Paris, October 13th, 1782.
Dear Sir,
I hope my letter to you of the 18th of September, of which I also sent a duplicate, has come safe to hand, for it contained important matter, viz. a copy of a letter from M. Marbois to the Count de Vergennes, against our sharing in the fishery.
This Court advised and persuaded us to treat with Mr Oswald under his first commission. I positively refused.
Count d'Aranda will not or cannot exchange powers with me, and yet wants me to treat with him; this Court would have me do it, but I decline it.
I would give you details, but must not until I have an American to carry my letters from hence.
Mr Oswald is well disposed. You shall never see my name to a bad peace, nor to one that does not secure the fishery.
I have received many long letters from you, which I am as busy in decyphering as my health will permit.
M. de Lafayette is very desirous to give us his aid; but as we have a competent number of Commissioners, it would not be necessary to give him that trouble.
I am, Dear Sir, with great esteem and regard, your most obedient servant,