[TO M. TERRASSON.]
Paris, May 7, 1788.
Sir,—I have read with attention the papers on the subject of the canal of the Santee and Cooper rivers, and shall be glad to do anything I can to promote it. But I confess I have small expectations for the following reason: General Washington sent me a copy of the Virginia act for opening the Potomac. As that canal was to unite the commerce of the whole western country almost, with the eastern, it presented a great view. The General detailed the advantages of it, and it had the weight of his name, and was known to be under his immediate direction. It was pushed here among the monied men to obtain subscriptions, but not a single one could be obtained. The stockjobbing in this city offered greater advantages than to buy shares in the canal. I tried whether they would lend money on the security of the canal, but they answered they could get as good an interest by lending to their own government, with a douceur in the outset, and would have their money under their own eye, more at their command, and more sure as to the payment of interest. However, if you find any opening, and can point out to me how I may be useful in promoting it, I shall do it with infinite pleasure. I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem, Sir, your most obedient, and most humble servant.
[TO M. DUMAS.]
Paris, May 15, 1788.
Sir,—My first moments after my return having been necessarily occupied by letters which had come during my absence, and which required immediate answers, I have not till now been able to resume my correspondence with you, and to inform you of my safe arrival here after a very agreeable tour through Germany. Our news from America comes down to the 14th of March. At that time the state of the new constitution was thus: It had been accepted in Massachusetts by
| 187 | ayes, against | 168 | noes. | ||
| Connecticut | 148 | " | 40 | " | |
| Pennsylvania | 46 | " | 23 | " | |
| Delaware | 22 | " | 00 | " | |
| New Jersey | 39 | " | 00 | " | |
| Georgia | 33 | " | 00 | " | |
| 475 | 231 |
The Conventions of the other States were to meet as follows:
| Maryland | April 21. |
| South Carolina | May 12. |
| Virginia | May 26. |
| New York | June 17. |
| North Carolina | July — |
| New Hampshire | June — |