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THE
DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE
OF THE
AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
VOL. XI.
THE
DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE
OF THE
AMERICAN REVOLUTION;
BEING
THE LETTERS OF BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, SILAS DEANE, JOHN ADAMS, JOHN JAY,
ARTHUR LEE, WILLIAM LEE, RALPH IZARD, FRANCIS DANA, WILLIAM
CARMICHAEL, HENRY LAURENS, JOHN LAURENS, M. DE LAFAYETTE, M. DUMAS,
AND OTHERS, CONCERNING THE FOREIGN RELATIONS OF THE UNITED STATES
DURING THE WHOLE REVOLUTION;
TOGETHER WITH
THE LETTERS IN REPLY FROM THE SECRET COMMITTEE OF CONGRESS, AND THE
SECRETARY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS.
ALSO,
THE ENTIRE CORRESPONDENCE OF THE FRENCH MINISTERS, GERARD AND LUZERNE,
WITH CONGRESS.
Published under the Direction of the President of the United States,
from the original Manuscripts in the Department of State, conformably
to a Resolution of Congress, of March 27th, 1818.
EDITED
BY JARED SPARKS.
VOL. XI.
BOSTON:
NATHAN HALE AND GRAY & BOWEN;
G. & C. & H. CARVILL, NEW YORK; P. THOMPSON, WASHINGTON.
1830.
Steam Power Press--W. L. Lewis' Print.
No. 6, Congress Street, Boston.
CONTENTS
OF THE
ELEVENTH VOLUME.
LUZERNE'S CORRESPONDENCE,
CONTINUED.
Page.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, September 10th,
1781, 3
Communicating the commission of M. Holker, as Consul
General of France.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, September 18th,
1781, 4
Desires the appointment of a committee, to whom he may
communicate his despatches.
Communications of the French Minister to Congress. In
Congress, September 21st, 1781, 4
Proposed mediation of the Imperial Courts.--The French
Court requires the establishing of some preliminaries,
as to the admission of an American Minister to the
proposed Congress, and the character in which England
will treat the United States.--The British Court
requires the submission of its revolted subjects in
America.--Necessity of vigorous operations in
America.--Mr Dana's mission to St Petersburg.--The
accession of Maryland to the confederacy should be
followed by vigorous measures.--Mr Adams in
Holland.--Aids to America.--No further pecuniary
assistance can be furnished by the French Court.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, September 24th,
1781, 17
Transmitting the memorial of a Spanish subject.
Memorial of Don Francisco Rendon to the Minister of France, 17
Requesting the release of certain prisoners taken at
Pensacola by the Spanish forces, and afterwards captured
by an American vessel.
Congress to the Minister of France. Philadelphia, September
25th, 1781, 19
Relative to the preceding memorial.
From Congress to the King of France, 20
Returning thanks for aid.
The King of France to Congress, 21
Birth of the Dauphin.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Philadelphia,
October 24th, 1781, 21
Announces his appointment to the Department of Foreign
Affairs.
To Robert R. Livingston, Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
Philadelphia, October 25th, 1781, 22
Expressing his pleasure at Mr Livingston's appointment.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, November 2d, 1781, 23
Congress request permission to present to the Count de
Grasse two pieces of ordnance taken at York.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, November 4th, 1781, 24
Acknowledging the receipt of certain papers.
To the Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Philadelphia, November
4th, 1781, 25
Erection of a triumphal column at Yorktown.--The United
States are named before the King in the resolutions.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, November 6th, 1781, 26
The order in which the United States and France were
named, was accidental.
Robert R. Livingston to the President of Congress. Office of
Foreign Affairs, November 6th, 1781, 28
Proposes the giving France the precedence in any
subsequent acts, where the two countries are named.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, November 21st, 1781, 29
Complains of the proceedings of the Court of Admiralty
in the French islands.
Heads of a verbal Communication made to the Secretary of
Foreign Affairs by the Minister of France. In Congress,
November 23d, 1781, 30
Satisfaction of the King with the appointment of
Ministers for negotiating a peace.--Refusal to accede to
the mediation, unless the American Ministers were
acknowledged.--Necessity of exertion in America to
compel Britain to a peace.
The Answer of his Most Christian Majesty to the Articles
proposed by the two Mediating Courts, 33
The Answer of the Court of London to the Preliminary
Articles proposed by the Mediating Courts, 40
The verbal Answer of the King of Great Britain to the verbal
Observations made by the Count de Belgiojoso, Austrian
Ambassador in London, 43
Reply of the Mediators to the Belligerent Powers, 45
Answer of the Court of France to the Reply of the Mediators, 48
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, November 23d, 1781, 51
Congress to the King of France, 51
Congratulations on the successes of the French arms in
America.--Services of de Grasse, de Rochambeau, and de
Lafayette.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, December 11th, 1781, 53
Enclosing papers.
To Count du Durat, Governor of Grenada. Philadelphia,
December 11th, 1781, 54
Relative to an English ship carried into Grenada by
American sailors.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, December 21st, 1781, 55
Relative to captures.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, January 19th, 1782, 55
Enclosing suspicious letters of Mr Deane.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, January 20th, 1782, 56
Complains of the process in Massachusetts in regard to
effects libelled.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, January 24th, 1782, 57
Communicating certain resolutions.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, January 25th, 1782, 57
Thanking him for the preceding.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, January 28th,
1782, 58
Propriety of instructing Mr Franklin, in relation to the
acts necessary to bind the United States in their
engagements with France on account of the loan raised in
Holland.
The Secretary of Foreign Affairs to the President of
Congress. Philadelphia, January 29th, 1782, 59
Communicating extracts from letters of Count de
Vergennes to the French Minister, expressing the desire
of France to procure the most advantageous terms for
America.--Indisposition of Great Britain to a
peace.--Neither Holland nor Russia are disposed to an
alliance with the United States.--France cannot furnish
additional supplies.
Count de Vergennes to Robert R. Livingston. Versailles,
January 31st, 1782, 62
On his appointment to the Department of Foreign Affairs.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, February 1st, 1782, 62
Instructions to Dr Franklin. In Congress, February 5th,
1782, 63
Empowering him to enter into engagements on the part of
the United States to discharge the loan raised in
Holland.
Resolves of Congress respecting the Communications made by
the Minister of France. In Congress, February 8th, 1782, 64
Urging the necessity of further supplies from
France.--Empowering Dr Franklin to raise a loan of
twelve millions of livres.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, February 18th, 1782, 66
Requesting the revision of a sentence of condemnation
against certain prizes.
The Marquis de Bouillé to M. de la Luzerne. Without date, 67
Relative to the recapture of neutral ships trading to
Dominica by American privateers.
Memorial of the Council of Dominica, 69
Same subject.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, February 20th, 1782, 71
Case of the capture of the neutral ships trading to
Dominica.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, March 8th, 1782, 73
M. de Marbois will remain as _Chargé d'Affaires_ during
his absence.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, April 7th, 1782, 73
Requesting the settlement of the accounts of Baron de
Kalb and others.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, April 13th, 1782, 74
Warlike appearances in Europe.--Want of preparation in
America.--Requests information of the strength of the
forces.
Count de Rochambeau to M. de la Luzerne. Williamsburgh,
April 16th, 1782, 77
Plans and operations of the enemy.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, April 18th, 1782, 78
Recommending Count Beniowsky.
George Washington to M. de la Luzerne. Newburgh, April 28th,
1782, 79
Statement of his forces.--Enemy's force.
Communication of the French Minister to the Secretary of
Foreign Affairs. In Congress, May 1st, 1782, 84
Representing the necessity of vigorous exertion.--The
English intend to push operations with vigor.
Decree of the King's Council in France, 85
Relative to the exportation of merchandise taken from
prizes.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, May 7th, 1782, 87
Appointment of M. d'Annemours, as French Consul for the
five Southern States.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, May 8th, 1782, 87
Accounts of Baron de Kalb and others.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, May 9th, 1782, 88
Applications of bearers of loan certificates for the
repayment of their capital, or the payment of the
interest.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, May 9th, 1782, 89
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, May 12th, 1782, 89
The address of Congress is, Gentlemen of the Congress.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, May 17th, 1782, 90
Reported actions in the West Indies.
Congress to the King of France, 90
Congratulations on the birth of the Dauphin.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, May 25th, 1782, 92
Requests the execution of certain resolutions of
Congress in relation to Baron de Holzendorff.
Verbal Communication of the French Minister to the Secretary
of Foreign Affairs. In Congress, May 28th, 1782, 93
Attempts by the English to effect a partial peace with
America and with France.--The French Court refuse to
treat separately.--Vigorous preparations necessary to
secure a peace.
George Washington to M. de la Luzerne. Head Quarters, June
5th, 1782, 96
Enclosing the congratulations of the army, and offering
his own on the birth of the Dauphin.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, June 7th, 1782, 97
Accounts of Baron de Kalb, Baron de Holzendorff and
others.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, June 9th, 1782, 98
Answer to the applications of holders of the loan office
certificates.
To George Washington, Commander in Chief, and other Officers
of the American Army, on Hudson's River. Philadelphia, June
10th, 1782, 98
Birth of the Dauphin.
Congress to the King of France, 99
Condolence on the death of the Princess Sophia of
France.
To Count de Rochambeau. Philadelphia, June 14th, 1782, 100
Movements of the English forces.--Plan of counter
operations.
George Washington to M. de la Luzerne. Head Quarters,
Newburgh, June 24th, 1782, 102
Impracticability of the plan of operations
abovementioned.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, July 3d, 1782, 103
Plans of Count de Rochambeau.--Disposition of Holland to
form an alliance with America.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, July 8th, 1782, 104
Inviting him to attend the rejoicings on the birth of
the Dauphin.
Count de Vergennes to George Washington. Versailles, July
29th, 1782, 105
Interceding in favor of Captain Asgill.
Lady Asgill to Count de Vergennes. London, July 18th, 1782, 107
Imploring his interference on behalf of her son.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, August 5th, 1782, 108
Requesting him to communicate with M. de Vaudreuil.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, August 14th, 1782, 110
Liberation of American prisoners in
England.--Indisposition of England to peace.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, September 1st,
1782, 111
Relative to the America, presented by Congress to the
King of France.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, September 5th, 1782, 112
Enclosing the preceding.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, September 12th, 1782, 112
The Marquis de Vaudreuil to M. de la Luzerne. Boston,
September 20th, 1782, 113
Expressing his gratification at the offer of the
America.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, September 23d,
1782, 114
Desires the appointment of a committee with whom he may
communicate.
George Washington to M. de la Luzerne. Head Quarters,
September 24th, 1782, 114
The British meditate an attack on the squadron of M. de
Vaudreuil.--Has taken measures to counteract their
schemes.
Communication of the French Minister to a Committee of
Congress. In Congress, September 24th, 1782, 115
The British Court indulge the idea of separating France
and America.--Congress should take measures to destroy
any hopes of such a result.--It is desirable that the
negotiations should be conducted in Europe.--State of
the negotiation.--The French cabinet refuse to treat
except in conjunction with their allies.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, September 27th, 1782, 123
Communicating a decree of the French Council, relative
to the fraudulent importation of English goods into
America.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, September 29th, 1782, 124
State of the negotiations for peace.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, October 1st, 1782, 124
Requesting him to facilitate the entrance of M. Barbe
into New York.
Report of a Committee of Congress on Communications made by
the French Minister. In Congress, October 3d, 1782, 125
Congress will listen to no propositions for a separate
peace.--They rely on the support of France to their
demands in regard to boundaries, the fisheries, and the
navigation of the Mississippi.--Difficulties attending
any restitution of, or compensation for confiscated
property.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, October 16th,
1782, 127
Desiring an interview with a committee of Congress.
George Washington to the President of Congress. Head
Quarters, October 25th, 1782, 128
Receives the letters relative to Captain Asgill, and
transmits them to Congress.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, October 25th, 1782, 128
Repayment of sums expended for French service.
George Washington to M. de la Luzerne. Head Quarters,
October 25th, 1782, 129
Case of Captain Asgill.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, October 28th,
1782, 130
Complains that the English fleet is supplied with
provisions by citizens of the United States.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne. Office of Foreign
Affairs, October 30th, 1782, 131
Case of the seizure of an American prize by the French
authorities at St Domingo.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, November 4th, 1782, 133
Desires the passing of laws corresponding to the
thirteenth Article of the treaty of commerce.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, November 6th, 1782, 134
The enemy are supplied with provisions by Americans.
To Count de Dillon, Governor of St Christopher's.
Philadelphia, November 8th, 1782, 135
Affair of the Lætitia.
To Sir Guy Carleton. Philadelphia, November 9th, 1782, 135
Enclosing resolutions of Congress relative to Captain
Asgill.
To Sir Guy Carleton. Philadelphia, November 9th, 1782, 137
Requesting him to permit the exchange of M. de la
Touche.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, November 12th, 1782, 137
Apology for corresponding with General Carleton.
George Washington to Captain Asgill. Head Quarters, November
13th, 1782, 138
Enclosing the resolution of Congress relative to him.
George Washington to M. de la Luzerne. Head Quarters,
November 13th, 1782, 139
Regrets that he is unable to prevent the supplying of
the enemy with provisions.
George Washington to Count de Vergennes. Head Quarters,
Newburgh, State of New York, November 21st, 1782, 140
Affair of Captain Asgill.
Robert R. Livingston to M. de la Luzerne, Office of Foreign
Affairs, November 26th, 1782, 141
Mr Jefferson appointed Minister for negotiating a peace.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia November 29th, 1782, 142
Expresses his satisfaction with Mr Jefferson's
appointment.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, November 30th, 1782, 142
Relative to the supplying the enemy with provision.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, December 11th, 1782, 143
To George Washington. Philadelphia, December 18th, 1782, 144
Enclosing a letter for his perusal.
To the Marquis de Vaudreuil. Philadelphia, December 18th,
1782, 144
The Danaë aground in the Chesapeake.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, December 26th,
1782, 145
Expressing his Majesty's gratification with the
proceedings of Congress relative to the birth of the
Dauphin.
Substance of a verbal Communication from the French
Minister. Office of Foreign Affairs, December 30th, 1782, 146
State of the negotiations.--Lord Shelburne's policy
deceitful.--Proposed mediation.
To the President of Congress. December 31st, 1782, 150
Satisfaction of the King with the conduct of Congress,
in regard to the overtures of the English in America,
and the unanimity with which the States determine not to
treat separately.
Resolves of Congress on the departure of the French Army. In
Congress, January 1st, 1783, 152
Recommending the army to his Majesty's favorable
notice.--Declaring their high sense of the merits and
services of the Count de Rochambeau.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, January 10th, 1783, 154
The capitulations permitting exportations from the
islands captured by the French to British ports will not
be renewed.
To Robert Morris. Philadelphia, March 15th, 1783, 155
Loan of six millions procured by France for
America.--Conditions of the loan.--It will be impossible
to furnish further supplies.--Necessity of establishing
a public revenue in the United States.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, March 15th, 1783, 158
Conclusion of preliminaries of peace.--Necessity of
continuing preparations with vigor to secure favorable
terms definitively.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, March 18th, 1783, 161
George Washington to M. de la Luzerne. Head Quarters, March
19th, 1783, 161
Agrees that the articles of the treaty are so
inconclusive as to render a hostile attitude still
necessary.--Will endeavor to prevent the supplying of
the enemy with provisions.
Minutes of a verbal Communication from the Minister of
France. Office of Foreign Affairs, March 22d, 1783, 162
No essential difference exists between England and
France, but the latter will act only in conjunction with
her allies.--If military operations in America should
cease, and the war be continued elsewhere, the United
States may exclude the English from intercourse with
them.
George Washington to M. de la Luzerne. Head Quarters, March
29th, 1783, 166
Congratulations on the peace.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, April 10th, 1783, 167
The French troops in America will return immediately.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, April 29th, 1783, 167
Requests him to inform Congress of the intended
departure of the French forces.
George Washington to M. de la Luzerne. Head Quarters, May
13th, 1783, 168
Inviting him to be present at the rejoicings on account
of peace.
To Robert R. Livingston. Philadelphia, May 19th, 1783, 169
Affair of Mr Durham.--Complaints against Commodore
Gillon.
Count de Vergennes to M. de Lafayette. Versailles, June
29th, 1783, 170
Definition of a Free Port.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, September 17th,
1783, 170
Communicating the following letter, and requesting
information as to the measures taken in regard to the
subject.
Count de Vergennes to M. de la Luzerne. Versailles, March
10th, 1783, 171
Circumstances under which the last loan was obtained
from France.--Contract made on the occasion.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, November 2d,
1783, 175
General peace.--Commercial arrangements.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, November 21st, 1783, 176
His testimony in favor of the French
officers.--Congratulations on the evacuation of New
York.
M. de Calonne to M. de Lafayette. Versailles, January 9th,
1784, 177
L'Orient, Bayonne, Dunkirk, and Marseilles, will be
declared free ports in favor of the Americans.--The
commercial intercourse of the two countries will be
favored by all possible facilities.
To the President of Congress. Annapolis, January 29th, 1784, 178
Requests to be informed what measures have been taken by
Congress relative to the contract for loans made by
France.
To the President of Congress. Annapolis, January 30th, 1784, 179
Appointment of French Consuls in America.
To the President of Congress. Annapolis, February 18th,
1784, 180
Accounts of M. de la Radière.
To the President of Congress. Annapolis, April 6th, 1784, 180
Arrival of portraits of the King and Queen of France for
Congress.
To the President of Congress. Annapolis, April 9th, 1784, 181
Requests to be informed what arrangements have been made
relative to the loans procured from France.
Count de Vergennes to M. de la Luzerne. Versailles, December
24th, 1783, 182
Free ports in France.
Congress to the King of France, 183
Reception of the portraits of his Majesty and his
consort.
To the President of Congress. Office of Finance, April 16th,
1784, 184
Enclosing letters of Lafayette on the commercial
relations of France and America.--Services of Lafayette
in that matter.
To the President of Congress. Annapolis, April 21st, 1784, 185
Intends to return to France.--Pleasure afforded by his
residence in the United States.--Leaves M. de Marbois
_Chargé d'Affaires_.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, April 28th,
1784, 186
Claims of the heirs of Baron de Kalb.--Case of M. de
Fleury.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, May 6th, 1784, 189
Nomination of a Vice Consul at Charleston.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, May 13th, 1784, 190
Expresses his regret on leaving America.--Case of M. de
Fleury and of the heirs of Baron de Kalb.
Congress to M. de la Luzerne. In Congress, May 17th, 1784, 191
Regretting his departure.
To John Jay, Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Paris, (date
uncertain) 1787? 193
Requesting him to present to Congress his letter of
recall from his intended mission to America.
ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON'S CORRESPONDENCE.
Organization of a Foreign Department. In Congress, January
10th, 1781, 201
Appointment of a Secretary of Foreign Affairs. In Congress,
August 10th, 1781, 203
Election of Mr Livingston.
To Major General Nathaniel Greene. Philadelphia, October
20th, 1781, 203
Desires to open a correspondence with
him.--Congratulations on his successes.
To Governor George Clinton, of New York. Philadelphia,
October 22d, 1781, 204
Congratulations on the capture of Cornwallis.--Requests
information.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, October 29th,
1781, 205
Requests permission to examine the Secret Journals and
papers of Congress.
Circular to the Governors of the States. Philadelphia,
November 12th, 1781, 205
Requesting a return of the damage done by the British in
the respective States.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, November 18th,
1781, 207
Payment of the foreign Ministers.--Allowance for
different agents.--Affair of Mr John Temple.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, November 25th,
1781, 209
Enclosing certain papers.
General Greene to Robert R. Livingston. Camp Round O, South
Carolina, December 13th, 1781, 210
State of affairs in the south.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, January 18th,
1782, 211
Mr Deane's letters.
To Governor Jonathan Trumbull of Connecticut. Philadelphia,
January 22d, 1782, 212
Enclosing copies of Mr Deane's letters, confirming the
charges against him.--Desires an account of the damage
done by the British in Connecticut.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, January 25th,
1782, 213
Proposing certain changes in the organization of his
department.
To Major General Greene. Office of Foreign Affairs,
Philadelphia, January 31st, 1782, 217
Military operations in Europe.--State of the
negotiations.--Important influence of success in America
on the same.
Circular Letter to the Governors of the States.
Philadelphia, February 18th, 1782, 219
Transmitting resolutions of Congress, relative to
uniformity in the laws concerning foreigners, and to
boundaries of the respective States.
To Governor Rutlege of South Carolina. Office of Foreign
Affairs, Philadelphia, February 19th, 1782, 220
Desires to open a correspondence with him.
Circular Letter to the Governors of the States.
Philadelphia, February 19th, 1782, 221
Results of the last campaign.--Present disposition and
means of England, Holland, Spain, and France.--Necessity
of exertion at home.--Urges the adoption of measures for
raising regular supplies.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
February 21st, 1782, 227
Recommends a rehearing of the cases of the Dutch ship
Resolution, and of the Flemish brigantine Eeirsten,
captured by American privateers, and condemned by the
American Courts.
Regulations for the Department of Foreign Affairs. In
Congress, February 22d, 1782, 230
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
February 23d, 1782, 234
Organization of his department.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
February 26th, 1782, 235
Questions relative to the distribution of the prize
money from the prizes made by the Bon Homme Richard.
To Robert Smith, Commercial Agent at Havana. Philadelphia,
February 26th, 1782, 237
Desires information relative to the Island of Cuba.
To Don Francisco Rendon. Philadelphia, March 6th, 1782, 238
Answer to questions relative to the military force; the
resources of the United States; the probable extent of
their commerce with Spain; means of preventing an
illicit commerce with the Spanish Colonies; Spain will
be permitted to build and arm ships in the United
States.
To John Paul Jones. Philadelphia, April 17th, 1782, 241
Enclosing the protest of the commander of a Dutch
ship.--Requesting information as to the distribution of
the prize money among the crew of his squadron.
Thomas S. Lee to Robert R. Livingston. Annapolis, in
Council, April 19th, 1782, 242
Robert Morris to Robert R. Livingston. Office of Finance,
April 27th, 1782, 243
Desires to be furnished with an account of the salaries
of the foreign Ministers.
Circular Letter to the Governors of the States. Office of
Foreign Affairs, Philadelphia, May 2d, 1782, 243
The British cabinet refuses to admit the interference of
the mediating powers between England and her
Colonies.--Attempts will be made to open negotiations
with the separate States.--Necessity of adopting
decisive and vigorous measures to counteract this
policy.--Languidness on the part of the States.
To Robert Morris. Philadelphia, May 8th, 1782, 247
Salaries of Ministers.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs, May
8th, 1782, 247
Expenses of the foreign department.--Expenses of the
Ministers abroad.--Enclosing resolutions regulating the
allowance, &c. to the Ministers.
Charles Thomson to Robert R. Livingston. May 9th, 1782, 252
Places assigned to the Heads of Departments in Congress,
on occasion of a public audience of the French Minister.
To the Commander in Chief, and Major General Greene.
Philadelphia, May 13th, 1782, 253
Intelligence of the birth of the Dauphin.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, May 13th, 1782, 253
Proposing an expression of the inviolable attachment of
the United States to the alliance with France.
Office of Foreign Affairs, May 13th, 1782, 254
Resolution above referred to.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, May 15th, 1782, 255
Proposing a resolution, granting Mr Jay permission to
leave Madrid for France or Holland, if he thinks proper.
Office of Foreign Affairs, May 15th, 1782, 255
Resolution above mentioned.
To Richard Harrison of Cadiz. Philadelphia, May 21st, 1782, 256
Professions of kindness from the British commander
treated with distrust in America.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, May 21st, 1782, 257
Enclosing drafts of letters to Mr Dana.
George Washington to Robert R. Livingston. Head Quarters,
May 22d, 1782, 257
Preparations to celebrate the birth of the Dauphin.
Governor Trumbull to Robert R. Livingston. Hartford, May
23d, 1782, 258
Enclosing copies of letters to Mr Deane.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
June 5th, 1782, 258
To Robert Morris. Office of Foreign Affairs, June 6th, 1782, 259
Requesting information relative to interest due on Loan
Office certificates.
To Robert Morris. Office of Foreign Affairs, June 6th, 1782, 259
Robert Morris to Robert R. Livingston. Office of Finance,
June 7th, 1782, 260
Congress have applied to the States for a duty on
imports, to pay the debt.
To Governor Trumbull. Office of Foreign Affairs, June 12th,
1782, 260
Mr Deane.
Governor Greene to Robert R. Livingston. Newport, June 15th,
1782, 261
Enclosing a letter of congratulation on the birth of the
Dauphin.
Robert Morris to Robert R. Livingston. Office of Finance,
June 20th, 1782, 262
Requesting him to make estimates of the expense of his
department.
Robert Morris to Robert R. Livingston. Office of Finance,
June 20th, 1782, 262
Persons having claims on the United States must account
with vouchers.
The Governor of North Carolina to Robert R. Livingston.
North Carolina, June 24th, 1782, 263
Military preparations of the State.--The State records
being dispersed, is unable to furnish an estimate of the
damages done by the British.--Transmits a map, showing
the boundaries of the State.
To the Minister of France. Philadelphia, July 3d, 1782, 264
Transmitting the letter of congratulation on the birth
of the Dauphin, from the authorities of Rhode Island.
To William Lee, at Brussels. Philadelphia, July 18th, 1782, 265
Dr Franklin is directed to discharge his demands.
Governor Martin to Robert R. Livingston. North Carolina,
August 20th, 1782, 265
Disposition of North Carolina towards the enemy.--No
overtures will be listened to by that State.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, August 23d,
1782, 267
Accounts of the Ministers.
To William Moore, President of the Council of Pennsylvania.
Office of Foreign Affairs, September 8th, 1782, 268
Urging the passing of laws conformable to the treaty of
commerce and amity with France.
To Governor Weare, of New Hampshire. Office of Foreign
Affairs, September 9th, 1782, 269
Case of Mr Mc Clintock.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
September 9th, 1782, 270
Requests leave of absence.
To Governor Martin, of North Carolina. Office of Foreign
Affairs, September 9th, 1782, 270
Requests that further documents relative to the
boundaries of North Carolina may be transmitted.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
September 11th, 1782, 271
M. Dumas.--Mr Adams's accounts.--Mr Deane's accounts.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
September 12th, 1782, 273
Enclosing papers.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, September 12th,
1782, 274
Services of M. Dumas.--Objections to appointing him
_Chargé d'Affaires_.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
September 12th, 1782, 275
Resignation of Mr Laurens.--His salary continued.--False
account of his conduct in England.
Circular to the Governors of the States. Office of Foreign
Affairs, September 12th, 1782, 276
Enclosing a resolution of Congress.--Complains that
former resolutions have not been complied with.
Circular to the Governors of the States. Office of Foreign
Affairs. September 15th, 1782, 277
Reception of Mr Adams by the States-General.
General Greene to Robert R. Livingston. Head Quarters,
October 2d, 1782, 278
Celebration of the birth of the Dauphin.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, October 29th,
1782, 279
Recommending Mr Harrison to the notice of Congress.
To Thomas Jefferson. Philadelphia, November 13th, 1782, 280
Transmitting his appointment as Minister Plenipotentiary
for negotiating a peace.
To Governor Matthews, of South Carolina. Philadelphia,
November 20th, 1782, 280
Requests information relative to debts contracted by Mr
Gillon on behalf of South Carolina.
To Thomas Barclay. Philadelphia, November 26th, 1782, 281
Transmitting his appointment as Commissioner for
adjusting the accounts of Congress in Europe.
Thomas Jefferson to Robert R. Livingston. Chesterfield,
November 26th, 1782, 281
Accepting his appointment as Minister.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, December 2d,
1782, 282
Offers his resignation.--Inadequacy of the allowance.
To Richard Harrison. Philadelphia, December 5th, 1782, 284
State of military affairs in America.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
December 9th, 1782, 285
The Count de Rochambeau orders his troops to embark for
the West Indies.--Forces remaining.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, December 16th,
1782, 286
Extracts from a letter of Mr Jay relative to the Western
boundary.
General Greene to Robert R. Livingston. Head Quarters, South
Carolina, December 19th, 1782, 287
Evacuation of Charleston.
To the Committee of Congress appointed to repair to Rhode
Island. Philadelphia, December 20th, 1782, 287
Improbable that any further supplies will be furnished
by France.--Nothing is to be expected from Spain.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, December 22d,
1782, 288
Conclusion of the treaty of commerce with Holland.
Governor Martin to Robert R. Livingston. North Carolina,
December 23d, 1782, 289
Is unable to transmit an account of the damages done by
the British, without an Act of the Assembly.
Circular to the Governors of the States. Philadelphia,
December 23d, 1782, 290
Enclosing a copy of Mr Oswald's commission to treat with
the United States.
To William Greene, Governor of Rhode Island. Philadelphia,
January 4th, 1783, 291
Foreign loans and grants since
1779.--Spain.--Portugal.--Holland.--France.
Thomas Jefferson to Robert R. Livingston. Baltimore,
February 7th, 1783, 297
Prevented from sailing by English cruisers.
Thomas Jefferson to M. de la Luzerne. Baltimore, February
7th, 1783, 298
Is unwilling to expose the French frigate offered to
convey him, on his account.
To General Greene. Philadelphia, February 14th, 1783, 299
Importance of the evacuation of Charleston.--Prospect of
peace on favorable terms.
To Thomas Jefferson. Philadelphia, February 14th, 1783, 300
Enclosing a resolution of Congress.
To Thomas Jefferson. Philadelphia, February 18th, 1783, 301
Congress will be unwilling to lose his services, if the
negotiations are not concluded.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
February 18th, 1783, 302
Enclosing letters from Mr Jefferson and Mr Lee.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, February 26th,
1783, 303
Inexpediency of keeping Mr Dana at St Petersburg.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, February 26th, 1783, 304
Great Britain appears disposed to peace.--State of the
negotiations.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, March 12th, 1783, 305
Signing of the Preliminary Articles.--Mr Oswald
proposes that the British forces in America be permitted
to embark for West Florida without molestation.
To General Greene. Philadelphia, March 12th, 1783, 307
Signing of the preliminaries.--Remaining obstacles in
the way of a definitive treaty.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
March 13th, 1783, 309
Probability of an expedition against West Florida.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
March 18th, 1783, 309
Appearances of distrust of France in the signing of the
preliminaries, and the insertion of the Separate
Article.--Evils which may arise from these
measures.--Proposes that Congress adopt resolutions,
directing the communication of the article to the French
Minister, and declaring the preliminaries are not to
take effect until peace is signed between France and
Great Britain.
Circular to the Governors of the States. Philadelphia, March
18th, 1783, 315
Forwarding a copy of the preliminary treaty.--The
conclusion of the definitive treaty is yet
uncertain.--Warlike preparations are continued by France
and England.--Desires that an account of the damage done
by the enemy may be transmitted to him.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
Philadelphia, March 21st, 1783, 317
Enclosing a letter from Mr Barclay.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, March 24th, 1783, 318
Intelligence of a general peace.
To Sir Guy Carleton. Philadelphia, March 24th, 1783, 319
The French cruisers are recalled.--Expresses a wish that
measures may be taken by the English commanders to
discontinue hostilities.
To Rear Admiral Digby. Office of Foreign Affairs,
Philadelphia, March 24th, 1783, 320
Desiring that measures may be concerted for the
cessation of hostilities.
Sir Guy Carleton to Robert R. Livingston. New York, March
26th, 1783, 321
Does not feel authorised to order a cessation of
hostilities without official communication. Presumes
that Congress will immediately release prisoners of war.
Admiral Digby, to Robert R. Livingston. New York, March
27th, 1783, 322
Cannot withdraw his cruisers until the reception of
official accounts.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
March 28th, 1783, 323
Moneys remaining in his hand.
To Thomas Jefferson. Philadelphia, April 4th, 1783, 324
His departure is rendered unnecessary by the peace.
William Paca to Robert R. Livingston. In Council, Annapolis,
April 4th, 1783, 324
Measures taken to ascertain the damages done by the
British.
Sir Guy Carleton to Robert R. Livingston. New York, April
6th, 1783, 325
Receives official information of the conclusion of
peace.--Liberation of prisoners.--Restitution of
confiscated estates.
Admiral Digby to Robert R. Livingston. Lion, off New York,
April 6th, 1783, 327
Recall of British cruisers.
To the President of Congress. Office of Foreign Affairs,
April 10th, 1783, 327
Communicating the preceding letters.--Doubts as to the
time of the cessation of hostilities.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, April 10th,
1783, 328
Encloses a draft of a Proclamation for the suspension of
hostilities.
To Gen. Greene. Philadelphia, April 12th, 1783, 329
Communicating the Proclamation of the suspension of
hostilities.
To Sir Guy Carleton. Philadelphia, April 12th, 1783, 330
Cessation of hostilities.
To Rear Admiral Digby. Philadelphia, April 12th, 1783, 332
Recall of American cruisers.--Captures made subsequent
to the 3d of March on the American coast.
To George Washington. Philadelphia, April 12th, 1783, 333
Congratulations on the peace.--No time fixed for the
evacuation of New York.
Circular to the Governors of the States. Philadelphia, April
12th, 1783, 334
Congratulations on the peace.
Sir Guy Carleton to Robert R. Livingston. New York, April
14th, 1783, 335
Requests the appointment of an agent of Congress to
superintend the embarkations on the evacuation of New
York.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, April 21st,
1783, 335
Inexpediency of advancing the sums required by Mr Dana,
in case of a treaty with Russia.
George Washington to Robert R. Livingston. Head Quarters,
April 22d, 1783, 336
Liberation of prisoners.
George Washington to Robert R. Livingston. Head Quarters,
May 13th, 1783, 337
Indecisive interview with Sir Guy Carleton.--Disinclined
to give up Long Island.
To the Chairman of a Committee of Congress. Philadelphia,
May 19th, 1783, 338
Desires to retire from his office.--His expenses have
exceeded the salary.
To Joseph Nourse. Philadelphia, May 26th, 1783, 340
Account of the moneys received from Holland, France, and
Spain.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, June 2d, 1783, 342
Transmitting a letter from M. Dumas.
ROBERT MORRIS'S CORRESPONDENCE.
Organization of the Finance Department. In Congress,
February 7th, 1781, 347
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, March 13th,
1781, 348
Objections to accepting the office of Superintendent of
Finance.--Conditions on which he will enter the post.
Proceedings in Congress, 352
Resolutions empowering Mr Morris to appoint his own
assistants.
To a Committee of Congress. Date uncertain, 353
Powers necessary for conducting the affairs of his
department.--Officers that must be subject to his
control.
Proceedings in Congress, 358
Relative to the appointment and removal of officers by
the Superintendent of Finance.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, May 14th, 1781, 360
Causes which will delay his entering on the duties of
his office.--Requests that all past transactions may be
adjusted, and that all debts remaining due may be
funded.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, May 17th, 1781, 364
Enclosing a plan for a National Bank.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, May 23d, 1781, 364
Requests to be authorised to import specie at the risk
of Congress.
To Alexander Hamilton. Philadelphia, May 26th, 1781, 365
Reasons for the small capital of the bank.
To Major General Philip Schuyler. Philadelphia, May 29th,
1781, 367
Requesting him to purchase flour.--Pledges himself in
his public and private capacity to advance the money for
the same.
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, June 4th, 1781, 370
The money granted by France has not been placed to his
order.
To B. Franklin. Philadelphia, June 8th, 1781, 370
The grant of France having been committed to his
disposition, he has made Le Couteulx & Co. his bankers.
To Messrs Le Couteulx & Co., Bankers in Paris. Philadelphia,
June 8th, 1781, 372
Appointing them bankers for the United States.
To M. de la Luzerne, Minister of France. Philadelphia, June
8th, 1781, 373
Requesting him to order five hundred thousand livres to
be deposited with Le Couteulx & Co.
Circular respecting the National Bank. Philadelphia, June
11th, 1781, 374
To the President of Congress. Philadelphia, June 21st, 1781, 376
Desires to be intrusted with the disposition of bills
deposited by Congress with the Pennsylvania bank.
To B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 13th, 1781, 377
Efforts to restore the credit of the United
States.--Necessity of foreign aid.--Applications are
directed to be made to Spain.--Desires a loan of fifteen
millions from France to pay off the Loan Office
Certificates.
To B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 14th, 1781, 383
Requests him to converse with the Paris bankers on the
plan of the National Bank.--The bank will deal
profitably in bills of exchange.--Intended increase of
the capital.
To the Governor of Havana. Philadelphia, July 17th, 1781, 384
State of the finances.--Plan of the National
Bank.--Solicits deposits from Spain.--Sends bills for
this purpose.--Sends a frigate to receive the sum drawn
for in specie.
To Robert Smith. Philadelphia, July 17th, 1781, 390
Directing him to use his efforts in favor of the
bank.--Sends a cargo of flour to be returned in
specie.--Bill of exchange on Messrs Le Couteulx & Co. to
be presented to the Governor of Havana.
To B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 19th, 1781, 395
Supplies obtained by Colonel Laurens.--The proposed new
loan may be retained in France.
To B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 21st, 1781, 396
Banking operations in regard to the Pennsylvania
emission of bills of credit.--Has been unable to fulfil
Dr Franklin's contract relative to supplies.
Circular to the Governors of the States. Philadelphia, July
25th, 1781, 400
The accounts of the United States with the States will
be liquidated as soon as possible.--Desires to be
informed of the revenue and financial operations of the
State.
B. Franklin to Robert Morris. Passy, July 26th, 1781, 405
Expressing his satisfaction with Mr Morris's
appointment.--Difficulties in the situation of a public
officer.
B. Franklin to Robert Morris. Passy, July 26th, 1781, 406
Disposition of the moneys raised in France.
To the Governors of several States. Philadelphia, July 27th,
1781, 408
Importance of a compliance with the recommendation of
Congress for laying an impost on imports.--Answer to the
objection, that commerce will not bear the duty.--Error
of the notion that the duty should be carried to the
account of the State where levied.--The debt cannot be
apportioned to the States.--Hopes of the enemy from
disunion.
To John Jay. Philadelphia, July 29th, 1781, 414
Enclosing the above letters to the Governor of Havana
and Mr Smith.
To the President of the Council of Pennsylvania.
Philadelphia, July 30th, 1781, 415
Financial operation's of Pennsylvania.--Accounts with
the United States.--Mr Searle's mission to Holland.
George Washington to Robert Morris. Head Quarters, Dobbs's
Ferry, August 2d, 1781, 417
Plan of striking a blow in Virginia.--Wishes information
as to the probability of obtaining vessels and
provisions in the Chesapeake.
To M. de la Luzerne. Philadelphia, Aug. 2d, 1781, 419
Fluctuations in the exchange between the United States
and France.--Efforts to raise and settle the value of
the bills.--The bills issued by the French have
disturbed his operations.--Offers to negotiate their
bills, or supply the French forces.
To M. de la Luzerne. Philadelphia, Aug. 4th, 1781, 423
Rate of exchange.--Sum necessary to supply the French
army.
To the Governor of Massachusetts. Office of Finance, August
4th, 1781, 424
Desiring him to equip the America, and to fit the Deane
and Alliance for sea.
To the Governors of Delaware, Maryland, and New Jersey.
Philadelphia, August 4th, 1781, 425
Requesting them to comply with the demands of Mr
Gouverneur Morris during his absence.
To George Washington. Camp, Aug. 13th, 1781, 426
Impolicy of making large demands on the
States.--Proposing reforms in the army.--Proposing
queries on this subject.
George Washington to Robert Morris. Head Quarters, Dobbs's
Ferry, August 17th, 1781, 430
Provisions required for the expedition to
Virginia.--Necessary to give the troops one month's
pay.--Requires five hundred guineas for secret services.
To George Washington. Office of Finance, August 22d, 1781, 431
Difficulty of raising specie.
To the Governors of New Jersey and Delaware. Office of
Finance, August 22d, 1781, 432
Urging the furnishing of supplies.
To the Governor of Virginia. Office of Finance, August 23d,
1781, 434
Preparations necessary in Virginia.--Desires information
as to the amount of supplies which can be furnished.
To Messrs Le Couteulx & Co. Office of Finance, Philadelphia,
August 26th, 1781, 435
Bills drawn on them.--Funds deposited to meet the
drafts.
George Washington to Robert Morris. Chatham, August 27th,
1781, 436
Preparations for the expedition into Virginia.--Desires
pay for the troops.
To Donaldson Yeates. Office of Finance, August 28th, 1781, 438
Directing him to engage vessels for the transportation
of the expedition into Virginia.
To B. Franklin. Philadelphia, August 28th, 1781, 439
Drafts on Le Couteulx & Co.--Resignation of M.
Necker.--Arrival of Colonel Laurens.--Expedition to
Virginia.
To the President of Congress. August 28th, 1781, 442