Title: To John Adams from Benjamin Guild, 28 November 1782
From: Guild, Benjamin
To: Adams, John

Boston Nov. 28. 1782.

Since my arrival in America no events of any great importance have taken place. Our affairs in general wear a favorable aspect, and the people of this country are waiting with tranquility to know the event of the conference at Paris, or of the Congress elswhere. Soon after I landed I took a journey into the States of New-York and Connecticut. I found the Western part of this State much more cultivated & fertile than I had imagined, and was pleased to find it such a magazine of provisions.— The army I found at Verplanks point and was happy in seeing them reviewed upon the anniversary of the capture of Lord Cornwallis. They made a most respectable appearance and were never upon so respectable a footing as at this day. Nothing seems wanting unless it be sufficient funds for supplying and paying them; and nothing perhaps has happened more opportunely than the loan obtained in Holland. We have sufficient resources within ourselves, could they be called into use at the time wanted. The Contractor for the army told me he could easily supply half a dozen such armies, if he had cash at command. Our main body were estimated at about 10,000 and it is said the Massachusetts line contain near one half.
A spirit of œconomy and discipline pervaded the whole army, and such a thirst of emulation has prevailed among all ranks thro’ the last season, as to obtain the highest encomiums of their General, as well as of the French officers who have visited them.
Upon my return from the country I had many pleasing reflections. I found that altho’ the season had been uncommonly dry, yet plenty abounded; and that altho’ we are in the midst of war, yet internal tranquility prevails universally. I am strongly persuaded that this country is not only encreasing in numbers, but in wealth.
I have it from judicious authority that the farmers in the state of Connecticut have built more new barns & granaries in the course of one year past than in any seven years before the war. And in many parts of this state as large, or a larger proportion of new buildings have been erected than before the war.
Many parts of our frontiers are settling very fast notwithstanding the threats and the opposition of the enemy. Vermont is growing more respectable as well as more compliable.
Our civil affairs appear in a good channel. The springs of government appear strong, and the movements regular. The Congress have lately chosen for their President the Hon. Elias Boudenot Esq. of New Jersey.— This state has lately chosen for their Delegates, Messrs. Warren, Higginson, Holten & Gorham in addition to Mr Osgood, the only member now at Congress from Massachusetts. I am told Mr Dickinson is elected President or Governer of Pensylvania.—
A few days ago our General court adjourned to the latter end of Jany. Several acts of importance were passed the last session: Such as a heavy import & excise act for the payment of the interest of government Securities—an act for admitting all kinds of goods from the port of an Enemy to Great Britain, if properly cleared out—and another for raising £400,000 pounds by tax— As far as I am able to judge there appears a good disposition in the people to pay taxes; and if any system is adopted to prevent the whole burden falling upon them at once, I think all expences may be defrayed without complaint.
The continuance of the French army & navy so long among us, I think of essential service. It makes a market for our redundant produce; circulates hard cash and at the same time assists the merchant by furnishing bills on France. It also rivets more strongly the interests and the connexions of the two powers.
Genl Rochambeau’s army is now at Providence; and it is reported will winter at Newport if Charlstown is not evacuated; which however is daily expected. If not evacuated, report embarks them for the West Indies on board the fleet now in port & to sail in all next month, consisting of twelve sail of the line & three frigates.
It is not expected New York will be evacuated this winter; and our army went into winter-quarters about four weeks ago.

The enemy have collected some force upon the lakes, but I am apprehensive with a view of defence only.
By the first opportunity to Holland I shall take the liberty of sending your Excellency the Massachusett’s Register;—the observations of Common Sense upon Abbé Raynal’s Revolution and whatever else may appear amusing.—
I had the pleasure of spending last evening in company with Mrs and Miss Adams—was happy to find them well. They expect to be at the Hague the next season, should there be no prospect of Peace.—
Our newspapers contain nothing very interesting for some time past. They have been too much filled with private disputes.—
The business of the town is not without life; the streets are repairing—the plan of the long wharf is enlarged and a considerable part of it finished, and when entirely compleated I think it will be one of the finest peers in the world. The Old South, once a riding school for the British, is elegantly repairing, and will resume more than its ancient beauty. The church in the mean time intermingle with the people of the Stone chapel, and worship in union with them, each alternately hearing the preacher of the other. This, and a variety of simular instances afford an agreeable proof, not only of the Catholicism, but of the real harmony reigning among us.
And I am clearly of opinion that a general spirit of union prevails thro’ the continent. This will be a most pleasing reflection to every American; as it has a direct tendency not only to make us great, but to make us happy. It certainly gives pleasure to him who is, with much respect and / esteem, your Excellency’s most / obedient and most / humble servant
Benj. Guild

Compliments to Messrs Thaxter and Storer, and to Mr Dumas & family.—


Title: Draft Articles on the Fisheries and Creditors, 28 November 1782
From: Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Jay, John
To:

[28 November 1782]

Article 3.
That the Subjects of his Britannic Majesty and the People of the Said United States Shall continue to enjoy, unmolested, the Right to take Fish of every Kind, on the Grand Bank and on all the other Banks of Newfoundland: also in the Gulph of St Laurence, and in all other Places, where the Inhabitants of both Countries, used at any time heretofore to fish; and the Citizens of the Said United States Shall have Liberty to cure and dry their Fish, on the Shores of Cape Sable, and of any of the unsettled Bays, Harbours or Creeks of Nova Scotia, on any of the Shores of the Magdalene Islands, and of the Labradore Coast: And they shall be permitted in Time of Peace, to hire Pieces of Land of the legal Proprietors in any of the Dominions of his Said Majesty in America for Terms of Years, whereon to erect the necessary Stages and Buildings, and to cure and dry their Fish.

Art 4.
It is agreed that the British Creditors on either Side shall meet with no lawful Impediment to the Recovery of the full Value of in sterling Money of Such bona fide debts as were contracted by any Persons who are Citizens of the Said United states, before the Year 1775 and reciprocally that American Creditors, Shall recover their Debts of British subjects


Title: Draft Articles on the Fisheries, 29 November 1782
From: Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Jay, John
To:

DRAFT I
[29 November 1782]

        3
That the Subjects of his Britannic Majesty and the People of the Said United States, Shall continue to enjoy unmolested, the Right to take Fish of every kind on the gr all the Banks of Newfoundland, in the Gulph of St Lawrence, and all other Places, where the Inhabitants of both Countries used formerly at any Time heretofore, to fish; and also to dry and cure the Same, at the accustomed Places, whether belonging to his Said Majesty, or to the United States— And his britannic majesty and the Said united States will extend equal Priviledges and Hospitality to each others Fisherman as to his own.

DRAFT II
[29 November 1782]
That the People of the united States Shall continue to enjoy unmolested the Right to take Fish of every kind on the Grand Bank of And on all the other Banks of Newfoundland, also in the Gulph of St Laurence and at all other Places in the Sea, where the Inhabitants of both Countries used at any Time heretofore to fish. And also that the Inhabitants of the United States Shall have Liberty to take Fish of every kind, on Such Part of the Coast of Newfoundland as British Fishermen Shall Use, but not to dry or cure the Same on that Island, and also on the Coasts, Bays, and Creeks of all other of his Britannic Majestys Dominions in America. And that the American Fishermen Shall have Liberty to dry and cure Fish in any of the Unsettled Bays, Harbours and Creeks of Nova Scotia, Magdalene Islands and Labradore, so long as the Same Shall remain unsettled, but So soon as the Same, or either of them shall be Settled, it Shall not be lawfull for the Said Fishermen to dry or cure Fish at such Settlement without a previous Agreement for that purpose with the Inhabitants, Proprietors or Possessor of the Ground.


Title: To John Adams from James Lovell, 30 November 1782
From: Lovell, James
To: Adams, John

        Dear Sir
        Novr. 30th.— [1782]

I have not to this day Information that you comprehend the Cypher wch. I have very often used in my Letters. You certainly can recollect the Name of that Family where you and I spent our last Evening with your Lady before we sat out on our Journey hither. Make regular Alphabets in Number equal to the first Sixth part of that Family Name, beginning and regularlarly placing your Alphabets according to the Letters and the Arrangement of them in that Sixth. Then look alternately into those Alphabets, & opposite to my Figure. You will find your proper Elements for spelling.
most affectionately Yours
James Lovell


Title: Preliminary Peace Treaty between the United States and Great Britain, 30 November 1782
From: Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Jay, John,Oswald, Richard
To:

[30 November 1782]

Articles agreed upon by and between Richard Oswald Esquire, the Commissioner of his Britannic Majesty for treating of Peace with the Commissioners of the United States of America, in behalf of his Said Majesty, on the one Part, and John Adams Benjamin Franklin, John Jay and Henry Laurens, four of the Commissioners of the Said States for treating of Peace with the Commissioner of his Said Majesty on their behalf, on the other Part, to be inserted in and to constitute the Treaty of Peace proposed to be concluded, between the Crown of Great Britain, and the Said united States, but which Treaty is not to be concluded, untill terms of a Peace Shall be agreed upon between Great Britain and France, and his Britannic Majesty Shall be ready to conclude Such a Treaty, accordingly.
Whereas reciprocal Advantages, and mutual Convenience, are found by Experience to form the only permanent Foundation of Peace and Friend Ship, between States, it is agreed to form the Articles of the proposed Treaty, on Such Principles of liberal Equity and Reciprocity, as that partial Advantages, those Seeds of discord, being excluded, Such a beneficial and Satisfactory Intercourse, between the two Countries may be established, as to promise and Secure to both, perpetual Peace and Harmony.

Article 1.
His Britannic Majesty acknowledges, the Said United States, vizt. New Hampshire Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, Connecticut New York, New Jersey, Pensylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina South Carolina and Georgia, to be free, Sovereign and independent States; that he treats with them as Such, and for himself, his Heirs and Successors, relinquishes all Claims to the Government, Propriety and territorial Rights of the Same, and every Part thereof; and that all disputes, which might arise, in future on the Subject of the Boundaries of the Said United States may be prevented, it is hereby agreed and declared that the following are and Shall be their Boundaries. vizt:

Article 2.
From the northwest Angle of Nova Scotia, vizt that Angle, which is formed by a Line drawn due north from the Source of Saint Croix River, to the Highlands, along the Said highlands, which divide those Rivers that empty themselves into the River Saint Laurens, from those which fall into the Atlantic Ocean, to the northwestermost head of Connecticut River; thence down along the middle of that River to the forty fifth degree of North Latitude; from thence by a Line due West, on Said Latitude, Untill it Strikes the River Iroquois or Cataraqui, thence along the middle of Said River, into Lake Ontario, through the middle of Said Lake, untill it Strikes the Communication by Water, between that Lake and Lake Erie, thence along the middle of Said Communication, into Lake Erie, through the middle of Said Lake, untill it arrives, at the Water Communication between that Lake and Lake Huron; thence along the middle of Said Water Communication, into the Lake Huron, thence through the middle of Said Lake, to the Water Communication between that Lake and Lake Superiour, thence through Lake Superiour, northward of the Isles Royal and Phillipeaux, to the long Lake, thence through the middle of Said long Lake, and the Water Communication, between it, and the Lake of the Woods, to the Said Lake of the Woods, thence through the Said Lake, to the most northwestern Point thereof, and from thence, on a due West Course to the River Missisippi: thence by a Line to be drawn, along the middle of the Said River Missisippi, untill it Shall intersect the Northernmost Part of the thirty first degree of North Latitude.
South by a Line to be drawn due East, from the Determination of the Line last mentioned, in the Latitude of Thirty one degrees north of the Equator, to the middle of the River Apalachicola, or Catahouchi, thence along the middle thereof to its Junction with the Flynt River, thence Straight to the head of St Marys River; and thence down along the middle of St. Marys River to the Atlantic Ocean.
East, by a Line to be drawn along the Middle of the River Saint Croix from its mouth in the Bay of Fundy, to its Source, and from its Source directly north to the aforesaid Highlands, which divide the Rivers, that fall into the Atlantic Ocean, from those which fall into the River st Laurens; comprehending all Islands, within twenty Leagues of any Part of the Shores of the United States, and lying between Lines to be drawn due East from the Points where the aforesaid Boundaries between Nova scotia on the one part, and East Florida, on the other, Shall respectively touch the Bay of Fundy and the Atlantic Ocean, excepting Such Islands, as now are, or heretofore have been within the Limits of the Said Province of Nova Scotia.

Article 3.
It is agreed, that the People of the Said United States, Shall continue to enjoy unmolested the Right to take Fish of every Kind, on the Grand Bank, and on all the other Banks of Newfoundland; also in the Gulph of St. Laurence and at all other Places in the Sea, where the Inhabitants of both Countries used, at any time heretofore to fish. and also that the Inhabitants of the United States, Shall have Liberty to take fish of every kind, on Such part of the Coast of Newfoundland, as British Fishermen Shall Use, but not to dry or cure the Same on that Island, and also on the Coasts, Bays and Creeks of all other of his Britannic Majestys Dominions in America, and that the American Fishermen Shall have Liberty to dry and cure Fish, in any of the Unsettled Bays, Harbours and Creeks of Nova Scotia, Magdalene Islands and Labradore So long as the Same Shall remain unsettled, but So soon as the Same or either of them, Shall be Settled, it Shall not be lawfull for the Said Fishermen to dry or cure Fish, at Such Settlement, without a previous Agreement for that purpose, with the Inhabitants, Proprietors or Possessors of the Ground.

Article 4.
It is agreed that Creditors, on either Side, Shall meet with no lawfull Impediment to the Recovery of the full Value in Sterling Money, of all bona fide Debts, heretofore contracted.

Article 5.
It is agreed that the Congress Shall earnestly recommend it, to the Legislatures of the respective States to provide for the Restitution of all Estates, Rights and Properties, which have been confiscated, belonging to real British Subjects; and also of the Estates Rights and Properties of Persons resident in Districts in the Possession of his Majestys Arms, and who have not born Arms against the Said United States; and that Persons of any other Description, Shall have free Liberty to go to any Part or Parts of any of the thirteen United states and therein to remain twelve months, unmolested in their Endeavours to obtain the Restitution of Such of their Estates, Rights and Properties as may have been confiscated, and that Congress Shall also earnestly recommend to the Several States a Reconsideration and Revision of all Acts or Laws, regarding the Premisses, So as to render the Said Acts or Laws, perfectly consistent, not only with Justice and Equity, but with that Spirit of Conciliation, which, on the Return of the Blessings of Peace, Should universally prevail. And that Congress Shall also earnestly recommend to the Several States, that the Estates, Rights and Properties of such last mentioned Persons Shall be restored to them, they refunding to any Persons who may be now in Possession, the bona fide Price, where any has been given which Such Persons may have paid on purchasing any of the Said Lands Rights or Properties Since the Confiscation. And it is agreed, that all Persons who have any Interest, in confiscated Lands, either by Debts, Marriage settlements or otherwise, shall meet with no lawfull Impediment in the Prosecution of their just Rights.

Article 6.
That there Shall be no future Confiscations made, nor any Prosecutions commenced, against any Person or Persons, for, or by Reason of, the Part, which he or they may have taken in the present War, and that no Person shall on that Account, Suffer any future Loss or Damage, either in his Person, Liberty or Property, and that those who may be, in Confinement on Such Charges at the Time of the Ratification of the Treaty in America, Shall be, immediately set at Liberty, and the Prosecutions So commenced be discontinued.

Article 7.
There Shall be a firm and perpetual Peace, between his Britannic Majesty and the Said States, and between the Subjects of the one, and the Citizens of the other; wherefore all Hostilities both by Sea and Land Shall then immediately cease; all Prisoners, on both Sides Shall be Set at Liberty, and his Britannic Majesty, Shall with all convenient Speed, and without causing any destruction, or carrying away any Negroes or other Property of the American Inhabitants, withdraw all his Armies, Garrisons and Fleets from the Said United States and from every Port, Place and Harbour, within the Same; leaving in all Fortifications the American Artillery, that may be therein. And shall also order and cause, all Archives, Records, Deeds and Papers belonging to any of the Said States or their Citizens, which, in the Course of the War, may have fallen into the hands of his officers, to be forthwith restored and delivered to the proper States and Persons to whom they belong.

Article 8.
The Navigation of the River Missisippi from its Source to the Ocean, Shall forever remain free and open to the Subjects of Great Britain, and the Citizens of the United States.

Article 9.
In Case it Should So happen, that any Place or Territory belonging to Great Britain, or to the United States, Should be conquered by the Arms of either from the other before the Arrival of these Articles in America, it is agreed that the Same shall be restored, without difficulty, and without requiring any Compensation.
Done at Paris November 30. 1782.

Richard Oswald
L.S.

John Adams
L.S.

B. Franklin
L.S.

John Jay
L.S.

Henry Laurens.
L.S.


Title: Separate Article to the Preliminary Peace Treaty between the United States and Great Britain, 30 November 1782
From:
To:

[30 November 1782]

Separate Article.
It is hereby understood and agreed that in Case Great Britain at the Conclusion of the present War shall recover or be put in Possession of West Florida, the Line of North Boundary between the said Province and the United States, shall be a Line drawn from the Mouth of the River Yassous, where it Unites with the Missisippi, due East to the River Apalachicola.
Done at Paris the thirtieth Day of November, one thousand seven hundred & eighty two.
(Signed)

Richard Oswald
L.S.

John Adams
L.S.

B. Franklin
L.S.

John Jay
L.S.

Henry Laurens.
L.S.

signed

attest
Caleb Whiteford, Secretary to the British Commission

attest.
W. T. Franklin, Secy to the American Commission


Title: From John Adams to Wilhem & Jan Willink, Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, and De la Lande & Fynje, 1 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business),Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),La Lande & Fynje, de (business)

Gentlemen,
Paris Decr. 1st. 1782.

The Preliminaries, to be inserted, in the definitive Treaty of Peace, when the other belligerent Powers shall be ready, were yesterday signed & sealed by the Minister Plenipotentiary of his Britannic Majesty on the one part, & the Ministers Plenipotentiary of the United States on the other.
This Fact I communicate to You in Confidence, that You may make the best Use of it You can, for the Interest and Honor of the United States. I leave You, Gentlemen, to make your own Reflections, and draw your own Inferences, only requesting You to be as secret as the Nature of the Thing requires—
I have the Honor to be, with great Esteem, / Gentlemen &c


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, 3 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Sir
Paris Decr. 3. 1782

The Moments we live in, are critical and may be improved, perhaps to advantage, for which purpose I beg Leave to propose to your Consideration, whether it is not proper for Us to write to Mr Dana at Petersbourg, acquaint him with the Signature of the Preliminaries, inclose to him an authentic Copy of them and advise him to communicate it to the Ministers of the Empress, and to all the Ministers of the neutral Powers at her Court, together with a Copy of his Commission to Subscribe to the Principles of the armed Neutrality. The present Seems to me, the most proper Time for this Step.
The United States are as much interested in the Marine Treaty as any Power, and if We take this Step We may with Propriety, propose, if not insist upon an Article in the definitive Treaty respecting this matter, which will be as agreable to France And Spain as to the United Provinces.
I have heretofore mentioned to Mr Jay a Similar proposal, who approved, it, and I will propose it again to day to him and Mr Laurens. If you approve the measure, you will be so good as to order an authentic Copy to be made of the Preliminary Treaty, that We may prepare a Letter the first Time We meet.
I have the Honour to be, Sir, your / most obedient
J. Adams


Title: From John Adams to Robert R. Livingston, 4 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Livingston, Robert R.

Sir,
Paris. 4th. Novemr. Decr. 1782—

It is with much pleasure that I transmit to you the Preliminary Treaty, between the King of Great-Britain and the United-States of America. The Mississippi, the Western Lands, Sagadahoc, & the Fisheries are secured, as well as we could, and I hope what is done for the Refugees will be pardoned—
As the Objects, for which I ever abandoned my family & Country, are thus far accomplished. I now beg leave to resign all my Employments in Europe. They are soon enumerated; the first is the Commission to borrow money in Holland, and the second is my Credence to their High-Mightinesses. These two should be filled up immediately; and as Mr: Laurens was originally designed to that Country, and my Mission there was merely owing to his misfortune, I hope that Congress will send him a full Power for that Court—
The Commission for Peace I hope will be fully executed before this reaches you; but if it should not, as the Terms are fixed, I should not choose to stay in Europe merely for the honor of affixing my signature to the definitive Treaty, and I see no necessity for filling up my place; but, if Congress should think otherwise, I hope they will think Mr: Dana the best intituled to it—
With great respect & esteem I have the honor to be, Sir / Your / Most Obedt: & humle: servt.—
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Wilhem & Jan Willink, Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, and De la Lande & Fynje, 4 December 1782
From: Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business),Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),La Lande & Fynje, de (business)
To: Adams, John

Sir
Amsterdam the 4 Decemb̃. 1782

We duely receiv’d the Letter with which your Excellency pleased to favour us the 19th. of Novembr. past, by which we observe Messs. Le Couteulx and Mr. Grand Call’d upon Yoúr Excellency, to Conferr, about the Subject on Which we beg’d yoúr approbation. The Opinion of Yoúr Excellency, tho given as a private Citisen is of more Consideration to ús, then that we Should go forward by Interpreting the Ideas of Mr. Morris. We Submit then entirely to Yoúr Excellency’s Opinion till such time We Can receive the Necessary dispositions of Said Gentleman. Moreover it gives us allways a great Satisfaction, to be ruled by Yoúr Excellency’s advice, in all Matters Wherein the Intrest of the United States is Concern’d—.
We’ll Write this Evening to Mr. Dumas at the Hague, to advise him Yoúr Excellency’s pleasure, in having as Soon as possible, all the Accounts, of Repairs to the House, to have them paid off.
We must again Crave yoúr Excellency’s advice, about a Bill of Exchange of £2458.10. Tourns. Drawn by Mr. Morris the 24th. Septr. 1782. at 60 days Sight to the Order of Mr. Jan Vander Wertf, Value reciev’d, on Messs. Fizeaux Grand & Co. of this City, which they have protested the 16 Novr. past, for want of advise, and as he is falling due the 15th. Janny. to Come.! Should we interfere in Case he was not paid? We don’t Comprehend their mentioning not to have any advise, as it is the Same date by which we received our Letter, a word of Yoúr Excellency there about will greatly Oblige those who have the Honour to remain with respectfull regard—.
Sir / Yoúr Excellency’s most / Obedt. humbe Servants.
Wilhem & Jan Willink
Nics. & Jacob van Staphorst.
de la Lande & fynje


Title: From John Adams to Francis Dana, 6 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Dana, Francis

Dear Sir
Paris Decr 6. 1782

You may easily guess from your own Feelings, what mine may be in communicating to you, the Intelligence that the Preliminary Treaty, to be inserted in the diffinitive Treaty was Signed on the 30 Decr. by the Plenipotentiaries on each Side.— We have tolerable Satisfaction in the Missisippi the Boundaries, & the Fisheries and I hope not much to regret with regard to the Tories or any Thing else.
Mr Franklin, Mr Jay, Mr Laurens as well as my Self are of Opinion, that this is a proper Time for you to communicate to the Ministry where you are, your Mission. But I believe We shall write you a joint Letter upon this Subject.
Mean time, I have the Honour to be / with great Esteem and Affection, as well as / Respect, dear sir, your most humble and / most obedient Servant
John Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Eliphalet Brush, 8 December 1782
From: Brush, Eliphalet
To: Adams, John

Sir
Bordeaux 8 Decr. 1782

I have Receiv’d your much Esteemed favour of the 26 Ulto: for which I thank you most sincerely. In Consequence of a report of the preliminary Articles of peace being Sign’d, I take the Liberty to ask your Influence, that the duplicates may be sent in the Minerva, which I’ll have ready to send to Phila: the moment I Receive your Orders for that purpose.—
I shall be Infinitely oblig’d to you (if the Sd Report is true) to furnish me with two Certificates, as soon as you possibly can with propriety, these may Enable me to Send two Vessels to America under the advantages of peace without their be Subject to Stop’d.— I shall be truly happy in being able To Oblige you, by Conveying your publick or Private Letters to America.

I am / sir, / with the Most profound Respect / & Esteem Your Most Obt Set
E Brush


Title: To John Adams from Wilhem & Jan Willink, Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, and De la Lande & Fynje, 9 December 1782
From: Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business),Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),La Lande & Fynje, de (business)
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Amsterdam 9 Decr. 1782.

We’ve received, by your most esteem’d favour of the 1st. of this month, the important news that the preliminaries of peace between England and the United States were signed the day before. We thank your Excellency for the confidence, which you are pleased to trust us with, of this fact, which however seems to be no secret, since it was publicly reported in the newspapers, the very Same day. when we received your esteemd letter. However without your Excs. advice we would have had no authority for it, and therefore like others have doubted of its authenticity. We congratulate your Excellency, and the other Ministers with this happy event, and heartily wish that it may soon be followed, by a general and permanent Peace, by which also the Rights and Intrests of our Republic may be Secured against our present Enemies.
We beg leave to assure your Excellency, that we will endeavour to make the best use of every favourable circumstance, that will offer for the promotion of the Loan, trusted to our care. And there is all reason to expect, that the present events will greatly contribute to it. The English stocks are already raised to a price that only leaves about 4 ½ per Co. Intrest. Undoubtedly some People will Sell part of their Stocks, and we hope Some will then put the money in the American Loan.
We have the honour to be with a sincere and great Esteem / Sir / Your Excells. most humble & obedt. Servts.
Wilhem & Jan Willink
Nics. & Jacob van Staphorst.
de la Lande & fynje

We have already remitted to Mr Grand the 400/m £[₶] to Messr. Le Couteulx 850/m £[₶] to Whom we Continue till one million of Guilders


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 10 December 1782
From: Dumas, C. W. F.
To: Adams, John

Monsieur,
Lahaie 10e. Dec. 1782

J’ai une Lettre de Mr. J. W. Van Arp d’Amsterdam, où il me demande en Hollandois ce qui suit.
“Nous avons ici dans notre port le Vaisseau Fearnot, Capne. Steph. Crac de Boston. Ce vaisseau a été acheté ici par Mr. G. P. Salis Marchd. dans cette Ville, lequel l’equipera pour compte du Susdit Capitaine; & il vous prie avec moi d’avoir la bonté de procurer de la part de Son Exce. Mr. Adams un Passeport pour le dit Vaisseau, afin que ce bâtiment puisse Sûrement faire le voyage pour là. Le port du Vaisseau peut être d’environ 30 à 35 Last (c’est-à-dire 60 à 70 tonneaux); & ira ainsi sous Pavillon Américain.”
Il se passe ici des choses surprenantes. Il ne s’agit pas de moins, depuis mercredi dernier, que d’un complot pour exciter une émeute ici, au moyen de la populace, & d’une 30e. au 40e. d’yvrognes, garçons Imprimeurs de G—— le Gazier., & fondeurs de la fonderie de Canons, à qui l’on fit faire des bachanales & autres désordres pendant les nuits de Jeudi & Vendredi. La populace fut sage, & hua les noctambules. Les Pensionaires, de leur côté, intrepides, allerent Samedi au soir obliger le Gd. Pe. de convoquer l’Assemblée extraordinairement pour le Lundi matin suivant, pendant que l’on faisoit encore des tentatives, mais inutiles, pour ameuter les porteurs de tourbes. Hier Lundi matin, les Etats assembles prirent & arrêterent cordialement, sans résomption, une Résolution, qui sera incessam̃ent publique, dans laquelle, après de très fortes prémisses, ils chargent la cour de Justice de poursuivre criminellement l’affaire, & les Com̃ittees de Raden de passer un Acte & prendre toute autre mesure, pour que pareilles tentatives ne puissent plus avoir lieu. On dit que l’intention étoit, en faisant arborer au peuple certaine cocarde, à l’exemple des yvrognes, de faire massacrer les Pensres., rappeller le D—— de Br., conclure une paix particuliere avec les Anglois, chevaucher la nation &c.
La confidence, Monsieur, que vous aviez faite à Mr. Brantzen des préliminaires signés entre vous & l’Angle, & qui contredisoit si victorieusement le bruit semé ici, pour favoriser la sédition, com̃e si les intérêts de cette rep. étoient abandonnés à Paris; cette confidence, dis-je, qui n’auroit plus dû l’être ici après que L. H. P. en auroient été instruites, on ne l’a com̃uniquée aux Membres des Et. d’Holl., qu’après avoir exigé d’eux sous serment le plus rigoureux secret, afin de les mettre hors d’état de pouvoir détromper le peuple à qui l’on faisoit accroire le contraire, pour favoriser sa sédition
Présentement tout a tourné à la confusion des Moteurs de ce complot.
4 Villes de Frise, ont déja suivi l’exemple de celles d’hollde., pour faire à l’avenir eux-même l’Election de leurs Emplois; & d’autres les suivront.
J’espere avoir fini de copier cette semaine ce que je vous ai promis
Je suis avec le plus respectueux attachement, Monsieur / De Votre Exce. / le très-humble & très / obéissant serviteur
D

La Gaz. G—— a décampé.

Translation
Sir
The Hague, 10 December 1782

I have here a letter from Mr. J. W. van Arp of Amsterdam, in which he makes the following request, in Dutch:
“We have in port the ship Fearnot, Capt. Stephen Crack of Boston. This vessel was purchased here by Mr. G. P. Salis, a merchant of this town, who will fit it for the said captain. He and I ask if you would kindly obtain from his excellency Mr. Adams a passport for the said vessel, so that it can set sail. The ship’s burden is about 30 to 35 last (that is, 60 to 70 tons) and it will sail under the American flag.”
Strange things are happening here. I speak of nothing less than a conspiracy, beginning last Wednesday, to incite a riot, using the riff-raff and thirty or forty drunkards, printers’ apprentices of Gosse the gazetteer, and smelters from the cannon foundry, who were stirred into bacchanalia and other disorders during Thursday and Friday nights. The populace behaved sensibly and jeered at the night owls. For their part the pensionaries went boldly to see the grand pensionary on Saturday evening, forcing him to convene an extraordinary session of the assembly the following Monday morning, while attempts were still being made, uselessly as it turned out, to mobilize the peat-bearers. Yesterday morning, Monday, the assembled states requested and then cordially adopted, without opposition, a resolution that will immediately be made public. It begins with very strong arguments enjoining the court of justice to pursue the matter criminally and urging the committees of that body to pass a special act and take all necessary measures to forestall such uprisings in the future. They say the underlying intent in making the populace sport rosettes, as the drunkards had done, was to have all the pensionaries murdered, recall the Duke of Brunswick, conclude a separate peace with the English, take charge of the nation, and so on.

What you told Mr. Brantsen confidentially about the preliminaries signed between you and the English, which contradicted so triumphantly the seditious rumor sown here that the republic’s interests had been abandoned in Paris, should not, to my mind, have been any longer confidential after it was disclosed to their High Mightinesses. The members of the States of Holland were informed of it only after they had been sworn to the strictest secrecy and were thus prevented from enlightening the people, who were being told precisely the contrary to encourage their sedition.
Now everything is turning against the instigators of this plot.
Four towns in Friesland have already followed the example of cities in Holland, taking it upon themselves to make their own appointments; and others will follow suit.
This week I hope to finish copying the information I promised you.
With great respect, sir, I remain your excellency’s very humble and very obedient servant
D

        Gosse the gazetteer has fled.


Title: Proposed Articles for the Definitive Peace Treaty, [ca. 10–13 December 1782]
From: Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Jay, John
To: Oswald, Richard

[ca. 10–13 December 1782]

Articles to be proposed in the definitive Treaty.

Freedom of Navigation, according to the Principles of the late marine Treaty between the Neutral Powers.
Dr Franklin desired to draw an Article respecting exempting Husbandmen Fishermen and Merchants as much as possible from the Calamities of War, in any future War.
Article respecting the Barbary Powers.
Bermudas.—to be farther considered.
The Isle of Sables.
Fortifications on the Frontiers. not to be mentioned.
The concession of Canada & Nova scotia, to join the Confederation. Reciprocity. Warranty to W. India Islands.
No armed Vessells on the Lakes on either Side.—
Ballance of the Account of Prisoners.


Title: The American Peace Commissioners to Francis Dana, 12 December 1782
From: Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Jay, John
To: Dana, Francis

Sir
Paris Decr. 12. 1782

We have the Honour to congratulate you, on the Signature of the preliminary Treaty of Peace, between his Britannic Majesty and the United States of America, to be inserted in the definitive Treaty, when France and Britain Shall have agreed upon their Terms. The Articles, of which We do ourselves the honour to inclose you a Copy, were compleated, on the thirtieth of last Month.
To Us, at this Distance, the present opportunity, appears to be the most favourable, for you to communicate your mission to the Ministers of the Empress of Russia, and to the Ministers of the other neutral Powers residing at her Court, and if you have no objections, We presume you will wish to be furnished with the inclosed Paper, to communicate at the Same Time.
We heartily wish you Success, and if you Should inform Us of a fair prospect of it, We Shall propose an Article in the definitive Treaty, to Secure the Freedom of Navigation according to the Principles of the late marine Treaty between the neutral Powers
With great Respect, We have the Honour to be, / Sir, your most obedient and most humble / Servants
John Adams
B Franklin
John Jay
Henry Laurens


Title: To John Adams from Wilhem & Jan Willink, Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, and De la Lande & Fynje, 12 December 1782
From: Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business),Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),La Lande & Fynje, de (business)
To: Adams, John

Sir
Amstr. the 12 Decembr. 1782

We had the Honour to write yoúr Excellency the 9th. of this month, to which we beg Leave to refer. Since none of Yoúr Esteemed favours Shall this Serve Principaly to advice yoúr Excellency that Mr. Dúmas of the Hague has Send ús a General account of Repairs to the House whereof the Amount is ƒ 1714.6— and as We have Seen Yoúr Excellency’s pleasure in having them immediatly paid off., we begg’d Mr. Dumas to assign Said Sum directely on us, in order to Conform ús to Yoúr Excellency’s desire
As we are Writting to his Excellency Robert Morris Esqr. we give him notice that during the month of November past the Obligations by ús distributed amounts to a Sum of ƒ 98000:—
We have the honoúr to remain with the Sincerest regard. / Sir. / Your Excellency’s most / Obedt. most humb Servants
Wilhem & Jan Willink
Nics. & Jacob van Staphorst.
de la Lande & fynje


Title: From John Adams to C. W. F. Dumas, 13 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Dumas, C. W. F.

Sir,
Paris. 13th. Decemr: 1782

Dr: Franklin I suppose has written to London & consented to exchange Sir J. Jay, for Lt: Collo: Dundas— He recd. a letter fm. the late Advocate of Scotland, proposing such an Exchange—which he communicated to his Colleagues & we advised him to agree to it—
Mr: Brantzen is greatly & justly respected here, and is as friendly & communicative to me as I desire—
You have known a little of my anxiety abt: the fisheries, & some other points— It is pretty well removed— We have obtained satisfaction upon these points, by convincing the English Ministers, by fair & candid Arguments, that it was their Interest to give it us—
Respects to Madame & Mademoiselle—&c:


Title: The American Peace Commissioners to Robert R. Livingston, 14 December 1782
From: Adams, John,Franklin, Benjamin,Jay, John
To: Livingston, Robert R.

Sir,
Paris, Decr. 14. 1782.

We have the honour to congratulate Congress on the Signature of the Preliminaries of a Peace between the Crown of Great Britain & the United States of America, to be inserted in a definitive Treaty so soon as the Terms between the Crowns of France & Great Britain shall be agreed on. A Copy of the Articles is here inclosed, and we cannot but flatter ourselves; that they will appear to Congress as they do to all of us, to be consistent with the honour and Interest of the United States, and we are persuaded Congress would be more fully of that Opinion if they were apprized of all the Circumstances and Reasons which have influenc’d the Negotiation. Although it is impossible for us to go into that Detail, we think it necessary nevertheless to make a few Remarks on such of the Articles, as appear most to require Elucidation.

Remarks on Article 2d: relative to Boundaries.
The Court of Great Britain, insisted on retaining all the Territories comprehended within the Province of Quebec, by the Act of Parliament respecting it. They contended that Nova Scotia should extend to the River Kennebeck; and they claimed not only all the Lands in the Western Country, and on the Missisippi, which were not expressly included in our Charters and Governments, but also all such Lands within them as remained ungranted by the King of Great Britain: It would be endless to enumerate all the Discussions and Arguments, on the Subject. We knew this Court and Spain to be against our Claims to the Western Country, and having no Reason to think that Lines more favourable could ever have been obtained, we finally agreed to those described in this Article: indeed they appear to leave us little to complain of, and not much to desire. Congress will observe that although our Northern Line, is in a certain Part below the Latitude of Forty five, yet in others it extends above it, divides the Lake Superior, and gives us Access to its Western & Southern Waters, from which a Line in that Latitude would have excluded us.

Remarks on the Article 4th: respecting Creditors.
We had been informed that some of the States, had confiscated British Debts, but although each State has a Right to bind its own Citizens, yet in our Opinion, it appertains solely to Congress, in whom exclusively are vested the Rights of making War and Peace, to pass Acts against the Subjects of a Power with which the Confederacy may be at War. It therefore only remained for us to consider, whether this article is founded in Justice & good Policy.
In our Opinion no Acts of Government could dissolve the Obligations of Good Faith, resulting from lawfull Contracts between Individuals of the two Countries, prior to the War. We knew that some of the British Creditors were making common Cause with the Refugees, and other Adversaries of our Independence, besides, sacrificing private Justice to Reasons of State and political Convenience, is always an odious Measure, and the Purity of our Reputation in this Respect in all foreign Commercial Countries, is of infinitely more Importance to us, than all the Sums in question. It may also be remarked, that American and British Creditors, are placed on an equal footing.

Remarks on Articles 5 & 6: respecting Refugees.
These Articles were among the first discussed, and the last agreed to. And had not the Conclusion of this Business, at the Time of its Date, been particularly important to the British Administration, the Respect, which both in London and Versailles, is supposed to be due to the honour, Dignity and Interests of Royalty, would probably have for ever prevented our bringing this Article so near to the Views of Congress and the sovereign Rights of the States, as it now stands. When it is consider’d, that it was utterly impossible to render this Article perfectly consistent, both with American and British Ideas of Honour, we presume that the middle Line adopted by this Article, is as little unfavourable to the former, as any that could in Reason be expected.
As to the Separate Article, We beg leave to observe, that it was our Policy to render the Navigation of the River Missisippi so important to Britain, as that their Views might correspond with ours on that Subject. Their possessing the Country on the River, North of the Line from the Lake of the Woods, affords a Foundation for their claiming such Navigation: and as the Importance of West Florida to Britain was for the same Reason rather to be strengthen’d than otherwise, we thought it adviseable to allow them the Extent contained in the Separate Article, especially as before the War it had been annex’d by Britain to W. Florida, and would operate as an [a]dditional Inducement to their joining with us in agreeing, that the Navigation of the River should forever remain open to both.— The Map used in the Course of our Negotiations was Mitchells.
As we had reason to imagine that the Articles respecting the Boundaries, the Refugees & Fisheries, did not correspond with the Policy of this Court, we did not Communicate the Preliminaries to the Minister, until after they were signed; and not even then the Separate Article. We hope that these Considerations will excuse our having so far deviated from the Spirit of our Instructions. The Count de Vergennes, on perusing the Articles appear’d surprized, but not displeased, at their being so favourable to us.
We beg leave to add our Advice that Copies be sent us of the Accounts directed to be taken by the different States, of the unnecessary Devastations and Sufferings sustained by them from the Enemy in the Course of the War.— should they Arrive before the Signature of the definitive Treaty they might possibly answer very good purposes.—
With great Respect, We have the honour to be, / Sir, / Your most obedient, & / most humble Servants.
John Adams
B Franklin
John Jay
Henry Laurens.

Enter’d on the Minutes.
W. T. Franklin Secy:


Title: From John Adams to Isaac Smith Sr., 15 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Smith, Isaac Sr.

Sr:
Paris Decr 15th. 1782. (Copy)

I have the Pleasure to congratulate you, upon the provisional Arrangement of our Affairs with England. The Terms are as good as we could obtain, and much better, considering all the Difficulties and Dangers we were in, than could have been expected.
The Fishery I think is so well secured, that we have no cause to complain, and as soon as Peace is concluded you may revive your long neglected Acquaintance at Cape-Ann, and take a ride there as often as your Health or Inclination shall require.
For the rest of my Days I shall consider my self as a Marblehead or Cape-Ann Man, and I think they ought to vote me the Freedom of their Cities in a Box of Heart of Oak, or at least to send my Wife a Quintal of Dumb Fish once a Year; for their Fisheries have cost me all my Happiness for these three Years, and very nearly cost me my Life, and her her Husband.
My best Respects &c


Title: To John Adams from Henry Grand, 15 December 1782
From: Grand, Henry
To: Adams, John

Monsieur
Paris ce 15e Decbre 1782

Messieurs Willem & Jan Willinck Nicolas & Jacob van Staphorst & De La Lande & Fynje en me remettant Quatre cens mille Livres m’en faisoient espèrer autant, mais par une Suivante ces Espérances Se Sont évanouies: Je n’ai pas cru, Monsieur, devoir insister, mais seulement me borner à leur représenter que la privation de ces fonds pourroit gêner les opérations de Monsieur Morris.— En effet, j’ai fait dresser un nouvel Etat de Situation, Suivant lequel pour pouvoir accueillir les Traittes connues à ce jour, de Monsieur Morris Sur moi, il me faut plus d’un million & demi.— Je l’ai porte ce matin à Monsieur Franklin que j’ai prévenu depuis longtems de mes besoins: Il doit écrire aujourdhui à Monsieur De Vergennes en conséquence; mais dans l’incertitude de la réponse, & en l’attendant; Son Opinion étoit de faire servir à mes besoins les fonds qui peuvent rester de votre Emprunt en Hollande— Si vous pensés de même, Monsieur, il conviendroit d’écrire en conséquence à ces Messieurs de Hollande, qui sans cela continueront de garder les fonds, ou d’en disposer autrement, & dans ce cas, je me trouverai dans l’alternative cruelle, ou de manquer à mes propres Engagemens, ou à ceux de Monsieur Morris.—
Je vous prie, Monsieur, de vouloir bien me faire savoir vos Intentions, afin que j’écrire ce Soir en Hollande en conséquence.
Je Suis avec Respect / Monsieur / votre très humble & très / obéissant Serviteur
Grand

Translation
Sir
Paris, 15 December 1782

Messrs. Wilhem & Jan Willink, Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, and De la Lande & Fynje, in remitting me 400,000 livres, led me to expect a further, equivalent sum, but by a subsequent letter these hopes have faded. I did not believe, sir, that I should insist, so I simply explained that the absence of these funds would hinder Mr. Morris in his dealings. Indeed, I had a new account of the situation drawn up, which shows that I shall need more than 1,500,000 if I am to honor Mr. Morris’ bills known to date. This morning I took it to Mr. Franklin, whom I had informed of my needs long ago, and in consequence he is to write to Mr. Vergennes today. In the meantime, as we await the uncertain reply, Mr. Franklin’s opinion is that you should make available to me such funds as may remain from your Dutch loan. If you agree, it would be a good idea to write a letter to this effect to the Dutch bankers, who otherwise might continue to hold on to the funds, or find some other use for them, and in that case I would find myself faced with the cruel alternative of either failing to meet my own commitments or those of Mr. Morris.
I pray, sir, that you will inform me of your intentions so that I can write this evening to Holland in consequence.
I am with respect, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant
Grand


Title: To John Adams from Joshua Barney, 18 December 1782
From: Barney, Joshua
To: Adams, John

Dr Sir
Lorient Decr, 18th. 1782

According to Your request I have to inform You, that the letters intrusted to my care to go by the Ships Cicero & Buccaneer I have Deliver’d to the Captns. Hill & Phearson, I should have wrote You before but the Captns. having both been at Nantz for Some time and not chusing to deliver them to any other Person, prevented me, their Sailing is still Very uncertain,— I am waiting with the Greatest Impatience for your final Dispatches, and hope to have them in a few days, what an amasing change Mr. Adams since I had the pleasure of Seeing You, And with what pleasure Shall I carry the News to America of freedom, Oh how I long to congratulate You in Person, on the Occasion for it is Owing to Your Wisdom, and a few others that this Mighty change has been Brought about— hoping Soon to hear from You I am Sir with / the Greatest Esteem / Your Most Obt. / Servt.
Joshua Barney
Two Days ago a Ship Arrived from Phila. but nothing New she left it the 20 Novr.—
My respectfull compliments to the Gentls

JB.


Title: From John Adams to C. W. F. Dumas, 19 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Dumas, C. W. F.

Dear Sir,
Paris Decr. 19th. 1782

The Preliminary Articles are only to take place, when France & G. Britain shall have agreed: but as they are not yet published by the British Ministry, it is not proper that We should publish them as yet— Your Dispatch to Mr Livingston, which I recd. Yesterday, I gave to Mr. Franklin who sends it off to day.
I don’t know what to say about Mr. Van Arp’s Passport—it is not necessary, if the Vessel carries nothing improper. I will send him one however, depending upon it, that there is no design to send British Manufactures.
There are curious Transactions passing at the Hague—but I hope they will go no further. If Peace should take place, I suppose they will stop. Whether we shall have Peace or not, I cannot say— By some Intimations that are given out, it looks probable—but one can never be certain of such an Event until it happens.
The King of Sweden has done himself the Honor to be the first Crowned Head, indeed the first Power, who has proposed to the United States a Treaty with them. This however must not be published nor communicated but in Confidence to Friends. You may make my Compliments to Mr. D’Asp, & tell him, that We shall take Care to remember, that his master has been the first to do Us this Honor.

My best Respects to Mr. Van Berckel, Mr. Gyselaer & Mr. Vischer as well as to your good Family.—


Title: From John Adams to Henry Grand, 19 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Grand, Henry

Sir
Paris Decr 19. 1782

In Answer to your Letter, give me Leave to inform you that I have written this day to Messrs Willinks, Van staphorsts and De la Lande and Fynje, my Advice to remit you the four hundred Thousand Livres more, as you desire. I run a Risque in this, because Mr Morris has informed them of Bills which he has drawn upon them, which there is danger that they will not have Funds to Satisfy. if it should happen that those Bills should arrive and the Gentlemen be out of Cash, they must call upon you again, or do worse.— God grant Us Peace, that We may no longer be plagued with so many Demands for Money.
With much Respect and Esteem I have the / Honour to be, Sir your most obedient and / most humble servant
J. Adams.


Title: From John Adams to Wilhem & Jan Willink, Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, and De la Lande & Fynje, 19 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business),Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),La Lande & Fynje, de (business)

Gentlemen,
Paris Decr. 19th. 1782.

Your several Letters I have recd.— The protested Bill ought to be accepted for the Honor of the Drawer.
Altho’ I have no Authority over the Money in your Hands as You know, yet considering the Circumstances, I should advise You to remit Mr. Grand four hundred thousands of french Livres Tournois, besides the four hundred thousands already remitted, for the Interest of the Loan in Holland.
It would give me great pleasure to communicate to You any Intelligence which might be of use to You, but You know I am connected with several Colleagues, & all of Us with the Ministers of four other Nations, so that it would be improper for me to communicate any thing until others concur, because the Communication of Intelligence may have serious Consequences, which one cannot always foresee—
With great Esteem, I have the Honor to be, / Gentlemen, &c


Title: To John Adams from Robert R. Livingston, 19 December 1782
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Adams, John

No: 14:
Sir
Philadelphia, 19th December 1782

The enclosed Letter for Mr Dana you will open & peruse—it may possibly contain information that may be of use to you which it will be unnecessary to repeat here— I mentioned in my last Mr Jefferson’s appointment, I have the pleasure of adding now that I have received an account from him of his acceptance of the place— He will be here in the course of ten or twelve days & sail with Count de Rochambeau, who proposes to return to France— The French Troops have embarked with the Marquis de Vaudreuil, & are to sail for the West Indies, unless they Should receive counter orders by a frigate which is now in the river— Her Letters are not yet come up, as She unfortunately run on shore at Dover it is yet uncertain whether She will be saved— The great political question which at present engages the attention of Congress, is the means of providing for the payment of the public debts, or at least establishing such funds for the regular discharge of the interest as may set their creditors at ease as to their capitals— It was imagined that a duty of five per cent upon all imports would afford a fund adequate to this— Congress accordingly recommended it to the several states to impose the duty They have all complied except Rhode Island, her refusal renders the other laws nugatory, as they contain clauses suspending their operation till the measure is generally adopted— Congress are about to send down a Committee to endeavour to prevail upon Rhode Island to comply with a measure that they deem so essential to public credit— It is extremely difficult in a Country So little used to taxes as ours is, to lay them directly—& almost impossible to impose them so equally as not to render them too oppressive on some members of the community, while others contribute little or nothing— This difficulty is encreased by the continual change of property in this Country, & by the small proportion the income bears to the value of lands.
By a short Letter just received from Mr Jay, it appears that England has at length Swallowed the bitter pill, & agreed to treat with the “thirteen United states of America”— I am still at a loss to account for this commission’s being directed to Mr Oswald, while Mr Fitzherbert’s continues in force, or is that revoked? I will not trouble myself with guesses as I must receive dispatches to day which will explain the mystery, if either Mr Franklin or Mr Jay have kept their words with me.
I have the honor to be, sir / with great regard & esteem / Your most obedient / & most humble servant
RR Livingston


Title: From John Adams to Francis Dana, 22 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Dana, Francis

Dear Sir,
Paris Decr. 22d. 1782.

Your Letter of Novr. 14/25 I recieved the night before last, & went out with it yesterday to Passy. Dr. Franklin & I agreed to desire Mr. Grand to give Orders to the Banker his Correspondent at St. Petersbourg to furnish You with the Sum of Money You may have occasion for, so that your Treaty may be made as soon as You please. I should not be surprized, if the English Minister to the Empress should negotiate for You. The four Ministers for Peace have written You their Advice, that now is the Time for You to apply.
Penobscot and the Fisheries are very safe. But it is the most curious History in the World, that of our Preliminaries.
The King of Sweden, by his Ambassador at Versailles, has been the first Power in Europe to propose a Treaty with the United States. He has given his Ambassador here full Power to treat & Dr. Franklin has recd. from Congress full Power to treat with him. They are now in Negotiation, & the Treaty will probably be finished in a few days.
With great Esteem, I have the honor / to be, / Sir, / your most obedient & / most humble Servant.
John Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Boylston, 23 December 1782
From: Boylston, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Sr
London Decm. 23d 1782

The happy moment is now arrived, the strugle is at an end. America is recognizsed free & independent States: I congratulate you on this important period— I feel myself riseing from that state of dejection, wch always attends uncertain prospects, of great & very interesting events—so far, so well—but all is not completed, tho’ all in a fair way— Its with pleasure I feel myself unshackel’d, & may write an innocent line to a Friend, without hazarding a suspicion or being chargeable with criminal intentions; I’ve often resolved, & as often been deterd from this consideration to write you. the obstruction is now removed
This is a very fine Country, it wanted nothing to complete its happiness, or rather for the continuation of it but political wisdom. O pity! pity!
What an excellent School is Europe! from hence America, without centuries of dear bought experiences, & gropeing in the dark, may at once learn how to direct her riseing empire— I am anxious to know the result of the present negatiation, whether peace or more war, & shall be happy to have a line from you, & if its proper to be favord wh your Opinion, you’re near the light, & your Opinion is of great weight with me— My health every since I’ve been here, has been very indifferent—but like the times its now mending
I am Dear Sr wh much esteem / Your Hume Serv
Tho Boylston

ps Please to direct to me to Mess. Lane Son & Fraser Merchs London. as soon as you possible can & you’ll Oblige / Your HS
Tho Boylston


Title: To John Adams from Jean George Holtzhey, 23 December 1782
From: Holtzhey, Jean George
To: Adams, John

Monsieúr
Amstdm. le 23 dec 1782

  Je me troùve honorée de la Votre du 2e. du Passé, Sensible aúx Louange que vous me faite, de mon travail, m’ont engagés d’un faire un autre, que je prend la liberté de vous l’envoÿer, ci jointe dans la ferme attente qu’il ne voús faira pas moin de satisfaction que la presedente, au reste monsieur, comme née dans cette ville dans la quelle de meúre toút de braves Gens, qui ont Vivement desire l’union de Vos Etats avec les notres m’ont inspirée a la faire Connoitre pour la posterité
Aú reste Monsieúr, je recommande les Medailles a votre bonte poúr L’amerique quand l’accosioner le presentera, et suis avec un profond respect / Monsieur / Votre tres humble et / tres obeisant Serviteúr
Jean George Holtzhey.

Translation
Sir
Amsterdam, 23 December 1782
I am honored by your letter of the second of last month and by the praise you bestow upon me and my work. I am charged with making another medal, which I take the liberty of sending, in the firm hope that it will please you no less than the previous one. Moreover, sir, having been born in this town where so many good people live, all desirous of a union between your states and ours, I am inspired to make that union known for posterity.
In addition, sir, I commend the medals to your care to be presented to America when the occasion arises and am with profound respect, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant
Jean George Holtzhey.


Title: To John Adams from Philip Mazzei, 23 December 1782
From: Mazzei, Philip
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Amsterdam, 23 Decr. 1782.

I am obliged to trouble your Excellency about a letter Mr. Lynch writes me to have sent me from Nantes the 10th. of October last, under cover to your Excellency as well as the two preceding, which were delivered to me unsealed by Mr. Dumas. I don’t recollect which motive Mr. Dumas told me had been the occasion of it; and as the same, or any other motive, may have occasioned the abovesaid letter being mislead, I beg the favour of your Excellency to desire that it may be searched, & delivered to me. Your Excellency would do me a favour to order that it may be likewise delivered to me Baretti’s dictionary, which was sent to your direction, by Mr. Lynch, along with the dictionary of Crusca. I am sorry to find that I am still in a great need of an English dictionary. Had I succeeded to explain myself with clearness, in the letters I sent to your Excellency, where I meant to signify that I was a perfect stranger in this Country, I should not perhaps have had the mortification to read, in the answer you did me the honour to write me the 26. ulto., that I must have been introduced to some of the Houses in Holland who have most connections with America. In expectation of the honour of your Excellency’s commands, I am with profound respect, / Sir, / Your Excellency’s most Obet / & most Humble Servant
Philip Mazzei


Title: To John Adams from Wilhem & Jan Willink, Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, and De la Lande & Fynje, [ca. 23 December 1782]
From: Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business),Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),La Lande & Fynje, de (business)
To: Adams, John

Sir
[ca. 23 December 1782]

Being without any of your favours, we take the liberty to addres you these few lines, on occasion that we are informed by Mr. Grand, that Mr. Morris has again furnish’d some drafts on him, to the amount of about £400,000— tourns., for which Mr. Grand desires our remittances.
We did not receive from Mr. Morris any information nor disposition about those drafts. however it seems to us very possible, that it may be the same, which he intended to draw upon us, and that this alteration may be occasioned by a demand for bills on Paris, and perhaps the Cours of change is not quite regulated upon Holland. We suppose your Excellency will know better than we, how far our suppositions are founded. And since you informed us that it was your intention not to charge your self with the direction of this business, we take however the liberty to ask your Excellencys advice in a matter of so much importance, in which we should wish to have proper directions. But since we know you don’t chuse to give them, we will act in consequence of what your Excellency will be pleased to advise us as a private Man. And therefore we beg to favour us with an answer upon this letter.
Mr. Dumas has made some small additions to the note he furnished before, of the Expences at the house of the united states, which now amount to ƒ 1838:14:— Currt. & which we’ve paid, and charged upon the Account of said states.
We hope that the general Peace will soon be concluded, and after that the Loan in our hands entirely subscribed, for which purpose we will continue our endeavours. We beg to give us intelligence of that desired work, when it happens, and have the honour to be most sincerely / of Your Excellency / The most humble & obedt. Servts.
Wilhem & Jan Willink
Nics. & Jacob van Staphorst.
de la Lande & fÿnje


Title: To John Adams from Lady Juliana Fermor Penn, 24 December 1782
From: Penn, Lady Juliana Fermor
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Spring Garden London Decbr: 24th: 1782.

When I address’d the rest of the Commissioners by Letters last Month, I was not inform’d you was at Paris; or I should not have been so wanting to my interest, as not to have entreated your assistance and Protection, as I did theirs, in the support of the cause of an Innocent and suffering Family. I know the afflictions consequent to War have ever been horrid; But as I hope we are near a happier Period, let me beseech You to give us reason, from the support I trust you will grant our Cause, to rejoyce in the completion of so great a Blessing, as Peace: and that thô now oppress’d and Afflicted, we may again, from the Wisdom, justice, & uprightness of those in Power, enjoy the Comforts we have been so long deprived of.
I have the honor to be Sir, / Your Excellencies Oblig’d & Obedient / Hble. Servt.
Juliana Penn.


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 26 December 1782
From: Dumas, C. W. F.
To: Adams, John

Monsieur,
Lahaie 26e. Dec. 1782

L’incluse, que vous voudrez bien avoir la bonté de fermer & acheminer par la voie de Mr. Barclai à l’Orient, vous paroîtra bien interessante. Mr. De Berer., qui vient de me quitter a été bien aise de profiter de toutes ces anecdotes, pour sa dépeche de demain.
Nos amis vous prient, Monsieur, d’appuyer de tous vos bons Offices possibles la Négociation de mrs. les Plenipo: de cette rep., surtout quant aux dédom̃agemens qu’ils demandent, ainsi que pour la liberté parfaite & illimitée de leur Navigation; afin que ces Messieurs aient lieu de faire mention dans leurs dépeches ici de ces bons Offices, & que nos amis puissent s’en prévaloir non seulement pour confondre les Anglomanes, mais pour exalter à leurs peuples respectifs les effets de l’amitié fraternelle des Américains pour cette nation. Un petit mot de réponse là-dessus, que je puisse leur répéter de la part de Vre. Exce., leur fera grand plaisir. En attendant je suis chargé de vous présenter leurs respects, & ceux de mon Epouse & fille, & à Mrs Thaxter & Storer bien nos complimens. J’espere le premier rétabli de son rhume, & le second toujours fraix & gai.
Mr. Holtzhey m’a envoyé une seconde Médaille pour vous, charmante. Je vous l’enverrai Monsieur par premiere occasion. En attendant, voici sa Lettre, & Description. L’emblême du Coq m’a rappellé un trait, si je ne me trompe, des Mémoires de Vargas. L’Ambassadr. de France au Concile de Trente parlant d’une maniere qui déplaisoit au Minre. du Pape, celui-ci l’interrompit en criant Gallus cantat. L’Ambassadr., sans se déconcerter, repliqua Utinam Petrus fleret.
Je suis, Monsieur, avec tous les sentimens de respect & de dévouement sincere que vous connoissez, de votre Excellence / le trèshumble & très-obéissant / serviteur
Dumas

P.S. Vous aurez vu Sir J. Jay avant que celle-ci vous parvienne; & j’espere d’apprendre qu’il est tout-à-fait libre. Ce que vous me dites dans la vôtre du 13 de Mr. Brantzen, a fait grand plaisir à nos amis. Ce que vous avez la bonté de m’apprendre de la pêche, & ce que je devine com̃e je puis des autres points, m’en fait un que je sens mieux que je ne puis l’exprimer

Translation
Sir
The Hague, 26 December 1782

Would you be so kind as to seal and send the enclosed letter to Lorient, via Mr. Barclay? You will find it very interesting. Mr. Bérenger, who has just been to see me, was happy to use the material in his dispatch for tomorrow.
Our friends are asking, sir, if you can make every possible effort to support the negotiations of the Dutch plenipotentiaries, especially in regard to the compensations they are seeking, and to the total freedom of the seas. It would be very helpful if these gentlemen had cause to mention your good offices in their dispatches, and if our friends could take advantage of such mentions—not only to thwart the Anglomanes but to better extol to their constituents the benefits of America’s fraternal friendship toward this nation. A brief answer from your excellency to this effect would greatly please them. Meanwhile, I am to present you their respects, and those of my wife and daughter, and to offer our compliments to Mr. Thaxter and Mr. Storer. I trust Mr. Thaxter has recovered from his cold and that Mr. Storer is as lively and cheerful as ever.
Mr. Holtzhey sent me a second medal for you, which is utterly delightful. I shall send it to you at the earliest opportunity. Meanwhile I enclose his letter and description. The emblem of the cock reminded me of a witty sally, if I recall correctly, in the memoirs of Vargas. The French ambassador to the Council of Trent was speaking in a manner that displeased the papal envoy, who interrupted him loudly with the words Gallus cantat. The ambassador, without turning a hair, replied Utinam Petrus fleret.
I remain, sir, with all the respect and sincere devotion you already know, your excellency’s very humble and very obedient servant
Dumas

P.S. You will have seen Sir James Jay before this reaches you, and I hope to learn he is entirely free. What you said about Mr. Brantsen in your letter of 13 December was most gratifying to our friends. What you so kindly informed me of concerning the fisheries, and my own best guesses as to the other points, caused me a pleasure I can better feel than express.


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 27 December 1782
From: Dumas, C. W. F.
To: Adams, John

Monsieur,
Lahaie 27e. Dec. 1782

Je n’ai que quelques minutes pour vous accuser l’honorée votre du 19e. reçue il y a deux heures seulement. Je n’ai fait usage de la confidence qu’avec les amis, qui m’ont promis le secret. Je verrai ce soir Mr. D’Asp. Ces Messieurs avec mes femelles vous prient d’agréer leurs respects. They will neither go too far nor stop for peace & all that. La semaine prochaine je vous marquerai, Monsieur, la besogne d’aujourd’hui & de demain, qui est bonne.
Dans ma Lettre d’hier, qui est en chemin, je crois avoir oublié la note ci-jointe, que Vous voudrez avoir la bonté de mettre dans ma Lettre à Mr. Livingston.
Je suis avec la plus respectueuse sincerité / Monsieur / Votre trèshumble & très / obeissant servit
Dumas

Translation
sir
The Hague, 27 December 1782

I have only a few moments to thank you for your honored letter of 19 December, which I received just two hours ago. I have only confided in our friends, who promised the utmost discretion. This evening I shall see Mr. Asp. These gentlemen and my ladies send you their best regards. They will neither go too far nor stop for peace and all that. Next week I will tell you about the business of today and tomorrow, which is satisfactory.
In yesterday’s letter, now on its way, I think I forgot to add the enclosed note, which I wonder if you would kindly include with my letter to Mr. Livingston.
With sincerest respect I remain, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant
Dumas


Title: From John Adams to Philip Mazzei, 28 December 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Mazzei, Philip

Sir
Paris 28 Decr 1782

I have this moment received your Letter of the 23 of December. I have recd but one Letter for you, Since my Arrival in Paris, and that was inclosed with mine to you of the 26. Ult.
I am not able to Say why the Letters were delivered to you at the Hague unsealed. I never unsealed any of your Letters, most certainly, and if you have recd any in that State, which had passed through my hands, they came to them in the Same State.
Mr Dumas will be So good as to deliver to you or your order, the Dictionary of Crusca as well as that of Baretti.
I have the honour to be, Sir, your most obedient and most / humble servant
J. Adams.


Title: To John Adams from Wilhem & Jan Willink, Nicolaas & Jacob van Staphorst, and De la Lande & Fynje, 30 December 1782
From: Staphorst, Nicolaas & Jacob van (business),Willink, Wilhem & Jan (business),La Lande & Fynje, de (business)
To: Adams, John

Sir,
Amstm. 30 Dec: 1782

We refer to what we had the honour to write you the Inst. Since we received your much esteem’d favour of 19th. of this month, by which you are pleased to advise us to remit again to Mr. Grand, for account of the United states, 400,000 french Livs. In consequence of this advise, we remit this very day part of that Sum, and we’ll continue to do so, till the whole sum will be compleated.
We will also pay the Bill, which Mr. Morris has drawn, for account of said States, on Mr. fizeaux Grand & Co. and put it to their account.

Last week we’ve paid a bill of ƒ 1100—Bco. drawn on Mr. Laurens, and which was accepted by your Excellency the 24th. Juny at Six month sight, and likewise charged it to the account of the United States. We hope Sir, that you’ll have taken notice of the bills of the same nature, which you accepted, and beg the favour to send us a note there about, in order that we may pay them in due time.
We observe that your Excellency makes difficulty to communicate to us any intelligence about politicks, because this communication might have serious consequences. We thank your Exce. for the Inclination, which you give us to understand, to do it in case this did not retain you. We take the liberty to assure you that whatever you’ll trust us, in recommanding the secret, you may depend that it will not go farther. However we Intend not to blame your delicacy, and only recommand our selves for that purpose as far as your Excellency will think convenient.
We further take the Liberty to make your Excellency our compliments to the beginning of a new year. May your Excellencies Person, and dear relations enjoy in the Course of it every blessing and prosperity, which can be wished, May the great work of peace be brought to a happy conclusion, and the new Republick ever more flourish. We beg to continue us your most esteemd friend ship and favour and have the honour to be most respectfully / Sir / Your Excellencies Most humble & Obedt. Servts
Willhem & Jan Willink
Nics. & Jacob van Staphorst.
de la Lande & fynje


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 31 December 1782
From: Dumas, C. W. F.
To: Adams, John

Monsieur,
Lahaie 31e. Dec. 1782.

Je ne vois rien a ajouter à ce que vous apprendra l’incluse, sinon, que les Etats d’Holl. sont ajournés à Vendredi 3e. du prochain, & que je vous souhaite avec toutes les autres prospérités que votre coeur peut desirer, celle de mettre dans la nouvelle année où nous allons entrer, la derniere à la paix la plus glorieuse & la plus avantageuse pour les Etats-Unis.— Ma famille partage ces voeux, & présente avec moi nos complimens du jour aussi à Mr. Thaxter & à Mr. Storer.
J’ai lu à Mr. d’Asp ce dont vous m’avez chargé pour lui. Il m’a demandé copie de tout l’Article en question, pour l’envoyer au R. son Mre., à qui cela feroit plaisir; & je la lui ai laissé prendre sans difficulté. Il m’a paru, du reste, ne pas tout à fait ignorer l’affaire; & se glorifiant de n’y avoir pas nui, m’a lu partie d’une Dépeche de 7be. dernier, où effectivement il donnoit de bons & sages avis à cet égard. Je suis chargé de vous témoigner, Monsieur, qu’il est très sensible à l’honneur de votre souvenir, & a la maniere, précieuse pour lui, dont vous le lui témoignez.— Du reste nous som̃es convenus, qu’excepté les hotels de Dt. Amst. & France, le secret sera gardé par-tout ailleurs ici.
Je suis avec le plus respectueux devouement / Monsieur, de Vre. Exce. / le très humble & très-obéis- / sant serviteur
Dumas

Translation
Sir
The Hague, 31 December 1782

I see nothing to add to what you will learn from the enclosed letter, except that the States of Holland have adjourned until Friday, 3 January, and I wish you, together with all the other blessings your heart may desire, a new year that brings the most glorious and advantageous peace for the United States. My family shares these wishes, and we also offer New Year’s greetings to Mr. Thaxter and Mr. Storer.
I read to Mr. Asp what you instructed me to convey. He asked me for a copy of the whole text to send to the king, his master, who would appreciate it, and I made no objection to his taking one. He seemed, moreover, not wholly ignorant of the affair. He boasted of not having impeded it and read me part of a September dispatch in which he offered sound and sensible opinions on the matter. I am requested to inform you, sir, that he is very sensible of the honor of your remembrance and of the manner, precious to him, by which you did so. In addition we agreed that, apart from the houses of Dordrecht, Amsterdam, and France, the affair will be kept secret.
With great respect and devotion, sir, I remain your excellency’s very humble and very obedient servant
Dumas


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 31 December 1782
From: Dumas, C. W. F.
To: Adams, John

Monsieur,
Lahaie 31e. Dec. 1782

Ma Lettre de ce jour étôit à la poste, lorsque j’ai appris de source, que, conformement aux desirs des principaux membres, présens ici, des Et. d’holle. Mr. Snelle Député de la part de Dort aux gecom̃it, leerde Raaden, ayant proposé à ses Collegues, pour prévenir tout tumulte pendant la nuit prochaine, & pour veiller à la sûreté des dits Membres, de donner aux-mêmes aujourd’hui les ordres aux Troupes en garnison ici; & ces derniers ayant refusé de concourir à cette mesure, il va y avoir là-dessus dès aujourd’hui une Assemblée extraordinaire des dits Membres présents, afin de maintenir cet Acte de Souveraineté, & n’en avoir pas le démenti; à défaut de quoi & s’ils se trouvient mal secondés ils m’ont paru déterminés à aller chez eux, pour faire tenir les Etats ailleurs qu’à Lahaie.
J’écris ceci encore avant dîner. Je vais m’informer du suivi. En attendant ceci partira dans le paquet de l’hôtel de france.
Je suis avec grand respect, Monsieur, / Votre très-humble & très / obéissant serviteur
D

Les Etats d’Hollde. sont certainement en droit de prendre le Com̃andement de la Garnison de Lahaie. Il y a une Résolution expresse là-dessus de l’an 1672. Ceci est fort interessant

Translation
Sir
The Hague, 31 December 1782

My letter of today was already in the mail when I learned on good authority that, in accordance with the wishes of the principal members present of the States of Holland, an extraordinary session of those same members would be held this very day. It seems that Mr. Snelle, deputy from Dordrecht to that body, suggested to his colleagues that they themselves give orders to the troops stationed here to prevent further disturbances that night and guarantee their own safety. The troops, however, refused to agree to this measure, and so the assembly decided to convene in order to sustain rather than relinquish their sovereignty in this instance and, should this fail and the members not receive adequate protection, they struck me as determined to return home and hold the States elsewhere than at The Hague.
It is not yet dinnertime even as I write. I shall find out what happens next, and in the meantime this letter will go in the packet from the Hôtel de France.
I am with great respect, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant
D

The States of Holland are certainly within their rights to take command of the garrison of The Hague. This is expressly stated in a resolution of 1672. All this is most interesting.


Title: From John Adams to C. W. F. Dumas, 1 January 1783
From: Adams, John
To: Dumas, C. W. F.

Dr Sir
Paris January 1. 17823

returning this Evening from Versailles, where I had been to make the Compliments of the Season, I found your favours of 26 and 27. of Decr. The Letters inclosed Shall be forwarded as you desire.
The Dutch Ministers here have no Occasion for my Assistance. Non tali Auxilio &c— I have the Honour to be more particularly acquainted with Mr Brantzen, who is certainly a very able Man, and universally acknowledged to be So by all who know him.— The arguments which I know he has used with the British Minister, are Such as can never be answered, both upon the Liberty of Navigation and the Compensation for Damages.— He is an entire Master of his Subject, and has urged it with a Degree of Perspicuity and Eloquence that I know has much Struck his Antagonists. unnecessary however as any Exertions of mine have been, I have not omitted any opportunity of throwing in any friendly Suggestions, in my Power, where there was a Possibility of doing any good to our good Friends the Dutch.— I have made Such Suggestions to Mr Fitzherbert. But with Mr Oswald I have had Several very serious Conversations upon the Subject. So I have also with Mr Vaughan and Mr Whiteford.— To Mr Oswald, I urged the Necessity, of Great Britains, agreeing with the Dutch upon the Unlimited Freedom of Navigation, from a Variety of Topicks, Some of which it would not be prudent at present to expl I may explain to you more particularly hereafter.— Thus much I may Say at present, that I told him it was impossible for G. Britain to avoid it. it would probably be insisted upon by all the other Powers. France & Spain as well as Russia Sweeden Denmark, Prussia, the Emperor & Portugal, as well as Holland had already Signed the armed Neutrality. The United states of America had declared themselves ready to Sign, and were ready, and if they should be admitted to. The Combination being thus powerfull, G. Britain could not resist it.— But if She should refuse to agree to it with Holland and the other Powers should acquiesce, and Holland should make Peace without it, (which would never however be the Case) yet all would be ineffectual for Holland would forever be able to make Use of other Neutral Bottom’s, and would thus enjoy the Benefit of this Liberty in Reality, tho denied it by Treaty and in Appearance.— it would therefore be more for the Honour and Interest of G. Britain, to agree to it with a good Grace, in the Treaty with Holland.— Nay the wisest Part she could Act would be to Set on foot a negotiation immediately for Signing her self the Treaty of armed Neutrality and then admitting it into the Treaty with Holland would be a Thing of Course.— at one of these Conversations Mr Franklin was present who Supported me with all his Weight—at another Mr Jay seconded me with all his Abilities and Ingenuity. Mr Oswald has Several Times assured me that he had written these Arguments and his own Opinion in conformity with them to the Kings Ministers in London, and I doubt not they will be adopted.
With Respect to the Compensation for Damages, it is impossible to add any Thing to the Arguments Mr Brantzen has urged to shew the Justice of it. and if Britain is realy wise, She will think it her Policy to do every Thing in her Power to soften the Resentments of the Dutch, and regain their good Will and good Humour.
The Rage of G. Britain however has carried her Such extravagant Lengths in a Cause unjust from Beginning to End, that she is Scarcely able to repair the Injuries she has done. America has a just Claim to Compensation for all her burnt Towns and plundered Property, and indeed for all her slaughtered Sons if that were possible.— I Shall continue to embrace every Opportunity that presents of doing all the little Service in my Power to our good Friends the Dutch, whose Friendship for Us, I shall not soon forget.
This must be communicated, with great Discretion, if at all.— My best Respects to all.—
With great Esteem &c


Title: From John Adams to Jeremiah Allen, 2 January 1783
From: Adams, John
To: Allen, Jeremiah

Dear Sir,
Paris Jany. 2d. 1783.

Your favor of 26. Decr. is come safe to hand, & I thank you for your Care of my dispatches. Mr. Storer will write to Mr. Williams to pay You the ten Louis for the Expence of the Express which You sent, and I shall pay the Money to Mr. Storer.
It is not in my Power to give you any Information, whether there will be Peace or War.— I am afraid the English will be again overseen, so far as to continue the War another Year, which cannot be attended with any Advantage to them— Nevertheless the long Continuance of the Negociation gives room to presume that both Parties have still hopes of coming together, and to hope for their Success, before the opening of another Campaign.
I wish it may happen with all my heart, & that You & I might go home together in the Spring, as We came three years ago, in the same Ship.—
I have the honor to be &c.


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 2 January 1783
From: Dumas, C. W. F.
To: Adams, John

Monsieur
Lahaie 2e. Janv. 1783.

L’Assemblée dont j’ai parlé dans ma derne. de 31e. n’a pas eu lieu. Le G. Pe. a tant assuré les Pes. de Dt. & d’Amst que le Pce. de concert avec le Conseil Député avoit pris les mesures les plus efficaces pour prévenir touts désordres, qu’ils se sont laissés persuader de ne pas aller plus loin.
Effectivement, jamais on n’a vu à la Haie une veille de Janvr. si tranquille. Le passé paroît nous avoir rendus sages; si ce n’est le doublement des gardes, & sur-tout la précaution de faire fermer à certaine heure du soir toutes les Gargotes. Sans cela Nous n’aurions peut-être pas manqué d’avoir un peu de tapage; car nox & amor vinumque nihil moderabile Suadent.
Ce tapage, au reste, quand il y en auroit eu, auroit fait plus de mal, par ses suites, aux mal intentionnés, que de peur aux autres.
L’honorée vôtre du 24 m’est parvenue après l’espédition des deux miennes du 31; Com̃e vous paroissez pressé, Monsieur, des Pensees sur la Revolut. & que j’ai fait demander en vain s’il y a quelque occasion, je prends le parti de vous l’envoyer tout de suite par la poste, selon que vous le mandez
Nous n’avons aucune nouvelle de Mr. Votre fils, qui sera reçu à bras ouv̀erts s’il vient.
Nous voyons avec bien du plaisir, Monsieur, qu’il vous tarde de revenir auprès de nous. Je le dis hier au Gd. Pre., qui me demandoit de vos nouvelles.
J’ai fait hier, malgré un violent mal de reins, les visites d’usage chez le Presidt. de L. h. P., le Gr. Pre., le Greffier, le Presidt. du Conseil d’Etat, & le Grd. Bailli de Lahaie; il ne restoit plus que d’aller à la Cour, lorsqu’il m’a pris une foiblesse à l’appartement de Mr. De Berenger, avec qui je me proposois d’aller, & qui m’a ramené chez moi, où je suis confiné depuis.
Ma famille, avec moi, vous honore, & partage les sentimens du respect sincere avec lequel je suis, Monsieur, De Votre Exce. / le très-humble & très- / obéissant serviteur
Dumas
La Prov. d’Hollde. a pris la Résolution d’entreprendre sérieusement la Réduction du H. Cons. de Guerre.
En apprenant à l’ami de Dt., que vous n’aviez pas grande opinion de la paix, il m’a dit tant mieux.

Translation
Sir
The Hague, 2 January 1783

The assembly of which I spoke in my second of 31 December never convened. The grand pensionary so vigorously assured the pensionaries of Dordrecht and Amsterdam that the prince, in concert with the council of state, had taken such effective measures to prevent all such disorders in the future that the pensionaries were persuaded to take no further action.
Indeed, there has never been so peaceful a New Year’s Eve at The Hague. The past has rendered us wise—or perhaps it is the doubling of the guard, and particularly the precaution of closing all the taverns at a certain hour each evening. Otherwise we would probably have had some rowdiness; for nox et amor vinumque nihil moderabile suadent.
Besides, had this disturbance occurred, its consequences would have been more harmful to the ill-intentioned than to be dreaded by anyone else.
Your honored letter of 24 December arrived after my two letters of 31 December had been sent. Since you seemed in a hurry for Pensées sur la révolution, sir, and wondering in vain whether it was for some particular occasion, I have decided to send it at once through the mail as you requested.
We have no news of your son, who will be welcomed with open arms if he comes.
We note with much pleasure, sir, that you seem anxious to be back among us. I said as much yesterday to the grand pensionary, who was asking after you.
Yesterday, despite a violent attack of lumbago, I paid the customary calls on the president of their High Mightinesses, the grand pensionary, the secretary, the president of the council of state, and the grand bailiff of The Hague. It remained only to visit the court, when I was overcome with weakness in the apartment of Mr. Bérenger, with whom I had intended to go. Instead he brought me home, where I have been confined ever since.
My family, as I do, sends its regards and shares the sincere respect with which I am, sir, your excellency’s very humble and very obedient servant
Dumas

The Province of Holland has resolved to undertake, in earnest, the reduction of the council of war.
When I told our friend from Dordrecht that you did not think too highly of the peace, he replied, "so much the better."


Title: From John Adams to John Bondfield, 3 January 1783
From: Adams, John
To: Bondfield, John

Sir
Paris January 3. 1783.

I return you, with great Sincerity, the Compliments of the Season and thank you for your Congratulations on the Signature of the Preliminaries.
I had upon my Mind, when I had the Pleasure to See you, three Years ago, at Bourdeaux, when I was Single in the Commission for Peace, a Strong Presage, that the Peace, must be negotiated in Holland, and consequently, I had more Dependance upon the Negotiations of Mr Laurens who was then destined to that Country than upon my own. Accordingly about the Time he was expected to arrive, vizt in July 1780, I Sat off from Paris on a Journey to the Hague and Amsterdam in hopes of meeting and consulting with him there. But unfortunately instead of receiving my Friend, I had the Mortification Soon to receive the News of his Captivity. about the Same Time I received from Congress a Provisional Commission to borrow Money there. and as soon as Congress received the News of Mr Laurens’s Captivity they Sent me a Lettre of Credence as Minister Plenipotentiary to their High Mightinesses, another to the Prince, and a Commission to make a Treaty of Commerce with the Republick.
The Detail of the Negotiation there is Sufficiently public, and the Part which the Dutch have taken in the War, has influenced the Change of Men and Measures in England, has turned the ballance of military operations and political Negotiations, and wholly changed the Reputation of the United States of America in all Europe. It has done more it has produced the British Acknowledgment of our Independence, and has enabled Us to insist on and obtain, Satisfaction respecting the Missisippi the Western Lands, Sagadehoc and the Fisheries. Mr Danas Mission too as you observe will probably Soon Succeed, in Consequence of the same System.
You see I think We are under great obligations to the Dutch, and I hope We shall be too wise to deny or conceal it.
With great Esteem I have the Honour to be, sir


Title: To John Adams from Jeremiah Allen, 7 January 1783
From: Allen, Jeremiah
To: Adams, John

Dear sir
Nantes Janry. 7. 17823

This day your Esteem’d Favor of 2d Instant came to hand— think myself Honor’d by the Communication, and wish a peace may take place soon, or the War be continu’d for one year with such success as to bring England to Reason— The Box in which, the triffles for Mrs Adams are, shipt on board the Hety Capt. Roberts for Boston, to sail in 14 Days— an American Went Express & I paid his agent the 10 Louis. but Mr. Williams, thinks more than Common price—if that be true, shall make him refund the overplus—and take the just price—agreable to Mr Storer’s direction— should have Wrote him & Mr Thaxter but their letters were handed me, this Day. & have not time— do me the favor of presenting my Respects to all friends—
I am Dr Sir / with every sentiment / of Esteem your / Excellencys most / Obedient servant
Jeremiah Allen
PS This Day We send the news of the arrival of the Brest Fleet at Cadiz—with 6000 Troops on board


Title: Editorial Note
From:
To:

        John Adams had long contemplated the manner in which the history of the American Revolution, and his role in it, should be presented to his own and succeeding generations. Adams’ care in preserving his papers and keeping Letterbooks attests to his concern that an accurate record be preserved for future historians. Since his return to Europe in late 1779, Adams frequently acted at least as a quasi-historian to educate English and European audiences about the origins and progress of the Revolution. See, for example, his “A Translation of Thomas Pownall’s Memorial,” rebuttals of speeches by Henry Seymour Conway and Lord George Germain, “Letters from a Distinguished American,” and 26 letters in reply to Hendrik Calkoen, all of 1780; his 19 April 1781 Memorial to the States General; and four unpublished letters criticizing the Abbé Raynal’s Révolution de l’Amérique, written in early 1782 (9:157–221, 321–324, 350–358, 531–588; 10:196–252; 11:272–282; 12:204–213).
        Not until January 1783 did Adams systematically set down precisely what a historian needed to do in order to produce an accurate and definitive history of the American Revolution. Adams dined with the Abbé de Mably on 19 December 1782 and again on 5 January 1783. At both meetings the two men discussed Mably’s De la manière d’écrire l’histoire (Paris, 1783); at the second meeting, the French author’s contemplated history of the American Revolution (JA, D&A, 3:97, 101–102). In that conversation Adams expressed his opinion about such an undertaking, but Mably’s inability to understand English and presumably Adams’ inability to express himself in French led the Abbé to request Adams to commit his thoughts to writing. Adams likely gave the matter considerable thought, but he apparently did nothing to honor Mably’s request until he received a similar appeal from Antoine Marie Cerisier (No. I, below). Cerisier’s letter arrived on or about 14 January and Adams immediately replied. In so doing he provided his friend with a guide to the sources that a historian should consult to write an adequate history of the American Revolution as well as the parameters for such a project (No. II, below). The following day, Adams sat down to honor Mably’s request and, after copying most of his letter to Cerisier, added an additional three pages to guide the historian (No. III, below). On the 17th Adams again wrote to Mably, there listing his revolutionary writings; however, thinking that it displayed too much vanity, he did not send it (No. V, below). Replies by the Abbé and Jean François Marmontel (Nos. IV, VI, below), who had seen a copy of the 15 January letter, led Adams on 10 March to send Cerisier a copy of his first letter to Mably for publication in Le politique hollandais, below.
Mably and Cerisier caught Adams at an opportune time. He had signed the preliminary peace treaty and expected the definitive treaty to be completed very soon. This meant that American independence had been achieved and it was now time to consider in totality how the Revolution had come about and, perhaps more importantly, how it should be perceived and remembered. Completion of the preliminaries also left Adams with few official tasks to accomplish and the time and inclination to consider the subject in detail. In the process, he could provide his correspondents with as complete an appreciation of the bibliographical and documentary resources as was available anywhere at the time.
        If Adams’ intention was to discourage Cerisier and Mably—and Europeans in general—from attempting histories of the Revolution when they lacked essential documentation available only in America, he succeeded. Neither man undertook the task and Mably wrote to Adams that he had never seriously contemplated it (No. IV, below). But Mably remained interested in America and its institutions and soon produced his Observations sur le gouvernement et les loix des États-Unis d’Amérique, Amsterdam, 1784. Adams felt honored by the work, which took the form of four letters to him, and obtained its publication in Amsterdam, writing to Cerisier for that purpose on 16 October (LbC, APM Reel 107). There he noted that the Observations “is like to be to me, in Particular a distinguished Mark of Respect with Posterity.”
Adams’ interest in the historical treatment of the Revolution in general and himself in particular did not diminish over time. This is clear from his publication of the 15 January letter to the Abbé de Mably as a postscript to the first volume of his Defence of the Constitutions in 1787 and as part of a letter written in 1816 to the North American Review. In fact, as the years passed, Adams became increasingly obsessed with using the documents he possessed to correct the historical record. This was the purpose of his autobiography, begun in 1802; the massive and very critical response to Mercy Otis Warren’s History of the Rise, Progress, and Termination of the American Revolution (3 vols., Boston, 1805) that he wrote in 1807 (MHS, Colls., 5th ser., 4:321–491 [1878]); and the 137 letters he published in the Boston Patriot between April 1809 and May 1812 in which he defended himself against Alexander Hamilton’s criticism of his Revolutionary-era diplomacy.