“They talk much of the peace. I think, entre nous, that the greatest difficulty will come from the Spaniards, and, moreover, I believe that the enemies are not sincere.
“They have piled up disputes and artifices à propos to the question of the American limits, and thus it rests. My opinion is, that at the bottom of their hearts they are determined, if they can, to attempt to bring about some turn of their affairs in the next campaign. God grant that we shall be able to make a vigorous effort, particularly as regards New York.
“I arrived here but yesterday morning, and am much occupied with the affairs of the service.”
On the 20th of January, 1783, the final treaty was signed. La Fayette was then at Cadiz preparing to sail to America, bearing the news of the glad tidings of peace, when an occurrence took place which revealed the unselfishness of his ambition, and the loyalty of his love for America. Mr. Carmichael, who had been appointed by Congress Chargé d’Affaires to the court of Madrid, was not received by the king of Spain in his diplomatic relation, although that monarch had signed the treaty acknowledging the independence of the States. In this emergency, Mr. Carmichael wrote to La Fayette, seeking his aid. The marquis generously determined to deprive himself of the great pleasure of announcing to Washington the joyful news of the treaty; and he therefore sent a letter to the President of Congress, communicating the tidings of peace, while he himself hastened to Madrid to negotiate in behalf of the honor of America; and he obtained from the king the full recognition of the American ambassador in his official character.
The following is the memorable letter of La Fayette to Congress, announcing the treaty of peace:—
“To the President of Congress.
“Cadiz, Feb. 5, 1783.
“Sir: With such celerity as I can despatch a ship, I hope to inform Congress of the news of a general peace. Moreover, such are my sentiments under these circumstances that I cannot delay to present my felicitations. These sentiments one can judge of better through a knowledge of my heart, which, by means of such expressions, can only feebly render its emotions.
“I remember our former times with pleasure and with pride. Our present situation renders me happy. I behold in the future a tempting prospect.
“The preceding letters have made known to Congress how, until now, I had the intention of leaving France. I have been detained by some despatches. I refer to my letter of the 3d for a fuller explanation of my conduct.