PARIS, January 3, 1788.
SIR,--I am honored with your Excellency's letter of the 29th of
December, enclosing the _Arret_ on the commerce between France and the
United States. I availed myself of the occasion of a vessel sailing
this day from Havre for New York, to forward it to Congress. They will
receive with singular satisfaction this new testimony of his Majesty's
friendship for the United States, of his dispositions to promote their
interest, and to strengthen the bands which connect the two nations.
Permit me, Sir, to return you, personally, my sincere thanks for the
great attention you have paid to this subject, for the sacrifices you
have kindly made, of time so precious as yours, every moment of which
is demanded and is occupied by objects interesting to the happiness of
millions; and to proffer you the homage of those sincere sentiments of
attachment and respect with which I have the honor to be, your
Excellency's most obedient, and most humble servant.