Manor Livingston, 23d September, 1779.
My Dear Sir:
I am obliged much by your kind attention to me. The condition of our
enemies, instead of being formidable, as they predicted, seems daily
to become more feeble; and instead of those vigorous and decisive
operations, which could alone have revived their declining cause, and
kept up the spirits of their infatuated adherents, we see nothing but
languor, discontent, and disgust in their army, their fields, and their
councils. Their king alone, as if literally hardened by a judicial
blindness, persists in his obstinate folly, and courts the destruction
of the British Empire. If, in addition to all his other wants,
distresses, and misfortunes, sickness has taken a deep root among his
troops, and his partisans; a decisive period must in all probability be
speedily put to the mad career.
Count d’Estaing seems to have the ball at his feet. His command of
the ocean must be indisputable when he is joined by the Spanish
squadron lately at Havana. He may divide his force, subdue the West
India Islands, and assist us in expelling or captivating the remnant
of our enemies on this continent. I have, however, some distrust of
the Count’s _planet_. His former ill luck on our coast has led me to
think that he is no _Felix_. I conclude not much from the advantages
he acquired over Biron; for that man is marked for the child of
misfortune, and I dare say if his nativity was cast, it would appear
that his star foreboded decapitation and disgrace. Believe me, I never
meddled with the black art, nor am I over superstitious, and yet I
discern that I am not altogether free from a prejudice which was very
remarkable in the greatest nation of antiquity. Hence it is that I so
anxiously look for the fortunate completion of our western expedition;
even when a train of favorable events renders it so highly probable.
Be so good as to present my affectionate and respectful compliments to
the General and all the family; and believe that I shall be happy in
every opportunity to convince you that I am sincerely,
Your friend and
Most obedient servant,
Jas. Duane.
P. S. How do you like the new Minister of France? I have a letter from
G. Schuyler. In the course of a week I expect him here, and shall
probably accompany him on a visit to the General and our friends at
head quarters.