I received a letter yesterday from Count de Rochambeau, dated on the 24th of last month, wherein he informs me, that he had come to a determination to move on the 27th towards the head of the Bay, where he will be at hand to take such measures as you may judge proper, as soon as we receive news from Europe. He desires me to communicate this to your Excellency, till he can write you himself. As he does not go any distance from the Bay, and as he will always be ready to turn off to the southward if necessary, I hope it will meet your approbation.
I wait his answer respecting the interview, which you have proposed to him, and which I sincerely desire may take place here. It seems to me impossible, that we should not have some news from France towards the middle of this month.
From the last intelligence from Europe, up to the 1st of May, we learn nothing important, except the general disposition of the Dutch to ally themselves with the United States. But it is probable, that Mr Adams will open the negotiation by demanding the acknowledgment and guarantee of your independence, and this circumstance may prevent the conclusion of a treaty of commerce, which seems to be the point that has most influence with the States General. But as the inclination of the people seems absolutely towards the alliance, I hope the difficulties will be successively got over.
I have the honor to be, &c.
LUZERNE.
TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.
Translation.
Philadelphia, July 8th, 1782.
Sir,
You will receive by M. de Vauban a letter from Count de Rochambeau, informing your Excellency that he will be here on the 13th or 14th of this month. I hope for the honor of seeing you here by the 15th at farthest, and I felicitate myself, that matters will concur to bring you here precisely at the time, when I shall celebrate the birth of the Dauphin. Your presence, and that of Mrs Washington, will render the festival complete, and I hope the gentlemen, who compose your family, will accompany you. I do not send any written invitations to them, nor to the Generals and other officers of your army, but your Excellency knows, that nothing would be more agreeable to me, than their participation in celebrating an event, which is so interesting to us, and which I know is so to all our allies. Everybody, whom your Excellency may bring with you, will be welcome.