TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Office of Finance, September 30th, 1784.
Sir,
I do myself the honor to enclose for the inspection of Congress a copy of a letter of the 14th of last month from the Marquis de Lafayette; and with it I send the originals, which were delivered by him to me. The unexampled attention to every American interest, which this gentleman has exhibited, cannot fail to excite the strongest emotions in his favor, and we must at the same time admire the judgment which he has shown in the manner of his applications, as well as the industry in selecting proper materials. There can be little doubt, but that his interest at his own Court must always prove beneficial to this country, while the same cordiality shall continue which now subsists between him and the Venerable Plenipotentiary now resident at Passy.
I shall not hazard opinions upon the matters which have employed the attention of M. de Lafayette, as a negotiator from this country to that which gave him birth. It would be intruding sentiments which will suggest themselves. But while I feel the delicacy and perhaps the danger of asking from France the moderation or abolition of particular duties, thereby establishing a precedent for similar requests on her part, I hope Congress will pardon a wish prompted by the general interests of commerce, that the statement of all those duties might be translated and published, for the government of those who may form expeditions to those different ports now opened to us.
I have the honor to be, &c.
ROBERT MORRIS.