I have the honor to be, Sir, with respect and esteem,
ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.
TO DAVID HARTLEY.
Passy, September 17th, 1782.
My dear Friend,
Since those acknowledged in my last, I have received your several favors of August the 16th, 20th, and 26th. I have been a long time afflicted with the gravel and gout, which have much indisposed me for writing. I am even now in pain, but will no longer delay some answer.
I did not perfectly comprehend the nature of your appointment respecting the refugees, and I supposed you would in a subsequent letter explain it. But, as I now find you have declined the service, such explanation is become unnecessary.
I did receive the paper you inquire about, entitled Preliminaries, and dated May, 1782, but it was from you, and I know nothing of their having been communicated to this Court. The third proposition, "that in case the negotiation between Great Britain and the allies of America should not succeed, but the war continue between them, America should act and be treated as a neutral nation," appeared at first sight inadmissible, being contrary to our treaty. The truce too seems not to have been desired by any of the parties.
With unalterable esteem and affection, I am, my dear Friend, ever yours, &c.