P. S. A second division is said to be preparing at Brest, of several ships of the line and several thousand men.
J. A.
COUNT DE VERGENNES TO JOHN ADAMS.
Translation.
Versailles, May 24th, 1780.
Sir,
I have received the two letters, which you have done me the honor to write to me on the 12th and 19th of the present month. I had no need of your apology to induce me to render justice to the patriotic sentiments with which you are animated. You understand the interests and engagements of your country, and I am persuaded you will never have any other object, than to consolidate both the one and the other. You can judge by this, Sir, what confidence we place in your principles, and what security we feel beforehand, as to the conduct you will hold, in case the Court of London should propose to you overtures of conciliation.
I offer you many thanks for the American gazettes, which you have been so kind as to send me. I will take care that they shall all be returned.
I have the honor to be, &c.