TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.
Paris, April 7th, 1783.
Dear Sir,
After the preliminaries had been settled and ratified, the Spanish Ambassador informed me that his Court was ready to receive me, not only in form, but "très honnêtement." He then expected full instructions relative to the proposed treaty.
The Marquis de Lafayette, in his journey through Madrid, manifested great zeal to serve us there. A copy of a letter from him to the Minister, will be sent you by another opportunity, though I imagine he has already forwarded it.
On the 29th ult. the Spanish Ambassador communicated to me the desire of his Court that I would return to Madrid, and there complete the treaty, for that in their opinion, it ought to be concluded either at Madrid or at Philadelphia.
You will have this communication at large in another letter.
No Ministry yet in England, nor any news of Barney, nor from you, since the 3d of January.
The definitive treaties must be concluded, and the heats of summer abated, before either my business here, or the very delicate state of my health will admit of a journey to Spain. Be assured of my esteem and regard.
I am, Dear Sir, &c.