PARIS, December 9, 1787.
SIR,--Your letter of November 27, showing that mine of November 14, had
not then got to hand, had given me alarm for its fate, and I had sat
down to write you a second acknowledgment of the receipt of your two
favors of October 23 and 26, and to add the receipt, also, of those of
November 14, 22 and 27. A copy of my answer of November 14 was prepared
to be enclosed to you, but in that moment came your favors of November
30, December 2d and 4th, by which I perceived that the original had at
length got safe to hand. By that you have seen all that interference,
direct or indirect, on the part of Mr. Adams and myself in the business
you had done me the honor to suggest, would be improper. Your
despatches for Mr. Jay shall go with mine in the packet of this month.
These will bring the matter into the view of Congress. In the meantime
I think it would be well to avoid exciting at Brussels or anywhere else
the least expectation thereon, because it is impossible for us to know
what that body may, in its wisdom and with all circumstances under its
eye, decide should be done. They had, in the year 1784, made up their
minds as to the system of commercial principles they wished to pursue.
These were very free. They proposed them to all the powers of Europe.
All declined except Prussia. To this general opposition they may now
find it necessary to present a very different general system to which
their treaties will form cases of exception, and they may wish to
lessen rather than multiply those cases of exception. Add to this, that
it is in contemplation to change the organization of the federal
government, and they may think it better to leave the system of foreign
connection to be formed by those who are to pursue it. I only mention
these as possible considerations, without pretending to know the
sentiments of that honorable body, or any one of its members on the
subject; and to show that no expectations should be raised which might
embarrass them or embroil ourselves. The proposed change of government
seems to be the proper topic to urge as the reason why Congress may not
at this moment choose to be forming new treaties. Should they choose
it, on the other hand, the reserve of those who act for them, while
uninstructed, cannot do injury.
I find the expectation very general that the present peace will be of
short duration. There are circumstances in favor of this opinion, there
are others against it. Certain it is that this country is in a state so
unprepared as to excite astonishment. After the last war, she seems to
have reposed on her laurels, in confidence that no power would venture
to disturb that repose.
It is presumable her present ministry will prepare to vindicate their
nation and their friends. The late events have kindled a fire, which,
though smothered of necessity for the present moment, will probably
never be quenched but by signal revenge. Individuals will, in the
meantime, have incurred sufferings which that may not repair. That
yours may be lessened for the present, and relieved in future, is the
sincere wish of him who has the honor to be, with sentiments of great
esteem and regard, Sir, your most obedient, and most humble servant.