in the service of the United States.

I have been answered, in the absence of General Lincoln, that the demands, which I made by order of my Court, for the benefit of their heirs, were just, but as yet no money has been paid to me, and I therefore entreat you to be pleased to procure it as soon as possible. I have received several letters from the family of Baron de Kalb, and I wish to be able to send them a satisfactory answer. General Lincoln having returned, I hope that these two affairs will suffer no delay.

The Count de Barras also demanded, in the month of July of last year, the payment of the sums due to the volunteers, who have served on board the Ariel, Captain Paul Jones; and on leaving the Chesapeake he has renewed his demands, in order that this money may be sent to France, where it will be paid to those to whom it belongs. This debt amounts to four thousand one hundred and ninetyseven livres tournois, not including the sum of one thousand one hundred and fiftyone livres, which has been paid to Joseph Caron, François Marais de Tulipe, Joseph Powaruce, and Paterne Jean, who were on board the Hermione. Congress, by a resolution, the date of which I cannot recollect, last year ordered the whole of this sum to be paid. I entreat you, Sir, to be pleased to persuade the Board of Admiralty to bring this affair to a close, and to transmit this sum to his Majesty's Consul, that he may send it to those to whom it is due.

I have the honor to be, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Translation.

Philadelphia, April 13th, 1782.

Sir,

I embrace the first moment after my return from Virginia, to comply with the request of the principal officers of our army, in tendering you their sincere respects.

I have already forwarded to your Excellency a letter from Count de Rochambeau; on my return here, I found letters from my Court, dated in February last. They do not announce anything pacific, on the part of our enemies. No progress is made in the mediation of the Courts of Vienna and Petersburg, and the Court of London seems determined to risk the event of another campaign, in which they will employ all the strength they have left. The plan for the campaign was not yet finally decided, it depending on some arrangements, which were yet to be made with the Court of Madrid, and on some advices, which were expected from the Antilles. It nevertheless seemed to be the intention to act vigorously for the assistance of the United States, and though no particular assurances could be given me on this head, yet from what they write me, it is probable that New York or Charleston, or perhaps both, will be the object of their efforts next campaign.

I think it, however, proper to inform you, that at the same time they announce to me their general views, they observe, that it is an unhappy circumstance, that the American army is so weak as it is; and they seem to fear, that it will not be in a condition to second their efforts, when it shall be necessary to strike, a decisive stroke, or to undertake operations, in which such extensive means are required as in a siege.

I beg your Excellency would enable me to give my Court the necessary information on a matter so important as this is. I am not curious to know any of the particular details relative to your army, which it may be necessary to keep secret, but the military operations of France and America are so intimately connected, that it is indispensable for us to know what is the actual force and means which you have, in order to calculate with any degree of probability what enterprises can be undertaken. Our ignorance in this respect cannot but be very prejudicial to our affairs, because, if from false information we consider your army as weaker than it really is, it will prevent our forming plans, which it would be possible to execute; and if, on the contrary, we are led to believe it stronger than it really is, we run the risk of forming plans impracticable in their execution. It is from these considerations, that I beg of you to confide to me such information on this head as you may think proper, both with respect to the actual force you have at the different parts of the continent, and what it will probably be in the course of the campaign. It is equally interesting to know the force of the enemy, both in regulars and militia. I beg you to rest assured of the discretion, with which I shall make use of these communications.

I cannot refuse myself the pleasure of communicating to you the sentiments, with which our Court and the nation at large are inspired, from the reports of the French officers, respecting your Excellency, on their return to Versailles. Their testimony could add nothing to the universal opinion of the great services you have rendered your country, but to the esteem and admiration of the French are now added a sentiment of affection and attachment, which are the just return for that attention which our military experienced from you, and the progress they made in their profession by serving under your orders.

I have the honor to be, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

COUNT DE ROCHAMBEAU TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Williamsburgh, April 16th, 1782.

I send you under a flying seal, my dear Chevalier, the letter I have written to M. de Guerny, commanding the Emerald frigate. You will observe, that I am yet in a state of ignorance, not having received my ministerial despatches. It is of the greatest consequence, that this letter should be forwarded by a safe route, through the hands of General Washington, that it may be despatched as quick as possible.

Our last news from Edenton is of the 8th of April, by a captain of a vessel, who left Georgetown the 25th of March. The enemy employ all the wagons of Charleston in transporting their stores on board the empty vessels, which came from New York.

I think General Washington would do well to have all the works levelled, which we made at Rhode Island round Newport, and even the fort on Butts' Hill, if he has not troops vigorous and firm to keep possession of it.

The plans of the enemy seem to give their marine all the superiority they can in these seas. I think they must have it much at heart to re-occupy the port of Rhode Island. The port of New York being precarious, the entry depending on the tides, they run the greatest risks in their naval combats, in not having a port where they can take refuge at all times.

I have not time to translate this into English; I beg you to transmit it to our General, as well as that for M. de Guerny, that he may forward it with the greatest despatch.

I submit, with reason, all my reflections on Rhode Island to him. I have always in mind Lord North's speech, and the news which seemed to follow, of the pretended evacuation of Charleston.

Count Ferson sets off to meet my despatches; he tells me that there is a detachment of about one hundred men, which might be employed jointly with the militia in levelling the works.

ROCHAMBEAU.

* * * * *

TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Translation.

Philadelphia, April 18th, 1782.

Sir,

On my return to this place, Count Beniowsky delivered to me a plan, which he wished to have communicated to your Excellency before your departure from Philadelphia, but as he was particularly recommended to me by my Court, he deferred taking that step till my arrival. He will not make any proposition to Congress without first consulting your Excellency and obtaining your approbation, and it is with this view he now goes to the army.

I need not recall to your Excellency's mind, the services and actions, which have recommended Count Beniowsky. His fervor you are acquainted with, and I am persuaded, that if you think he can be useful to the United States, no one will more sincerely support him in carrying into execution those views, which brought him to this continent.

I have the honor to be, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

GEORGE WASHINGTON TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Newburgh, April 28th, 1782.

Sir,

I receive with much gratitude the remembrance and compliments of the principal officers of the French army in Virginia, and thank your Excellency for the trouble of being the bearer of them to me, and the letter from Count de Rochambeau.

With equal sensibility and pleasure, I received and do now acknowledge my obligations to your Excellency for the communications from your Court, which, though not decisive, are nevertheless important. The late instance of their generous aid, hinted at by your Excellency and particularised by Mr Morris, is one among a variety of important considerations, which ought to bind America to France in bonds of indelible friendship and gratitude, never I hope to be sundered. Induced by that entire confidence, which I repose in your Excellency, and a full conviction, that a nation, who combines her force with ours, for purposes of all others most interesting to humanity, ought not to be deficient in any information I can give to point objects to means, that an accordance with them may be inseparable, I shall, without hesitation, give you the state of our present force, and my ideas of the increase of it by recruits, from the best view of it which is before me.

It can scarcely be necessary to inform your Excellency, that our military establishment for the present year consists of one regiment of artillery, four legionary, and two partisan corps, and fifty regiments of infantry, beside the corps of invalids; or that Congress have called in pointed terms upon each State to complete its regiments to the establishment, the aggregate of which, if complied with, would amount to thirtyfour thousand three hundred and eight men, exclusive of commissioned officers, sergeants, and music, Hazen's regiment, and the corps of invalids. Of this force, one legionary corps, two regiments of artillery, and twentytwo of infantry, besides Hazen's regiment and the invalids, compose the northern army; but as Hazen's regiment is fostered by no State, discouraged from recruiting by all, and without funds if the case were otherwise, it must soon dwindle to nothing, being now very weak.

The present totality of the rank and file, exclusive of sergeants, of those regiments which compose the northern army, amounts to nine thousand one hundred and fortysix. From this number the sick men, in different branches of the staff department, and such as are employed on other extra duties, which the peculiarity of our circumstances compels me to furnish from the army, being deducted, will reduce the efficient operating force of these corps to seven thousand five hundred and fiftythree rank and file, and I should be uncandid if I were not to acknowledge, that I do not expect it will be increased by recruits in the course of the campaign, to more than ten thousand fit for duty in the field. This, Sir, in my opinion will be the full amount of the established regiments of the States east of Pennsylvania. To ascertain the number of militia, who may be assembled for occasional offensive operations, is more than I can do. The general opinion is, that there will be no want of militia for my enterprise we can have in view. Be this as it may, this one thing is certain, that this class of men are not only slow in their movements, but undertaking to judge also of the propriety of them in point of amount, will wait till the necessity for it strikes them, which, in most cases, is as injurious to the service as inability or want of inclination; disappointment being the consequence of delay. This observation I could not refrain from making, because in all combined operations, especially those which may depend upon the season or a limited period for their execution, it is of the utmost importance to be known.

The enclosed return, which is a copy of the last state of the force under the order of Major General Greene, which has come to my hands, will give your Excellency every information in my power, respecting the state and condition of that army; which was to be augmented by the partisan corps of Colonel Armand, consisting of about two hundred horse and foot. Independent of those, there are two small regiments at Fort Pitt. One from the State of Pennsylvania, the other from Virginia, which are included in the general establishment of the army; but no particular return is here given of them.

What measures are adopted by the States of Georgia and North and South Carolina, to recruit their battalions, I know not. Virginia marched about four hundred men the latter end of February for the southern army; and by an act of the legislature, passed at their last session, resolved to raise more; but in what forwardness they are, or what is to be expected from the act, I am equally uninformed. Maryland and Pennsylvania depend upon voluntary enlistments, and are proceeding very slowly in the business of recruiting.

This, Sir, is an accurate state of the force we have at present, and my expectation of what it may be, independent of militia.

The enemy's force, from the best information I have been able to obtain of it, may stand thus at New York;

Rank and File.

Regulars, including their established corps of
Provincials, 9,000
Militia of the city, refugees, and independent
companies, 4,000
Sailors and marines, according to the number of
ships which may be in the harbor;--this being
uncertain no number is given,
Now in New York, 13,000
Charleston, about 3,300
Savannah, about 700
In Canada, including British, German, and
established Provincials, 3,000
Penobscot, about 500
Halifax and its dependencies, uncertain, but say, 3,500
------
In all, 26,000

The above estimate, so far as it respects New York, Charleston, and Savannah, is, I believe, to be depended upon. The force of Canada by some accounts is more, by others less, than five thousand. The regular British and German troops in that country cannot exceed four thousand; but in addition to these, are the corps of Sir John Johnson and others, which I am told have been considerably increased by the disaffected of this, and other States, who have fled to Canada. But it is to be observed, that this force, be it what it may, is employed in the occupation of posts from Quebec to Michillimackinac, and on Lake Champlain, through an extent of not less than seven or eight hundred miles, and that all these posts are dependent upon the former for provisions and supplies of every kind. I am less certain of the enemy's force in Nova Scotia than elsewhere. The number here given is not from recent intelligence, or strengthened according to circumstances. Cumberland, Windsor, Annapolis, St John's River, &c, are posts dependent upon Halifax, and included in the three thousand and five hundred men here mentioned.

If this state of matters can be satisfactory to your Excellency, or useful in the formation of any plans against the common enemy, I shall be happy in having given it.

Permit me now, Sir, to express the high sense I have of the honor you have done me, in communicating the favorable opinion entertained of my conduct by the Court and nation of France, and to acknowledge my obligations to those officers who have inspired these sentiments. To stand well in the eyes of a nation, which I view as one of the first in the world, and in the opinion of a Monarch, whom I consider as the supporter of the rights of humanity, and to whom I am personally indebted for the command he has been pleased to honor me with, is highly flattering to my vanity, at the same time it has a first claim to all my gratitude.

It is unnecessary I hope to add fresh assurances of the respect and esteem, with which I have the honor to be, Sir, &c.

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

* * * * *

COMMUNICATION OF THE FRENCH MINISTER TO THE SECRETARY OF FOREIGN
AFFAIRS.

In Congress, May 1st, 1782.

The Secretary of Foreign Affairs having laid before Congress the following minutes of a communication, made to him the 28th of April, by the Minister of France, from letters of the Count de Vergennes, dated the 24th of December and the 22d of January last, viz.

"After expressing his satisfaction in the success of our arms in Virginia, he laments the weakness of our army, and the incapacity in which it leaves us of pursuing so important a blow, before England can recover from it, he says, though the plan of the ensuing campaign is not yet determined on, he has reason to believe, that means will be used to aid us in the exertions we shall make to expel the enemy from this continent; and he wishes that this consideration, and the obstinate adherence of the British to their plan of subduing this country, evidenced by their answer to the mediators, may rouse the United States to an early and animated exertion. He observes, that the British are much embarrassed with respect to the measures they ought to pursue; that they still continue to represent us as a weak and divided people, in the hope, that this may have some effect upon the powers of Europe, more particularly upon the mediators. He is of opinion, that England will endeavor to make proposals to the several States separately; and though he does not apprehend, that they will succeed in their attempt to detach them from the alliance, yet he presumes, while the issue is unknown, that they will avail themselves of it to induce a belief, that they have a considerable interest in this country, and that the people at large wish to be connected with them. He hopes the wisdom of Congress will devise some means to frustrate this design. He expresses in strong terms the resolution of his Majesty to adhere to the principles of the alliance, and to form no treaty of peace, which does not secure to the United States the objects of it."

And this communication having been referred to a committee, and the committee having reported thereon, it was

Resolved, That the Secretary of Foreign Affairs be, and he is hereby directed to make a confidential communication to the several States of the intelligence received by Congress on the 29th of April last through his department, in order that the States may be more fully impressed with the necessity of such united and determined exertions, as, with the co-operation of our generous ally, will expel the enemy from their remaining posts within the United States, and display to the world the falsehood of the assertions of the British Court, that the people of these States are neither united nor determined in support of their national independence.

* * * * *

DECREE OF THE KING'S COUNCIL IN FRANCE.

Translation.

Decree of the King's Council of State, prescribing the formalities to be observed on the exportation, from the ports of the kingdom, of merchandise obtained from prizes.

Extract from the records, of the Council of State.

"The King having been informed, that the facility granted by the Fourteenth Article of the decree of his Council of the 27th of August, 1778, concerning merchandise obtained from prizes, has been abused, so that merchandise of English origin is taken on board, when under sail, or in foreign countries, and is imported under the character of merchandise taken as prize, into nations in alliance with his Majesty, he has thought proper to explain his intentions. Wishing to remedy this evil, and having heard the report of M. Joly de Fleury, one of the Common Council of State, and of the Royal Council of Finance, _the King in Council_ has commanded and commands, that all the merchandise named in the said Fourteenth Article of the regulation of August 27th, 1778, and the adjudication of which is made only upon condition of its re-exportation to a foreign country, cannot be exported from the ports of his kingdom, unless it be accompanied with the copy of the _procés-verbal_ of the sale made by the Admiralty, or by the Intendant or the Director of the Marine, duly certified by the register, or by the Controller of the Marine, and examined by the Receiver and Controller of the _Bureau des Fermes_, which, conformably to the Eighteenth Article of the same decree, must mention, that the goods have actually been taken from the mart, and embarked on board of the vessel designated. His Majesty forbids the clerks and overseers of the _Adjudicataire de ses Fermes_, under penalty of being deprived of their offices, and subjected to the severest punishment if it should be done, to allow any of the merchandise in question to be exported, without the previous formalities having been observed.

"Done, at the King's Council of State, his Majesty being there present, held at Versailles, the 4th of May, 1782.

LA CROIX CASTRIES."

* * * * *

TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

Translation.

Philadelphia, May 7th, 1782.

Sir,

I have the honor of sending you the commission, by which the Chevalier d'Annemours has been appointed his Majesty's Consul in the five southern States. Be pleased to have the kindness to lay it before Congress, that they may pass an act for the recognition of his character, and that the necessary letters may in consequence be despatched to the different legislatures. I will myself see that they are forwarded, if you will send them to me. The representatives of Maryland and Virginia being now assembled, you will confer a particular favor on me, by bringing this affair to a termination as soon as possible.

I have the honor to be, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Office of Foreign Affairs, May 8th, 1782.

Sir,

I was yesterday honored with yours of that date. I have this day presented the commission, with a draft of the necessary resolutions thereon to Congress, and I doubt not that they will immediately pass, when the letters and papers you request will be put into your hands.

I do myself the honor to enclose a letter from Mr Morris to me in answer to one I had written him on the subject of the volunteers, who served on board the Ariel. You will see by that a state of the accounts, and that the balance is ready to be paid to their order. I have requested the Paymaster General to make up the accounts of the late Baron de Kalb, and M. de la Radière, and shall endeavor as soon as possible to enable you to give a satisfactory answer to their representatives on that subject. You will be pleased to return me the enclosed letter, after having made such use of it as you may think proper.

I have the honor to be, &c.

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

* * * * *

TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

Translation.

Philadelphia, May 9th, 1782.

Sir,

Several different bearers of certificates of the different loans obtained by the United States, have applied to me to induce Congress to pay them back their capitals, or to pay the interest stipulated. Their claims are supported by recommendations from his Majesty's Ministers. I entreat you to be pleased to enable me to inform them of the measures taken on this subject. They have now suffered for a long time on account of the suspension of the payments, and it is a long time since I asked for the information, which has been successively promised to me.

I am, Sir, respectfully, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Office of Foreign Affairs, May 9th, 1782.

Sir,

I have the honor to enclose resolutions of Congress, settling the ceremonial for the public audience on Monday.[6]

Mr Morris will deliver you the commission of the Chevalier d'Annemours; when you shall have made the alterations and returned it, I will immediately lay it before Congress.

I have the honor to be, &c.

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

FOOTNOTES:

[6] See the result of this audience in the _Secret Journal of Congress_, Vol. III. p. 107.

* * * * *

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Office of Foreign Affairs, May 12th, 1782.

Sir,

The undersigned, Secretary to the United States of America for the Department of Foreign Affairs, has the honor to notify to the Minister Plenipotentiary of his Most Christian Majesty, that Congress have determined, by a resolution of the 20th of July, 1778, that the style of address to them should be in future "Gentlemen of the Congress."

The undersigned hopes, that the Minister Plenipotentiary of France will be pleased to make use of this form, in the address which he proposes to make to Congress tomorrow, as well as on every future occasion.

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

* * * * *

TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Translation.

Philadelphia, May 17th, 1782.

Sir,

I write only to acknowledge the receipt of the letter your Excellency did me the honor to write on the 28th ultimo. I feel myself extremely obliged by the freedom, with which you have been pleased to furnish me with the information I requested, and I beg you to be persuaded, that I shall make use of it only to contribute to the success of our common operations.

The reports of the action between the fleets in the West Indies are so vague, that I can form no certain judgment thereon. I presume, however, that the handbill published at New York, the 12th of this month, is at least partly false. They write me from Martinique the 13th of April, that Count de Grasse has beaten the English.

I am, with the most respectful attachment, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

CONGRESS TO THE KING OF FRANCE.[7]

The United States in Congress assembled, to their Great, Faithful Friend and Ally, Louis the Sixteenth, King of France and Navarre.

Great, Faithful, and Beloved Friend and Ally,

Among the many instances that Divine Providence has given us of his favor, we number the blessings he has bestowed on your Majesty's family and kingdom. Nothing was wanting to the happiness of the first, but a son to wear the honors, which the father had earned; or, to the prosperity of the latter, but the prospect of seeing the Crown transmitted to an heir, who would find in the example of his parent, a powerful incitement to promote the happiness of his people. This example, we presume to hope, will also influence his future conduct towards these United States. When, in the history of the present day, he shall read your Majesty's generous interference in their behalf, their firm and affectionate attachment, and the blessings with which both were crowned, he will be studious to preserve to his kingdom and these States, the reciprocal advantages of the alliance, which your Majesty has formed, and to emulate his ancestor in adding to his titles the glorious appellation of Protector of Mankind.

We receive with the most lively pleasure your Majesty's renewed professions of friendship. You will easily believe, that the attachment, which we have so often and so truly professed for your Majesty, could suffer no diminution, when every day afforded us new instances of your magnanimity, and of your affectionate interference in our behalf.

We pray God, Great, Faithful, and Beloved Friend and Ally, always to keep you in his holy protection.

Done at Philadelphia, the 20th day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eightytwo, and in the sixth year of our independence. By the United States in Congress assembled. Your Majesty's Faithful Friends and Allies.

JOHN HANSON, _President_.

FOOTNOTES:

[7] See the letter, to which this is an answer, dated October 22d, 1781.

* * * * *

TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

Translation.

Philadelphia, May 25th, 1782.

Sir,

The Baron de Holzendorff, Major in the service of his Majesty, came to America in 1776, to offer his services to the United States. He was obliged by circumstances, which it would take too long to mention in detail, to return to France in 1778. Congress, before his departure, had adopted the annexed resolutions in relation to him; but the departure of this officer took place before he could procure the execution of them, which he now solicits, Dr Franklin having told him that the settlement of this business belonged to Congress. The undersigned Minister, requests Mr Livingston to be pleased to take measures to forward to this officer a decision of Congress, or of the Department of War.

The Chevalier de la Luzerne takes the liberty of renewing his solicitations respecting the money to be paid to the heirs of Messrs De Kalb and De la Radière, and also respecting the reasons, which have suspended the payment of the interest on different classes of certificates.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

VERBAL COMMUNICATION OF THE FRENCH MINISTER TO THE SECRETARY OF
FOREIGN AFFAIRS.

In Congress, May 28th, 1782.

The Secretary of Foreign Affairs laid before Congress the following verbal communication made to Mr Livingston.

The Minister of his Most Christian Majesty has the honor to inform Mr Livingston of several particulars relative to the negotiation, that the Court of London appeared disposed to open in Europe. The first steps were taken under the former administration. This remark is essential, because it is possible that the new Ministers may take others more decisive; or it is equally possible, that they may entirely change the system, and continue the war still longer.

Emissaries have been sent to Paris and to the Hague, to sound, on the one hand, Mr John Adams, in the hope that his connexion with some independent members might facilitate an accommodation; and, on the other side, in the hope that very advantageous offers might seduce his Majesty, and engage him to make a separate peace to abandon his allies. The Chevalier de la Luzerne is not informed of the steps that have been taken at Madrid, or by the States General.

The proposition made secretly to France tended to a partial peace. It offered France the possession of their conquests in the West Indies, the suppression of an English Commissary at Dunkirk, and advantages in the East Indies. These offers were certainly satisfactory to his Majesty; and he would have had no reason to reject them if he had had no allies. But his engagements marked out another line of conduct. He replied, that how sincerely soever he was disposed to peace, he would commence no negotiations to this end without the participation of his allies. The emissary easily comprehended, that this answer related as well to the United States as to Spain; and pretended that the condition was inadmissible; that England, in treating upon this foundation, would acknowledge the independence of her colonies, which made no part of her system. The Minister of his Majesty replied, that their independence was considered by the King as an indispensable point, and that it made the basis of his system.

The English Agent then demanded, if there were no means to avoid treating with us of the affairs of America. The Count de Vergennes replied, by referring him to the answer given to the first overtures of pacification made by the mediators, and communicated to Mr Livingston.

It should be observed, that whether England treats of the affairs of the United States with the Court of Versailles, or whether she opens a direct communication with the United States, she cannot avoid treating with the American negotiators sent by Congress. In either case she will be under the necessity of acknowledging that body.

The conduct of his Majesty on this occasion being strictly conformable to justice and his engagements, his Minister confines himself to a simple communication of it to Mr Livingston. He confides also to him, that the Count de Vergennes, in declaring to the English Agent, that his Majesty could not listen to any negotiations of peace if the Court of London did not treat at the same time with his allies, added verbally, that the King did not attend to his own satisfaction till that of his allies was procured.

Besides this, the effects of these steps taken by the Court of London, have been to engage France to pursue, with redoubled vigor, the measures that have given birth to these appearances of peace, but which would certainly not terminate in it, if England perceived that her enemies relaxed their efforts in any manner. It is above all things indispensable, that the United States should, in the course of this campaign, be in a situation to co-operate in vigorous enterprises, which may be formed. It appears that the design of the Court of London, pointed out by the debates in Parliament, is to reduce, by a defensive war, their operations upon this continent. The Minister of his Most Christian Majesty has at present no information relative to the plans of the approaching campaign. But whatever they may be, it would be useful to be enabled to inform his Court, that the United States will not adopt an inactivity, which would be equivalent to the truce required. But that their design is to trouble the repose, that the enemy wish to deliver themselves to, and that the operations, whether combined or separately undertaken by the United States, will be pushed with activity during the ensuing campaign.

As to the place of the negotiations, Congress knew in 1779, when they named a Plenipotentiary, and in 1781, when they gave him three Colleagues, that it could only be in Europe, and that this was the most effectual means of preventing delays and jealousy, and of maintaining the confidence and harmony, which has so happily subsisted hitherto between the allies. It would be important, that the Minister of his Majesty could inform his Court, that Congress persists in these dispositions; and, that in case Commissaries offer to treat upon this continent, they should be referred to the Ministers of the United States, who are provided with instructions on this subject in Europe; that the Court of London should address itself to them; and that it is impossible that the seat of negotiation should be in America. When these overtures were made to the Court of Versailles, the agent made no mention of those that were to be made in America, or to the American Ministers in Europe. It is obvious, that the design of this conduct is to inspire reciprocal distrust; and the Chevalier de la Luzerne conceives it can in no way more effectually be prevented, than by a full communication of every circumstance, which shall relate to the pacification and to the interests of the alliance, which shall come to his knowledge.

* * * * *

GEORGE WASHINGTON TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Head Quarters, June 5th, 1782.

Sir,

I have the honor of conveying to your Excellency the enclosed address of the officers of the American army under my immediate command, on the auspicious event of the birth of a Dauphin.

Happy in this opportunity of presenting to you this united testimony of respect and veneration for your royal Master, I pray you to believe, that I enjoy the highest satisfaction in having such an occasion of manifesting to your Excellency the very particular pleasure I feel in every event, which affects the happiness of his Most Christian Majesty, especially in one which is so interesting and important to his domestic felicity and that of his people.

I have the honor to be, Sir, &c.

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

* * * * *

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Office of Foreign Affairs, June 7th, 1782.

Sir,

I have the honor to enclose you an account of the moneys received by Baron de Kalb and Lieutenant Colonel La Radière, as extracted from the Paymaster's books. By this it will appear, that both have received more than the amount of their pay, even if the depreciation is allowed. If their friends have furnished you with vouchers to account for the expenditure of still further sums upon the public account, the whole, when stated, will be liquidated at the treasury offices, and the balance paid.

I have applied to Congress for direction on the subject of the Baron de Holzendorff, though it would appear to me, that if he had received the thousand dollars directed to be paid him, there can be nothing further due to him, since the resolution itself implies, that there would probably be a balance to be repaid in bills of exchange. You must see, Sir, the extreme difficulty of settling these accounts, unless the gentlemen, who have demands, will be at the trouble of stating their accounts precisely, and produce vouchers for the money, which has passed through their hands. This is never dispensed with in the case of our own citizens. I shall, however, do myself the honor to lay before you the determination of Congress in this case.

I have written to Mr Morris on the subject of the interest due on the loan office certificates, and shall transmit to you his answer as soon as I shall receive it.

I enclose for your perusal a very extraordinary letter from Mr Deane to Governor Trumbull, together with his reply, which was unanimously approved by the Legislature of Connecticut. You will please return them after you have read, or, if you think proper, taken copies of them.

I have the honor to be, &c.

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

* * * * *

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Office of Foreign Affairs, June 9th, 1782.

Sir,

I have the honor to enclose the copy of a letter from the Superintendent of Finance in answer to one I wrote him on the subject of the loan office certificates. I am sorry for the necessity which dictated it, and look forward with some degree of impatience to the period when ample justice shall be done to all the public creditors. In the meanwhile foreigners will not feel themselves hurt when we make no distinction between them and our own citizens.

I have the honor to be, Sir, &c.

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

* * * * *

TO GEORGE WASHINGTON, COMMANDER IN CHIEF, AND OTHER OFFICERS OF THE
AMERICAN ARMY, ON HUDSON'S RIVER.

Translation.

Philadelphia, June 10th, 1782.

Gentlemen,

I shall transmit to his Majesty the address you have been pleased to send me on the birth of an heir to his crown.

It will afford him infinite satisfaction to find with what joy this event has inspired you, and he will see with pleasure, that the same army which has given so many proofs of courage and patriotism, and which has in the most perfect harmony and concert with his own troops fought the common enemy, now hastens to show, that nothing which affects the French nation can be indifferent to them.

The young Prince, whose birth is the object of your congratulations, will, from his infancy, hear recounted the glorious actions, by which you have effected the independence and happiness of a vast continent; and when there shall be cited to him examples of disinterestedness, constancy, courage, and every other military virtue, there will be repeated the names of illustrious chiefs.

He is born at a moment when victory has crowned both our nations. This circumstance is a happy presage of his future glory, and promises, that he will one day be the support of your independence as well as of the alliance, which unites France with the Thirteen United States.

The veneration that your actions and virtues have inspired me with, Gentlemen, augments the pleasure I have in conveying your sentiments to the King, my master.

I beg you to be persuaded, that no one is with more sincere respect, Gentlemen, your very humble and obedient servant.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

CONGRESS TO THE KING OF FRANCE.

The United States in Congress assembled to their Great, Faithful, and Beloved Friend and Ally, Louis the Sixteenth, King of France and Navarre.

Great, Faithful, and Beloved Friend and Ally,

We learn with extreme grief, an event which has disturbed your Majesty's felicity, and unite with you in offering that tribute of sorrow to the memory of your most dear and beloved aunt, the Princess Sophia Philippina Elizabeth Justina of France, which is due, as well to the eminent virtues she possessed, as to the relation in which she stood to your Majesty. We trust that our sensibility on this occasion, will be considered as a fresh proof of the interest we take in every event, which may affect your Majesty, and that our sincere condolence, when such afflictions as are the lot of humanity put it out of our power to offer more effectual consolation, will evince our earnest desire on every occasion to contribute to your Majesty's happiness.

We pray God, Dear, Great, Faithful Friend and Ally, always to preserve and keep you under his holy protection.

Done at Philadelphia, the 13th day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eightytwo, and in the sixth year of our independence. By the United States in Congress assembled. Your Majesty's Faithful Friends and Allies.

JOHN HANSON, _President_.

* * * * *

TO COUNT DE ROCHAMBEAU.

Translation.

Philadelphia, June 14th, 1782.

My Dear General,

I have just received your letter of the 8th of this month, and the packets which accompanied it. I have not now time to reply to it, as I profit by an express on the point of departure, and whom I cannot detain.

The movements of the English troops at New York, indicate an intention of sending off detachments from that garrison. It is even possible, though not very probable, that they propose to evacuate that place, either to reinforce the English Islands, or to act offensively against the conquered Islands, which will not be in so good a state of defence as our ancient possessions. This last supposition cannot take place, unless they retain their superiority, and although I hope that this will not be the case, it is, however, but prudent to be in readiness against every event.

The most sure means of preventing the enemy from making any detachment from New York, is to approach that place, and to give a jealousy to General Carlton, of a combined attack. Congress regard the matter in this light, and think that General Washington will make a movement towards New York, in case such a measure is agreeable to his designs, or to the intelligence he may have. I am ignorant what steps he will take in this conjuncture. It is possible that he may think it proper not to quit his present station, till he hears that you approach. In all cases the enemy will be cautious of weakening themselves, if they hear that you are on the march to form a junction.

I submit these ideas to you, my Dear General, and am persuaded that you will take such measures as are most advantageous.

We have news, which I have no reason to believe that M. de la Motte Piquet is not far distant from these coasts.

I have the honor to be, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

GEORGE WASHINGTON TO M. DE LA LUZERNE.

Head Quarters, Newburgh, June 24th, 1782.

Sir,

I was in the moment of sending off a despatch to Count de Rochambeau, of which I have the honor to enclose a copy, when your Excellency's letter of the 14th instant arrived.

I have only to refer you to my letter of the 20th of April, for a perfect statement of matters in this quarter; and as little alteration has taken place since that period, your Excellency will readily perceive the impracticability of the movement expected by Congress, (and mentioned in your letter to Count de Rochambeau,) especially too, when you consider how unprepared we are to encounter any expense, that can possibly be avoided.

My ideas on this head, the removal of the French army in our present state of uncertainty, the consequent call of the militia to occupy the posts they would leave, and cover the stores, shipping, &c. which must necessarily remain, were communicated fully to the Secretary of War, when he was here, with a request that he would unfold them to your Excellency, as I could not commit them to paper without a cypher.

The enemy, from the best intelligence I get from New York, has made no detachment. Things remain there in _statu quo_. They seem to be suspended and are waiting for orders from their Court, which I hear they anxiously expect. As I am just stepping into a boat for Albany, and dare not commit more to paper, I have only to give a fresh testimony of the respect and esteem with which I have the honor to be, &c.

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

* * * * *

TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Translation.

Philadelphia, July 3d, 1782.

Sir,

I received a letter yesterday from Count de Rochambeau, dated on the 24th of last month, wherein he informs me, that he had come to a determination to move on the 27th towards the head of the Bay, where he will be at hand to take such measures as you may judge proper, as soon as we receive news from Europe. He desires me to communicate this to your Excellency, till he can write you himself. As he does not go any distance from the Bay, and as he will always be ready to turn off to the southward if necessary, I hope it will meet your approbation.

I wait his answer respecting the interview, which you have proposed to him, and which I sincerely desire may take place here. It seems to me impossible, that we should not have some news from France towards the middle of this month.

From the last intelligence from Europe, up to the 1st of May, we learn nothing important, except the general disposition of the Dutch to ally themselves with the United States. But it is probable, that Mr Adams will open the negotiation by demanding the acknowledgment and guarantee of your independence, and this circumstance may prevent the conclusion of a treaty of commerce, which seems to be the point that has most influence with the States General. But as the inclination of the people seems absolutely towards the alliance, I hope the difficulties will be successively got over.

I have the honor to be, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Translation.

Philadelphia, July 8th, 1782.

Sir,

You will receive by M. de Vauban a letter from Count de Rochambeau, informing your Excellency that he will be here on the 13th or 14th of this month. I hope for the honor of seeing you here by the 15th at farthest, and I felicitate myself, that matters will concur to bring you here precisely at the time, when I shall celebrate the birth of the Dauphin. Your presence, and that of Mrs Washington, will render the festival complete, and I hope the gentlemen, who compose your family, will accompany you. I do not send any written invitations to them, nor to the Generals and other officers of your army, but your Excellency knows, that nothing would be more agreeable to me, than their participation in celebrating an event, which is so interesting to us, and which I know is so to all our allies. Everybody, whom your Excellency may bring with you, will be welcome.

I have the honor to be, &c.

LUZERNE.

* * * * *

COUNT DE VERGENNES TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Translation.

Versailles, July 29th, 1782.

Sir,

It is not in quality of a King, the friend and ally of the United States, (though with the knowledge and consent of his Majesty,) that I now have the honor to write to your Excellency. It is as a man of sensibility, and a tender father, who feels all the force of paternal love, that I take the liberty to address to your Excellency my earnest solicitations in favor of a mother and family in tears. Her situation seems the more worthy of notice, on our part, as it is to the humanity of a nation, at war with her own, that she has recourse, for what she ought to receive from the impartial justice of her own Generals.