THE
DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE
OF THE
AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
VOL. III.

THE
DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE
OF THE
AMERICAN REVOLUTION;

BEING

THE LETTERS OF BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, SILAS DEANE, JOHN
ADAMS, JOHN JAY, ARTHUR LEE, WILLIAM LEE, RALPH
IZARD, FRANCIS DANA, WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, HENRY
LAURENS, JOHN LAURENS, M. DE LAFAYETTE, M.
DUMAS, AND OTHERS, CONCERNING THE FOREIGN
RELATIONS OF THE UNITED STATES DURING
THE WHOLE REVOLUTION;

TOGETHER WITH

THE LETTERS IN REPLY FROM THE SECRET COMMITTEE OF
CONGRESS, AND THE SECRETARY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS.

ALSO,

THE ENTIRE CORRESPONDENCE OF THE FRENCH MINISTERS,
GERARD AND LUZERNE, WITH CONGRESS.

Published under the Direction of the President of the United States, from
the original Manuscripts in the Department of State, conformably
to a Resolution of Congress, of March 27th, 1818.

EDITED

BY JARED SPARKS.

VOL. III.

BOSTON:

NATHAN HALE AND GRAY & BOWEN;
G. & C. &. H. CARVILL, NEW YORK; P. THOMPSON, WASHINGTON.
1829.

Hales's Steam Press
No. 6, Suffolk Buildings, Congress Street, Boston.

OF THE

THIRD VOLUME.

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN'S CORRESPONDENCE.

	Page.
To John Hancock, President of Congress. Nantes, December 8th, 1776,	[5]
Announces his arrival in France.—Does not assume a public character.—Military stores destined for America.
To the Committee of Secret Correspondence. Nantes, December 8th, 1776,	[7]
The Committee of Secret Correspondence to Benjamin Franklin. Baltimore, January 1st, 1777,	[9]
Announcing his appointment as Commissioner to Spain.
To the Committee of Secret Correspondence. Paris, January 4th, 1777,	[9]
Arrives in Paris.—Has an audience with Count de Vergennes.—Interview with the Spanish Ambassador.—The nation favorable to the American cause.
To the President of Congress. Paris, January 20th, 1777,	[10]
Recommending Captain Balm.
To the Count d'Aranda, Spanish Ambassador to the Court of France. Passy, April 7th, 1777,	[11]
Communicates the propositions of the United States to Spain.—Congress will also assist France and Spain in the conquest of the English sugar islands.
To General Washington. Paris, June 13th, 1777,	[12]
Recommending Count Kotkouski.—Count Pulaski.
To General Washington. Paris, June 13th, 1777,	[13]
Recommending Baron de Frey.
M. Dubourg to B. Franklin. Paris, September 8th, 1777,	[14]
Requesting a letter of recommendation for M. Gerard, who wishes to settle in America.
To Richard Peters. Passy, September 12th, 1777,	[15]
Recommending M. Gerard.
Remarks on a Loan for the United States,	[15]
America a safer debtor than Britain, from her general industry, frugality, prudence, ability, and virtue.
To David Hartley, member of Parliament. Passy, October 14th, 1777,	[23]
The conduct of Great Britain has rendered submission impossible.—Cruel treatment of the American prisoners in England.—Propositions for their relief.
To James Lovell. Paris, December 21st, 1777,	[27]
Mr Deane's recommendations of officers.—Numerous and vexatious applications, with high recommendations.
To James Hutton. Passy, February 1st, 1778,	[29]
Means of reconciling America.
To David Hartley. Passy, February 12th, 1778,	[31]
Alienation of America from Great Britain.—Kindness and cordiality of France.—Change of Ministry necessary for conciliation.—Subscriptions in England for the relief of American prisoners.—Mr Hutton.
To David Hartley. Passy, February 26th, 1778,	[34]
Lord North's conciliatory bills.—Advice to the English whigs.
To James Hutton. Passy, March 24th, 1778,	[37]
The Commissioners are ready to treat.
Note from William Pultney to B. Franklin. March 29th, 1778,	[37]
Desires an interview with Dr Franklin.
To William Pultney. Passy, March 30th, 1778,	[38]
America cannot treat on any terms short of independence—will not treat at all in case of a war against France.
To Dr Bancroft. Passy, April 16th, 1778,	[40]
British Commissioners cannot succeed in America on their terms.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. Paris, April 23d, 1778,	[40]
Advises him to take care of his own safety.
To Count de Vergennes. Passy, April 24th, 1778,	[41]
Giving an account of his conversations with Mr Hartley; of the visit of Mr Chapman, an agent of Lord Shelburne.—The Quebec fleet.
Count de Vergennes to B. Franklin. Versailles, April 25th, 1778,	[44]
Policy of the English to excite divisions and distrust.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Yorktown, June 20th, 1778,	[45]
Answer to a letter from Brussels. Passy, July 1st, 1778,	[45]
Reply to insinuations against the faith of France.—Future prospects of America.—Acknowledgment of the independency of little consequence to America.—The King's political studies.—Peace is to be obtained only on equal terms.—Ridicules the offers of rewards.
To James Lovell. Passy, July 22d, 1778,	[52]
Proceedings relative to Mr Deane.—Beaumarchais.—Eleventh and twelfth articles of the treaty.—Mr Izard.—Inconvenience and expense of maintaining several Commissioners instead of one.—War between England and France; war in Germany.—Difficulty of raising loans.—Drafts of Congress on the Commissioners.
Instructions to B. Franklin, as Minister Plenipotentiary to the Court of France,	[59]
Committee of Foreign Affairs to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, October 28th, 1778,	[62]
Forwarding his new credentials.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, December 8th, 1778,	[63]
Depreciation of the currency.
Dr Price to B. Franklin. London, Jan. 18th, 1779,	[64]
Declines removing to America.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, January 29th, 1779,	[65]
English successes in Georgia.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, February 8th, 1779,	[66]
To David Hartley. Passy, February 22d, 1779,	[66]
America cannot relinquish her alliance with France to treat with Britain.
Letter respecting Captain Cook. Passy, March 10th, 1779,	[67]
Recommending to afford Captain Cook all the assistance he may need.
To David Hartley. Passy, March 21st, 1779,	[68]
Delay in the exchange of prisoners.—Losses of the English.—Growth of America.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, April 22d, 1779,	[70]
Proposing a truce.—Interests of France.—Advantages of adopting some preliminaries.
Observations by Mr Hartley,	[74]
Enclosed in the preceding.
Instructions to John Paul Jones, Commander of the American Squadron in the service of the United States, now in the port of L'Orient,	[77]
To David Hartley. Passy, May 4th, 1779,	[78]
Relative to Mr Hartley's propositions.
To the Committee of Foreign Affairs. Passy, May 26th, 1779,	[81]
Receives his credentials.—Presented to the King.—American prisoners in France released.—Captain Jones's squadron.—Exchange of prisoners with England.—American prisoners there committed for high treason.—Necker unfavorably disposed towards America.—Accounts of the Commissioners.—Difficulty of raising a loan.—Charges of William Lee and Ralph Izard.—Recommends the appointment of consuls.—Agents and applications of the separate States.—Barbary Powers.—Disposition of the French.—Preparations of Spain.—Preparations in France.—Opinion of the Howes, Cornwallis, &c. of the impracticability of the conquest of America.
To James Lovell. Passy, June 2d, 1779,	[95]
Currency.—Charges of Mr Lee and Mr Izard.—Communication between Europe and America.—M. de la Luzerne.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, June 13th, 1779,	[98]
Enclosing a resolve relative to Beaumarchais's accounts.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 9th, 1779,	[98]
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 16th, 1779,	[99]
Burning of Fairfield.—Compensation of Ministers.—Forwards letters to the King of France.—Invoices of supplies desired.
Instructions from Congress to B. Franklin. In Congress, August 14th, 1779,	[101]
Proposing the mutual guaranty of the fisheries by France and the United States.
To the Marquis de Lafayette. Passy, August 24th, 1779,	[104]
Forwarding him a sword, in the name of the Congress.
The Marquis de Lafayette to B. Franklin. Havre, August 29th, 1779,	[104]
Acknowledging the reception of the sword.
To James Lovell. Passy, September 30th, 1779,	[105]
Supplies.—Receives nothing himself.
To Mr Bridgen. Passy, October 2d, 1779,	[106]
Devices on coins.
To John Jay, President of Congress. Passy, October 4th, 1779,	[108]
Beaumarchais's accounts.—Supplies.—M. Neufville's offers of a loan.—Demands of Mr Ross, Mr Izard, and Mr Lee.—Inactivity of the combined fleets.—Relations of Holland and England.—Favorable disposition of Portugal.—Exchange of prisoners.—Jones's cruise in the English waters.—Complaints of French officers returning from America.—Complaints against American cruisers.—Luxury of the Americans.—Monument to General Montgomery.—Supplies from Spain.
To James Lovell. Passy, October 17th, 1779,	[118]
Jones's cruise.—Mr Lee and Mr Deane.—Prospect of peace.—Return of Commodore Jones.
To R. Bernstorf, Minister of Foreign Affairs in Denmark. Passy, December 22d, 1779,	[121]
Remonstrates against the seizure of the American prizes in the ports of Norway.
To David Hartley. Passy, February 2d, 1780,	[125]
America will not treat without her allies.—His former offers to pay for the tea destroyed in Boston.—Indisposition to peace on the part of England.—Exchange of prisoners.—British barbarities in America.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, February 24th, 1780,	[128]
Drafts merely nominal.
To Samuel Huntington, President of Congress. Passy, March 4th, 1780,	[129]
Seizure of the prizes in Norway.—Quarrel between Commodore Jones and Captain Landais.—Necessity of appointing a consul.—Exchange of prisoners.—Prospects of England.—Supplies of France.
From R. Bernstorf, Minister of Foreign Affairs in Denmark, to B. Franklin. Copenhagen, March 8th, 1780,	[134]
On the seizure of the American prizes.
To James Lovell. Passy, March 16th, 1780,	[135]
Proposed convention in London.—Affairs of England.
To Joseph Reed, President of the State of Pennsylvania. Passy, March 19th, 1780,	[137]
Mr Pultney.—Errors corrected.
Count de Vergennes to B. Franklin. Versailles, May 11th, 1780,	[140]
Recommending the Baron d'Arendt.
To the Judges of the Admiralty at Cherbourg. Passy, May 16th, 1780,	[140]
Requesting the release of the neutral ship Flora; the cargo, if English, may be condemned.
To the President of Congress. Passy, May 22d, 1780,	[141]
Recommending the Baron d'Arendt.
To an Agent of American Cruisers. Passy, May 30th, 1780,	[142]
Free ships make free goods.
To the President of Congress. Passy, May 31st, 1780,	[143]
Complains of the trouble of maritime affairs.—Difficulty of meeting the drafts.—Accounts of the Commissioners.—American prizes in Danish ports.—Capture of neutral vessels with English cargoes.—European powers have adopted the rule, that free ships make free goods.—Unfavorable disposition in Europe towards England.—Difficulties in the exchange of prisoners.
To the President of Congress. Passy, June 1st, 1780,	[149]
Recommending Commodore Jones.
To C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, June 5th, 1780,	[149]
Respecting neutral ships.—Expresses a wish that all private property and all private individuals might be unmolested.—Letter of General Clinton.
Count de Vergennes to B. Franklin. Versailles, June 30th, 1780,	[152]
Orders to M. de la Luzerne relative to the French holders of American paper money.
Committee of Foreign Affairs to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 11th, 1780,	[153]
Making new drafts.
Committee of Foreign Affairs to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 11th, 1780,	[154]
Mr Laurens appointed to negotiate a loan in Holland.
Committee of Foreign Affairs to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 11th, 1780,	[155]
Communicating the acknowledgment of Congress for the attentions of the French Consul in Bergen.
Committee of Foreign Affairs to H. Dohrman, merchant, Lisbon. Philadelphia, July 11th, 1780,	[155]
Informing him of his appointment as agent of Congress for the relief of Americans in distress.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, July 17th, 1780,	[157]
Enclosing a copy of a conciliatory bill, rejected in the House of Commons.
To C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, July 26th, 1780,	[159]
Messrs Neufville.—Capture of Charleston of little consequence.
To the President of Congress. Passy, August 9th, 1780,	[161]
Disputes of Landais and Jones.—Necessity of appointing consuls.—Mr Adams offends the French Court.—The armed neutrality.
To James Lovell. Passy, August 10th, 1780,	[167]
Little value of pretended confidential information of secrets of State.—Transmits copies of instruments annulling the eleventh and twelfth articles.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, August 15th, 1780,	[169]
Notifying Dr Franklin of bills to be drawn on him.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Sept. 7th, 1780,	[170]
Enclosing proceedings of Congress relative to new drafts.—Increase of taxes for the improvement of the currency.
To C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, Oct. 2d, 1780,	[171]
Relative to M. Dumas's appointment and services.
To C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, Oct. 9th, 1780,	[172]
Has recommended M. Dumas to Mr Laurens as Secretary.—Requests advice as to the manner of applying to the States-General.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, October 28th, 1780,	[173]
Requesting him to transmit certain papers to Mr Jay at Madrid.
To Sir Grey Cooper, Baronet, Secretary to the Treasury of Great Britain. Passy, November 7th, 1780,	[174]
Requesting relief for Mr Laurens, prisoner in the Tower.
Charles Vernon, Lieutenant Governor of the Tower of London, to Sir Grey Cooper. Hampstead, November 27th, 1780,	[175]
Mr Laurens's treatment in the Tower.
Sir Grey Cooper to B. Franklin. London, November 29th, 1780,	[176]
Respecting Mr Laurens; enclosing the preceding.
Instructions from Congress to B. Franklin. In Congress, November 29th, 1780,	[176]
To James Lovell. Passy, December 2d, 1780,	[179]
Agrees to furnish the French troops in America with provisions, in order to meet the drafts of Congress.
To the President of Congress. Passy, December 2d, 1780,	[180]
Recommending the furnishing of provisions to the French troops.
To the President of Congress. Passy, December 3d, 1780,	[181]
Mr Laurens's captivity.—Memorial of Sir Joseph Yorke.—Delays in sending supplies.—Capture of a Portuguese ship with English property by an American armed vessel.—Recommends that neutral ships be not molested.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, December 21st, 1780,	[184]
Mr Palfrey appointed Consul to France.
Additional instructions from Congress to B. Franklin. In Congress, December 27th, 1780,	[185]
To Count de Vergennes. Passy, Feb. 13th, 1781,	[186]
Transmitting letters of Congress to the King.—Communicates the instructions of Congress.—Critical situation of America.—Quotes a letter of General Washington on this subject.—Disappointment in supplies expected from Spain.—Danger to Europe if America is recovered by England.—Necessity of immediate aid.
To Count de Vergennes. Passy, March 6th, 1781,	[189]
Instructed to apply for an early answer to the application of Congress for more aid.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. March 9th, 1781,	[189]
Proceedings of Congress on several subjects.
To M. de Rayneval, Secretary to the Council of State. Passy, March 11th, 1781,	[190]
Relative to supplies.
To the President of Congress. Passy, March 12th, 1781,	[192]
Relating his proceedings in obedience to his instructions; the King of France grants a further sum of six millions; France declines the mediation of Russia and Austria.—Requests to be relieved from public duties on account of his age and infirmities—Recommends his grandson, William Temple Franklin, to Congress.
To Francis Lewis and the Board of Admiralty. Passy, March 17th, 1781,	[197]
Account of the squadron and expedition of Captain Jones; disposition of the prizes; affair with Captain Landais; the Ministry wished it to be considered an American expedition.
Agreement between Captain John Paul Jones and the officers of the squadron,	[205]
James Lovell to B. Franklin. March 31st, 1781,	[207]
Military operations.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, May 9th, 1781,	[208]
Desiring the exchange of Mr Gouverneur and Dr Witherspoon.
To M. de Lafayette. Passy, May 14th, 1781,	[209]
Expedition against Arnold.—English policy.—Appointment of his successor to the Court of France.
To the President of Congress. Passy, May 14th, 1781,	[211]
Supplies.—Exchange of prisoners.—Plans of the English administration.
To Thomas Lewis. Passy, May 16th, 1781,	[215]
Supplies.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, May 17th, 1781,	[216]
Introducing Dr Putnam.
Count de Vergennes to B. Franklin. Versailles, June 8th 1781,	[216]
Colonel Laurens's purchases in Holland.—The grant of the king to be expended partly in France.
To the President of Congress. Passy, June 11th, 1781,	[217]
On the disposition of the French grant.
To John Adams. Passy, June 11th, 1781,	[218]
Relative to certain expenses of Mr Adams, charged on the United States.
The President of Congress to B. Franklin. In Congress, June 19th, 1781,	[220]
Appointment of new Ministers for negotiating a peace.—Dr Franklin's services necessary on this occasion.
To Major William Jackson. Passy, June 28th, 1781,	[221]
Directing him to stop the shipment of money in Holland.
Major William Jackson to B. Franklin. Amsterdam, June 29th, 1781,	[221]
Reason of his delay at Amsterdam.
To David Hartley. Passy, June 30th, 1781,	[222]
Informing him that Vergennes declines granting him a passport.
Major William Jackson to B. Franklin. Amsterdam, July 2d, 1781,	[223]
Remonstrating against the detention of the money, obtained from France by Colonel Laurens, and deposited with M. Fizeaux and Co. Amsterdam.—Communicates his determination to retain the money in his own hands.—Reasons for retaining the money referred to in the preceding letters.
To Major William Jackson. Passy, July 5th, 1781, at six in the morning,	[227]
Reasons for ordering the detention of the money, which was part of the grant obtained by Dr Franklin.
To Major William Jackson. Passy, July 5th, 1781,	[229]
Adhering to his former determination relative to the detention of the money.
To Major William Jackson. Passy, July 6th, 1781,	[229]
Account of the manner in which the money referred to in the preceding letters was obtained.—Exertions of Dr Franklin in obtaining supplies.
To the President of Congress. Passy, July 11th, 1781,	[232]
Reasons for detaining the money, intended to have been shipped at Amsterdam.
James Lovell to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 21st, 1781,	[233]
Forwarding duplicates of certain resolutions of Congress.
To C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, August 6th, 1781,	[234]
Entertains little hope of aid from Holland.—Coldness of that country.
To C. W. F. Dumas. Passy, August 10th, 1781,	[235]
Communicating intelligence from America.—Apologises for expressions in his former letter, and requests that it may not be shown.
To the President of Congress. Passy, September 13th, 1781,	[236]
Interview with the Count de Vergennes on communicating his instructions relative to the negotiations, and the letter of Congress to the King.—Accepts the appointment of negotiator.—Desires that a Consul-General may be appointed for France.
John Adams to B. Franklin. Amsterdam, October 4th, 1781,	[238]
Relative to certain expenses of the American Ministers.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, October 20th, 1781,	[238]
Mr Livingston is appointed Secretary of Foreign Affairs.—Military operations.—Preparations for another campaign.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, October 24th, 1781,	[242]
Announcing the capitulation of Yorktown.—Expresses a wish that Dr Franklin will accept his new appointment as negotiator.
To Thomas Mc'Kean, President of Congress. Passy, November 5th, 1781,	[243]
State of American prisoners in England.—Difficulties in effecting exchanges.—England refuses the mediation of the Powers; will treat with the United States only as subjects.—Proceedings of Colonel Laurens in Holland.—Confusion in shipping the supplies.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, November 24th, 1781,	[249]
Recommending certain French officers in the American service.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, November 26th, 1781,	[250]
Financial difficulties of America.—Importance of a French naval force in the American waters.—The commission for negotiating a commercial treaty with Great Britain discharged.—Preparations for a new campaign.—Supposed letters of Mr Deane.
William Alexander to B. Franklin. Paris, December 15th, 1781,	[256]
Requesting information concerning the disposition of France and America to treat with Great Britain.
To William Alexander. Passy, Dec. 15th, 1781,	[257]
To David Hartley. Passy, December 15th, 1781,	[257]
Concerning Mr Hartley's plan for securing the lives of the spectators at public spectacles in case of fire.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, December 16th, 1781,	[258]
Military operations.—Enclosing a resolution of Congress for raising a pillar at Yorktown; also an ordinance ascertaining what captures on the waters are lawful, with other American State papers.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, January 2d, 1782,	[260]
History of his proceedings for promoting negotiations for peace.—Conciliatory Bill of 1780, proposed as a basis; the question of independence to be waived; a separate treaty with America to be negotiated—Communicates these propositions to Lord North as general grounds of negotiation towards peace.—Lord North wishes to know if any person is authorised to treat on the part of America.—Urges the making of overtures for a separate negotiation.
Remarks on the Conciliatory Bill,	[267]
Enclosed in the preceding.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, January 7th, 1782,	[268]
Suggesting the objects of most importance to be negotiated; the limits of the United States; extend to the Mississippi on the West.—The fisheries; right of the Americans to fish on the banks of Newfoundland; sentiments of France on this subject.—Compensation to American royalists—Restitution of records and papers taken from America.
To David Hartley. Passy, January 15th, 1782,	[281]
No negotiations can be opened without the concurrence of France.—Objections to the Conciliatory propositions—Commissioners authorised to treat.—A formal acknowledgment of independence not made necessary by the treaty with France.
To the Count de Vergennes. Passy, Jan. 18th, 1782,	[285]
Capture of Flemish ships by American privateers.—English ships furnished with imperial papers after a pretended sale of ship and cargo at Ostend.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, January 23d, 1782,	[287]
Intercepted letters of Mr Deane.—Complains of want of intelligence from Europe.—Encloses resolutions of Congress relating to the fisheries and the western limits.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, January 24th, 1782,	[288]
Correcting Dr Franklin's misapprehensions of his propositions.—Cases in which America might treat separately.
Explanatory letter to Mr Hartley, referred to in the preceding,	[293]
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, January 26th, 1782,	[294]
Enclosing a convention for the establishment of consuls.
To Robert R. Livingston, Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Passy, January 28th, 1782,	[295]
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, February 1st, 1782,	[295]
Interview with the Minister; he is favorably disposed for peace.
The Danish Minister to the Count de Vergennes. Paris, February 6th, 1782,	[296]
Complains of the outrages of American armed vessels on the coast of Norway.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, February 13th, 1782,	[297]
Pressing for further assistance from France.—This measure would be advantageous to France herself.—Sufferings of American prisoners in England.—Disturbances in Vermont and New Hampshire.
To David Hartley. Passy, February 16th, 1782,	[301]
Acknowledges his misapprehension of Mr Hartley's former proposition.—Reasons of jealousy between France and England; English Commissioner at Dunkirk.—England must take the first step towards a peace with America.
Count de Vergennes to B. Franklin. Versailles, February 24th, 1782,	[303]
Enclosing the complaint of the Danish Count respecting outrages by American vessels on the coast of Norway.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. Feb. 28th, 1782,	[304]
Prospects of peace.—The Ministry favorably disposed.
Edmund Burke to B. Franklin. London, February 28th, 1782,	[305]
Resolution of the House of Commons.—Mr Laurens.
To the Count de Vergennes. Passy, March 3d, 1782,	[306]
Relative to the complaints of the Danish Court.—Expects redress for the seizure of American prizes in Danish ports.
To Robert R. Livingston. Passy, March 4th, 1782,	[308]
Complaints against American cruisers.—Influence and services of M. de Lafayette.—Changes in the British Ministry.—Unfriendly disposition of the King.—Relations with France.—Financial arrangements of Mr Morris.—American prisoners.—Arrival and reception of Cornwallis and Arnold in England.—Mr Deane's discontents; his vindication of Arnold.
To Robert R. Livingston. Passy, March 9th, 1782,	[314]
Address of the House of Commons to the King against continuing the war in America.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, March 9th, 1782,	[315]
Enclosing a letter from the Superintendent of Finance.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, March 11th, 1782,	[315]
Mr Digges appointed by the Ministry to inquire if any persons are authorised to treat.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, March 12th, 1782,	[316]
Enclosing the Parliamentary proceedings respecting the war with America; prelude to a general bill to enable the administration to treat.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, March 21st, 1782,	[318]
Dissolution of the Ministry.—Is desirous of negotiating the peace.
T. Digges to B. Franklin. Amsterdam, March 22d, 1782,	[320]
Appointed by the Ministry to inquire if any persons in Europe are commissioned by Congress to treat and to make known the disposition of the Ministry to open negotiations for a truce.—His communications with Mr Adams.
John Adams to B. Franklin. The Hague, March 26th, 1782,	[325]
Interview with Mr Digges; opposes the plan of a truce.—Many cities in Holland declare in favor of American independence.
To Robert R. Livingston. Passy, March 30th, 1782,	[328]
Policy of the Ministry; to divide America, and to separate America and France.—Singular language of the bill empowering the King to treat.
To John Adams. Passy, March 31st, 1782,	[329]
Mr. Digges's mission.—Delays of Holland and Spain.
To David Hartley. Passy, March 31st, 1782,	[330]
The five Commissioners empowered to treat.
To David Hartley. Passy, April 5th, 1782,	[331]
Has no confidence in Digges.—The Commissioners are ready to treat.—Reconciliation spoken of in the Parliamentary proceedings more than a mere peace.—Acts necessary to effect it.
To Robert R. Livingston. Passy, April 8th, 1782,	[334]
The new Ministry.—Recommending the Prince de Broglie.
To Henry Laurens. Passy, April 12th, 1782,	[335]
Encloses a copy of his commission, empowering him to treat.—Treaties and instructions forbid their treating without France.
M. de Rayneval to B. Franklin. Versailles, April 12th, 1782,	[336]
The French Minister approves his reply to Mr Hartley.—Proposals of the British Ministry for a separate treaty with France by Mr Forth.
To Robert R. Livingston. Passy, April 12th, 1782,	[338]
The new Ministry endeavor to gain over Holland.—Capture of St Joseph (Illinois) by the Spaniards.
To David Hartley. Passy, April 13th, 1782,	[340]
Insincerity of the late Ministry in their proposals for reconciliation; endeavoring at the same time to treat separately with France.
To John Adams. Passy, April 13th, 1782,	[341]
Mr Forth's mission to the French Ministry; Canada offered to France to induce her to treat separately; answer of the French Court.
Count de Vergennes to B. Franklin. Versailles, April 23d, 1782,	[342]
Enclosing the complaint of the Danish Court on account of the capture of a Danish vessel.
David Hartley to B. Franklin, London, May 1st, 1782,	[343]
The late Ministry wished for peace on prudential grounds, not for reconciliation; proposal of a separate peace was intended to excite distrust in France. His breviate laid before the Ministry, calculated to divest the war with America of hatred and jealousy against France.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, May 22d, 1782,	[353]
Enclosing a letter to the King; resolutions of Congress on the application of Sir Guy Carleton to forward despatches, and on the subject of prisoners in England.—Disposition towards France in America.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, May 25th, 1782,	[356]
Release of the American prisoners in England.—Prospect of reconciliation.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, May 30th, 1782,	[357]
Memorial on the subject of prize money due Captain Jones.—Inquires why the Danish Court applies to France on account of injuries of American cruisers.—Affair of Captain Huddy, who was hanged by a party of soldiers.
Richard Oswald to B. Franklin. Paris, June 5th, 1782,	[362]
Desiring the discharge of Lord Cornwallis's parole.
To Richard Oswald. Passy, June 5th, 1782,	[363]
Promises to comply with the request to discharge Lord Cornwallis.
John Adams to B. Franklin. The Hague, June 13th, 1782,	[364]
Mr Grenville only empowered to treat with France; the Ministry will be unwilling to make any concessions.—The Dutch are disposed to an alliance with America.—Policy of Russia.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, June 23d, 1782,	[366]
People in America not disposed to a separate treaty.—Affairs of Captain Huddy.—Case of the Ernten.
To Robert R. Livingston. Passy, June 25th, 1782,	[368]
An additional six millions cannot be obtained from France.—Mr Grenville is sent with full powers to treat with all the belligerent powers together.—Is joined by Mr Jay.—An act of Parliament was considered necessary to authorise the exchange of the American prisoners, as they were committed for high treason.—The Swedish Ambassador expresses a wish to treat with Dr Franklin.—Services of M. Dumas.
To Robert R. Livingston. Passy, June 29th, 1782,	[373]
Discharges Lord Cornwallis from his parole.—The intentions of the British Ministry seem to change with success.—Disinclination of the King to America.—Agents are sent by the Ministry into America to attempt a separate treaty.
JOURNAL.
From March 21st to July 1st, 1782. Passy, May 9th, 1782,	[376]
Reasons for keeping a Journal.—Visited by Lord Cholmondely, by whom he transmits the following.
To Lord Shelburne. Passy, March 22d, 1782,	[377]
Desires a general peace.
Lord Shelburne to B. Franklin. London, April 6th, 1782,	[378]
Lord Shelburne appointed Secretary of State; sends Mr Oswald to confer with Dr Franklin.
Henry Laurens to B. Franklin. London, April 7th, 1782,	[379]
Introducing Mr Oswald.—Desires to effect his exchange.—Conversation with Mr Oswald, in which Dr Franklin declares that America will only treat in concert with France.
To Count de Vergennes. Passy, April 15th, 1782,	[381]
Stating the mission of Mr Oswald and his proceedings thereon, as above.—Mr Oswald has an interview with M. de Vergennes, and returns to England.
To Lord Shelburne. Passy, April 18th, 1782,	[383]
M. de Vergennes declares the King ready to treat in concurrence with his allies.—Details of his conversation with Mr Oswald, as given in the succeeding letter to Mr Adams.
Notes for conversation,	[388]
To John Adams. Passy, April 20th, 1792,	[391]
In a conversation with Mr Oswald, he observed that if England desires a reconciliation much reparation must be made, that the advantage to the commerce of England from a peace would depend on a reconciliation, without which the peace would not be durable, that it would be politic for England to offer to cede Canada.—Desires the presence of Mr Adams and Mr Laurens.
To Henry Laurens. Passy, April 20th, 1792,	[393]
Details of Mr Oswald's proceedings.
John Adams to B. Franklin. Amsterdam, April 16th, 1782,	[394]
Giving an account of his interview with Mr Laurens at Haerlem.—Suggests the necessity of the session of Canada and Nova Scotia, or at least a stipulation that no troops nor fortifications should be maintained on the frontiers.—Mr Laurens represents the new Ministry as feeble and insincere, the nation as desirous of a general peace.—Mr Adams proposes to Dr Franklin to receive no other messenger who is not a plenipotentiary.
To John Adams. Passy, April 21st, 1782,	[397]
The act of Parliament for exchanging American prisoners as prisoners of war, is a tacit acknowledgement of independence.—Circumstances in Holland favorable for obtaining a loan.
John Adams to B. Franklin. Amsterdam, May 2d, 1782,	[399]
Plan of a triple or quadruple alliance.—Difficulty of obtaining a loan in Holland.
Henry Laurens to B. Franklin. London, April 20th, 1782,	[401]
Requesting the discharge of Lord Cornwallis in return for his own enlargement.—Disposition in England is become favorable to the acknowledgement of independence, and to a general peace.
Lord Shelburne to B. Franklin. Shelburne House, April 20th, 1782,	[403]
Mr Oswald is sent back to settle the time and place of treating.
To Count de Vergennes. Passy, May 4th, 1782,	[406]
Mr Oswald brings information that it has been agreed in Council to treat at Paris of a general peace, and that Mr Grenville will be sent for that purpose.
Count de Vergennes to B. Franklin. Versailles, May 5th, 1782,	[407]
Appointing an interview with Mr Oswald.
To John Adams. Passy, May 8th, 1782,	[408]
Mr Oswald intimates that the Ministry will acknowledge the independence of America, on condition that Britain is left in the same condition as at the peace of 1763.
Charles J. Fox to B. Franklin. St James, May 1st, 1782,	[409]
Expresses his wishes for a reconciliation.—Mr Grenville is acquainted with his sentiments.—Journal continued; Mr Grenville represents England as ready to treat with all the powers.—Dr Franklin accompanies him on an interview with the Count de Vergennes.—They maintain that England should expect no concessions in return for the acknowledgment of independence, which was already conquered by America.—Dr Franklin sees Lafayette, who expresses a wish to be sent to England.
To Mr Secretary Fox. Passy, May 10th, 1782,	[415]
To Lord Shelburne. Passy, May 10th, 1782,	[416]
Time of treating not yet settled.—Discharge of American prisoners.
To Lord Shelburne. Passy, May 13th, 1782,	[418]
Desires that Mr Oswald may be sent to treat.—Journal continued.—Conversation with Mr Grenville relative to the obligations of America to France.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, May 3d, 1782,	[421]
Favorable prospect of reconciliation.
To David Hartley. Passy, May 13th, 1782,	[422]
The release of the American prisoners will tend to promote a reconciliation.—Journal continued; Ministers of the European powers determined not to return the visits of the American Ministers.—Anecdote of the Russian Minister and the Count du Nord.
Henry Laurens to B. Franklin. Ostend, May 17th, 1782,	[425]
Declines engaging in the negotiations.—His opinions coincide with those of Dr Franklin.—Lord Cornwallis desires to be discharged.
To Henry Laurens. Passy, May 25th, 1782,	[429]
Nations are never satisfied with the terms of a peace.—Discharge of Lord Cornwallis.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, May 13th, 1782,	[433]
Relative to his proceedings with the new Ministry.—Proposes the following preliminaries; the British troops to be withdrawn from America; a truce made, which shall be converted into a peace, in case of a peace with the allies of America.—Journal continued.—Mr Grenville states that he has received full powers to treat with France and her allies.—The power relates only to France.
Lord Shelburne to B. Franklin. Whitehall, May 28th, 1782,	[440]
Lord Shelburne to B. Franklin. Whitehall, May 29th, 1782,	[440]
Mr Oswald has received orders to return to Paris, with the necessary instructions.—Journal continued; Mr Grenville explains the omission of America in the power.—His instructions are full, empowering him to acknowledge the independence of America.—Conversation on the resolution of the Americans not to treat without the allies.—Mr Grenville suggests the question, whether it includes Holland and Spain? whether it would be adhered to in regard to France at all events?
To Mr Grenville. Passy, May 31st, 1782,	[445]
Releasing Captain McLeod conditionally from his parole.
To John Adams. Passy, June 2d, 1782,	[446]
Giving an account of affairs as above related in the Journal.—Suspects the omission of America in Mr Grenville's power.—Journal continued; Mr Oswald states that peace is absolutely necessary, that no more money can be raised.
Lord Shelburne to Richard Oswald. Whitehall, May 21st, 1782,	[449]
Relative to Mr Walpole's appointment to negotiate.—Journal continued; Memorandums of Lord Shelburne; that Commissioners be appointed, or any character given to Mr Oswald, which he and Dr Franklin think proper for treating; that compensation be made to the loyalists.—Conversation with Mr Oswald on those points.—Russian offer of mediation to Holland.
W. H. Hartley to B. Franklin. Soho Square, May 24th, 1782,	[455]
Journal continued; Release of Lord Cornwallis.—Extract from the Evening Post relative to information obtained by Mr Grenville in his visit to Dr Franklin; erroneous statements.—Policy of Russia to mediate a peace between Britain and Holland, and continue the general war.—Major Ross declines receiving the conditional discharge of Lord Cornwallis.
To Richard Oswald. Passy, June 11th, 1782,	[460]
Discharge of Lord Cornwallis.—Journal continued.—Conversation with the Count de Vergennes relative to the attempts to separate France and America; suggests the propriety of a treaty between the allies, to support each other in case of a subsequent war by England against either.—Mr Ross accepts Lord Cornwallis's conditional discharge.—M. Boeris informs that Holland will decline the mediation of Russia for a separate treaty. Mr Grenville receives full powers, authorising him to treat with any other Prince or State.—Empowered to acknowledge the independence of America previous to the treaty, and to propose the peace of 1763 as a basis.—Suggests a doubt whether Great Britain will allow America to be designated by the expression State.—Comparison of Mr Fox and Lord Shelburne; of Mr Oswald and Mr Grenville.
M. de Lafayette to B. Franklin. Versailles, Thursday morning, June 20th, 1782,	[471]
Count de Vergennes proposes to meet Mr Grenville, and adopt measures for an official communication to the allies.—Journal continued.—Arrival of Mr Jay.—Visit to the Count de Vergennes, who expresses a doubt of the sincerity of the British Court.
To Richard Oswald. Passy, June 27th, 1782,	[474]
Expresses a wish that he should be employed to treat.—Doubts whether the word State in Mr Grenville's powers would apply to America, the Enabling Act not having then been passed.—Journal continued.—British Agents in America to propose a reunion with Great Britain.—Interview with the Spanish Minister.—Journal closes.
CORRESPONDENCE CONTINUED.
To Henry Laurens. Passy, July 2d, 1782,	[477]
Delays in the opening of the negotiation.—Suggests doubts of the sincerity of the British Ministers.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, July 5th, 1782,	[478]
Enclosing public papers.
Note from M. de Lafayette to B. Franklin. Paris, July 9th, 1782,	[479]
Mr Grenville's express arrives.
To M. de Lafayette. Passy, July 9th, 1782,	[479]
Mr Grenville informs him of changes in the Minister.—No change is made in the disposition for peace.
To David Hartley. Passy, July 10th, 1782,	[480]
Complains of the delays in the opening of the negotiation.—Suspicions.
To Benjamin Vaughan. Passy, July 10th, 1782,	[481]
Proposing certain ameliorations in the conduct of wars.
To Benjamin Vaughan. Passy, July 11th, 1782,	[483]
Plan of Lord Shelburne for a reunion of America under a separate Parliament.—The plan impracticable.
To Richard Oswald. Passy, July 12th, 1782,	[484]
Rumors that Lord Shelburne's opposition to the absolute acknowledgment of American independence was the cause of Mr Fox's resignation.
To the Earl of Shelburne. Passy, July 12th, 1782,	[485]
Congratulations on his appointment to the treasury.
To M. de Lafayette. Passy, July 24th, 1782,	[485]
Delays in the negotiations.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, July 26th, 1782,	[486]
Townshend appointed Secretary for Foreign Affairs.—Mr Oswald receives a place in that department.
Lord Grantham to B. Franklin. Whitehall, July 26th, 1782,	[488]
Sincerity of the Ministers.—Mr Fitzherbert.
Lord Shelburne to B. Franklin. Shelburne House, July 27th, 1782,	[488]
Acknowledgments for his congratulations.
To Richard Oswald. Passy, July 28th, 1782,	[489]
Affair of Captain Asgill.—Justification of the proceedings of General Washington.
To Count de Vergennes. Passy, August 8th, 1782,	[491]
Mr Oswald informs him that his commission is in preparation.
Count de Vergennes to B. Franklin. Versailles, August 8th, 1782,	[491]
Requesting a visit.
Robert R. Livingston to B. Franklin. Philadelphia, August 9th, 1782,	[492]
Letter of General Carleton and Admiral Digby to General Washington, declaring that a negotiation for a general peace is opened on the ground of independence.—Compensation to loyalists; fisheries; western lands.
To Robert R. Livingston. Passy, Aug 12th, 1782,	[494]
Accounts between France and the United States; the sum of eighteen millions has been received, exclusive of the Holland loan, for which the King is guaranty; twelve millions of this a free gift.—Sweden ready to treat.—Affairs of the expedition of Commodore Jones.—Medals and monument in commemoration of the victories of Yorktown and Saratoga.—Delays in the negotiation.
To Robert Morris. Passy, Aug. 12th, 1782,	[498]
Difficulty of obtaining more supplies.—State of Beaumarchais's accounts.—State of the United States' funds in Europe.
David Hartley to B. Franklin. London, August 16th, 1782,	[502]
Regrets the delays in the negotiations.—Believes the Ministry sincere.

Announces his arrival in France.—Does not assume a public character.—Military stores destined for America.

Announcing his appointment as Commissioner to Spain.

Arrives in Paris.—Has an audience with Count de Vergennes.—Interview with the Spanish Ambassador.—The nation favorable to the American cause.

Recommending Captain Balm.

Communicates the propositions of the United States to Spain.—Congress will also assist France and Spain in the conquest of the English sugar islands.

Recommending Count Kotkouski.—Count Pulaski.

Recommending Baron de Frey.

Requesting a letter of recommendation for M. Gerard, who wishes to settle in America.

Recommending M. Gerard.

America a safer debtor than Britain, from her general industry, frugality, prudence, ability, and virtue.

The conduct of Great Britain has rendered submission impossible.—Cruel treatment of the American prisoners in England.—Propositions for their relief.

Mr Deane's recommendations of officers.—Numerous and vexatious applications, with high recommendations.

Means of reconciling America.

Alienation of America from Great Britain.—Kindness and cordiality of France.—Change of Ministry necessary for conciliation.—Subscriptions in England for the relief of American prisoners.—Mr Hutton.

Lord North's conciliatory bills.—Advice to the English whigs.

The Commissioners are ready to treat.

Desires an interview with Dr Franklin.

America cannot treat on any terms short of independence—will not treat at all in case of a war against France.

British Commissioners cannot succeed in America on their terms.

Advises him to take care of his own safety.

Giving an account of his conversations with Mr Hartley; of the visit of Mr Chapman, an agent of Lord Shelburne.—The Quebec fleet.

Policy of the English to excite divisions and distrust.

Reply to insinuations against the faith of France.—Future prospects of America.—Acknowledgment of the independency of little consequence to America.—The King's political studies.—Peace is to be obtained only on equal terms.—Ridicules the offers of rewards.

Proceedings relative to Mr Deane.—Beaumarchais.—Eleventh and twelfth articles of the treaty.—Mr Izard.—Inconvenience and expense of maintaining several Commissioners instead of one.—War between England and France; war in Germany.—Difficulty of raising loans.—Drafts of Congress on the Commissioners.

Forwarding his new credentials.

Depreciation of the currency.

Declines removing to America.

English successes in Georgia.

America cannot relinquish her alliance with France to treat with Britain.

Recommending to afford Captain Cook all the assistance he may need.

Delay in the exchange of prisoners.—Losses of the English.—Growth of America.

Proposing a truce.—Interests of France.—Advantages of adopting some preliminaries.

Enclosed in the preceding.

Relative to Mr Hartley's propositions.

Receives his credentials.—Presented to the King.—American prisoners in France released.—Captain Jones's squadron.—Exchange of prisoners with England.—American prisoners there committed for high treason.—Necker unfavorably disposed towards America.—Accounts of the Commissioners.—Difficulty of raising a loan.—Charges of William Lee and Ralph Izard.—Recommends the appointment of consuls.—Agents and applications of the separate States.—Barbary Powers.—Disposition of the French.—Preparations of Spain.—Preparations in France.—Opinion of the Howes, Cornwallis, &c. of the impracticability of the conquest of America.

Currency.—Charges of Mr Lee and Mr Izard.—Communication between Europe and America.—M. de la Luzerne.

Enclosing a resolve relative to Beaumarchais's accounts.

Burning of Fairfield.—Compensation of Ministers.—Forwards letters to the King of France.—Invoices of supplies desired.

Proposing the mutual guaranty of the fisheries by France and the United States.

Forwarding him a sword, in the name of the Congress.

Acknowledging the reception of the sword.

Supplies.—Receives nothing himself.

Devices on coins.

Beaumarchais's accounts.—Supplies.—M. Neufville's offers of a loan.—Demands of Mr Ross, Mr Izard, and Mr Lee.—Inactivity of the combined fleets.—Relations of Holland and England.—Favorable disposition of Portugal.—Exchange of prisoners.—Jones's cruise in the English waters.—Complaints of French officers returning from America.—Complaints against American cruisers.—Luxury of the Americans.—Monument to General Montgomery.—Supplies from Spain.

Jones's cruise.—Mr Lee and Mr Deane.—Prospect of peace.—Return of Commodore Jones.

Remonstrates against the seizure of the American prizes in the ports of Norway.

America will not treat without her allies.—His former offers to pay for the tea destroyed in Boston.—Indisposition to peace on the part of England.—Exchange of prisoners.—British barbarities in America.

Drafts merely nominal.

Seizure of the prizes in Norway.—Quarrel between Commodore Jones and Captain Landais.—Necessity of appointing a consul.—Exchange of prisoners.—Prospects of England.—Supplies of France.

On the seizure of the American prizes.

Proposed convention in London.—Affairs of England.

Mr Pultney.—Errors corrected.

Recommending the Baron d'Arendt.

Requesting the release of the neutral ship Flora; the cargo, if English, may be condemned.

Recommending the Baron d'Arendt.

Free ships make free goods.

Complains of the trouble of maritime affairs.—Difficulty of meeting the drafts.—Accounts of the Commissioners.—American prizes in Danish ports.—Capture of neutral vessels with English cargoes.—European powers have adopted the rule, that free ships make free goods.—Unfavorable disposition in Europe towards England.—Difficulties in the exchange of prisoners.

Recommending Commodore Jones.

Respecting neutral ships.—Expresses a wish that all private property and all private individuals might be unmolested.—Letter of General Clinton.

Orders to M. de la Luzerne relative to the French holders of American paper money.

Making new drafts.

Mr Laurens appointed to negotiate a loan in Holland.

Communicating the acknowledgment of Congress for the attentions of the French Consul in Bergen.

Informing him of his appointment as agent of Congress for the relief of Americans in distress.

Enclosing a copy of a conciliatory bill, rejected in the House of Commons.

Messrs Neufville.—Capture of Charleston of little consequence.

Disputes of Landais and Jones.—Necessity of appointing consuls.—Mr Adams offends the French Court.—The armed neutrality.

Little value of pretended confidential information of secrets of State.—Transmits copies of instruments annulling the eleventh and twelfth articles.

Notifying Dr Franklin of bills to be drawn on him.

Enclosing proceedings of Congress relative to new drafts.—Increase of taxes for the improvement of the currency.

Relative to M. Dumas's appointment and services.

Has recommended M. Dumas to Mr Laurens as Secretary.—Requests advice as to the manner of applying to the States-General.

Requesting him to transmit certain papers to Mr Jay at Madrid.

Requesting relief for Mr Laurens, prisoner in the Tower.

Mr Laurens's treatment in the Tower.

Respecting Mr Laurens; enclosing the preceding.

Agrees to furnish the French troops in America with provisions, in order to meet the drafts of Congress.

Recommending the furnishing of provisions to the French troops.

Mr Laurens's captivity.—Memorial of Sir Joseph Yorke.—Delays in sending supplies.—Capture of a Portuguese ship with English property by an American armed vessel.—Recommends that neutral ships be not molested.

Mr Palfrey appointed Consul to France.

Transmitting letters of Congress to the King.—Communicates the instructions of Congress.—Critical situation of America.—Quotes a letter of General Washington on this subject.—Disappointment in supplies expected from Spain.—Danger to Europe if America is recovered by England.—Necessity of immediate aid.

Instructed to apply for an early answer to the application of Congress for more aid.

Proceedings of Congress on several subjects.

Relative to supplies.

Relating his proceedings in obedience to his instructions; the King of France grants a further sum of six millions; France declines the mediation of Russia and Austria.—Requests to be relieved from public duties on account of his age and infirmities—Recommends his grandson, William Temple Franklin, to Congress.

Account of the squadron and expedition of Captain Jones; disposition of the prizes; affair with Captain Landais; the Ministry wished it to be considered an American expedition.

Military operations.

Desiring the exchange of Mr Gouverneur and Dr Witherspoon.

Expedition against Arnold.—English policy.—Appointment of his successor to the Court of France.

Supplies.—Exchange of prisoners.—Plans of the English administration.

Supplies.

Introducing Dr Putnam.

Colonel Laurens's purchases in Holland.—The grant of the king to be expended partly in France.

On the disposition of the French grant.

Relative to certain expenses of Mr Adams, charged on the United States.

Appointment of new Ministers for negotiating a peace.—Dr Franklin's services necessary on this occasion.

Directing him to stop the shipment of money in Holland.

Reason of his delay at Amsterdam.

Informing him that Vergennes declines granting him a passport.

Remonstrating against the detention of the money, obtained from France by Colonel Laurens, and deposited with M. Fizeaux and Co. Amsterdam.—Communicates his determination to retain the money in his own hands.—Reasons for retaining the money referred to in the preceding letters.

Reasons for ordering the detention of the money, which was part of the grant obtained by Dr Franklin.

Adhering to his former determination relative to the detention of the money.

Account of the manner in which the money referred to in the preceding letters was obtained.—Exertions of Dr Franklin in obtaining supplies.

Reasons for detaining the money, intended to have been shipped at Amsterdam.

Forwarding duplicates of certain resolutions of Congress.

Entertains little hope of aid from Holland.—Coldness of that country.

Communicating intelligence from America.—Apologises for expressions in his former letter, and requests that it may not be shown.

Interview with the Count de Vergennes on communicating his instructions relative to the negotiations, and the letter of Congress to the King.—Accepts the appointment of negotiator.—Desires that a Consul-General may be appointed for France.

Relative to certain expenses of the American Ministers.

Mr Livingston is appointed Secretary of Foreign Affairs.—Military operations.—Preparations for another campaign.

Announcing the capitulation of Yorktown.—Expresses a wish that Dr Franklin will accept his new appointment as negotiator.

State of American prisoners in England.—Difficulties in effecting exchanges.—England refuses the mediation of the Powers; will treat with the United States only as subjects.—Proceedings of Colonel Laurens in Holland.—Confusion in shipping the supplies.

Recommending certain French officers in the American service.

Financial difficulties of America.—Importance of a French naval force in the American waters.—The commission for negotiating a commercial treaty with Great Britain discharged.—Preparations for a new campaign.—Supposed letters of Mr Deane.

Requesting information concerning the disposition of France and America to treat with Great Britain.

Concerning Mr Hartley's plan for securing the lives of the spectators at public spectacles in case of fire.

Military operations.—Enclosing a resolution of Congress for raising a pillar at Yorktown; also an ordinance ascertaining what captures on the waters are lawful, with other American State papers.

History of his proceedings for promoting negotiations for peace.—Conciliatory Bill of 1780, proposed as a basis; the question of independence to be waived; a separate treaty with America to be negotiated—Communicates these propositions to Lord North as general grounds of negotiation towards peace.—Lord North wishes to know if any person is authorised to treat on the part of America.—Urges the making of overtures for a separate negotiation.

Enclosed in the preceding.

Suggesting the objects of most importance to be negotiated; the limits of the United States; extend to the Mississippi on the West.—The fisheries; right of the Americans to fish on the banks of Newfoundland; sentiments of France on this subject.—Compensation to American royalists—Restitution of records and papers taken from America.

No negotiations can be opened without the concurrence of France.—Objections to the Conciliatory propositions—Commissioners authorised to treat.—A formal acknowledgment of independence not made necessary by the treaty with France.

Capture of Flemish ships by American privateers.—English ships furnished with imperial papers after a pretended sale of ship and cargo at Ostend.

Intercepted letters of Mr Deane.—Complains of want of intelligence from Europe.—Encloses resolutions of Congress relating to the fisheries and the western limits.

Correcting Dr Franklin's misapprehensions of his propositions.—Cases in which America might treat separately.

Enclosing a convention for the establishment of consuls.

Interview with the Minister; he is favorably disposed for peace.

Complains of the outrages of American armed vessels on the coast of Norway.

Pressing for further assistance from France.—This measure would be advantageous to France herself.—Sufferings of American prisoners in England.—Disturbances in Vermont and New Hampshire.

Acknowledges his misapprehension of Mr Hartley's former proposition.—Reasons of jealousy between France and England; English Commissioner at Dunkirk.—England must take the first step towards a peace with America.

Enclosing the complaint of the Danish Count respecting outrages by American vessels on the coast of Norway.

Prospects of peace.—The Ministry favorably disposed.

Resolution of the House of Commons.—Mr Laurens.

Relative to the complaints of the Danish Court.—Expects redress for the seizure of American prizes in Danish ports.

Complaints against American cruisers.—Influence and services of M. de Lafayette.—Changes in the British Ministry.—Unfriendly disposition of the King.—Relations with France.—Financial arrangements of Mr Morris.—American prisoners.—Arrival and reception of Cornwallis and Arnold in England.—Mr Deane's discontents; his vindication of Arnold.

Address of the House of Commons to the King against continuing the war in America.

Enclosing a letter from the Superintendent of Finance.

Mr Digges appointed by the Ministry to inquire if any persons are authorised to treat.

Enclosing the Parliamentary proceedings respecting the war with America; prelude to a general bill to enable the administration to treat.

Dissolution of the Ministry.—Is desirous of negotiating the peace.

Appointed by the Ministry to inquire if any persons in Europe are commissioned by Congress to treat and to make known the disposition of the Ministry to open negotiations for a truce.—His communications with Mr Adams.

Interview with Mr Digges; opposes the plan of a truce.—Many cities in Holland declare in favor of American independence.

Policy of the Ministry; to divide America, and to separate America and France.—Singular language of the bill empowering the King to treat.

Mr. Digges's mission.—Delays of Holland and Spain.

The five Commissioners empowered to treat.

Has no confidence in Digges.—The Commissioners are ready to treat.—Reconciliation spoken of in the Parliamentary proceedings more than a mere peace.—Acts necessary to effect it.

The new Ministry.—Recommending the Prince de Broglie.

Encloses a copy of his commission, empowering him to treat.—Treaties and instructions forbid their treating without France.

The French Minister approves his reply to Mr Hartley.—Proposals of the British Ministry for a separate treaty with France by Mr Forth.

The new Ministry endeavor to gain over Holland.—Capture of St Joseph (Illinois) by the Spaniards.

Insincerity of the late Ministry in their proposals for reconciliation; endeavoring at the same time to treat separately with France.

Mr Forth's mission to the French Ministry; Canada offered to France to induce her to treat separately; answer of the French Court.

Enclosing the complaint of the Danish Court on account of the capture of a Danish vessel.

The late Ministry wished for peace on prudential grounds, not for reconciliation; proposal of a separate peace was intended to excite distrust in France. His breviate laid before the Ministry, calculated to divest the war with America of hatred and jealousy against France.

Enclosing a letter to the King; resolutions of Congress on the application of Sir Guy Carleton to forward despatches, and on the subject of prisoners in England.—Disposition towards France in America.

Release of the American prisoners in England.—Prospect of reconciliation.

Memorial on the subject of prize money due Captain Jones.—Inquires why the Danish Court applies to France on account of injuries of American cruisers.—Affair of Captain Huddy, who was hanged by a party of soldiers.

Desiring the discharge of Lord Cornwallis's parole.

Promises to comply with the request to discharge Lord Cornwallis.

Mr Grenville only empowered to treat with France; the Ministry will be unwilling to make any concessions.—The Dutch are disposed to an alliance with America.—Policy of Russia.

People in America not disposed to a separate treaty.—Affairs of Captain Huddy.—Case of the Ernten.

An additional six millions cannot be obtained from France.—Mr Grenville is sent with full powers to treat with all the belligerent powers together.—Is joined by Mr Jay.—An act of Parliament was considered necessary to authorise the exchange of the American prisoners, as they were committed for high treason.—The Swedish Ambassador expresses a wish to treat with Dr Franklin.—Services of M. Dumas.

Discharges Lord Cornwallis from his parole.—The intentions of the British Ministry seem to change with success.—Disinclination of the King to America.—Agents are sent by the Ministry into America to attempt a separate treaty.

Reasons for keeping a Journal.—Visited by Lord Cholmondely, by whom he transmits the following.

Desires a general peace.

Lord Shelburne appointed Secretary of State; sends Mr Oswald to confer with Dr Franklin.

Introducing Mr Oswald.—Desires to effect his exchange.—Conversation with Mr Oswald, in which Dr Franklin declares that America will only treat in concert with France.

Stating the mission of Mr Oswald and his proceedings thereon, as above.—Mr Oswald has an interview with M. de Vergennes, and returns to England.

M. de Vergennes declares the King ready to treat in concurrence with his allies.—Details of his conversation with Mr Oswald, as given in the succeeding letter to Mr Adams.

In a conversation with Mr Oswald, he observed that if England desires a reconciliation much reparation must be made, that the advantage to the commerce of England from a peace would depend on a reconciliation, without which the peace would not be durable, that it would be politic for England to offer to cede Canada.—Desires the presence of Mr Adams and Mr Laurens.

Details of Mr Oswald's proceedings.

Giving an account of his interview with Mr Laurens at Haerlem.—Suggests the necessity of the session of Canada and Nova Scotia, or at least a stipulation that no troops nor fortifications should be maintained on the frontiers.—Mr Laurens represents the new Ministry as feeble and insincere, the nation as desirous of a general peace.—Mr Adams proposes to Dr Franklin to receive no other messenger who is not a plenipotentiary.

The act of Parliament for exchanging American prisoners as prisoners of war, is a tacit acknowledgement of independence.—Circumstances in Holland favorable for obtaining a loan.

Plan of a triple or quadruple alliance.—Difficulty of obtaining a loan in Holland.

Requesting the discharge of Lord Cornwallis in return for his own enlargement.—Disposition in England is become favorable to the acknowledgement of independence, and to a general peace.

Mr Oswald is sent back to settle the time and place of treating.

Mr Oswald brings information that it has been agreed in Council to treat at Paris of a general peace, and that Mr Grenville will be sent for that purpose.

Appointing an interview with Mr Oswald.

Mr Oswald intimates that the Ministry will acknowledge the independence of America, on condition that Britain is left in the same condition as at the peace of 1763.

Expresses his wishes for a reconciliation.—Mr Grenville is acquainted with his sentiments.—Journal continued; Mr Grenville represents England as ready to treat with all the powers.—Dr Franklin accompanies him on an interview with the Count de Vergennes.—They maintain that England should expect no concessions in return for the acknowledgment of independence, which was already conquered by America.—Dr Franklin sees Lafayette, who expresses a wish to be sent to England.

Time of treating not yet settled.—Discharge of American prisoners.

Desires that Mr Oswald may be sent to treat.—Journal continued.—Conversation with Mr Grenville relative to the obligations of America to France.

Favorable prospect of reconciliation.

The release of the American prisoners will tend to promote a reconciliation.—Journal continued; Ministers of the European powers determined not to return the visits of the American Ministers.—Anecdote of the Russian Minister and the Count du Nord.

Declines engaging in the negotiations.—His opinions coincide with those of Dr Franklin.—Lord Cornwallis desires to be discharged.

Nations are never satisfied with the terms of a peace.—Discharge of Lord Cornwallis.

Relative to his proceedings with the new Ministry.—Proposes the following preliminaries; the British troops to be withdrawn from America; a truce made, which shall be converted into a peace, in case of a peace with the allies of America.—Journal continued.—Mr Grenville states that he has received full powers to treat with France and her allies.—The power relates only to France.

Mr Oswald has received orders to return to Paris, with the necessary instructions.—Journal continued; Mr Grenville explains the omission of America in the power.—His instructions are full, empowering him to acknowledge the independence of America.—Conversation on the resolution of the Americans not to treat without the allies.—Mr Grenville suggests the question, whether it includes Holland and Spain? whether it would be adhered to in regard to France at all events?

Releasing Captain McLeod conditionally from his parole.

Giving an account of affairs as above related in the Journal.—Suspects the omission of America in Mr Grenville's power.—Journal continued; Mr Oswald states that peace is absolutely necessary, that no more money can be raised.

Relative to Mr Walpole's appointment to negotiate.—Journal continued; Memorandums of Lord Shelburne; that Commissioners be appointed, or any character given to Mr Oswald, which he and Dr Franklin think proper for treating; that compensation be made to the loyalists.—Conversation with Mr Oswald on those points.—Russian offer of mediation to Holland.

Journal continued; Release of Lord Cornwallis.—Extract from the Evening Post relative to information obtained by Mr Grenville in his visit to Dr Franklin; erroneous statements.—Policy of Russia to mediate a peace between Britain and Holland, and continue the general war.—Major Ross declines receiving the conditional discharge of Lord Cornwallis.

Discharge of Lord Cornwallis.—Journal continued.—Conversation with the Count de Vergennes relative to the attempts to separate France and America; suggests the propriety of a treaty between the allies, to support each other in case of a subsequent war by England against either.—Mr Ross accepts Lord Cornwallis's conditional discharge.—M. Boeris informs that Holland will decline the mediation of Russia for a separate treaty. Mr Grenville receives full powers, authorising him to treat with any other Prince or State.—Empowered to acknowledge the independence of America previous to the treaty, and to propose the peace of 1763 as a basis.—Suggests a doubt whether Great Britain will allow America to be designated by the expression State.—Comparison of Mr Fox and Lord Shelburne; of Mr Oswald and Mr Grenville.

Count de Vergennes proposes to meet Mr Grenville, and adopt measures for an official communication to the allies.—Journal continued.—Arrival of Mr Jay.—Visit to the Count de Vergennes, who expresses a doubt of the sincerity of the British Court.

Expresses a wish that he should be employed to treat.—Doubts whether the word State in Mr Grenville's powers would apply to America, the Enabling Act not having then been passed.—Journal continued.—British Agents in America to propose a reunion with Great Britain.—Interview with the Spanish Minister.—Journal closes.

Delays in the opening of the negotiation.—Suggests doubts of the sincerity of the British Ministers.

Enclosing public papers.

Mr Grenville's express arrives.

Mr Grenville informs him of changes in the Minister.—No change is made in the disposition for peace.

Complains of the delays in the opening of the negotiation.—Suspicions.

Proposing certain ameliorations in the conduct of wars.

Plan of Lord Shelburne for a reunion of America under a separate Parliament.—The plan impracticable.

Rumors that Lord Shelburne's opposition to the absolute acknowledgment of American independence was the cause of Mr Fox's resignation.

Congratulations on his appointment to the treasury.

Delays in the negotiations.

Townshend appointed Secretary for Foreign Affairs.—Mr Oswald receives a place in that department.

Sincerity of the Ministers.—Mr Fitzherbert.

Acknowledgments for his congratulations.

Affair of Captain Asgill.—Justification of the proceedings of General Washington.

Mr Oswald informs him that his commission is in preparation.

Requesting a visit.

Letter of General Carleton and Admiral Digby to General Washington, declaring that a negotiation for a general peace is opened on the ground of independence.—Compensation to loyalists; fisheries; western lands.

Accounts between France and the United States; the sum of eighteen millions has been received, exclusive of the Holland loan, for which the King is guaranty; twelve millions of this a free gift.—Sweden ready to treat.—Affairs of the expedition of Commodore Jones.—Medals and monument in commemoration of the victories of Yorktown and Saratoga.—Delays in the negotiation.

Difficulty of obtaining more supplies.—State of Beaumarchais's accounts.—State of the United States' funds in Europe.

Regrets the delays in the negotiations.—Believes the Ministry sincere.

THE

CORRESPONDENCE

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN,

COMMISSIONER AND MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY TO
THE COURT OF FRANCE, AND COMMISSIONER
FOR NEGOTIATING A PEACE

At the beginning of the Revolution, Dr Franklin was in England, where he had resided several years as an agent for Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Georgia. He returned to America in the spring of 1775, and was shortly after elected a member of Congress. In that body he held the rank, to which his great talents and patriotism entitled him, and was chosen one of the Committee of Secret Correspondence for transacting foreign affairs.

On the 26th of September, 1776, he was elected a Commissioner to the Court of France, in conjunction with Silas Deane and Thomas Jefferson. Immediately after his appointment he hastened preparations for his departure. Meantime Mr Jefferson declined serving, and Arthur Lee was chosen in his place. Dr Franklin set off from Philadelphia on his voyage, October 26th, and entered Quiberon Bay, on the coast of France, November 29th, after a fatiguing passage. He was now seventyone years of age. He proceeded to Nantes, where he remained a few days to recruit himself, and arrived in Paris about the 20th of December. Here he found Mr Deane, and they were soon after joined by Mr Lee.

Little was done by the Commissioners in Paris for more than a year, as France was not then prepared to take an open part against England. The success of the American arms against Burgoyne became the turning point in the French Cabinet, and they immediately consented to make treaties of amity and commerce with the United States, which were definitively signed on the 6th of February, 1778. This great work being finished, Congress deemed it expedient to dissolve the Commission by appointing a Minister Plenipotentiary to the Court of France. The choice fell on Dr Franklin, and, notwithstanding his advanced age, and the arduous nature of the office, he accepted the appointment, and discharged the entire duties of it to the end of the Revolution.

While holding the place of joint Commissioner in France, Congress elected him, on the 1st of January, 1777, to a separate mission to the Court of Spain. Upon this mission, however, he never entered, and it was afterwards transferred to Arthur Lee.

Towards the close of the war, Dr Franklin strenuously urged Congress to permit him to return to his own country, requesting that a successor might be sent out, whose years and strength would better qualify him to endure the labors and perform the services of his station. But Congress did not listen to this petition. His counsels and experience were thought essential to the management of the important concerns then pending. He took a leading part in all the negotiations for peace, and, in conjunction with John Adams, John Jay, and Henry Laurens, signed the preliminary articles, November 30th, 1782, and the definitive treaty, September 3d, 1783. On the 3d of April, of the same year, he concluded a treaty of amity and commerce, with the Swedish Minister in Paris, between Sweden and the United States.

Mr Jefferson at length arrived in Paris as his successor, and Dr Franklin returned to Philadelphia in September, 1785, after an absence of nine years, during the whole of which time he had been engaged in a most active, laborious, and successful service for his country.

THE

CORRESPONDENCE

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.

TO JOHN HANCOCK, PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

Nantes, December 8th, 1776.

Sir,

In thirty days after we left the Capes of Delaware, we came to an anchor in Quiberon Bay. I remained on board four days, expecting a change of wind proper to carry the ship into the river Loire; but the wind seemed fixed in an opposite quarter. I landed at Aury, and with some difficulty got hither, the road not being well supplied with means of conveyance. Two days before we saw land, we met a brigantine from Bordeaux belonging to Cork, and another from Rochefort belonging to Hull, both of which were taken. The first had on board staves, tar, turpentine, and claret; the other coniac brandy and flaxseed. There is some difficulty in determining what to do with them, as they are scarce worth sending to America, and the mind of the French Court, with regard to prizes brought into their ports, is not yet known. It is certainly contrary to their treaties with Britain, to permit the sale of them, and we have no regular means of trying and condemning them. There are, however, many here, who would purchase prizes, we having already had several offers from persons who are willing to take upon themselves all consequences as to the illegality. Captain Wickes, as soon as he can get his refreshment, intends to cruise in the channel.

Our friends in France have been a good deal dejected with the Gazette accounts of advantages obtained against us by the British troops. I have helped them here to recover their spirits a little, by assuring them that we still face the enemy, and were under no apprehension of their armies being able to complete their junction. I understand that Mr Lee has lately been at Paris, that Mr Deane is still there, and that an underhand supply is obtained from the government of two hundred brass field pieces, thirty thousand firelocks, and some other military stores, which are now shipping for America, and will be convoyed by a ship of war. The Court of England (Mr Penet tells me, from whom I have the above intelligence) had the folly to demand Mr Deane to be delivered up, but were refused.

Our voyage, though not long, was rough, and I feel myself weakened by it, but I now recover strength daily, and in a few days shall be able to undertake the journey to Paris. I have not yet taken any public character, thinking it prudent first to know whether the Court is ready and willing to receive Ministers publicly from the Congress, that we may neither embarrass her on the one hand, nor subject ourselves to the hazard of a disgraceful refusal on the other. I have despatched an express to Mr Deane, with the letters that I had for him from the Committee, and a copy of our commission, that he may immediately make the proper inquiries, and give me information. In the mean time I find it generally supposed here, that I am sent to negotiate, and that opinion appears to give great pleasure, if I can judge by the extreme civilities I meet with from numbers of the principal people, who have done me the honor to visit me.

I have desired Mr Deane, by some speedy and safe means, to give Mr Lee notice of his appointment. I find several vessels here laden with military stores for America, just ready to sail; on the whole, there is the greatest prospect that we shall be well provided for another campaign, and much stronger than we were last. A Spanish fleet has sailed with seven thousand land forces foot and some horse. Their destination unknown, but supposed against the Portuguese in Brazil. Both France and England are preparing strong fleets, and it is said, that all the powers of Europe are preparing for war, apprehending that a general one cannot be very far distant. When I arrive at Paris I shall be able to write with more certainty. I beg you to present my duty to Congress, and assure them of my most faithful endeavors in their service.

With the sincerest esteem and respect, I have the honor to be, &c.

B. FRANKLIN.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE.

Nantes, December 8th, 1776.

Gentlemen,

After a short but rough passage of thirty days, we anchored in Quiberon Bay, the wind not suiting to enter the Loire. Captain Wickes did everything in his power to make the voyage comfortable to me; and I was much pleased with what I saw of his conduct as an officer, when on supposed occasions we made preparation for engagement, the good order and readiness with which it was done, being far beyond my expectations, and I believe equal to anything of the kind in the best ships of the king's fleet. He seems to have also a very good set of officers under him. I hope they will all in good time be promoted. He met and took two prizes, brigantines, one belonging to Cork, laden with staves, pitch, tar, turpentine, and claret; the other to Hull, with a cargo of flaxseed and brandy. The captains have made some propositions of ransom, which, perhaps, may be accepted, as there is yet no means of condemning them here, and they are scarce worth sending to America. The ship is yet in Quiberon Bay, with her prizes. I came hither from thence, seventy miles, by land. I am made extremely welcome here, where America has many friends. As soon as I have recovered strength enough for the journey, which I hope will be in a very few days, I shall set out for Paris. My letter to the President will inform you of some other particulars.

With great esteem, I have the honor to be, &c.

B. FRANKLIN.

P. S. December 10th. I have just learnt that eighty pieces of cannon, all brass, with carriages, braces, and everything fit for immediate service, were embarked in a frigate from Havre, which is sailed; the rest were to go in another frigate of thirtysix guns.

FROM THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE
TO BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.

Baltimore, January 1st, 1777.

Sir,

Congress, relying on your wisdom and integrity, and well knowing the importance of the case, have appointed you their Commissioner to negotiate a treaty of friendship and commerce with the Court of Spain.[1] The idea of Congress on this subject you will find in the instructions sent by this opportunity to yourself, and the other Commissioners, at the Court of France. Your commission for this special service we have now the honor to enclose you.

We are, with great respect and esteem, honorable Sir, yours, &c.

B. HARRISON,
R. H. LEE,
J. WITHERSPOON,
W. HOOPER.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE.

Paris, January 4th, 1777.

Gentlemen,

I arrived here about two weeks since, where I found Mr Deane. Mr Lee has since joined us from London. We have had an audience of the Minister, Count de Vergennes, and were respectfully received. We left for his consideration a sketch of the proposed treaty.[2] We are to wait upon him tomorrow with a strong memorial, requesting the aids mentioned in our instructions. By his advice, we have had an interview with the Spanish Ambassador, Count d'Aranda, who seems well disposed towards us, and will forward copies of our memorials to his Court, which will act, he says, in perfect concert with this.

Their fleets are said to be in fine order, manned and fit for sea. The cry of this nation is for us, but the Court, it is thought, views an approaching war with reluctance. The press continues in England. As soon as we can receive a positive answer from these Courts, we shall despatch an express with it.

I am, Gentlemen, &c.

B. FRANKLIN.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

Paris, January 20th, 1777.

Dear Sir,

The bearer, Captain Balm, is strongly recommended to me as a very able officer of horse, and capable of being extremely useful to us, in forming a body of men for that service. As he has otherwise an excellent character, I take the liberty of recommending him to my friends as a stranger of merit, worthy of their civilities, and to the Congress as an officer, who if employed may greatly serve a cause, which he has sincerely at heart.

With great respect, &c.

THEDIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCEOF THEAMERICAN REVOLUTION.VOL. III.

THEDIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCEOF THEAMERICAN REVOLUTION;

BY JARED SPARKS.

CONTENTS

TO JOHN HANCOCK, PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE.

FROM THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCETO BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE.

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

THE
DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE
OF THE
AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
VOL. III.

THE
DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENCE
OF THE
AMERICAN REVOLUTION;

FROM THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE
TO BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.