PARIS, July 2, 1787.
DEAR SIR,--Revising the letters and notes in my possession on the
subject of our commerce, I observe you say in your letter of December
12, that we pay alien duties in the ports of France, supposed the
double of what we ought to pay. If by this you mean that we are not on
as favorable a footing as Spain, it would be vain to remonstrate on
that subject. The family compact expressly excluded all other nations
from the advantages the two parties ceded to each other; but if there
be any other nation which enjoys any greater advantages in the ports of
France than we do, I should wish to know it, because, if it be not in
consequence of a particular compensation, I should hope to remove it.
Will you be so good as to explain the matter? and shall I ask the
further favor of you to forward the enclosed letter by the first vessel
going from your port to Virginia. I wish to hear from Mr. Barclay, who,
I suppose, is still with you, and whose service and comfort I have
sincerely at heart. I am, with much esteem and respect, dear Sir, your
most obedient, and most humble servant.