Title: To John Adams from Gabriel Johonnot, 8 September 1780
From: Johonnot, Gabriel
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Boston 8th. Septr. 1780

     I Received your letter by the Frigate Alliance bearing date the 23d. Feby. last, Inclosing an Account of my son’s Expences, on his Journey from Ferrol in Spain to Paris, and feel myself not a little Affected, that you should Intimate the most distant Idea, of the Necessity of a Voucher for your Account. I could wish to be held in that view with you Sir, that not only every Expence you may be at, should be cheerfully repaid, but that I feel a most Gratefull sense of your Attention to my Child, and shall not fail in every Instance in my power fully to Manifest it.
     By the Briggantine Pallas which sailed from this Port in June last, on board which Vessell I fully Intended to Embark for Europe, but fortunately as Circumstances are was prevented, and consequently saved myself from falling into the Enemies hands, as she was captured soon after sailing, by her to the care of Mr: Warren, I wrote you and Enclosed a bill for 600 livres, but as that Gentleman still remains with the British Admiral Edwards, who has Invited him to go to Europe in his ship, and it will probably be a long time before he gets over to France, I have herein Enclosed a second bill of the same sett, for Six Hundred livres, and a first bill of Another sett, for three Hundred livres, which I presume will be sufficient untill I have the Honor of seeing you, which I promise myself will be very soon, as I understand the Hermione Frigate has Orders to be in Readiness to go to Europe on the Shortest Notice. I go to Newport in a day or two to Obtain a Passage in her. Should any thing either prevent my going in her or her not going I will Embrace the first Opportunity to remit.
     I have Inclosed the Papers for several Weeks Past which will Inform you of every Intelligence worthy Notice.
     I am with the Highest Esteem & Respect Your Most Obedient Most Hble: Servt:

      Gabl: Johonnot


Title: To John Adams from Francis Dana, 9 September 1780
From: Dana, Francis
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Paris Septr. 9th. 1780

     Just as I had finished the above yours of the 2d. came to hand. The packet mentioned by Mr. Bradford from Dr. Cooper to you, was a single letter, and has been receiv’d long since; it contains nothing of real consequence. I did not therefore forward it. I had your express directions to open all letters to you, even Mrs. Adams’s; her’s however I shall not open, but deliver them to Mr. Thaxter. You will please to forward all you may receive for me without loss of time. You enclosed a blank sheet of paper instead of Mr. De Neufvilles Receipt. I have his acknowledgement of the payment in a letter at the same time. I have not yet seen Genl. Washington’s or Genl. Green’s letter which you mention—A check only, not a proper defeat depend upon it. Things look better than my fears, Congress have appointed Gates to the Southern Army. No brilliant stroke this Campaign without naval reinforcements. ’Tis wispered they will go from the West Indies. I wish they may—I am rejoiced exceedingly to hear of the acceptance of our Constitution. It’s rise, progress, and final Establishment, exhibit a strange but glorious phenomenon in the political Hemisphere. I venerate the good sense and the public virtue which have brôt forth this great work.
     Mr. Allen has come to Paris, he desires his respects to you Mr. Thaxter his most sincere regards.
     Yours as above

      FRA DANA


Title: To John Adams from Arthur Lee, 10 September 1780
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Boston, Sepr. 10th. 1780

     I have but one moment to tell you, that I left Mrs. Adams your Children, General and Mrs. Warren in good health four days ago. I shall soon set out for Philadelphia. Hancock is chosen Governor, owing cheifly to your absence. I paid a visit to Mrs. Dana at Cambrige, who with her Children are well. Please to remember me to her Husband. Mr. S. A. is at Congress, which is very thin. They have lately resolved to redeem the Paper at 40 for 1, and made some reform in the Quarter-master general’s department which has occasiond Genl. Green’s resignation. This, together with the Clothing not having been sent from France, has excited much discontent in the Army. Nineteen of the Quebec fleet having been taken by our Privateers, cheifly from this State, has glutted the market with foreign goods; and together with the depretiation of Paper, made trade stagnate exceedingly. The french fleet and Army are blockt up at Rhode Island, and that of Genl. Washington, tho’ recruited, cannot act alone. Great complaints of the Tories.
     Farewell.


Title: To John Adams from William Lee, 10 September 1780
From: Lee, William
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Bruxelles Augt.Septr. 10th. 1780

     I have received your favor of the 2d. and thank you for the American Intelligence; indeed in all quarters the prospect seems favorable to our cause. The dissolution of Parliament being decided on immediately after the intelligence of the capture of their E. and W. India Fleet, (which you find are all safe in Cadiz harbor), of Kniphausens defeat in the Jersies, of Ternay’s safe arrival at Rhode Island and of Guichen’s having sail’d on his plan of conquest, of the extreme distress of Giberaltor and Ireland on the eve of a civil commotion, gives room for various conjectures some of which are for Peace, and others for a continuance of the War. The latter seems probable from a continuance of their Piratical violence of all neutral ships particularly at this crisis seizing a Russian Merchant Ship bound to Nantes, and carrying her as a prize into Plymouth, which extraordinary circumstance I wonder at the Dutch Gazetteers omitting to select out of the English papers.
     As you agree with me in opinion about the propriety of having American Ministers at the different European Courts I trust you will press the matter on the consideration of Congress and not omit Prussia for I can certainly assure you that the cabinet of Berlin has much more influence than any other, on the Political machinery in Europe and America should never forget that if she means to be Independent, she must act Independently; for a servile obedience to the dictates of A. is as dangerous to Liberty as a Slavish submission to B.
     I hope you will get for me the plan on which Danmark has establish’d the Island of St. Thomas, a free Port. I have just read with much pleasure the final address to the People at Large from the Convention appointed to draw up a form of Government for Massachusets Bay, as it gives me an Idea of their new Constitution, of which I had before only seen some detach’d parts in different Newspapers. From the principles layed down by the Convention and the general description they give of the Constitution I conclude it to be a well digested one and more likely to be permanent than most of those that have been hitherto establish’d in America; but I am sorry to see that Mr. Saml. Adams has declin’d serving as a representative in Assembly for the Town of Boston; for it is to be wish’d, that those characters which at the begining stood foremost in the cause of their Country, shou’d continue to direct its Councils, until a solid Peace is establish’d to confirm and consolidate that Liberty and Independence which has been so nobly contended for; for it seems pretty clear that those Characters had in general, only the good of their Country in view; which may be much doubted with respect to some that are now on the Stage, since lately there seems to have been too much contention about dividing the Lions skin, before they took care to kill the Beast.
     Our best Compliments attend your Sons & with very great respect I have the Honor to be Dr. Sir Your most Obliged & Obedt. Hble Servt.

      W: Lee


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 14 September 1780
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       La Haie 14e. 7be. 1780

      Honoré de la vôtre du 5e. Je suis parfaitement d’accord avec vous sur la justesse de la Politique qu’il y auroit, à s’attacher principalement à protéger le Commerce de la France et de l’Espagne, et à désoler celui de l’ennemi; et je souhaite avec vous que l’on adopte et poursuive ce systême. Il faut convenir, d’un autre côté, que les Anglois ont eu par le passé une succession étonnante d’heureuses chances à cet égard, et les autres une suite de contretemps. Selon les regles du jeu cela doit tourner; et il paroît que cela commence à tourner, et que les Anglois à leur tour auront contre eux les vents, les marées et les hazards.
      Il ne se passe rien ici à l’Assemblée des Etats d’Hollande, sinon qu’on accordera vraisemblablement la franchise du transit aux matieres navales que Mr. Tessier &c. fait passer par les canaux de Flandres en France. L’inaction des Etats Généraux est encore plus grande. On attend d’apprendre que les plénipotentiaires sont arrivés à Petersbourg, et n’y ont rien fait.
      Ce qui s’est passé à N. Jersey, et la capture d’une partie de la Flotte de Québec, sont pour moi d’agréables avantgoûts de ce qui doit s’être passé ensuite. Béni soit le Genl. Green et ses braves troupes. Je suis bien content de la maniere dont ils ont défendu leurs postes pouce à pouce contre les incendiaires de Springfield. Les meilleures troupes Européennes n’eussent pu mieux faire. Joignez à cela que Clinton a manqué Son coup, qui étoit d’empêcher les opérations combinées du Genl. Washington et du secours Européen, en attaquant et tâchant de déloger le premier, avant l’arrivée de l’autre. Si vous apprenez quelque chose d’ultérieur, Monsieur, par l’arrivée de quelque nouveau Vaisseau Américain, je vous supplie de m’en faire part d’abord, afin que je puisse l’apprendre à certains personnages avant la Gazette: ce qui leur fait plaisir, et n’empêche pas que la nouvelle soit publiée dans la Gazette; car j’ai la facilité de faire parvenir des Lettres à Leide à toute heure du jour.

      Je m’étois proposé de faire à la fin de cette semaine un petit tour à Amsterdam. Mais un abscès qui s’est formé à ma tête, et qui me fait souffrir beaucoup, me retardera, je crains, de plusieurs jours.
      Je serois bien charmé de pouvoir faire un petit voyage en Amérique, pour voir, avant de mourir, votre noble république, et connoître personnellement tous ses grands hommes et bons citoyens. Je tâcherois de rendre un tel voyage aussi utile au Congrès, par les lumieres que je puis donner, tant Sur cette republique que Sur les Puissances de l’Europe en général, qu’avantageux au rétablissement de ma santé, qui depuis un an n’est pas des meilleures. Si vous pouviez m’aider à faire naître une telle occasion, je vous en serois bien obligé.
      On ne guerira jamais, Monsieur, par le raisonnement, la fureur de nos rentiers à placer de l’argent en Angleterre: ils le feroient quand même cette republique seroit en guerre avec la Gr. Bretagne. Il faut que celle-ci fasse une fois banqueroute. Alors tout sera dit. Tant que l’Angleterre conservera son crédit en payant exactement les intérêts, leur confiance continuera; et ils préfereront le gain présent à toute autre considération. J’ai vu cependant cette fureur plus grande avant cette guerre. Elle est certainement rallentie, et ne se maintient que parce que l’Angleterre accorde un plus grand bénéfice aux prêteurs, surtout aux Maisons souscrivantes: et ce qui prouve ce rallentissement, c’est que le prix des biens fonds, et notamment des terres en ce pays, est considérablement augmenté. Ajoutez à cela celui du papier de crédit de cette republique, qui malgré la petitesse d’un intérêt de 2 1/2 et de 3 pourcent au plus, est monté à un prix exorbitant.
      Comment va l’affaire du Vaisseau l’Indien? Avance-t-il? Sortira-t-il bientôt? Mr. G——est-il content? Je le souhaite de tout mon coeur.
      Je suis bien charmé, Monsieur, que vous soyiez content de votre séjour à Amsterdam. Je me ferai toujours une vraie fête de vous revoir, et de vous prouver par mes services le respect Sincere avec lequel je Suis, Monsieur, Votre très humble & très-obéissant serviteur,

       Dumas

       Ma famille Monsieur vous présente ses respects.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to John Adams: A Translation, 14 September 1780
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

       Sir
       The Hague, 14 September 1780

      I am honored by your letter of the 5th, and wholly agree with you on the appropriateness of a policy focused on protecting French and Spanish commerce and destroying the enemy’s, and wish that such a policy be adopted and pursued. On the other hand, it should be noted that the English have experienced an astonishing run of good luck, while the others have seen only continued misfortunes. According to the rules of the game, however, things must change, as they appear to be doing now, and the British in their turn will suffer from the vicissitudes of the wind, the tide, and fate.
      There is little to report from the meeting of the States of Holland except that it will likely grant to Mr. Texier &c. the franchise for transporting naval stores through the canals of Flanders to France. The inactivity of the States General is even more pronounced. One expects to learn that the plenipotentiaries have reached St. Petersburg and have done nothing.
      That which has occurred in New Jersey and the capture of part of the Quebec fleet are for me but a pleasant foretaste of that which is to come. Blessed are General Greene and his troops. I am very pleased at the manner in which they defended their positions, inch by inch, against the arsonists of Springfield. The best European troops could not have done better. Consider also that Clinton failed in his effort to foil the combined operations of General Washington and his European reinforcement by attacking and attempting to dislodge the former before the arrival of the latter. If you learn anything further from a newly arrived American vessel, sir, please send it to me at once so that I can inform certain important people before the news appears in the gazette. This pleases them and does not interfere with the later publication of the news in the gazette, for I can send letters to Leyden at any hour of the day.
      I had planned to make a short trip to Amsterdam at the end of this week, but a very painful abscess has formed in my head and, I fear, will delay me for several days.
      I would be delighted if I was able to make a short voyage to America before I die in order to see your noble republic and meet personally all its great men and fine citizens. I also would endeavor to render such a trip useful to Congress by the insights that I could provide on this republic and the European powers in general. It would have the additional advantage of helping to re-establish my health, which has not been good for the past year. I would be most obliged if you could aid me in making such an event a reality.
      One will never cure by reason, sir, our investors’ mania for investing their money in England. They would do so even if this republic were at war with Great Britain. It would have to go bankrupt first, then it would be all over. So long as England maintains its credit by promptly paying interest, their confidence will continue, for they prefer the present gain to any other consideration. I have seen, however, this mania even greater before this war. It is certainly slowing and is only sustained because the English provide such large profits to the lenders, particularly to the financial houses. One proof of this slowdown is that the price of real estate, particularly the land in this country, has greatly increased. One should also add that, despite the small 2 ½ to 3 percent interest, the value of the republic’s bonds has risen to an exorbitant price.
      How goes the affair of the Indien? Does it progress? Will it be sailing soon? Is Mr. Gillon content? I hope so with all my heart.
      I am delighted, sir, that you are enjoying your stay in Amsterdam. I will always be very happy to see you again and prove to you by my services the sincere respect with which I am, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant.

       Dumas


Title: To John Adams from Jean Luzac, 14 September 1780
From: Luzac, Jean
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       Leide le 14. sept. 1780

      Je viens d’achever la lecture de la Brochure, au sujet de laquelle vous avez bien voulu demander mon avis. La partie du style est excellente: Il me paroit seulement, que dans les huit ou dix premiers Feuillets il y a des fautes de langage, faciles à corriger mais néanmoins trop remarquables. Quant aux choses, elle est fortement pensée; et, quoiqu’une brillante imagination puisse avoir porté l’Auteur à orner peut-être un peu trop le tableau des effets de la Révolution Américaine, je suis convaincu pourtant, que le fond de ses idées est trèsvrai, et que ses principes ne méritent pas moins l’attention des Philanthropes que ses vuës sur l’avenir. Ainsi je pense, qu’elle mérite à tous égards d’être renduë publique par l’impression, et que cette publication ne peut qu’inspirer des sentimens favorables aux intérêts de l’Amérique. Je ne sçaurois néanmoins vous dissimuler un petit scrupule, que j’ai à ce sujet. L’Auteur trace avec un pinceau vigoureux la révolution, que l’Indépendance de l’Amérique opérera dans le Système Commercial de l’Europe: Mais, en faisant ce tableau, il peint la Russie dépouillée de son Commerce exclusif du Bois de construction et des autres Munitions Navales, la Suède de celui du Fer, la Hollande de son Cabotage et de son Monopole d’Epiceries &c. Je crains, que cette perspective n’effarouche les esprits. L’auteur tâche ensuite, il est vrai, de prouver, que cette concurrence, cette Liberté générale, cette réduction de toutes les Nations à un niveau commun seroient un bien; que la possession de Colonies lointaines est un mal; que l’avantage d’un Commerce exclusif n’est qu’un préjugé &c. Mais, Monsieur, ces préjugés sont trop profondement enracinés pour qu’ils n’opérent pas encore en ce moment. Moi-même, en plaidant la Cause de l’Amérique et en soutenant, que l’Europe étoit intéressée à son Indépendance, j’ai vingt fois rencontré cette objection de la part de Personnes sensées et instruites. “Oui, mais si l’Amérique devient libre, elle fera un jour la Loi à l’Europe: Elle nous enlevera nos Isles et nos Colonies de la Guyane; elle s’emparera de toutes les Antilles; elle engloutira le Mexique, le Pérou même, le Chile, et le Brésil; elle nous enlevera notre Commerce de fret; elle payera ses Bienfaiteurs d’ingratitude &c.” J’y ai toujours répondu dans les mêmes principes que notre Auteur; mais je n’en suis pas moins resté persuadé, que cette jalousie influë ici sur beaucoup d’esprits; et quiconque connoît the selfishness, qui malheureusement ne fait que trop la base de la Politique, pourra craindre, qu’elle n’ait aussi son effet chez les Puissances du Nord. Il seroit néanmoins dommage, qu’on touchât à la Brochure en la châtrant; mais il me semble, qu’on pourroit dans une Préface jetter un voile sur ces vérités trop nuës et dont certains yeux pourroient s’offenser. Si vous le souhaitez, Monsieur, je me chargerai bien volontiers du Poste d’Editeur; et je trouverai aisément un Libraire: Mais dans ce cas, s’il se pouvoit, je serois charmé d’avoir aussi entre les mains la Brochure originale.

      Je demande pardon de ne vous pas renvoyer encore les Gazettes de Pensylvanie. Il nous en est venu quelques autres d’un autre côté; et, comme notre Feuille ne peut tout contenir à la fois, je me propose d’en faire successivement usage d’une manière, qui, à ce que je me flatte, ne vous sera pas desagréable. Vous en verrez quelques échantillons dans les Feuilles ci-jointes, ainsi que le commencement de la Traduction de l’Adresse de la Convention de Massachusett’s-Bay.
      M. le Comte de Sarsfield, qui nous a fait l’honneur de venir nous voir, m’a chargé de vous faire parvenir l’incluse. Ma Famille vous présente ses devoirs; et je vous prie d’être persuadé de la considération respectueuse et particulière, avec laquelle je suis, Monsieur, de Votre Excellence, Le très-humble et très-obéissant serviteur,

       J: Luzac


Title: From John Adams to Jean Luzac, 15 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Luzac, Jean

      Sir
      Amsterdam Septr. 15. 1780

     I have just now received yours of the 14. and I wish I had Time to write you a Sheet or two upon the Subject of it.
     I am very glad to find that you will undertake to be the Editor and I beg the favour of you to place Such a Preface as you like and to correct the Language, wherever it has Occasion. I hope to see it public as soon as possible.
     I have met often in Europe with the Same Species of Reasoners that you describe; but I find they are not numerous. Among Men of Reflection, the sentiment is generally, different, and that no Power in Europe has any Thing to fear from America. The Principal Interest of America for many Centuries to come, will be Landed, and her chief Occupation, Agriculture. Manufactures and Commerce will be but Secondary Objects, and always Subservient to the other. America will be the Country to produce raw Materials for Manufactures, but Europe will be the Country of Manufactures, and the Commerce of America can never increase, but in a certain Proportion to the Growth of its Agriculture, untill its whole Territory of Land is filled up with Inhabitants, which will not be in Some hundreds of Years.
     Russia and the northern Powers are too well informed to fear that America will interfere with them, in the Articles of their Commerce. America will demand of them in Hemp, Duck, Cordage, Sailcloth, Linens and other Articles, much more than they will ever interfere with them in the Trade of Tar, Iron and Timber. In fact, the Atlantic is so long and difficult a Navigation, that the Americans will never be able to afford to carry to the European Markett, great Quantities of these Articles. They have other Productions of greater Profit in a Smaller Compass in Such numbers and Variety, that they never can interfere with the northern Powers. As to Iron We shall import it in Bars from Sweeden, as We ever did. We used to import Sweedish Iron from England.
     But Supposing We should interfere. Should We interfere less, under the Government of England than under our own Government?
     I have not the original Memoire to the Sovereigns of Europe but I can get it from London.
     The Question to your Antagonists should be, Can Europe prevent the Independance of America? If United, perhaps they might, but can they be united? If Europe cannot prevent; or rather if any particular nation of Europe, cannot prevent the Independance of America, then, the Sooner her Independance is acknowledged the better: the less likely she will be to become warlike, enterprizing and ambitious. The Truth is however, that America can never unite in any War but a defensive one.
     I have been much obliged to you for your favourable Representation of the News from America, and of our affairs in general, and am with great respect and Esteem, sir your most obt. sert.


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Digges, 15 September 1780
From: Digges, Thomas,Church, William Singleton
To: Adams, John

      Dr. sir
      London 15 Sepr. 1780

     We are all so very busy in Election bustles that hardly anything political is talked of. The Ministry seem to be going on swimingly in getting in Creatures of their own so that their majority in the next will be more decided than in the last Parliament. The Poll has ended for the City and the members are Hayley, Kirkman, Bull, and Newnham. The last tho a Torey beat Sawbridge by 79 Votes. Rodney and Fox will get Westminster, and Burke and Cruger will be thrown out by two toreys in Bristol. Whispers are going about from the high flighers of the Court Party, that the new Parliament will early go upon accomodation if not declaration of Independence to America, this is either put forth to serve Election purposes, or to help up the Stocks; for I do not think the ministers are yet grown wise enough to adopt such a politic measure. If misfortunes and the appearance of gloomy accounts arriving from all quarters, save that of the East, would be a means of bringing them to their sences, one would think they had enough of these.
     The various accounts from Ama. by the Cartel to Bristol which I lately wrote you about, and by two or three Vessels lately taken, (part of a fleet of 11 Sail which left Chesapeak bay about the 1st of Augt. bound to Amsterdm.) have alterd the minds of the people wonderfully lately, and they now begin again to think that the affairs of Engd. in America are in a deplorable way. I find there are several passengers in this fleet but luckily none of them in the ships that are taken, so that I have reason to think that by this time some of them have got to Amsterm. The names recited to me are all from Maryland vizt.—Mr. Ridout of Annapolis, Mr. Cheston a Merchant of ditto and a Mr. Dorsey from Elk Ridge. I hope they will be able to give you satisfactory accounts of the State of things in the West.
     The Boyne Man of War is arrived in a very shattered Condition at Plymouth, She with the Preston was convoy to the Leeward Island 1st of Augt. Fleet about 80 Sail in all. On the 3d Instant the fleet was dispersd by a violent Storm which lasted 3 days and it is feard many of the ships are lost as none came in with their Convoy or are since arrivd—three of this fleet arrivd some days ago but they lost the Convoy nine days before this storm happend. The West India accounts do not place the situation, supplys and health of Rodneys fleet as in an enviable situation. Altho the late Gazette mentions nothing of ten of his ships being sent down to rienforce the Jamaica Squadron It is lookd upon here that they did go. We have yet no authentic news of Greaves’s arrival out or any late accounts from N York—The People here rather laugh at a Seige of N York, and still persist Hallifax or Quebec is the object of the combind force of France and America. If Ternays object is to block up Sandy Hook it is an hundred to one if the Whole N York fleet which saild About 5 weeks ago does not fall into His hands; at any rate that fleet is in much risque and may probably produce a third great blow to the underwriters at Loyds—the late losses among these Gentry will effectually prevent their 1781 Subscription of millions to the Minister for carrying on the War.
     The Cartel Ship to Bristol is yet detaind for want of getting the necessary protection for men to conduct Her to Bilboa. The Exchange of an equal number of American Prisoners is peremptorily refusd. It is astonishing to her that they know no better in Boston than to expect an Exchange here—Mr. Dunkins and Mr. Mitchells Vessels had both been refusd as Cartels in December last. One of the Ships found its way back to Boston long ago, and Mitchell himself was in Boston four of five days before this Vessel saild the 21st July. The former two Vessels brought 90 Prisoners and this 11 so that upwards of an hundred men are lost to Us, and so will thousands be if the United States allow their prisoners thus to come away. To my great greif the capture of these two American Vessels mentiond before will add near 80 more Prisoners to our list already amounting to 280 or 290. I have made a push to get a part of these sent over gratis in Temples Cartel to France to stand in Account, but it was to no effect; These people seem determin’d to do nothing in good nature or what has a tendency to Conciliation. Their audacity and impudence in publick offices seem to encrease with their impotence.
     I am Dr sir Yr Ob sert.

      W.S.C


Title: From John Adams to the President of Congress, No. 7, 16 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: President of Congress,Huntington, Samuel

      Duplicate
      Sir
      Amsterdam September 16th. 1780

     I have the Honour to send by this Opportunity, a few Pamphlets and Papers. The Pamphlets relate to Subjects which interest the United States, and therefore ought to be communicated to Congress, for their Consideration.
     The Attention of Mankind is now turned next to the Congress of America upon that at Petersbourg. The last Letters from London say they have Information that one of the first Measures of this Confederation, will be an acknowledgment of American Independence.Whether this is true or not I am not able to say. The Councils of the Sovereigns of Europe are not easily penetrated but it is our duty to attend to them, and throw into View such Information as may be in our Power, that they may take no Measures inconsistent with their and our Interests for want of light, a misfortune that may easily happen.
     In this View, I could wish that the United States had a Minister at each of the Maritime Courts, I mean Holland, Russia, Sweeden and Denmark, and as the Cabinet of Berlin has much Influence in the Politicks of Europe, Prussia.
     I say this upon Supposition that Congress can devise Means of defraying the Expence, which to be sure would amount to a large Sum. I have heard that Mr. Searle has arrived at Brest, but am not informed of his Destination, nor whether he has dispatches for me.I am anxious to learn from Congress, what their Intentions may be respecting me. I have yet recieved no Authority to draw upon any fund whatever for my Subsistence, nor to borrow Money, for that or any other purpose. I see no prospect of my Commission being of any Utility. Although many Persons here think that Peace will be made in the Course of the ensuing Winter or Spring, yet I must confess I am of a different Opinion. The Idea that France will dictate the Conditions of Peace if it is made now, cannot be born by Englishmen as yet, they are not yet sufficiently humbled, although probably every year will add some fresh Humiliation to the demands upon their Country.
     The English Privateers have taken some Russian Vessels loaded with Hemp and Iron, which must bring the Question to a legal decision. The Admiralty will probably discharge them, and the Ministry will give up the Point of free Ships free Goods, provided the Dutch agree with the Northern Powers, for they will not venture upon a War with all the World at once—besides the military Force, which they could not stand against, they would not be able to obtain any Stores for their Navy.
     But the great Question now is, whether the Dutch will agree? Their Deputies are instructed to insist upon a Warranty of their East and West India Dominions. Whether the Northern Powers will agree to this Condition is a Question. The States General however are sitting, and will wait for dispatches from Petersbourg, and will probably be much governed by Events. What Events have happened in the West Indies and North America, We shall soon learn. Digby is sailed with a part of Gearys late fleet, whether for another Expedition to Gibraltar, or whether for the West Indies or North America is unknown. The Success of these Operations will probably influence much the deliberations both at Petersbourg and the Hague. This Time only can discover. It is said however that Mr. Le Texier will be exempted by the States General from the payment of Duties upon his Masts, Hemp, Iron and other Naval Stores that he is sending over Land, to the French Marine.
     The Capture of fifty five Ships at once, so much wealth, so many Seamen and Soldiers, and such Quantities of Stores, is a severe Stroke to the English and cannot but have the most excellent Effects for Us both in the West Indies and North America. The right Vein is now opened and I hope that the Courts of France and Spain will now be in earnest in convoying their own Commerce and cruising for that of their Enemies. This is a short, easy, and infallible Method of humbling the English, preventing the Effusion of an Ocean of Blood and bringing the War to a Conclusion. In this Policy I hope our Countrymen will join, with the utmost Alacrity. Privateering is as well understood by them as any People whatsoever, and it is by cutting off Supplies, not by Attacks, Seiges or Assaults that I expect Deliverance from our Enemies. And I should be wanting in my Duty, if I did not warn them against any relaxation of their Exertions by Sea or Land, from a fond Expectation of Peace. They will decieve themselves if they depend upon it. Never, Never will the English make Peace, while they have an Army in North America.

      I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble Servant.


Title: To John Adams from Francis Dana, 16 September 1780
From: Dana, Francis
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Saturday Eveng: 9 o Clock 16 September 1780First Bible Wormoes straat—Anthony Carr’s Kaa’s

     I am this moment arrived in Town, much fatigued, and as it is so late, you will excuse my not waiting on you this evening. You must not be surprised to find me here. I am not the messenger of any bad news from our Country. I have some dispatches from Congress, brot to Paris by Mr. Searle, one of its Members. These occasioned my coming here. They are not of consequence to be communicated immediately. To morrow will answer as well for this Purpose. I left Paris the 12th. at noon, and overtook Mr. Austin at Brussels. We have travelled together from thence. He left Paris the night of the ninth. I hope you and the young Gentlemen are well. I left Mr. Thaxter so. I am with much esteem and respect your Excellency most obedient humble Servt:

      FRA DANA


Title: From John Adams to William Churchill Houston, 17 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Houston, William Churchill

      Sir
      Amsterdam Septr. 17. 1780

     Last night Mr. Dana arrived here, from Paris and brought me your Favour of the 11. of July. You cannot imagine, Sir how much Pleasure, this Letter gave me. I shall make a good Use of this and every other authentic Information, in order to prevent the unfavourable Impressions, you are aware of. It has been my greatest Affliction Since I have been in Europe that I have had so seldom Letters from my friends, or Intelligence from America of any Kind. That Business which is every Bodeys, is never done. Most of the Letters I receive tell me, “you will be so fully informed, both officially, and by your other Friends, that I shall not trouble you with public Affairs.” And thus it is that I learn, nothing. My Friend Lovel, indeed remembers me, now and then, and considering his indefatigable Labours in other Things, is very good. Heaven reward him for his Virtues, Exertions and sufferings! And Earth too Say I!
     General Greens Report, of Kniphausens Exploit is much admired in Europe. Yet I am almost wicked enough to wish that even my friend Green had been beaten, because his defeat would have insured the Captivity of Kniphausen and all his Banditti.

     The late Accounts from America, from all Quarters, have had a good Effect in Europe. And the Capture of 55 ships at once by the combined Fleets of France and Spain, with the Captures by Don Barcelo and that of the Quebec Fleet, have cast down the English Cause to such a degree, as to put them upon the compassionate List, even with some who detest their Tyranny.
     You will not mistake this for a Promise or an Hope of Peace. This cannot be. The Heads of a King and Ministers is at Stake, in the negotiation for Peace, at least they Suspect so. The new Parliament, will not alter the System, unless it should make it more insidious.
     As to Money, I can promise nothing but my Utmost Exertions to procure it. It is lucky that I had been here 4 or 5 Weeks before my Commission arrived, because I have had an opportunity to reconnoitre the Country.
     Mr. Searle, shall have every Attention and Assistance, from me that may be in my Power.
     I most earnestly request the Continuance of your Correspondence, and remain, with the highest Esteem, sir your very humble servant


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Adams, 20 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Adams, Samuel

      My dear Sir
      Amsterdam Septr. 20. 1780

     Your Favour of the 10th. of July, is received. Mr. Searle, who is yet at Paris, I hope to see soon here. Am happy to learn that the People of Massachusetts have accepted the Constitution: May they be wise in the Choice of their Rulers, and happy under them. The Constitution, and the Address to the People have much Respect Shewn them in Europe.
     The Accounts from various Parts of the Activity and Ardour of the People, are very pleasing and promise good Success. But I fear, that, without a clearer Superiority of naval Strength, nothing decisive will be done. The Accounts of Embargoes distress me, because they discourage Trade and Privateering, and I expect more benefit from them than from Exertions at Land. Nothing will ever be done to effect, untill the Allied Powers, apply all their Attention to the destruction of the British Commerce, Transports and Marine. I hope soon to see M. Laurens with a Commission of Plenipotentiary to their high mightinesses. This would be a great political Stroke, and have great Effects, many Ways.
     The English are now all drunk. The Run of Elections indicate Continuance of War, and the most desperate obstinacy. The Nation however is impotent. The Loss of their E. and W. India fleets is a severe Blow. May they Soon have Repetition upon Repetition of such strokes.
     Yours affectionately

      John Adams

      Mr. Lee and M. Izard are both with you, eer now I presume. My Regards to them, if you please. Mrs. Izard and Mr. W. Lee’s Family are well.


Title: From John Adams to Samuel Huntington, 20 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Huntington, Samuel

      Sir
      Amsterdam Sept. 20. 1780

     Your Excellencys Letter of 12 July, I have received and thank you, sir, for recommending this Gentleman to me. And shall on all future occasions be obliged to you for recommending to me such Persons as you shall think proper coming to Europe.
     The Current of popular Hopes and Fears in Europe has been lately much turned by the favourable News from America. But the public opinion is of no Consequence at this Time. A bloody minded and desperate Administration in England, hold the publick opinion in Contempt and Derision and will pursue their fatal system to the utter Destruction of their Country. Their Tools, now give out that the new Parliament will turn their Thoughts to Peace. But this is permitted, by the most malicious and deliberate deception, merely to influence Elections, keep Up the stocks, and amuze their Ennemies, while they prepare some Sly Expedition against them like that of Rodney to Gibraltar and that of Clinton to Charlestown. I have the Honour to be


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Rush, 20 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Rush, Benjamin

      Dear Sir
      Amsterdam sept. 20. 1780

     Yours of 13 July I have received. Your Account of the Resurrection of the Spirit of 65 and 6, is very refreshing. The Ladies having undertaken, to support American Independance settles the Point. Surely no Gentleman will ever dispute it against So many of the fair. The ill bred Fellows at St. James’s will continue to quarrell about it, but We knew long ago that they have no manners. If Mrs. Rush reproaches you with Lukewarmness, I am sure there must be zeal enough, for it is impossible that you should be deficient wanting in the necessary Proportion of that Quality.
     Mr. Serle, is intituled to every good Office in my Power, from many Considerations.
     Lloyds will afford but a sorry subscription this Year to Ld. Norths Loan for 1781. They are deeply taken in—May they soon hear of more respectable Additions to the List of their Losses.
     My best respects to Mrs. Rush and desire her to move in the Assemblies of the Ladies, that their Influence may be exerted to promote Privateering. This, and Trade is the only Way to lay the Foundation of a Navy, which alone can afford a solid Protection to every Part of their Country.
     If I could have my Will, there should not be the least obstruction to Navigation, Commerce, or Privateering. Because I firmly believe that one Sailor will do Us more good than two Soldiers.
     Keppell is thrown out at Windsor, Burke and Cruger at Bristol, and your Friend Sawbridge in the City. It is necessary in England for a Man to be an Ennemy to his Country, in order to be popular. When this is the Case all is lost.
     Your affectionate Friend


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Digges, 20 September 1780
From: Digges, Thomas,Church, William Singleton
To: Adams, John

      Dr. Sir
      London 20 Sepr. 1780

     A Servant of the De Neufvilles going to Amsterdam early in the morning gives me an opportunity of sending a letter to you for Mr. Ridley in Maryland which I beg you to give to the first safe hand bound to America.
     We are still without any authentic accounts from N. York or the quarters of the British Army tho the general Town report is that Ministry have been some days in possession of bad accounts from Sir H. Clinton. Many people are possessd of an opinion that Ternays fleet with an Army of French and Americans are to opperate against Hallifax and this opinion arrises from an account said to be transmitted from Sir Jo Yorke about a week ago, which He discoverd by some Emissarys in France. I have had opportunitys lately in doing the business for the Cartel to Bristol which brought over Mr. Temple to discover a little of the disposition in the Office of Admiralty and board of Sick and Hurt, and I discover a wonderful alteration this two months. They are much more civil than usual and discover many tokens to indicate they look upon their affairs in America in a very bad way indeed—Last week, they could not think of releasing on any account one or more Rebels from Prison to stand against those parole prisoners who came over in the Flag to Bristol—To day on an application for Capn. Manlys release (to stand against a Capn. Scott of the Golden Eagle Privateer taken in June by the Pickering American Privateer and carryd into Boston Bilboa) they say it certainly shall be granted and that orders shall be sent down for his discharge in a day or two, so that I hope you may see Him in a few days.
     We are still in the bustle of Elections. There is a more than usual cry out from all partys against the American War—some ministerial Candidates have addressd their Electors on that score—this theme must be given them from the older hounds of the pack or they would hardly venture to nose it. The Cry however is very general “Our evils have all arisen from the American War. We shall be ruind if it is not put a stop to &ca. &ca.” Many people are of opinion, and speak it out, that the Cabinet have determind to abandon it and get the Troops away as well as they can. Some folks, on the side of ministry too, go so far as to say that they would give it up directly could they bargain with Amca. to hold possession of the Ports of N. York, Chas. Town &ca. for a little while, a few Years only, and these ports to be equally open and free to Ama., in order that by holding them they might prevent the French and Spaniards from Possessing all the Wt. Inda. Islands, but this is only talk, and they better talk not about possessing Ports if they really mean to get peace with Ama. I may be sanguine, but I really think their fears have put them very near making some proffers for peace with America.
     A Privateer is arrived in a short time from the mouth of the Tagus and has given an account that there was an Embargo laid there on all English vessels. The news is not relishd in the City at all as the affairs of Europe indicate that Portugal if she is obligd to declare at all will join the side of Bourbon. The Portugue Envoy set out yesterday for Lisbon but I believe He only goes on his private affairs. The Envoy from His Court at the Hague is arrivd here to be in his place till his return to England. This departure of the Envoy happening at the same period with the account of the Embargo is much talkd of and supposd by many to prognosticate a War between England and Portugal. I am obligd to break off hastily the person waiting for my letter.
     I am with the highest regard Yrs.

      WS.C

      Mr. Ap——l——ns best Compliments.


Title: From John Adams to William Lee, 21 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Lee, William

      Dear Sir
      Amsterdam Septr. 12 21st. 1780

     Your favour of the 10th. is just come to Hand yet unanswered. I am fully of your opinion, that the British Cabinet are determined on a Prosecution of the War. It is not So much the Demands of America perhaps, as those of France and Spain which decide them. The English are not yet enough humbled to give up Gibraltar and the Floridas to Spain; and Liberty to Dunkirk and a more ample Extension to the Fishery on the Grand Bank to France, in Addition to American Independance: Nor are France and Spain So tired of the War, as to agree to less. Nor can the English yet think of free ships free Goods. Yet in all human Probability, if the War continues every year will add fresh demands, upon England.
     The Dutch Gazetteers in general are not fond of Selecting News unfavourable to England. The Reason I Suppose is that it is not profitable.
     I wish, for my own Part that Congress had a Minister at the Court of every maritime Power, and at Berlin and Vienna too. But the Expence of maintaining them is I assure you, a Serious Affair at present. Congress cannot remit to Europe: and they have not yet been able to borrow, in Europe enough to procure Cloaths and Arms and Stores for their Troops.
     The Plan on which St. Thomas’s is a free Port, I am not able at present to send you. Two Sensible Friends of mine from Boston who came directly from Copenhagen inform me that they there learn’d this Intelligence, but no particulars of the Plan.
     I am happy to find that the Constitution of Mass. has your Approbation. I have a kind of Mixture of parental Affection and filial Veneration for it. You will See it, at large in the Leyden Gazette, in Time.

     Mr. Adams’s Reason for declining to Serve the Town of Boston was good. He was going to Congress, intending to Spend the Year there; and therefore could not serve the Town. HWe do ought not to hold the Doctrine of Sinecures, honorary or lucrative, in the Mass. America. I have myself once resigned a Seat in Council, and at another Time the Office of Chief Justice of the State, for the Same Reason, vizt because my Constituents would not excuse me from Serving in Congress, and I was determined I would not hold Offices at four hundred Miles distance from the Duties of them and deprive the public, by this means, of the services of others. When Mr. Adams returns from Congress at the End of the Year, he will be again chosen by the Town and then, if he designs to stay at home he will serve. But this you may depend upon that whether at Philadelphia, or at Boston, in Congress or in Council, or senate or House of Representatives, all his Time and Thoughts will be employed in the service of the Cause.

      There are, who have Served this Cause, through every Danger and at every Expence, for a long Course of Years. These I agree with you, understand the Subject better and are more to be depended on, than Some others, who are younger in the service and who instead of Sacrificing have made Fortunes by it. But We are not to expect, that these will always preserve their Influence. We ought to be prepared to meet the Neglect, the Contempt and even the Hatred of those We have devoted our Health, Liberty Fortune and Lives to serve. I know of no other Security, which a Man in public Service in popular any Government has, for his Happiness.


Title: From John Adams to Jan and Dirk van Vollenhoven, 22 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Vollenhoven, Jan van,Vollenhoven, Dirk van

       22 Septr. 1780

     A Stranger, having particular Occasion to Speak with the Broker, who, Some time Since, negotiated in this City, a Loan of Money, for the City of Dantzick, begs the Favour of Mr. Van Vollenhoven to communicate his Name and Place of Abode, in a written Billet Sealed, by the Bearer in Writing to the Bearer.


Title: From John Adams to James Searle, 23 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Searle, James

      Sir
      Amsterdam September 23 1780

     I received, by the Hand of Mr. Dana, the Letters and Dispatches, which you brought for me, from Congress.
     I should have been very happy, to have been at Paris, at your Arrival; and to have had the Honour to do what ever might have been in my Power, to render your Residence in that Capital agreable, or to assist you in the Purpose of your Mission; But I am not able to foresee, when I shall return. If you should come this Way, I Shall have the Honour to pay you my Respects, without Loss of Time.
     Your Relation of the State of Things in our Country, as repeated to me by Mr. Dana, is very pleasing and promises much good.
     I shall obey the Commands of Congress with great Pleasure: but with what success Time only can discover. I have the Honour to be, with very great Esteem & Respect &c.


Title: To John Adams from John Thaxter, 23 September 1780
From: Thaxter, John
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Paris 23d Septr. 1780

     The inclosed Letter has this moment been delivered by Mr. Celesia. I have thought it my duty to forward it to You. The letter, which Mr. Mazzei mentions to be inclosed in his, is to his Excellency the Governor of Virginia—am I to forward it to You, or to seal it and forward it to the Governor, first taking a Copy thereof? I wish to have your directions, Sir.
     Capt. Sampson has informed me, that Mitchel and Duncan, that went in the Cartel to England about the time we sailed from Boston, had arrived with about £15,000 sterling’s worth of Goods at Boston—that the Vessel was seized per order of the Navy Board and libelled, and that it was the general Opinion She would be condemned.
     He mentions that a Cartel had arrived at Boston from New York just before he sailed—that she had to the amount of £1500 sterling’s worth of Goods, for some Gentlemen and Ladies in Boston—that he had seized and libelled her by order of the Board of War in behalf of the State, himself and Crew. I cannot but wish very sincerely that these Cargoes may be condemned, and that this perversion of Cartels to the purposes of private Commerce and Emolument may be prevented.
     When Capt. Sampson sailed, Bills of Exchange were to be bought at the rate of fifty two for one—one fortnight before they were at seventy five for one. Even Col: Quincy himself is puzzled to account for these curious changes in the Currency—it has mounted and fallen like the Mercury.
     Hard money, he says is offered to sale—that one third of our proportion of the debt was assessed or to be assessed about the time of his sailing.
     He has politely and obligingly offered to take any family Articles for You and Mr. Dana, when he returns, and desired me to mention it. He leaves Paris to day. Mr. Watson who is with him, as well as himself desire their Respects to You.
     My Respects, if you please, to Mr. Dana and Love to the young Gentlemen.
     I have the Honor to be, with the most perfect Respect, Sir, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant.

      J. Thaxter Junr.


Title: From John Adams to the President of Congress, No. 9, 24 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: President of Congress,Huntington, Samuel

      Sir
      Amsterdam September 24. 1780

     Since the Receipt of the Dispatches, by the Honourable Mr. Searle I have been uninteruptedly employed in attempting to carry into Execution the Designs of Congress.
     The first Inquiry, which arose, was, whether it was prudent to make any Communication of my Business, to the States General, or to the Prince. Considering that my Errand was Simply an Affair of Credit, and that I had no political Authority, I thought, and upon consulting Gentlemen of the most Knowledge, best Judgment, and fullest Inclination for a Solid and lasting Connection between the two Republicks, I found them of the Same opinion, that it was best to keep my designs Secret as long as I could. The Same Reasons determined me, to communicate nothing to the Regency of Amsterdam, or any other Branch of Government, and to proceed to seek a Loan upon the Foundation of private Credit. I have accordingly made all the enquiries possible for the best and most unexceptionable House, and Tomorrow I expect an Answer to Some Propositions which I made Yesterday.
     This Business must be conducted with So much Secrecy and Caution, and I meet so many difficulties for Want of the Language, the Gentlemen I have to do with not understanding English, and not being very familiar with French that it goes on slower than I could wish. Commodore Gillon, by his Knowledge of Dutch and general Acquaintance here has been as usefull to me as he has been friendly. I never Saw the national Benefit of a polished Language generally read and Spoken, in So Strong a Light, as Since I have been here. The Dutch Language is understood by nobody but themselves: the Consequence of which has been, that this Nation is not known. With as profound Learning and Ingenuity, as any People in Europe possess, they have been over looked, because they were Situated among others more numerous and powerfull than they. I hope that Congress will profit by their Example, by doing what they have lost so much Reputation and Advantage by neglecting; I mean by doing every Thing in their Power to make the Language they Speak respectable, throughout the World. Seperated as We are from the British Dominion, We have not made War against the English Language, any more than against the old English Character. An Accademy instituted by the Authority of Congress, for correcting, improving, and fixing the English Language would Strike all the World with Admiration and Great Britain with Envy. The Labours of Such a Society, would unite all America, in the Same Language, for Thirty Millions of Americans to Speak to all the Nations of the Earth by the Middle of the Nineteenth Century. I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect, your Excellencys most obedient and humble servant

      John Adams


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Digges, 25 September 1780
From: Adams, John,San, Fernando Raymond
To: Digges, Thomas,Church, William Singleton

      Amsterdam Sept. 25. 1780

     The People on your Side, Seem determined to revenge themselves for the Loss of their Power, on those who have done all they could to Save it. I should not Say, all they could. They have never made an opposition upon Any Principle or System. The Man who condemns a Minister in one Breath for the American War, and in the next condemns him for not doing more in it, and not succeeding in it, will never make any great Hand of it. One who applauds the Americans for their Resistance and then condemns The French for coming in Aid of that Resistance and the Americans for accepting that Aid, will never make any great Figure. An Admiral who cannot serve against America and yet will Serve against the French in the American War, may well expect Keppells Fate. Mankind are not governed so. If a Man would lead others to a good End, he must lay down his Principle and his Plan; he must let others into it, and obtain their approbation of it, and then pursue it, through all its variety of Fortune and all its Consequences. But what is this to Us, who is in, or who out? The Nation will go to the End of its Tether, as Governor Bernard did, let who will be in or out. We know the worst of it, and are prepared. Let it come. The weaker our Ennemies before they make Peace, the Safer We shall be, and the longer the Peace will last. As to the Friendship of Great Britain towards America, it is gone to all Eternity. She can never forgive Us the Injuries she has done us.
     Will you be So good as to send me, two or three Copies of the Memorial to the Sovereigns of Europe, and a Copy of Dr. Prices Population &c.
     With great Regard yours

      F.R.S.


Title: From John Adams to the President of Congress, No. 10, 25 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: President of Congress,Huntington, Samuel

      Sir
      Amsterdam September 25. 1780

     There are Persons, in this Republick, who have been Attentive to this War, and who know somewhat of the History of the Rise and Progress, of the united States of America: but it is Surprizing that the Number Should be So Small. Even in the City of Amsterdam, which is the most Attentive to our Affairs, and the best inclined towards Us there are few, who do not consider the American Resistance, as a desultory Rage of a few Enthusiasts, without order, Discipline, Law or Government. There are Scarcely any who have an adequate Idea of the Numbers, the increasing Population, or the growing Commerce of America.
     Upon my Arrival here Some Gentlemen were inquisitive, about our Governments: I asked if they had Seen them in Print? and was answered No. Upon this I made it my Business to Search in all the Booksellers shops for the Collection of them, which was published in French, two or three Years ago, but could find only two Copies, which I presented to the Gentlemen who made the Enquiry. Nothing would Serve our cause more than having a compleat Edition of the American Constitutions, correctly printed in English, by order of Congress, and sent to Europe, as well as Sold in America. The Rhode Island and Connecticutt Constitutions ought not to be omitted, altho they have undergone No Alteration, and it would be proper to print the Confederation in the Same Volume. This Work would be read by every Body in Europe, who reads English, and could obtain it, and Some would even learn English for the sake of reading it. It would be translated into every Language of Europe, and would fix the Opinion of our Unconquerability, more than any Thing could, except driving the Ennemy wholly from the united States.
     There has been nobody here, of Sufficient Information and Consideration to turn the Attention of the Publick towards our Affairs, to communicate, from Time to Time to the Publick, in a Language that is understood, Intelligence from America, France, England &c. But on the Contrary, there have been Persons enough employed and well paid by our Ennemies, to propagate Misinformation, Misrepresentation, and Abuse.
     The ancient and intimate Connection between the Houses of orange, and Brunswick, the Family Alliances, and the vast Advantages which the Princes of orange have derived from them in creating, establishing and at last perpetuating the Stadhouderat against the Inclination of the Republican Party, and the Relyance which this Family Still has upon the Same Connection to support it, have attached the Executive Power of this Government in such a manner to England, that nothing but Necessity could cause a seperation.
     On the Contrary, the Republican Party, which has heretofore been conducted, by Barnevelt, Grotius, De Wit and other immortal Patriots, have ever leaned towards an Alliance with France, because she has ever favoured the Republican Form of Government in this Nation. All Parties, however, agree, that England has been ever jealous and envious of the Dutch Commerce, and done it great Injuries: that this Country is more in the Power of France, if she were hostile than of England: and that her Trade with France, is of vastly greater Value than that with England. Yet England has more Influence here than France. The Dutch, Some of them at least now see, another commercial and maritime Power arising, that it is their Interest to form an early Connection with. All Parties here see, that it is not their Interest that France and Spain, Should Secure too many Advantages in America, and too great a Share in her Commerce, and especially in the Fisheries in her Seas. All Parties too, See, that it would be dangerous to the Commerce and even Independance of the united Provinces, to have America again under the Dominion of England: and the Republicans See, or think they see that a change in this Government and the Loss of their Liberties would be the Consequence of it too.
     Amidst all these Conflicts of Interests and Parties, and all these Speculations, the British Ambassador with his Swarms of Agents, are busily employed in propagating Reports, in which they are much assisted, by those who are called here stadthouderians, and there has been nobody to contradict, or explain any Thing. This should be the Business in Part of a Minister Plenipotentiary. Such a Minister, however, will not have it in his Power, to do it, effectually, without frequent and constant Information from Congress. At present this Nation is So ignorant of the Strength, Resources, Commerce and Constitutions of America: it has So false and exagerated an Imagination of the Power of England: it has So many Doubts of our final Success: So many Suspicions of our falling finally into the Hands of France and Spain: So many Jealousies that France and Spain will abandon Us or that We shall abandon them: So many Fears of offending the English Ministry: the English Ambassador: the great mercantile Houses, that are very profitably employed by both: and above all the Stadtholder and his Friends: that, even a Loan of Money will meet with every obstruction and Discouragement possible. These Chimeras and many more are held up to People here, and influence Mens Minds and Conduct to such a degree that no Man dares openly and publickly to disregard them.
     I have, this day received an Answer to Some Propositions, which I made last saturday, to a very respectable House, declining to accept the Trust proposed. I do not however despair. I hope still to obtain Something: but I am fully persuaded, that without a Commission of Minister Plenipotentiary, and without Time and care to lead the publick opinion into the Truth, no Man living will ever Succeed to any large Amount.
     Those Persons who are both able and willing to lend Us Money, are the Patriots, who are willing to risk British and Stadthouderian Resentment for the Sake of extending the Commerce, Strengthening the political Interests, and preserving the Liberties of their Country. They think that lending Us Money, without forming a political Connection with Us will not answer these Ends. That Cause, Stands very insecurely which Stands upon the shoulders of Patriotism in any Part of Europe. And in such Case if Patriotism is left in a state of doubt whether they ought to sustain it, the Cause must fall to the Ground.
     I have the Honour to be, with perfect Respect, sir your most obedient and most humble servant

      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Hendrik van Blomberg, 25 September 1780
From: Blomberg, Hendrik van
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Amstm. 25 Sept. 1780

     Messrs. van Vollenhoven, not with standing all the credit they have for the United States of North America Cannot accept of the Commission, Which You have done them the honour to propose, for Reason that their Branch of Comerce being fixt to the Baltick, they Cannot Wel extend it so far as North America. I have the honour to be with great Your most h: Servt.

      H V Blomberg


Title: To John Adams from Hendrik van Blomberg, 26 September 1780
From: Blomberg, Hendrik van
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Amsterdam 26 September 1780

     I Waited Yesterday for a Second him time on Messr. Van Vollenhoven after the recpt of your favour. The affair in question is to Extended to decide it by letters, for Which reason I beg the favour of You to do me the honour to Cale on me this Evening at 6 o’Clock, When I shall take Care to have a Person With me, witt wohm we Can speak in Confidence. I am With great regard Sir! Your Most ob. Servt.

      H V Blomberg


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Digges, 26 September 1780
From: Digges, Thomas,Dundas, T.
To: Adams, John

      Dr. Sir
      London Sepr. 26. 1780

     My Friend Mr. B—— will give you the news by the Cartel I some time ago mentiond to you to have arrivd from Boston at Bristol, as well as the proceedings here relative to that Cartel. I send you also by Him a Book and seven lately publishd Pamphlets. There has been a dearth of these sort of publications during the summer, but probably by the meeting of Parliament several political writers will put forth their works.
     I mentiond to you in my late letters that the receivd opinion here was the Cabinet had determind to abandon the American war, for several days past the reports and conversations among a certain description of men seems to give weight to this opinion; most likely it is the general state of things in this Country and not their will which assents to such a measure.
     Some little alarm was given a few days ago by the arrival of a Privateer from Lisbon, which reported an Embargo had been laid on all English Ships in the ports of Portugal—this could not be accounted for here, consequently it was not beleivd. Today they are a little more alarmd and fearful for a general prevailing report, that a French Squadron had arrivd at Lisbon to demand of that court an acquiesence to the northern Confederacy or immediately declare which side they would take in the present war. People who are unwilling to beleive any thing say that the numerous insults offerd by Commodr. Johnson to neutral ships and the captures carryd into Lisbon may provoke some such desperate measure. I do not know how it effected the Stocks or the wise acres about Loyds Coffee House coming so immediately upon the back of what they all term unfavorable news from America. If Englishmen would speak candidly they should say England ought to trust as little as possible to the fidelity and firmness of a power situated as Portugal is, subject to the immidiate controul and even compulsion of arbitrary, powerful and daring Enemys—most likely the account may be premature, yet there may be some foundation for it from the Complexion of things between Spain and Portugal.
     Every day produces some new instance of the wretched State both of the English army and navy in the Leeward Islands. The English fleet seems fixd to the quarter of St. Christophers inactive till some rienforcements are sent thither. Eight Ships are preparing to go there with all expedition, and Sir Hugh Paliser is talkd of as the Commander—this fleet goes in consequence of intelligence being received that a like number of French were dispatchd there about 5 weeks ago.
     The Virginia Frigate is arrivd express from N York with Dispatches born by a Coll. Dalrymple, and a Navy Officer and is said to have brought passengers—Gov. Tryon, Genl. Matthews and others. The account only getting out this afternoon, there is no getting at the truth and probably we never shall for no bad accounts are now given to the publick in the Gazette. If there is one given tonight Mr. B. will carry one. By every Torey phisiognomy and appearance the news is lookd upon as bad; and reports state it that the frigate saild the 30th Augt. and that an attack was expected upon N York the next day, Washington with the French Army having possessd the heights of Brooklyne, the fleet of France off the hook and other movements from the quarters of Kings bridge and the Jerseys; also that they had certain intelligence the French fleet from the West Indies was hourly expected to join that of Ternay. This frigate is said to bring bad tidings also from Chas. Town—such as that a large body of Americans who had joind the British having taken an opportunity had securd a number of Officers who commanded them and gone off to the side of their Country, that there was excessive want and sickness in the Town &ca. &ca. There are innumerable other reports, all of which from their corroboration, and the remarkable silence on the part of the Kings friends and ministerial people is sufficient to indicate the news is bad, and I wish them their belly full of it.
     There is a lad (son to a good friend Mr. Champion of Bristol) living at the House of Mr. Martin’s in Amsterm. who is finally meant to fix in America. The Father, who is a very valuable Man, hearing you had two Sons about his age in Amsm., is anxious they should know each other and begs of me to be a means of making them acquainted, that his may hereafter find some acquaintance in America and imbibe some of the Political Sentiments which He supposes your boys to inherit from the Father. I submit this to you, and subscribe myself with the highest Esteem Dr Sir Yr obligd & Obt. Ser.

      TD


Title: To John Adams from Edmund Jenings, 27 September 1780
From: Jenings, Edmund
To: Adams, John

      Sir
      Brussels Septr. 27. 1780

     I have just this Moment receivd your Excellencys Letter of the 23d. Instant, it Honors and flatters me much and is a fresh Proof of your Excellencys Partiallity for me. Your Wishes that I was better known to my Countrymen proceeds from your Goodness to me—I well Know that you have taken every pains in your Power, that I should be so, but whether they are acquainted with me or not I shall serve them faithfully and affectionately.
     I am happy to see the Massachusetts Constitution translate in all the foreign Papers—it must necessarily draw the Attention of Europe to the new Legislators. It must see with Admiration that the Science of Government, founded on the Nature of Man is so well understood in the New World. They will Confess that the English Know nothing of it, and if your Excellencys Recommendation is Attended to, the Americans will improve the very language of that haughty People.
     I will press to have the Translation come out as Soon as possible and beg to have some Copies thereof.
     I yesterday receivd a Letter from Mr. Carmichael of the 11th Instant—Things go Slowly there. He tells me I shall soon hear of an Agreable Change in a certain Quarter—I suppose He means Portugal.
     Give me leave to send to your Excellency a Couple of Letters to be transmitted to the Carolinas—I shall send them by Mr. Serle, whom I am told will pass through this Town in About ten days. I shall send too by him some Pamphlets, which your Excellency may make what Use of you please.

     I flattered myself much when I saw Mr. Dana here that you woud soon return through this Town and have waited with much Impatience, however I shall set off tomorrow for my long intended Journey to Boulogne sur Mer. I shall be Absent About a fortnight.
     I beg my best Respects to Mr. Dana.
     I am Sir your Excellencys Most Faithful & Obedient Humble Servt.

      Edm: Jenings


Title: To John Adams from Jean Luzac, 27 September 1780
From: Luzac, Jean
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       Leide 27. Sept. 1780

      Vous faisant des remercîmens très-sincères des la communication, que vous avez eu la bonté de nous faire successivement de plusieurs Papiers intéressans, j’ai l’honneur de vous en renvoyer ici une partie, vous priant de permettre que je garde le reste encore quelques jours, parce que le tems ne m’a pas permis de les copier toutes à la fois, et que je me propose de les employer à mesure que la place le permettra. J’ai déjà pris Copie des deux Lettres de Philadelphie, dont je n’ai pu donner jusqu’ici l’Extrait au Public. Je me flatte, que vous agréerez l’usage que j’ai fait de ces différentes Pièces; et que les informations, qu’elles contiennent, serviront à détromper l’Europe de plusieurs fausses idées, qu’on lui a fait prendre sur l’état des affaires.
      J’ai fait copier pour la presse la Brochure, que je tiens de votre main; et je compte, que l’impression pourra se commencer la semaine prochaine.
      J’ai l’honneur d’être avec le plus grand respect, Monsieur, de Votre Excellence Le très-humble & très-obéissant Serviteur,

       J: Luzac


Title: Jean Luzac to John Adams: A Translation, 27 September 1780
From: Luzac, Jean
To: Adams, John

       Sir
       Leyden, 27 September 1780

      Our sincere thanks for your kindness in sending us several interesting documents. I have the honor to send you back a few, and of asking your permission to keep the rest for a few more days, because I did not have enough time to copy them all at once, and I intend to use them as space will permit. The two Philadelphia letters have already been copied, but I was unable to publish their extracts. I hope that you will approve of the use I have made of these various pieces and that the information they contain will help rid Europe of a few of its misconceptions as to the state of things.
      I had a copy made of the pamphlet you gave me for the press, and I am expecting that it will go to print next week.
      I have the honor to be, with utmost respect, sir, your excellency’s very humble and very obedient servant,

       J: Luzac


Title: To John Adams from Arthur Lee, 28 September 1780
From: Lee, Arthur
To: Adams, John

      Dear Sir
      Lebanon Sepr. 28th 1780

     Having come here to converse with the worthy Governor, an opportunity of his Dispatch is afforded me of writing you a single line to inform you of my having left Mrs. Adams and all your friends well a few days since. Mr. Hancock is chosen Governor, much owing to your absence and the in-attention of those who wish well to their Country and will probably repent of their inactivity.
     Measures are taking to support our credit and supply the Army, to augment which and give it permanency, notwithstanding the patriotic objections seems to be a prevailing doctrine as the only method of meeting our Enemies effectually. But I can assure you that unless our Ally and friend will contrive to send us a million sterling in specie, they will run a great risque of rendering all our efforts vain and forcing us from inevitable necessity to an accommodation.
     The loss from our defeat under Genl. Gates is much less than was imagind, and we have reason to beleive the Enemy sufferd exceedingly as they have not advancd a step. Genl. de Kalb who was mortally wounded is the only Officer of rank lost. Genl. Gates is reforming his Army fast, and the Militia being put under continental Officers, it is hopd will all fight as well as the Regiment of N. C. militia under Colonel Dixon, which stood and fought bravely while their fellows were shamefully flying.
     My Compts. to Mr. Dana the Abbés & other friends.
     Farewell.


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, 29 September 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

      Amsterdam September 29. 1780

     Mr. Samuel Andrews, formerly of Boston lately of Demarara, is going to Paris upon Business, respecting a Vessell taken by the French and carried into Martinico.
     He will lay before you his Papers, and hopes for your Countenance, in the Prosecution of his Appeal, altho he claims as a Dutchman.
     I have the Honour to recommend him to your Excellencys Notice.
     I have written to Mr. Thaxter to ask the Favour of you to take into your Custody my Books and Trunks of Cloaths. I dont know but I asked too much. Perhaps you may not have Room, without Inconvenience. If so, Mr. Thaxter will lock all up in Trunks and get, some store for them.
     My Affairs will oblige me to say here, if Mr. Laurens dont Arrive: and if he does, it will be proper for me to stay untill I can communicate all that I know to him, at least.
     I have heard often mention of a Letter from your Excellency to the Grand Pensionary of Holland, about a Year ago. It is much esteemed here—but I cant get a sight of it. I should be glad to support the sentiments in it, as far as I have learned them, but could do it to better Purpose if I Could obtain a Copy, which if there is no material objection to I request of your Excellency.

     What this Republick will do in the Northern Confederation is a Question that divides all Parties. Neither stadhouderians nor Republicans. Neither Anglomanes nor Francomanes are agreed. Time will shew.
     I have the Honour to be, &c.

      John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Digges, 29 September 1780
From: Digges, Thomas,Church, William Singleton
To: Adams, John

      Dr Sir
      London 29. Sep 1780

     I hope my letter of the 26 By Mr. H——y B——m——d and a parcell of Books will get safe to your hands. Since that period, the arrival of news from N York by the Virginia Packet, which Saild the 1st Instant has depressd the spirits of the people and put them deeper into the dumps than they were ever before Elated. Every thing hare is in extreem. Nothing could exceed the folly of Exultation about the taking of Charles Town. I predicted the “hour of their Insolence” would not be of very long duration. The general cry ever since Wednesday morning is that we are undone and ruind—all is over—We always had hopes till now—Our Army in N York and Chas. Town will be Burgoind &ca. &ca. &ca. The affairs in N York were in such a Situation as to induce Gen. Clinton to send away a packet, much out of time, on the 28th. August which is not yet arrivd. A very few days after the Virginia Frigate was dispatchd at a very few hours notice, with other alarming intelligences and that Washingtons Army was approaching towards N York. Her arrival has thrown a remarkable damp upon the spirits of the Court, the Ministry, their out Runners, and their advocates. The Substance of the news brought by this Vessel, which I have collected from the best quarters of information is, That Monsieur Ternays fleet arrivd on the 10 July and the French troops landed the 12th. This arrival nor the landing was unknown to Clinton for nine days after—Admiral Greaves arrivd nearly about the period it reachd New York, and His fleet was Cruising between Rhode Island and Sandy Hook when this Dispatch Frigate Saild. As soon as Clinton heard of the arrival he determind on an Expedition to attack the French at Rhode Island, and Embarkd a large portion of his Force on board Transports at N York. Admiral Arbuthnot (who is superior to Graves) did not think the measure prudent, for reasons that there was not provision enough to Victual the transports (there being scarcely sufficient for six weeks at short allowance and no supplys soon expected) and that by such an Embarkation the Garrison might be so weakend that Genl. Washington might attack and take the City. This last reason only founded in speculation was soon realizd into Fact; for after the troops had been many days embarkd Genl. Washington passd the No. River and approachd by regular March towards N York with 16,000 Men. The British Troops were in consequence all disembarkd and the Expedition laid aside; on hearing this Gen. W. halted a little and retreated some miles back—Dalrymple (who bears the dispatches) says that his Army consists of upwards of 20,000 effective men exclusive of French. The French Admiral had issued a Proclamation in the name of the Congress and King of France, assuring the People they should receive every support, and that the King his master had resolvd upon the Conquest of Canada and of ceeding that Province to the United States, and that He was in dayly expectation of considerable rienforcements. Before the Virga. Frigate saild Sir H. Clinton had received advices of a late date from Lord Cornwallis, informing that His detatchd partys had had several Skirmishes with Detatchments from Genl. Gates’s Army and had been repulsd in all of them; That the People of Carolina who had taken up arms in the royal Cause, had revolted and joind Gen. Gates, to whom they had given up all their Officers. In consequence of these disasters, Lord Cornwallis had determind to abandon all the interior Country of So. Carolina and retire within the lines of Chas. Town; In which place, during Lord Cornwallis’s absence, there had been an insurrection of the People against the Soldiery, which had been quelld at the Expence of 4 or 500 Americans killd and wounded and with the loss of 80 Soldiers.
     A Sloop from the West Indies, which arrivd at N York the day before the Virginia saild, brought accounts that Monsr. Guichens fleet had been seen the 28 July steering for Jamaica and not far from it—His fleet consisted of 32 of the line; several frigates and lesser Vessels, making in the Whole 76 sail and having 16,000 troops on board. There are various other intelligences by this vessel of lesser note, among them, that Monr. Rochambeau had entrenchd himself strongly on Rhode Island and that the June and July packets from England had been both taken by American Privateers very near to Sandy Hook.

     The Quebec spring fleet which saild in June from England were met on and near the Banks of New foundland by several American Privateers, which took twenty two out of the 30 Sail. The list of twenty of them is markd on Loyds Book as arrivd in New England and the account is brought by London by a Super Cargoe on board one of them, who got permission to leave Boston to come to N York and so on in the Virginia Frigate to England. This is a much greater blow to Loyds than the West India Capture, As more money was done in that Coffee House upon them, near 400,000£ having been insurd there. I am told most of these Ships are worth from 30 to 35,000£ and many of them considerably above forty. O Rare Yankee! Well done Yankee! A report is very prevalent to day that a similar fate has happend the Provision fleet for Quebec which Saild from Cork the 1st July. As well as that seven homeward bound East Inda. men are capturd near the Entrance of the Channel—it cannot rain but it pours.
     The Cry is very much against ministry. I am pretty sure the Cabinet had a month ago abandond the principles of the American War and were fixd on making peace even at the Expence of Declaring Ama. Independent. This news may accelerate it; I am sure if it does it will be good news for Great Britain, for all ranks and descriptions of men now begin to see the mischeifs to England from this wicked and unnatural war. I am with the highest Esteem Dr Sir Yr obligd & Obt Servant

      W S. C


Title: To John Adams from Anthony Mylius, 29 September 1780
From: Mylius, Anthony
To: Adams, John

        September 29th 1780

      Mr. Mylius’s Compliments to the Honourable Sir Adams, Whereas Mr. van Blomberg is out of the City and doth not returns before Munday next coming, and hath ordered his Clerk to bring any word which might come from You Sir to me, So I did take the Liberty to open your Billet for Mr. van Blomberg and Saw thereby that you desired another Evenings Conversation in Company only with me,for which Honour I am much obliged to You, whereupon I can Say that I think it will be next Tuesday Evening the time nearer to be appointed.


Title: To John Adams from Hendrik Bicker, 1 October 1780
From: Bicker, Hendrik
To: Adams, John

       Monsieur
       Vellerhoost Le 1re. d’octobre 1780

      Je suis bien mortifié de voir que la Visitte que vous avés été faire a mon insinúation n’a pas eú un meilleur succes. Les Expressions significantes, positives, et reiterées dont cette Maison a fait usage, me font croire qui vous devés abandonner l’idée de vous Lier avec Elle pour ne entamer l’affaire en question. Il ne m’etonne pas que vous n’aies pas trouvé chez Elle, autant de confiance dans la solliditté de vos Etats unis, que vous voudries bien nous endosser, j’ai eú deja l’honneur Monsieur de vous le dire cela ne peut naitre qu’avec beaucoup de patience et apres avoir vu paroitre une Personne accredittée comme il le faut. Je voudrais pouvoir vous addresser ailleurs, mais decouvrir trop des Refus gatte souvant une Affaire exellante par soi meme. Le Courier Blomberg y est, on pourroit Lui dire s’il ne sçauroit trouver peut etre une Autre que celle Nommée (J.D.B.)qui voudroit epoúser une pareille Affaire avec challeur, et avant que vous vous y appliqueés, je vous offre mon avis desinterressé sur Sa solliditté et sa façon de panser, entretemps j’ai l’honneur d’etre avec la plús parfaitte consideration Monsieur Votre tres humble & tres obeissant Serviteur,

       H. Bicker

       Sous le sceaú du Secret je dois vous dire que la Maison de Staphorst m’a honorée d’une Visitte pour me solliciter de vous la recommender.


Title: Hendrik Bicker to John Adams: A Translation, 1 October 1780
From: Bicker, Hendrik
To: Adams, John

       Sir
       Vellerhoost, 1 October 1780

      I am much chagrined to hear that the visit you made at my suggestion was not more successful. The significant utterances, made in no uncertain terms and often repeated by this House, lead me to believe that you should give up the idea of an alliance before you start the matter at hand. I am not too surprised you did not find there as much confidence in the solidity of your United States as you would like us to have. I already had the honor to tell you that this feeling can only arise after much patience and after seeing a properly accredited person. I could tell you to go elsewhere, but encountering too many rejections can ruin an undertaking which otherwise would have excellent prospects on its own merit. The Blomberg messenger is there and we could perhaps ask him to find another party than the aforementioned (J.D.B.) who might gladly join such an undertaking, but before you address yourself to this task, I would like to offer you my candid opinion on his dependability and his way of thinking. In the meantime, I have the honor to be, with utmost consideration, your very humble and very obedient servant,

       H. Bicker

       Under the oath of secrecy, I must tell you that the House of Staphorst has honored me with a visit to ask that I recommend it to you.


Title: From John Adams to Joseph Gardoqui & Sons, 2 October 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Gardoqui, Joseph, & Sons (business)

      Sir
      Amsterdam Octr. 2 1780

     It is a long Time Since I had the pleasure to Address you, or receive any of your Favours. I have Letters from my Wife which acknowledge the Receipt of the Things you sent by Trash. Your Bill upon me, was presented at my House in Paris after I left it. Mr. Dana was so good as to accept it.
     I now beg the Favour of you, to Send by every good opportunity to Boston or to Newbury Port &c. to Mrs. Adams in the Same Way, to the Amount of forty Pounds sterling in each Vessell: but more Linnens And fewer Handkerchiefs, and draw upon me in Amsterdam or upon Mr. Grand in Paris, for the Money. Mr. Tracy has been vastly obliging in taking the best Care to send, those which you shipped before and will do me the Same favour again.
     The English Papers announce disturbances in south America. Is there any Truth in it?
     I am with great Esteem, your obliged and obt


Title: From John Adams to Nathaniel Tracy, 2 October 1780
From: Adams, John
To: Tracy, Nathaniel

      Sir
      Amsterdam October 2 1780

     In more than one Letter from Mrs. Adams, she has mentioned to me, your obliging Kindness to her, and to me. I am very sensible of your Politeness, Sir and beg of you, to accept of my best Thanks.
     We are now in daily Expectation of News from N. America and the West Indies, as well as from Petersbourg. The Dutch Ministers have arrived at that Court and met with a distinguished Reception.
     The English Papers, give out Insurrections in South America, on Account of a new Tax, and Committees of Correspondance appointed a la Bostonnaise. Whether this is true I know not, and whether it will be usefull or hurtfull to Us, if true I am equally ignorant. I am not apprehensive of any bad Consequences to Us.
     The Elections in England have gone much in favour of the Ministry, and War will undoubtedly continue, whatever Insinuations the Anglomanes may propagate among you. I am, sir your obliged and obt. sert.


Title: Editorial Note
From:
To:

      On 28 August 1780, John Adams dined with “A Lawyer, Mr. Calcoon” (JA, Diary and AutobiographyDiary and Autobiography of John Adams, ed. L. H. Butterfield and others, Cambridge, 1961; 4 vols., 2:446–447). This was a significant event in the chronicle of John Adams’ diplomatic mission to the Netherlands, for “Mr. Calcoon” was Hendrik Calkoen, whom Adams described many years later as “the giant of the law in Amsterdam.” Calkoen, a member of the anti-stadholder or patriot party, was sympathetic to the American cause, but more importantly he was consumed with curiosity about the progress of the American Revolution and the ultimate success of the Americans in their struggle for independence. In the course of the dinner Calkoen posed several questions to Adams, but their lack of a common language forced the use of a translator, leading to the suggestion that Calkoen’s questions and Adams’ replies be reduced to writing (JA, Corr. in the Boston PatriotCorrespondence of the Late President Adams. Originally Published in the Boston Patriot. In a Series of Letters, Boston, 1809–1810; 10 pts., p. 194). The result was Calkoen’s letter of 31 August, containing twenty-nine questions (above), to which Adams, after obtaining an English translation, replied with twenty-six letters written between 4 and 27 October (below).
      Hendrik Calkoen’s letter shows clearly the degree to which he viewed the American Revolution through the filters of his Dutch or, more broadly, his European experience. It illustrates Simon Schama’s observation, in his Patriots and Liberators (N.Y., 1977, p. 61), that many Dutchmen identified “America with the historical memory of the first Dutch revolt,” with the result that British efforts to subdue the Americans were seen “not merely as anti-American but anti-Dutch.” In the first seven pages of his letter Calkoen summarizes the Dutch struggle against Spain and the questions that follow are largely intended to determine the extent to which the obstacles faced by the Dutch patriots in their struggle would also hinder the Americans. The central assumption in Calkoen’s letter is that, like the Dutch patriots before them, the American effort would be plagued by shifting loyalties among the principal members of the leadership and the people as a whole, conflicting class interests, and difficulties in financing the war without impoverishing the people and thereby alienating them from the cause. Implicit in Calkoen’s letter was his need for assurance that the Americans would display the same fortitude as his Dutch forebears and would ultimately prevail.
      Calkoen’s letter provided John Adams with an opening to address directly an influential Dutch audience, but when he wrote his replies in October, the stakes were higher than they had been when the letter arrived at the end of August. In mid-September he had received his commission to act in the Netherlands until superseded by Henry Laurens, and by mid-October he had learned of Laurens’ capture and imprisonment by the British (from Francis Dana, 16 Sept., note 2, above; to Samuel Adams, 13 Oct., LbC, Adams Papers; to Thomas Digges, 14 Oct., below). As a result, by 4 October, the date of the first letter to Calkoen (below), Adams had already begun preliminary efforts to obtain a loan; by 16 October, the date of Letters Nos. 8
        , 9 and

       10 (below), he knew that the full responsibility for the loan and Dutch recognition fell squarely on his shoulders; and in Letter No. 11, dated 17 October (below), he referred specifically to the need for new foreign loans. The replies to Calkoen thus took on a new urgency, for now they would support his own, rather than another’s efforts.
      The way in which John Adams responded became almost as important as the response itself as he endeavored to inform without offending his Dutch readers. Adams sought to encourage a sense of republican fraternalism with the Dutch, despite the differences between the two nations and their revolutions. He stressed, therefore, that both the Netherlands and the United States were the products of a shared love of freedom and hatred for despotism. Adams made differences between the two societies both acceptable and understandable by attributing them to the effects of the New World, where the lack of societal restraints on the progress of freedom meant that many of the obstacles faced by the Dutch during their revolution did not exist, thus assuring Americans of victory in a far shorter time.

      In composing his replies, John Adams drew heavily upon his previous writings. The views he expressed to Calkoen are similar to and should be compared with those in Adams’ reworking of Thomas Pownall’s Memorial (A Translation of Thomas Pownall’s Memorial, 19 April – ca. 14 July, above), soon to be published by Jean Luzac as Pensées sur la révolution de l’Amérique-Unie, and his “Letters from a Distinguished American,” (ante 14–22 July, above). Indeed, Letter No. 17 (below) is largely an extract from Pownall’s work, which Adams had incorporated into his revision. Adams also used material supplied by British authorities, notably John Burgoyne and William Howe in pamphlets published in 1780 defending their activities in America (Letters Nos. 2, 6, 9, and 15, below). Since the content and tone of Adams’ letters to Calkoen are quite similar to his previous efforts published in these volumes and constitute a generally accurate account of the events and progress of the Revolution, annotation has been kept to a minimum.
      The major difference between the letters to Calkoen and the writings noted above is the relatively small amount of space devoted to the economic potential of the United States. Adams muted his strongly held view, shared with many others including Thomas Pownall, that the American Revolution was as much economic as political and that Americans sought to free themselves from the constraints of the British navigation acts in order to trade with all the nations of the world. This was a tactical move on Adams’ part, reflecting Jean Luzac’s warning, in his letter of 14 September (and note 2, above), that many were concerned about the competition that an independent America would pose to Dutch merchants, a concern that led Luzac to compose an introduction to Pensées, intended to allay those fears.
      John Adams hoped his replies to Calkoen would have a beneficial influence upon their intended audience. There is no evidence, however, that when he wrote them Adams had any intention or expectation that his twenty-six letters would be published unless it was by Calkoen himself. In fact, Calkoen did not publish the letters, but rather used them to compose “a comparison between the American and Batavian revolutions,” which he then read “with applause to a society of forty gentlemen of letters who meet in a club at Amsterdam” and “by this means, this society, whose influence must be very extensive, were made hearty converts to the opinion of the impracticability of a British conquest and the certainty of American success, points very dubious in the minds of this nation in general, when I first came here.” According to Adams, Calkoen had concluded that “it was a kind of miracle that the former the Dutch Revolt succeeded, and it would be a greater miracle still, if the latter the American Revolution should not” (to the secretary for Foreign Affairs, 4 Sept. 1782, Wharton, ed., Dipl. Corr. Amer. Rev.Francis Wharton, ed., The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States, Washington, 1889; 6 vols., 5:690; JA, Corr. in the Boston PatriotCorrespondence of the Late President Adams. Originally Published in the Boston Patriot. In a Series of Letters, Boston, 1809–1810; 10 pts., p. 194; see also JA to Edmund Jenings, 27 Sept. 1782, Adams Papers). It is difficult to see how Adams could have hoped for any more satisfactory outcome.
      Two years passed before Adams began to contemplate publishing his letters to Calkoen and to consider retrieving the originals for that purpose. 27 Sept. 1782 (Adams Papers), Adams wrote to Edmund Jenings that “there are, somewhere in existence 30 Letters written to Mr. Calkoen . . . which I should be glad to have preserved . . . but there is no haste in this matter.” On 9 June 1783 (Adams Papers), Adams again wrote to Jenings and indicated his continued interest in retrieving his letters to Calkoen.
      John Adams ultimately unsuccessful efforts to obtain the original letters from Calkoen may have delayed publication, for it was not until October 1786 that the letters, based on Adams’ retained drafts, were printed privately in London, first under the title Letters, and then later, probably also in 1786, as Twenty-six Letters, Upon Interesting Subjects, Respecting the Revolution of America. Written in Holland in the Year 1780. By His Excellency John Adams, while He was Sole Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States of America, for Negotiating a Peace, and a Treaty of Commerce, with Great Britain. The text of the first edition, as indicated by printer’s marks on the manuscripts, was taken from twenty-four drafts in John Adams’ hand (Letters Nos. 1–6 and 9–26, below), and two fair copies by John Thaxter (Letters Nos. 7 and 8, below), and is preceded by a brief preface or “Advertisement” in which Adams gives an account of the letters’ origin and their use by Calkoen.
      In the United States the first printing of any portion of Adams’ reply to Calkoen was in New York City on 22 April 1789. There, two days after Adams reached the city to assume the office of vice president and one day before Washington’s arrival for his inauguration, John Fenno printed the sixth letter (below), dealing with the inability of any one man to subvert the American Revolution, in his Gazette of the United States. In June 1789, using the same title and same text as the second London edition, Fenno printed the first of two editions that he would issue that year (EvansCharles Evans and others, comps., American Bibliography: A Chronological Dictionary of All Books, Pamphlets and Periodical Publications Printed in the United States of America 1639–1800, Chicago and Worcester, 1903–1959; 14 vols., Nos. 21624, 21625). The advertisement for the first New York edition appeared in the Gazette of 13 June and contained all twenty-nine questions posed by Calkoen, probably extracted from Adams’ letters, rather than from Calkoen’s letter itself. Fenno was not done, however, for he published the letters in order again, except for that printed the previous April, in the Gazette between 14 October and 26 December 1789.
      John Adams’ replies to Calkoen next appeared in print in 1809. With a letter dated 8 August of that year, Adams sent his letters, probably one of the previous printings, to the Boston Patriot. The August letter, addressed to the printers of the paper and appearing in the issue of 19 August, dealt with Adams’ diplomatic activities in the Netherlands and particularly with Henry Laurens and his captivity. The last paragraph, however, contained an account of his exchange with Calkoen and his estimate of its impact on Dutch support for the American cause. The newspaper then printed the letters to Calkoen in its next ten issues, from 23 August to 23 September. Later the letter of 8 August and Adams’ replies to Calkoen were collected and included under the title of the Correspondence of the Late President Adams, originally Published in the Boston Patriot (Boston, 1809[-1810], p. 185-250).