I flatter myself with being in Virginia in the autumn. The particular time depends upon too many contingencies to be now fixed. I shall hope the pleasure of seeing yourself and Mrs. Monroe either in Albemarle or wherever our route may cross each other. Present me affectionately to her and to my good neighbors generally, and be assured of the great and sincere esteem of, dear Sir, your affectionate friend and humble servant.
TO MR. JOHN COFFIN JONES.
New York, June 23, 1790.
Sir,—I duly received your favor of May 1st, and communicated to the President the part relative to Mr. Laneguy, who would have been disposed to pay all possible respect to your recommendation. The first rule on that subject was to appoint a native Consul wherever a good one would accept of it; but where no native could be found, the person in possession was confirmed. Dr. Franklin had appointed a Mr. Cathalan as agent, early in the war, a very substantial merchant of Marseilles. He and his son have paid great attention to our concerns there, had much trouble, and no emolument from it. It was thought unjust to remove him without cause. The commission is given to the son, as being otherwise well qualified, and particularly as understanding well our language and usages, acquired by a residence in England. A bill which may be called the true navigation act for the United States, is before Congress, and will probably pass. I hope it will lay the foundation of a due share of navigation for us. I am, with great esteem, Sir, your most obedient humble servant.
TO MR. DUMAS.
New York, June 23, 1790.
Dear Sir,—I arrived at this place the latter end of March, and undertook the office to which the President had been pleased to appoint me, of Secretary of State, which comprehends that of Foreign Affairs. Before I had got through the most pressing matters which had been accumulating, a long illness came upon me, and put it out of my power for many weeks to acknowledge the receipt of your letters.
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