Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 6 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

Lahaie Mardi 5e. 6 Mars 1782
Monsieur

On vient de m’apporter l’incluse pour vous, venue de quelque part en france. A ma derniere, que vous aurez reçue ce matin, je dois ajouter, de la part de mon Epouse, qu’entre autres raisons qui demandent qu’elle ait l’honneur de vous entretenir, est celle de savoir si vous gardez les servantes que vous avez actuellement, et si elles viendront ici au mois de May prochain, ou si elle doit en louer d’autres pour vous ici. Dans ce dernier cas il faudra se presser, pour n’avoir pas le rebut en attendant trop le terme. Cet article se reglera aussi beaucoup mieux de bouche. J’avois oublié cela hier. Je repare l’oubli, & suis avec respect Monsieur Votre t. h. & t. o. serviteur

Dumas


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to John Adams: A Translation, 6 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

The Hague, 5 6 March 1782
Sir

The enclosed from France was just brought in to me for you. In my last letter, which you will have received this morning, I should have added on behalf of my wife, that among many other reasons to have the honor of meeting you, she would like to know if you are keeping your current servants, and if they are coming here next May or should she hire others for you here. In this last case, it will be necessary to hurry in order not to have the cast-offs by waiting so long. It will be better to settle this matter in person. I forgot this yesterday. Please excuse the oversight, as I remain with respect, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant

Dumas


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, 10 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

Amsterdam March 10th. 1782
Sir

Should the British Forces now in New York and Charlestown evacuate those Places and go to the West India Islands, they might give a good deal of Trouble to the French and Spanish Possessions there. It would cost those Powers many Men and Ships and a great deal of Money and Time perhaps to manage them: whereas a Fleet and a Sum of Money now well directed would infallibly make Prisoners of the whole.
After the Address and Resolutions of the Commons, can it be thought they will be so stupid as to keep those Armies inactive in New York and Charlestown? If they do it will be merely to protect Commissioners whom they may send to propose Terms of a seperate Peace to Congress. In this Case the short and easy Method with the Dissenters is to take Warriors and Peacemakers altogether Prisoners in New York.

With Great Respect I have the Honour to be, sir, your most obedient and most humble Servant
J. Adams


Title: From John Adams to Robert R. Livingston, 10 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Livingston, Robert R.

No. 4.
Amsterdam March 10th. 1782
Sir

By the Address of the House of Commons to the King, his Majesty’s Answer, and the Resolution of the House in Consequence of it, “that he would be highly criminal and an Enemy to his Country who should attempt to carry on an offensive War in America against the Sense of the House”: by the surrender of Minorca and the disastrous face of British Affairs in Ireland, as well as in the East and West Indies, and by the uncommon Difficulties which my Lord North finds in raising the Loan, I think We may fairly conclude, that the United States are not to expect those horrid Scenes of Fire and Sword in future, which they have so often seen heretofore. Among the Causes, which have operated this Effect, may be reckoned the late Ordinance of Congress against British Manufactures, and the prospect which has been opened to them in Holland of a sudden Revival of the Dutch Manufactures of Delft, Leyden, Utrecht, and indeed all the other Cities of the Republick. The English have found all their Artifices to raise mobs in their favor in the Republick to be vain: they found that there began to be an Appearance of danger of popular Tumults against them: they have seen their Friends in this Country driven out of all their strong holds and forced to combat on the Retreat: they have found that the American Cause gained ground upon them every day, and that serious Indications were given of a Disposition to acknowledge our Independence, for the sake of reviving their Manufactures and extending their Commerce: all which together has raised a kind of Panick in the Nation, and such a Fermentation in Parliament as has produced a formal Renunciation of the Principle of the American War.

The Question now arises, what Measures will the Cabinet of St. James’s pursue? Will they agree to the Congress at Vienna? I believe not. Will they treat with the American Peace Ministers now in Europe. I fancy not. They will more probably send Agents to America, to propose some mad Plan of American Vice-Roys and American Nobility, and what not except common Sense and common Utility.
I presume, with Submission however, that Congress will enter into no Treaty or Conference with them, but refer them to their Ministers in Europe.
France and Spain I think cannot mistake their Interest and Duty upon this Occasion, which is to strike the most decided Strokes; to take the British Armies in New York and Charlestown Prisoners. Without this, in all probability before another Revolution of the Seasons all the United States will be evacuated, the British Forces sent to Quebeck, Hallifax and the West India Islands, where it will cost France and Spain more Time, Blood and Treasure to dispose of them, than it will this Campaign to capture them in New York and Charlestown.

With the greatest Respect and Esteem, I have the Honour to be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble Servant
J. Adams


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 10 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

Lahaie 10e. Mars 1782
Monsieur

Après que vous futes parti, je reçus un billet de notre ami, pour me prier de lui envoyer au plus vite une copie du projet de réponse que vous avez vu et désapprouvé, en m’assurant qu’il en feroit un bon usage. Je le lui envoyai avec ce correctif au bas.
“Je crois necessaire d’ajouter, que Mr. A— ne se contenteroit pas de cette réponse, et ne la recevroit pas, parce qu’elle ne seroit pas cathégorique, comme il l’a demandée. D’ailleurs on ne peut pas dire avec connoissance de cause, que l’admission d’un Mine des E.U. éprouve des difficultés aux autres Cours; car il n’y en a pas une des Neutres où il y en ait un; et quant aux belligérantes, on sait qu’ils y en ont, et que la Rep. en est une. Mr. A— est venu ouvertement et rondement offrir, avec l’amitié sincere de son Souverain, ses Lettres de Créance et Pleins-pouvoirs. Il convient de les admettre ou refuser tout aussi rondement. Ce procédé est digne des deux Nations.”
J’allois immédiatement après chez l’ami moi-même. Je le trouvai occupé de l’affaire avec Une autre personne devant qui il me somma de déclarer hautement et nettement ce qui vous satisferoit? Rien, sinon une audience telle qu’il l’a demande, ai-je répondu.
Voici la Réponse du Roi Brittannique à l’adresse du Parlement donnée le 1er. Mars.
“N’ayant à coeur aucun objet autant, que le repos, félicité et prospérité de mon peuple, vous pouvez être assuré, qu’en conséquence de vos conseils, je prendrai telles mesures, qui me paroitront contribuer le plus au rétablissement de l’harmonie entre la Gr. Br. et les Colonies révoltées, si essentielle à la prospérité de toutes les deux: et que mes efforts seront dirigés de la maniere la plus efficace contre nos Ennemis Européens, jusqu’à ce que telle paix puisse S’obtenir, qui s’accordera avec les Intérêts et le bien-être permanent de mon Royaume.”
La Résolution d’avant’hier ne plait ni à l’une ni à l’autre des parties: et par-dessus le Marché elle est suivie d’un vigoureux Protest de 8 villes, qui lui servira de Pendant.

Je suis avec le plus respectueux attachement Monsieur Votre très-humble & très-obéissant serviteur
Dumas


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to John Adams: A Translation, 10 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

The Hague, 10 March 1782
Sir

After you left, I received a note from our friend asking that I send him a copy of your criticism of the proposal as quickly as possible. He assured me that he would make good use of it. I sent it to him with the following statement.
“I believe that it is necessary to add that Mr. Adams would not be satisfied with this response and would not have accepted it because it is not the categorical response he requested. Moreover, it cannot be said with full knowledge of the facts that the admission of an American minister will pose difficulties for the other courts since there has never been one in a neutral country. As for the belligerents, it is known that there have been some and the republic is one of them. Mr. Adams has offered openly and frankly, with the sincere friendship of his country, his letters of credence and plenipotentiary powers. It is advisable to accept them or refuse them just as frankly. Such conduct is worthy of the two nations.”
I went immediately to see our friend. I found him engaged in this business with someone else before he asked me to state clearly and openly what would satisfy you. Nothing short of the requested audience was my response.
Here is the English king’s response to Parliament’s address on 1 March.
“Having no other objective at heart other than the tranquility, felicity, and prosperity for my people, you can be assured that as a result of your advice, I will take those measures which will seem to contribute the most to the reestablishment of harmony between Great Britain and the revolted colonies, which is so essential to the prosperity of both. And that my efforts will be directed in the most efficacious manner against our European enemies, until such a peace can be obtained and will be in agreement with the interests and permanent well-being of my realm.”
The resolution of the day before yesterday did not please either party and above everything else, it was followed by a vigorous protest of 8 cities, which will serve as a determining factor.

I am, with the most respectful attachment, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant
Dumas


Title: From John Adams to Robert R. Livingston, 11 March 1781
From: Adams, John
To: Livingston, Robert R.

No. 5.
Amsterdam March 11th. 1782
Sir

The Promise, which was made me by Mr. Bergsma, that I should have an Answer from the Province of Friesland in three Weeks, has been literally fulfilled. This Gentleman, who as well as his Province deserves to be remembered in America, sent me a Copy of the Resolution in Dutch as soon as it passed. It is now public in all the Gazettes, and is concieved in these Terms.

“The Requisition of Mr. Adams, for presenting his Letters of Credence from the United States of North America to their high Mightinesses, having been brought into the Assembly and put into Deliberation, as also the ulterior Address to the same Purpose with a Demand of a Categorick Answer made by him, as is more amply mentioned in the Minutes of their high Mightinesses of the 4th. of May 1781 and the 9th. of January 1782. Whereupon, it having been taken into Consideration, that the said Mr. Adams would probably have some Propositions to make to their high Mightinesses, and to present to them the principal Articles and Foundations, upon which the Congress on their Part would enter into a Treaty of Commerce and Friendship, or other Affairs to propose, in regard to which dispatch would be requisite.
 It has been thought fit and resolved, to Lower down. Compared with the aforesaid Book to my Knowledge. authorize the Gentlemen the Deputies of this Province at the Generality, and to instruct them to direct things at the Table of their high Mightinesses in such a manner, that the said Mr Adams be admitted forthwith as Minister of the Congress of North America, with further Order to the said Deputies, that if there should be made moreover any similar Propositions by the same, to inform immediately their Noble Mightinesses of them. And an Extract of the present Resolution shall be sent them for their Information, that they may conduct themselves conformably.
Thus Resolved at the Province House the 26th. of Feby. 1782.
Lower down. Compared with the aforesaid Book to my Knowledge.

 Signed
 A. I. V. Sminia.”

This Resolution has, by the Deputies of Friesland, been laid before their high Mightinesses at the Hague, and after deliberation, the Deputies of the Provinces of Guelderland, Zealand, Utrecht and Groningen have taken Copies of it, to be communicated more amply to their Constituents. In the States of the Province of Holland and West Friesland, the Requisition of the 9th. of January had been committed to the Committee of grand Affairs, and Taken into deliberation by the Body of Nobles and ad Referendum by all the eighteen Cities.
The Sovereignty of the United States of America would undoubtedly be acknowledged by the Seven United Provinces, and their Minister recieved to an Audience in State in the Course of a few Weeks, if the Regency of the City of Amsterdam had not visibly altered its Sentiments: but all things are embroiled. The Opposition to Mr. Van Berkel, and the glittering Charms of an Embassy to Petersbourg or Vienna, which have been artfully displayed, as it is said, before the Eyes of one Man, and many secret Reasonings of similar kind with others, have placed the last Hopes of the English and Dutch Courts in a City, which had long been firm in opposition to the Desires of both. The Public in general however expects, that the Example of the Frisians will be followed. Wherever I go, every Body almost congratulates me upon the prospect of my being soon recieved at the Hague. The French Gazettes all give their Opinions very decidedly that it will be done, and the Dutch Gazettes all breath out God gaave, that it may be so. I confess however, that I doubt it; at least I am sure that a very little thing may prevent it. It is certain that the Court will oppose it in secret with all their Engines, altho’ they are already too unpopular to venture to increase the Odium by an open Opposition.
Friesland is said to be a sure Index of the national Sense. The People of that Province have been ever famous for the Spirit of Liberty. The feudal System never was admitted among them: they never would submit to it, and they have preserved those Priviledges which all others have long since surrendered. The Regencies are chosen by the People, and on all critical Occasions the Frisians have displayed a Resolution and an Activity beyond the other Members of the State. I am told that the Frisians never undertake any thing but they carry it through, and therefore that I may depend upon it, they will force their Way to a Connection with America. This may be the Case if the War continues, and the Enemies of Great Britain continue to be successful: but I have no Expectations of any thing very soon, because I have much better Information than the publick of the secret Intrigues both at the Hague and Amsterdam. Patience however. We have nothing to fear. Courtiers, Aristocraticks, as well as the People, all say, You know very well We love the Americans, and will ever be their good Friends. This Love and Friendship consists however rather too much in mere Words. “Be Ye warmed” &ca, and a strong Desire of Gain by our Commerce.


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 11 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

11 mars 1782

Monsieur

Une petite absence de chez moi durant la plus grande partie de la journée d’hier, a retardé les incluses; J’espere que leur retard est sans conséquence. Elles sont arrivées toutes deux d’Amsterdam, et notamment le cachet de l’une dans l’état ou vous le verrez. J’ai une Lettre de Mr. Carmichael, qui me dit entre autres—“I wish Mr. Adams all the success he can desire. You will please to inform him, that I have received Letters from our new Secretary of foreign affairs, dated the 20th. Dec. If he has not a Copy of the Resolutions of Congress touching this Department, I will send it to him and will forward any Letters he may chuse to send via Cadix. I hear that this Court Negociates a Loan for 5 millions of florins chez vous. Please to inform me how the subscriptions fill, and at what periods the money is paid, and whether by Bills of Exchange, or how. I think I shall know this from others; but we never can have too many sources of Information. You will be pleased to present the proper Compliments for me to Mrs Adams and de Neufville, to the Latter of whom I shall write next post. We have no arrivals from America, except one at Cadix, which brought me the Letter above mentioned.”
Notre ami ici est d’avis, qu’il faudroit que vous eussiez un entretien et explication avec Mr. le Bourguemaître Hoofd, et autres Régents d’Amsterdam, pour être assuré de la maniere dont ils en agiront ici la semaine prochaine et les suivantes, s’ils insisteront franchement et presseront que votre affaire soit mise au plutôt sur le tapis, et au cas qu’oui, concerter avec eux, si une démarche de votre part, par exemple, d’aller chez Mr. le Greffier, lui fixer verbalement une terme, par exemple, le 15 d’Avril prochain, pour avoir une réponse cathégorique, passé lequel terme, vous vous verriez dans le cas d’écrire à votre Souverain en consequence, &c. Vous userez, Monsieur de cette idée, de la maniere que vous jugerez vous-même la meilleure. Si ces Messieurs d’Amst. agréent et desirent la démarche, qui devra été communiquée comme la précédente aux Villes, ils devront vous donner leur parole de la soutenir de tout leur pouvoir à l’Assemblée provinciale ici, que l’on vouloit séparer, à quoi Dort, Harlem et Amsterdam se sont opposés, par la raison de diverses choses importantes à finir avant de se séparer, et notamment le concert des opérations avec la Fce sur lesquelles les Instructions de M. l’Ambassadeur sont en chemin pour demander Explication cathegorique; et l’affaire de votre Admission. Ce refus de se séparer a beaucoup surpris et mortifié ceux qui n’y sont pas accoutumé; Il a été forcément unanime, car les 3 villes susdites auroient pu prendre les résolutions qu’elles auroient voulu en l’absence des autres.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to John Adams: A Translation, 11 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

11 March 1782

Sir

A short absence for most of the day yesterday has delayed the enclosed letters. I hope this poses no difficulties. They both arrived from Amsterdam and the seal on one of them arrived in its current condition. I have a letter from Mr. Carmichael that says among other things—“I wish Mr. Adams all the success he can desire. You will please to inform him, that I have received Letters from our new Secretary of foreign affairs, dated the 20th. Dec. If he has not a Copy of the Resolutions of Congress touching this Department, I will send it to him and will forward any Letters he may chuse to send via Cadix. I hear that this Court Negociates a Loan for 5 millions of florins chez vous. Please to inform me how the subscriptions fill, and at what periods the money is paid, and whether by Bills of Exchange, or how. I think I shall know this from others; but we never can have too many sources of Information. You will be pleased to present the proper Compliments for me to Mrs Adams and de Neufville, to the Latter of whom I shall write next post. We have no arrivals from America, except one at Cadix, which brought me the Letter above mentioned.”
Our friend is of the opinion that you should have a meeting and discussion with Burgomaster Hooft, and the other Amsterdam regents, to be assured of what action they will take next week and in the following weeks, and if they will emphasize clearly to take up your business as soon as possible. If this is so, for example, then you can work with them to make a verbal agreement with the secretary to obtain a categorical response by April 15th, after which date, you will be obliged to write to your government as a result. Use what you think best, sir, of this idea. If these men from Amsterdam agree to and desire the démarche, which will have to be communicated to the cities just as the previous one was, they must give you their word to support it with all of their power in the provincial assembly here, that some want to recess, but which Dordrecht, Harlem, and Amsterdam oppose because of the need to finish many important matters before separating, most notably the agreement over operations with France, for which the ambassador’s instructions require a categorical explanation; and the matter of your admission. This refusal to separate has surprised and mortified those who are not accustomed to it. It was forcibly unanimous because the 3 cities could have taken the resolutions that they wanted in the absence of the others.


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 11 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

11 mars 1782

Monsieur

Vous aurez reçu ce soir une Lettre que j’ai fait enrégistrer No 4 par le Chariot de Poste, parti d’ici à Une heure après midi. Je dois ajouter, de la part de notre ami ici, qu’il est nécessaire que vous vous abouchiez au plutôt avec Mr. Van Berkel le Pensionnaire, et Mr. Bikker le fils, et que tous trois vous ayiez une conférence sérieuse et décisive, dès demain, s’il est possible, chez Mr. Van Berkel sur l’idée que je vous ai proposée dans la susdite Lettre. Notre ami écrit là-dessus ce soir à Mr. Bikker, et le prévient que vous le mettrez au fait, et Mr. Van Berkel aussi, de ce qu’il propose: car il n’écrit qu’en termes généraux à Mr. Bikker, pour ne pas exposer le secret au sort d’une Lettre. Mr. Bikker est intime avec Mr. Hoofd. Ainsi cette matiere peut le mieux se traiter, comme je le dis ci-dessus entre Vous trois. Il n’y a, pour préambule, qu’à offrir et exiger une parfaite cordialité. Si vous pouviez arrêter là-dessus quelque chose de fixe avant Samedi, notre Ami croit que ce seroit un coup de partie. La chose presse, parce qu’il y a toute apparence que votre admission va être incessamment mise en déliberation ici. Pour cet effet, notre ami se donne des mouvents, et écrit en divers autres endroits, d’une maniere dont je suis parfaitement satisfait; car il m’a montré ses Lettres. Ainsi, si les mesures réussissent de votre côté (je parle de votre conférence avec les deux Messieurs susdits) comme j’espere qu’elles réussiront de ces côtés ci, votre voyage de Samedi prochain ici, pourra avoir des suites importantes. En attendant, je dis à tout le monde ici ce que vous m’avez autorisé de dire hautement, that nothing short of a cathegoric answer will satisfy you.
Je n’ai pas eu le temps de signer ma Lettre de ce matin. Cela m’auroit fait manquer le Chariot de poste. Ce défaut de formalité ne doit pas vous empêcher de vous y fier. Je vous la confirme et suis prêt à la signer quand vous voudrez, ainsi que toutes celles où il s’agira de témoigner mon Zele et ma fidélité pour les intérêts de notre Souverain, et le respectueux attachement avec lequel je suis pour toujours, Monsieur Votre très-humble & très obéissant serviteur

Dumas


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to John Adams: A Translation, 11 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

11 March 1782

Sir

This evening you will have received a letter marked no. 4 that was sent with the 1 o’clock post. I must add, on behalf of our friend here, that it is necessary for you to meet for a serious and decisive talk with the pensionary Mr. van Berckel and with Mr. Bicker, the son, as soon as tomorrow, if possible, regarding what was proposed in the aforesaid letter. Our friend is writing to Mr. Bicker this evening to tell him that you will inform him, as well as Mr. van Berckel, of the matter he is proposing. He will write to Mr. Bicker in general terms so as not to expose any secrets. Mr. Bicker is close to Mr. Hooft. So, this matter can be better dealt with among the three of you as I said above. Perfect cordiality is all that is required as a preliminary step. If you could decide upon a fixed date before Saturday, our friend believes it would be a decisive factor. It is necessary to hurry since it seems that deliberation on your admission will begin very shortly here. To this end, our friend is taking steps and has written to various places in a satisfying manner, which I know since he did show me these letters. Therefore, if the measures taken on your side succeed (I am speaking about the meeting with the aforementioned two gentlemen) as well as matters on this side, your trip here next Saturday will have important consequences. Meantime, I am saying to everyone here that you have authorized me to say openly, that nothing short of a cathegoric answer will satisfy you.
I did not have time to sign this morning’s letter. I would have missed the post. This lack of formality should not prevent you from trusting it. I will confirm it for you and am ready to sign it when you want, just as I did in all those letters in which I have attested to my zeal and fidelity for the interests of our sovereign, and the respectful attachment with which I remain always, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant

Dumas


Title: To John Adams from Henry Grand, 11 March 1781
From: Grand, Henry
To: Adams, John

Paris March 11th. 1782
sir

I do presume from my repeated Aplications to Dr. franklin, and your Silence, that your former misunderstanding concerning the sum you requested me to pay to Mr. Dana is cleared up, by an equal Allowance made you in reimbursmt thereof.

The Doctor having requested me to inform messrs. fizeaux Grand &c. that you would draw on him for your Appointments, I accordingly returned them your last Receipt for £400 str. to be exchanged against your draft, either for the whole, or only for that part exceeding the Ballance I owe you as Stated on the other Side. I hope this Arrangement will meet your Aprobation and shall be glad to hear it.
I heartily congratulate your Excellency and America on the late Resolutions of Parliament, my only wish now is to see you soon enjoying the Blessings of your Independency, and to see us soon restored to a general peace.

With best Compliments to all your young Gentlemen I remain with due Respect sir Your most obt. hble servt.
Grand

Ballance due to your Excellency on the 10th. of Sept last as p At.
2557.
16

the 24 do. I paid to Chevanne de la Giraudiere
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  19 of Oct I paid to ditto
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Title: To John Adams from David Hartley, 11 March 1782
From: Hartley, David
To: Adams, John

London March 11 1782
Dear Sir

Having been long informed of your benevolent Sentiments towards peace I writt a letter to you on the 19th of last month thro the hands of Mr Laurens junr to renew that subject with you because I was aware at that time from conferences and correspondencies to wch I had been a party that the topic of peace wd soon become general. I understand that Mr Jay Dr Franklin Mr Laurens and yourself are impowered by a special commission to treat. I hope the powers of that commission will soon be called forth in to action and that success may attend. The public proceedings of parliament and the proposed bill to enable the Crown to conclude peace or truce with America are or will certainly be made known to you. The first object will be to procure a meeting of authorized persons and to consult upon the preliminaries of time place and manner, but the requisites above all others are mutual good dispositions to conciliate and to accommodate, in the confident hope that if the work of peace were once well begun it wd soon become general. Permitt me to ask whether the four gentlemen above specified are empowered to conclude as well as to treat and whether jointly so or severally. The bill now depending in Parliament on the part of this Country is to conclude as well as to treat. As to other provisions of it I cannot speak positively but I understand (from the best authority) that the general scope of it is to remove the parliamentary obstructions now subsisting, wch would frustrate the settlements wch may be made at the termination of the war—I heartily wish success to the cause of peace.

I am Dear Sir with great respect Your most obedt Servt.
D Hartley

PS Mr Digges who will deliver this to you will explain many things of great importance on the Subject of peace. I have been witness of the Authority upon wch they have been delivered to him. When the first application was made to him he consulted me as knowing that such topics had more than once passed thro my hands. I have recently had many conferences on my own part with the Ministry here relating to the mode of entering in to negotiations of peace, and am fully informed of the subject of Mr Digges’s commission to you. You may therefore be assured that it comes to you from the highest Authority.


Title: To John Adams from Samuel Andrews, 12 March 1782
From: Andrews, Samuel
To: Adams, John

12th: March 1782Paris Hotél de petits Champ. Rue Neuve petits Champvis-a-vis le Compagnie des Indis
Sir

Your Exellency will permitt me to Lay my presant Situation before you being perswaded you will render me all the assistance in your Power. After haveing been most Cruelly detained in this City Sixteen months my affairs have at last pastd: the Council of apprizals. This Council have judged with rigour in respect to me, Which is this, that I am evidently Neutre and in good faith But say I have omitted some formalites in respect to a late ordinance of the King that they could not undertake to intrepret his Law. This it seams is a paper called an act of Proprity. I have from under the Govenour and Secretary hand and Seal of Demerary a paper Comferming me my proprity setting fourth this Vessell is mine. Yett it seams this was not sufficent and in Consequence comfermed the sentance of the Admiralty of Martinieque, But blame them for the great delay they have made.
I have now with great faith and Confidence appeald to the King and Royal Council with whom it lays to render me that justice which so evidently appears to be my due. As His Majesty is hear Himself consernd it is he alone can rightly intrepret the Law And to say, Weather, after a man is acknowledge’d evidently Neutre and in good faith that upon so frivolous a pretence as the neglect of one paper He should stand condemned. I trust when the Royal Council sees into this matter and this Confirmation of proprity it will obviate every difficulty and that His Majesty Himself will declare in my favour conserning my Just demand.
I consider the presant moment as that in which I am bound to make every possible exertion and to leave nothing omitted that may make for me as this Judgment is definetive. Your Exellencey will in consideration pardon the lenth of this letter, Mr. Thaxter imformed me when I had the pleasure to see him that you had recieved a Letter from my Worthy decased friend Mr Ellis Gray respect this my business as also that He had Intrest therein (which is very true). I shall conseive myself under the greatest obligations if you will wright to His Exellency Doctor Franklin upon this head and that my friend Mr Gray had wrote you, or if agreable send him the origanel. It is in his Power to be of infinate sarvis to me. As it is to come before the Royal Council, I shall also thank your Exellency for a line to the Marquis La Fyatte who seames much disposed to render me assistance, as also to aney one you think may give me assistance. His Exellency the Dutch Ambassador has it now in his charge. I have taken care to geet every Intrest from this Quater and deliverd him Instruction from the Hague upon my arrival in this City. I shall be Obliged to your Exellency for your friendley advice an assistance, in this business. I hope you injoy your Health And that the same may be continued to you is the Prayer of your Exellinceys most Obedint & Respectfull Humble Servant

Sam Andrews

Pleas to present my Complements Mr Thaxter.


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 12 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

Lahaie 12e. Mars 1782
Monsieur

En vous confirmant mes deux Lettres d’hier, celle-ci est pour vous faire part, d’une Résolution que la Ville de Dort vient de prendre, par laquelle elle donne à Mr. De Gyzelaer, son digne Pensionaire, une marque touchante et honorable de son estime et de son approbation, et d’ailleurs non équivoque de sa disposition par rapport aux affaires publiques: par cette résolution elle s’attend qu’il ne se chargera d’aucun emploi Ministériel dans une autre Ville votante de la province, mais qu’il restera constamment attaché à la ville de Dort; et en revanche elle augmente d’un tiers les appointemens dont il a joui jusqu’ici en vertu de sa place.Partagez avec moi, Monsieur la joie que j’en ressens.
Dans une Lettre de la même Ville, arrivée ce matin de bonne main, on m’a fait lire ces paroles énergiques: “Nous brûlons ici du desir de reconnoître l’Indépendance Américaine.”

Je suis, comme vous savez pour toujours, avec autant d’attachement que de respect, Monsieur Votre très-humble & très-obeissant serviteur
Dumas


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to John Adams: A Translation, 12 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

The Hague, 12 March 1782
Sir

In addition to confirming my two letters of yesterday, this one is to inform you that the city of Dordrecht just passed a resolution by which it honors its worthy pensionary Mr. De Gyselaar, with a moving and honorable proof of its esteem and approbation and, moreover, unequivocally to his disposition with regard to public affairs. With this resolution, it is expected that he will not take on any other ministerial job in another provincial voting city, but instead will remain continuously attached to the city of Dordrecht. On the other hand, the resolution increased his salary by one third by virtue of his position. Share with me, sir, the joy that I feel from this.
In a letter that arrived from the same city this morning, I read these spirited words: “We are burning with desire here to recognize American independence.”

 I am, as you always know, with as much attachment as respect, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant
Dumas


Title: From John Adams to C. W. F. Dumas, 13 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Dumas, Charles William Frederic

Amsterdam March 13. 1782
Sir

I have recd your two Letters both without Date and one without a Name. My Respects and Thanks to Mr Carmichael &c. I have Some of the Resolutions of Congress touching that department but cannot Say whether I have all.
I have had last Evening an agreable Interview with the two worthy Gentlemen you mention. They are both of opinion, that it is better to wait and See what will be proposed by the grand Besogne. As to any ministerial Step to be taken by me, at present, it had better be omitted. Let Us leave, the Members to their own Enquiries and Reflexions and Judgment.
As to the conciliatory Project I have an utter detestation of it, between you and me. Besides Friesland will not agree to it: So that it cannot pass if Holland should adopt it. Friesland has set, the right Example and will be followed by all in time. The Members of the Regency here are thinking very Seriously, and will determine right in the End if We do not furnish them an Excuse by talking of conciliatory Propositions.
I shall fall naturally in the Way, of Several Mercantile Houses here and shall See if, their aid can be obtained, in their Way.
The late Visit of the Ambassador here, and his Conversation with several Persons will have a good Effect. The British Cause will become more and more, disgusting, contemptible and ridiculous, every day. There is no danger of Perselytes to that side. So that all must come into the sentiments of Friesland, e’er long. Dont let Us be impatient. It is not possible to make right and Wrong meet half Way. Is not the G. Pensionary at the Bottom of the conciliatory Project? I have altered my Design of coming to the Hague. Shall not come on saturday. Perhaps not for some Weeks.

With great Esteem yours
J. Adams


Title: From John Adams to C. W. F. Dumas, 14 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Dumas, Charles William Frederic

Amsterdam March 14. 1782
Sir

I rejoice with you, in the Testimony of approbation given to a very meritorious Character. If they burn in one City to acknowledge American Independence, it is to be hoped, that the virtuous flame will Soon extend itself to all others.
I am vastly obliged to the Duke de la Vauguion for the Service he did our Cause and for the many noble Compliments which, I learn from Sure Sources, he was pleased to make to my personal Character, when last in this City.
But am mortified to find that he has not So great a dread upon his Mind, of the Conciliatoire, as I have. This trimming System is So much in the Character of a certain Personage who has lately been, Sometimes Sick and Sometimes better that the Duke, and our other Friends have reason to expect, that Something like it will be proposed: but after the maturest Reflection, I cannot reconcile myself to it. The aversion of the other Powers of Europe, to acknowledge our Independence, is not only Supposed without Proof, but against Evidence.
It is easy to prove that the Powers of Europe in general, are disposed to favour American Independence. There is full Proof of this, from the Emperor of Germany, the Empress of Russia, and the King of Spain.
The King of Spain has acknowledged the Independence of America. You know that America is bound to Spain by a Treaty, which She has a right to acceed to when she will. She has not yet acceeded, that We know of. Yet I can assure you, that Senior del Campo is appointed to treat with Mr Jay, and a Treaty may before now have been executed. But whether it has or not, I assure you, as a fact that Spain contributes and has contributed annually, her Quota of the Cash and Aids that are sent from France to America. You may also depend upon it as a Fact that the King of Spain, whose orders to his Vice Roys are a Law to his Dominions, acknowledged American Independence, immediately after his Declaration of War, by sending written orders to all his Vice Roys to treat all the Inhabitants of the United States, as the best Friends of Spain. Without this We should have been Ennemies of Spain as subjects of the King of Great Britain. I look upon Spain as really our Ally, as France. She is bound in honnour and I have not a doubt but she considers herself so bound, as much as France, although for Reasons easy to conjecture, she has not yet made the Formalities of a Treaty.
I have in my Possession, certain Propositions made by the Courts of Vienna and Petersbourg, to the belligerent Powers to serve as a Basis for a general Pacification in which the two Imperial Courts propose a Congress at Vienna, and that at that Congress there should be a Treaty of Peace between Great Britain and the “American Colonies.” Now, I Say, that this Proposition is, a virtual Acknowledgment of American Independence. It is an Implication that the American Colonies are a Power, a belligerent Power, sufficiently independent to be a free Agent, sufficiently respectable to be invited to such an August Congress of all the Powers of Europe.
England has repeatedly declared that she considers a Treaty with America as an Hostility against her and has not Scrupled to declare War against France and Holland upon this professed Principle. It is not to be wondered at therefore that those Powers which have entered into solemn stipulations to be neutral, have not treated with America. However, they have never had the offer. Notwithstanding all the Talk about Congress offering Treaties of Amity and Commerce to all the powers of Europe, there is no truth in it. There is no Minister in Europe, empowerd to treat with any Power but Spain and Holland. Mr Dana, has only Power to acceed to the Principles of the armed Neutrality, and he has never communicated, even that Power, to any Neutral Court, not even to Russia. I rely upon it therefore that every Court in Europe is well disposed towards American Independence, unless We except Portugal and Denmark, and I am far from being clear that either of these ought to be excepted.
Holland is at War, with England, and therefore has no Motive to restrain her, and she will be laughed at by every Court in Europe, if she hesitates any longer.
To declare, that she is well disposed and yet not give me an Audience is a Contradiction. It is however an Answer in the Negative, and I must take it as such and depart in Consequence. However, Friesland will never agree to such an answer. She will protest, and thus, I shall remain, like Ariel “wedged by the Middle in a rifted oak.”
Nothing that this Republick can do, will have Such Influence towards accellerating a general Peace, as a frank Acknowledgment of our Independence and an Audience to your servant.
This would contribute to dispose the two Imperial Courts, and the Court of Spain and even that of London, to put a stop to this horrid Wrangle among Mankind.

Adieu
J.A.


Title: From John Adams to Francis Dana, 15 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Dana, Francis

Amsterdam March 15. 1782
My dear Sir

Your favour of Feb 10/21. arrived last night, and I thank you for the Copy inclosed. I think that if the Ct. of St. James’s is capable of taking a hint, she may see herself advised to acknowledge the Sovereignty of the U.S. and admit their Ministers to the Congress.
There Seems to be a Change of System in England, but the Change is too late: the Kingdom is undone past Redemption. Minorca, St Kits, Demerara Essequebo, &c gone. Fleets combining, to stop the channell. And what is worse than all, Deficits of Taxes to pay Interest, appearing to the amount of half a Million, sterling in three Years, and stocks at 54. or 53. French and Dutch united too in the East Indies against them. The French have nothing to do, but take Prisoners the Garrisons of N.Y. and Charlestown. The Volunteers of Ireland again in Motion &c.
The Dutch are now occupied in very serious Thoughts, of acknowledging American Independence. Friesland has already done it. This is the Second Sovereign State in Europe that has done it. But a certain foreign Faction are exhausting all their Wiles, to prevent it. But, would you believe it? all their hopes, are in Amsterdam. But what can be the meaning of these People? how do they expect, to get their Islands? how do they expect to exist? We shall Soon See something decisive.
I am of late taken up So much, with Conversations and Visits that I cannot write much, but what is worse, my Health is so feeble, that it fatigues me more to write one Letter than it did, to write 10 when We were together at Paris. Inshort to Confess to you, a Truth that is not very pleasant, I verily believe your old Friend will never be again the man he has been. That hideous Fever has shaken him to Pieces, so that he will never get firmly compacted together again.
I have bought an house at the Hague, fit for the Hotel des Etats Unies, or if you will L’hotel de nouveau Monde. It is in a fine Situation and there is a noble Spot of Ground. This occasions great Speculations. But my Health was such that I could not risque another Summer the Air of Amsterdam. The House will be for my successor, ready furnished. I shall live in it, myself but a short time.
I see no objection against your attempt, as you propose to find out the real Dispositions, of the Empress, or her Ministers. You cannot take any noisy Measures like those I have taken here. The form of Government forbids it. You can do every thing that can be done in Secret—I could do nothing here in secret. Thank God, publick Measures have had marvellous success.
My Boy Should translate Sallust, and write to his Papa. Charles Sailed 10 December from Bilbao in the Cicero Capt Hill. Does John Study the Russian Language?
Pray what is the Reason that the whole armed Neutrality cannot agree to declare, America independent, and admit you, in behalf of the U.S. to acceed to that Confederation. It is so simple, so natural, so easy so obvious a Measure and at the same time so sublime and so glorious. It is saying Let there be Light and there is light. It finishes all Controversies at once, and necessitates an Universal Peace, and even saves old England from total Destruction and the last Stages of Horror and Despair. It is so much in the Character and to the Taste of the Emperor and Empress that it is amazing it is not done. However thank God We have no particular Reason to wish for Peace. The longer the War continues now the better for Us. If the Powers of Europe will in Spight of all Reason and Remonstrance continue to sport with each others Blood, it is not our fault. We have done all in our Power to bring about Peace. One Thing, I think certain, that the British Forces will evacuate the U.S. if not taken Prisoners this season.
I cannot get a Copy of the Miniature of G. Washg. made for less than 12 ducats but will have it done notwithstanding if you persist in the desire. We will also endeavour to send you a secretary and to execute your other orders as soon as We can.
My Love to my dear Boy. He must study the Greek of the New Testament &c.

Adieu my dear Fnd Adieu.


Title: To John Adams from Edmund Jenings, 15 March 1782
From: Jenings, Edmund
To: Adams, John

Brussels March 15th. 1782
Sir

I think your Excellency must have been greatly surprized at the Vote, which the House of Commons came to on General Conways Motion agst the Advisers for subduing America by Force; but how much soever One may be surprized to see such a measure taken at this Time, it is perhaps more Amazing that it was not taken before; it ought to have been the Declaration of Parliament at the beginning of the Troubles and it would then have been done with some grace at present it has but very little; and yet one cannot but be pleased with it particularly when it has the Concurrence of the Body of the people, who cry aloud for Peace. What a Change of Disposition! There were formerly but few Englishmen, who would not have embraced their Hands in an Americans Blood, and annihilate the Country of the United States. He that attempts it now is declard an Ennemy to G B; they who did so before were by Consequence Traytors.
But give me leave to Ask your Excellency what is your Sense of the true disposition of the Court of London? I must Confess to you I think I see its former Hypocricy and Insidiousness continued Even in this proceeding. The King has no sincere design to Obtain peace however He will perhaps enter into some Negociation in order to impose on his people; He will enter into it in the Spirit of Lewis the 14th at the Town of Gertruydenburg, where during the Treaty He endeavoured to divide the Allies and afterwards pretending to have offered to make the greatest Sacrifices of his Glory and his Interest, He appealed to his people, and calld on them for their utmost Exertions and obtaind them by this Management. The King of England, as it appears to me, means to Act in a similar Manner. He pretends to follow the Dictates of the Parliament opposition in order to gain a general Concurrence and induce them to make those Efforts, which the Spirit of the Country can and will make, when it believes, that the King Acts according to his Duty and its Interest. He means perhaps to make plausible Proposals, which he is sure will not and cannot be accepted. The Conduct of the Opposition enables Him to Act as He will for it seems not to have any certain Object. Perhaps the most decided men of it dare not yet Speak out and that they will Stop with their last Motion; if they do, their Conduct is Absurd: for As Matters now Stand, I do not see, that the Admiralty can issue any Commissions to Cruise Against the Subjects of the United States, for that would be endeavouring to subdue them by force, Which by this resolution of the Common cannot be used Against them either in America or Elsewhere, the words of the Motion being general—and may not Neutral Ships sail to the ports of the States with Merchandice and Stores? an Attempt to Seize them would Surely be a means of reducing the revolted Colonies by force, which is certainly contrary to the Letter of the Resolution.
While I am mentioning neutral Ships I must Observe to your Excellency, they advertize in England for neutral Vessels, among others, to carry troops and Stores to America. I Hope France and Spain will notice this, and that foreign powers will prevent their Subjects from entering into any contracts for this purpose, for it is certain, that it will be a breach of Neutrallity.
But whatever may be the Object of the English Ministry I trust that the late resolution comes most apropos to ensure Success to your Excellencys Mission in Holland.
There passed through this Town last Monday three English Couriers—one of them is gone to Holland and the other two to Vienna and Petersburg.
I have some design of going to Paris the End of this month and Staying there about a fortnight, unless your Excellency hath other Commands for me.

I am with the greatest Consideration Sir your Excellencys Most Faithful & Obedient Humble Servt
Edm. Jenings


Title: From John Adams to Henry Grand, 16 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Grand, Henry

Amsterdam March 16th 1782
Sir

Your Letter of March 11th, which I recieved last night, is totally incomprehensible to me.
My Account was to be made up for two Years Salary ending the 13th. day of last November, amounting to five thousand pounds sterling. Every farthing of Money I have recieved, including my last Receipt for 400 £ amounts to but about that Sum. I transmitted You the account between Us stated with all possible exactness. You dont acknowledge the Receipt of it. There is now due to me the whole of my Salary, or very near the whole from the thirteenth day of November last, now about four months, which I must soon draw for, to pay my debts already contracted.
Why so much difficulty is made about the plainest thing in nature, I know not.
The ballance due to me on the 12th. of October last, as stated in the Account transmitted You, is eight thousand nine hundred and one Livres, five sols and eleven deniers—since which I have recieved of Messs. Fizeaux & Grand, the four hundred Pounds sterling for which I gave the Receipts You mention. The difference between Livres 8901. 5.S. 11.D. and four hundred Pounds sterling added to the 63 Livres 4.S paid Chevanne de Giraudiere, is the Sum that I have recieved towards my third year’s Salary.
This is the only Way in which I can ever settle the Account: and it is very odd to me, that the simple payments and Receipts of about five thousands Pounds should cost as much Writing of Letters and Negotiations, as to make a War or a Peace.

With great Respect & Esteam I have the Honor to be, Sir, your Friend & Servt.


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 16 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

La haie 16e. Mars 1782
Monsieur

Voici une petite Cargaison de Lettres, qui m’ont été remises par M. le D. De la Vauguyon pour vous.

J’ai bien reçu l’honorée vôtre du 14, et ferai bon usage du contenu, premierement avec nos amis, et puis avec les autres.
Quant au projet conciliatoire, je puis vous assurer, that the convalescent is not at the Bottom of it. Ceux-mêmes qui l’ont conçu et modifié ne l’ont jamais regardé que comme leur pis aller, au cas qu’il ne leur fût pas possible de faire; et dans ce cas-même ils ont desire, qu’avant d’en faire usage il fût soumis à votre jugement. Ils sont à présent suffisamment instruits que vous ne voulez pas en entendre parler. Au reste on m’avertit de tous côtés, que le Parti Anglomane prépare toutes ses batteries pour former la plus violente opposition à votre admission, par une Résolution de cette Province. Faites valoir dans vos quartiers, Monsieur, comme je fais ici, l’idée d’un Acte de Navigation, par lequel les Ports des Et. Un. pourroient être ouverts aux Frisons seuls, à l’exclusion des Villes d’Hollde qui ne se declareront pas actuellement; en recompense de la Résolution de Frise: car cette opération trancheroit le noeud Gordien qu’on opposeroit, en prétendant qu’une Province seule ne sauroit traiter avec une Puissance étrangere, sans le consentement des autres.
J’ai écrit avant-hier au soir une Lettre par la poste a Mr. Van Berkel, avec priere de vous en communiquer le contenu. J’espere qu’il l’a fait. Vous y aurez vu, que les Mintres des 7 Villes protestantes, sont d’accord ici sur votre sujet, en attendant leurs Instructions; que l’on est sûr d’avance de celles de Dort; et très-probablement de celles de Leide et Rotterdam; j’ajouterai, que la delibération sur votre sujet est renvoyée à Vendredi prochain, afin de laisser le temps aux Villes, et notamment à Amsterdam, d’assembler là-dessus leurs Conseils, et que le succès, bon ou mauvais dépend sur-tout de la vigueur, ou du contraire du Vroedschap (ou Conseil) d’Amstm. Ne vous attendez qu’à de la mauvaise volonté de la part de Mr. R—p. Ayez s’il se peut, un entretien avec Mr. De Marseveen, afin que lui et les autres amis déterminent Mr. Hoofd à l’exertion de tout son crédit et pouvoir.
Il ne s’agit pas seulement de lier la rep. avec nous, qui pourrions peut-être l’abondonner à elle-même, sans tant de conséquence, mais aussi et sur-tout d’achever d’arracher cette rep. d’entre les griffes du Léopard, ce qui importe à nos amis et à toute l’Europe, encore plus qu’à nous; et voilà pourquoi, me dit-on we must not be too rash, if a little longer temporizing can do it.
Dans ce moment l’Ambr. me fait demander de passer chez lui. Je ne fermerai la présente qu’à mon retour, afin de pouvoir y ajouter, S’il y a quelque chose de plus à vous marquer. Mais pour ne plus commettre une incongruité à force d’être pressé, je signerai toujours le respect et l’attachement avec lequel je suis pour toujours, Monsieur Votre très-humble & très obeissant serviteur

Dumas

It may be perhaps worth yr while, Sir, to come hear towards de end of next week, en hear from the ambr, that the C. V. is and will be more yr friend, than you seemed to apprehend he was.


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 16 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

Lahaie 16e. Mars 1782
Monsieur

Vous aurez reçus par le Chariot de poste parti d’ici à 1 heure après midi, un paquet contenant des Dépeches Americaines, que j’ai reçues pour vous des mains de S. E. l’Ambr de fce. J’y ai ajouté le Catalogue d’une vente qui se fera ici dans la 15ne. S’il y a quelque chose que vous vouliez avoir, je suis à vos ordres. En vous proposant Monsieur, de venir faire un tour ici vers la fin seulement de la semaine prochaine, mon intention étoit simplement, de ne pas interrompre les conférences que vous pourriez avoir encore avec quelques-uns de ces Messieurs, avant qu’ils aient tenu le Conseil de leur Ville, d’où dépendra la conduite que leurs Députés tiendront ici sur le sujet de votre demande: sans cela, rien n’empecheroit que je n’eusse plutôt l’honneur de vous revoir ici.
Je vous dirai historiquement, mais de Science certaine, que le Pce Str a reçu ce matin une Lettre des Seignrs Etats de Frise, resolue le 11e. et expédiée le 12e, dans laquelle on expose à S. Ae. S., “qu’il a existé depuis quelque temps parmi les habitans de la Province, un Mécontentement dangereux au sujet de la direction des affaires, sur-tout de celles concernant la guerre;—que ce mécontentement, loin de diminuer, s’affermit de plus en plus, au grand regret des Etats;—que cette disposition de leurs sujets importe trop aux Etats, pour ne pas mettre tout en oeuvre, pour qu’elle n’ait pas des suites plus dangereuses encore;—que la personne de M. le D— de Br—, considérée comme Conseiller de S. A. S., est tenue généralement pour la cause de la marche lente et pitoyable des affaires, et s’est attiré par-là une haine de la part de la nation, dont les suites sont à craindre;—que les Seigrs Etats, en vrais peres de la patrie, ne sauroient cacher cela à S. A., mais doivent requerir S. A., afin d’écarter autant que possible, toute diffidence, de persuader au Seignr D de la meilleure maniere que faire se pourra, de se retirer de la personne de S. A. et de la République.”
Il y a dans la Gazette de Rotterdam un article qui vous regarde Monsieur. On y écrit d’Ostende, que les Lettres de Londres du 8e. reçues là, annoncent que Mr. Lawrens ayant déclaré n’avoir aucun pouvoir pour traiter, mais que c’étoit vous, Monsieur, qui étiez muni de pouvoirs pour traiter avec la Gr. Br. dans le futur Congrès général, le Ministere avoit dépéché tout de suite des Passeports pour vous en hollde., et que vous étiez par consequent attendu à Londres la semaine prochaine. En comparant avec cela, que l’on me dit il y a 3 jours, que l’Emissaire W—th venoit de recevoir un Courier de Londres avec d’importantes dépêches, et que ce même jour le nouvel Envoyé Ajoint de R—ie, avoit au une conference ici soit avec Mr. Adams, soit avec quelque autre Agent Americain, je suis violemment tenté de croire, que l’article susdit de Rotterdam a été forgé ici par l’Emissaire, et lâché dans le public pour donner de l’ombrage et de l’inquiétude soit à nos amis ici, soit à la fce, et pour nous rendre suspects aux uns et aux autres s’il pouvoit. Je n’ai pas hésité là dessus devant des gens respectables, qui m’ont parlé de l’article, et je l’ai traité avec le mépris qu’il mérite soit qu’il vienne de Londres ou d’ici.

Je suis toujours avec grand respect et tous les sentimens que vous me connoissez, Monsieur, V. t. & très ob. serv,
D

P.S. Demain notre ami prendra des mesures efficaces pour que l’Emissaire W—th parte tout de suite. En fermant mon paquet aujourdhui, mon intention étoit d’y joindre une Lettre d’Amerique pour Mrs. De Neufville. Je crois l’avoir fait; mais comme j’ai oublié de vous en parler dans ma Lettre, j’en fais mention ici. Je ferme celle-ci chez notre Ami, qui vous présente ses sinceres respects.


Title: To John Adams from Adrianus Dubbeldemuts, 18 March 1782
From: Dubbeldemuts, Adrianus
To: Adams, John

Rotterdam Le 18 mars 1782
Son Excellence

Il y a quelque tems que J’ai eu l’Honneur de Correspondre avec Votre Excelle. Depuis Cette Epoque Rien d’Interessant Sest Presentee pour que J’ai pu avoir eu Celuy de vous Ecrire, et quoi que Je Compte que Votre Excellence Sera deja Instruit de l’Intention tant des Commercants des Villes d’amsterdam, Rotterdam et autres, Je Crois Etre Utille de vous Envoyer Copie de la Requete que Les Committés des Negociants de Cette Ville, dont J’ai l’honneur d’Etre du Nombre, ont Presentee Samedy passee a notre Magistrat, La gazette de Damermeer en fait mention aujourd’huy, mais Come elle en donne un detail Imparfait. J’Espere que Votre Excellence ne trouvera pas meauvais de Liberté que Je viens de Prendre, a quoi J’ajoute mon desir d’Etre honnoree de Votre Reponce, et Si votre Excellence voudrait me donner Ses Reflections. Le tacherai d’y Satisfaire, tant par mon Zêle que le desir que Les Committees de notre Ville et les negociants en general, ont, de nous unir avec Votre Republique dont J’Espere Le Succes desiré.
Comme J’ai Eprouvé que Les Lettres a mon addresse ne Soyent quelque fois decachettee, Je prends la liberté de Vous Prier la Permission d’Envoyer notre messager qui Vient a la Haie 3 fois par Semaine, a l’Hotel de Votre Excellence, pour demander Ses ordres. Ce Sont les mardis Jeudi et Samedis Vers les 2 heures apres midi que cet homme pourrai Venir.

J’ai l’honneur d’Etre avec les Sentiments du plus profond Respect De Votre Excellence Le Tres Humble Serviteur
A Dubbeldemuts


Title: Adrianus Dubbeldemuts to John Adams: A Translation, 18 March 1782
From: Dubbeldemuts, Adrianus
To: Adams, John

Rotterdam, 18 March 1782
Your Excellency

It has been a long time since I had the honor of writing to your Excellency. During this time there was really nothing of importance to write to you about. Although I am sure that your Excellency has already been informed of the merchants’ intentions in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and elsewhere, I believe that I can be of use to you by sending you a copy of the merchant committee’s petition of this city, of which I am a member, that was presented to our magistrate last Saturday. The Damermeer Gazette mentioned it today, but gave an inaccurate account. I hope that your Excellency will excuse the liberty I have just taken to which I would like to add my desire for your response. If your Excellency would give me his thoughts on this, I will try, as much by my own zeal as by the desire that our city’s committees and the merchants in general have, to unite us with your republic, which I hope achieves its desired success.
Since letters to my address sometimes arrive unsealed, I take the liberty of asking you, sir, if our messenger could come to your residence at the Hague three times a week to request orders. This man can come on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays around 2 o’clock in the afternoon.

I have the honor to be, with the deepest respect for your Excellency, the very humble servant
A Dubbeldemuts


Title: To John Adams from John Jay, 18 March 1782
From: Jay, John
To: Adams, John

Madrid 18 March 1782
Sir

I had the Pleasure of recg your favor of the 28 ult. a few Days ago.
I congratulate You sincerely on the accession of Friesland and the flattering Prospect there is that the Example of that Province will be followed by that of Holland and the others.
It would give me great Satisfaction to be able to transmit you Intelligence equally agreable, but that is not the Case. Prudence forbids me to explain myself, for tho’ I am not even now without Hopes, yet the Completion of them is so contingent that I dare not predict when the Delays of this Court will terminate.
I thank you for the Hint respecting the 10 article—that matter has heretofore been attended to, and pressed—I could mention some singular Circumstances respecting it—but they must not be committed to the post office.
The protest of my Bills for want of Payment, will afford you some meditation, and I am persuaded that your Discernment will save me the Necessity of being particular—that affair and others connected with it, has so engaged me that I must take another opportunity of writing more fully to You.

With great Esteem & Respect I am Sir yrs.


Title: To John Adams from Engelbert François van Berckel, 19 March 1782
From: Berckel, Engelbert François van
To: Adams, John

Amsterdam 19 Mars 1782

Madame Van Berckel, qúi ne pouvoit pas S’attendre a úne Si grande distinction, qu’elle viént de recevoir de la part de L’illústre Anonÿme; a l’honneúr de lui en temoigner toúte Sa reconnoisance. En effet, Le Billet qúi a accompagné le Present, Servira d’un doux Soúvenir de cette heúreúse Joúrnée, qúi vient de Serrer des Liens indissolubles entre La Republique des Etats únis en Ameriqúe et cette ville; Comme aússi des liens d’amitié entre quelques úns des Individús respectifs.
La Consideretion favorable, d’ont L’Anonyme daigne m’honorer, dans ce même Billet, me doit être d’aútant plús pretieúse, parce qúe toút le contenú en develope le caractere de la Sincerite. De mon coté, donc, Si Ces efforts, que j’ai pú mettre en oeúvre, pour l’avancement de L’únion entre les deúx Repúbliqúes, Sont recús Si favorablement; Qu’elle ne doit pas être L’ardeúr de mes voeúx, poúr qúe la dite joúrnée Soit aússi l’Epoqúe de Son parfait accomplissament; et d’Alliances, qúi etablissins fermement L’Amitié, La Liberté et l’Independance des deúx Nations.

En attendant j’ai l’honneúr de temoigner la consideration la plús distinguée pour l’Illústre Anonyme; et la plus grand veneration poúr Sa Respectable Nation.
E. F. Van Berckel


Title: Engelbert François van Berckel to John Adams: A Translation, 19 March 1782
From: Berckel, Engelbert François van
To: Adams, John

Amsterdam, 19 March 1782

Mrs. Van Berckel, who could not have expected that the illustrious anonymous one would bestow such a great distinction on her, has the honor to show her gratitude toward him. The note that accompanies this letter will very much serve as a sweet reminder of this happy day when unbreakable ties were made between the republic of the United States of America and this city, as well as binding ties of friendship between respective individuals.
The consideration you have shown me in this same letter is made even more precious by its sincerity. Therefore, as far as I am concerned, if these efforts, which I have been able to set in motion for the advancement of the union between the two republics, have been received so favorably, how ardent my wishes would be that the said day mark its perfect accomplishment, as well as the alliances which firmly establish friendship, liberty, and independence of the two countries.

Meantime, I have the honor to show the most distinguished consideration for the illustrious anonymous one, and the most veneration for his respectable country.
E. F. Van Berckel


Title: From John Adams to Gertruy Roskam van Berckel, 19 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Berckel, Gertruy Roskam van

Amsterdam 19th. March 1782

Mr. Adams is very sensible of the honor done him in the polite Card of Madam Van Berkel of this day’s date; but has the Mortification to be conscious that he is not the anonymous Person alluded to, and therefore has no Title to the genteel Acknowledgments for the Present or the Billet.
The happy Auspices of a future Connection between the two Nations, which appear at this time in the City, are extreamly grateful to Mr. A., because it has been upon the best Principles for a long time, one of the most ardent wishes of his Heart.
The constant Friendship of Mr. Van Berkel to a young Country struggling against Oppression, and his long continued Endeavors to form a Friendship between two Nations, which have the best Reasons to esteem each other, and the clearest Interests to be united, have erected a Monument to him in every American Heart.
Mr. Adams has had in the Course of his life too much Experience of the inexpressible Consolation to be derived from a Companion whose public Sentiments and Affections are in perfect harmony with his own, and has been too sensible of the cruel Misfortune of being deprived of it for so many Years, to be inattentive to the Obligations which his Country is under to Madam Vanberkel, altho’ he had not the honor to send, or know any thing of the Present alluded to.


Title: From John Adams to Robert R. Livingston, 19 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Livingston, Robert R.

Amsterdam, 19 March 1782. RC in John Thaxter’s hand (PCC, No. 84, IV, f. 25–60). printed: Wharton, ed., Dipl. Corr. Amer. Rev.Francis Wharton, ed., The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States, Washington, 1889; 6 vols., 5:246–265. LbC in both JA’s and John Thaxter’s hands (Adams Papers). The Letterbook text is divided between two Letterbooks, Lb/JA/16 and Lb/JA/18 under the dates of 19 March and 19 April respectively (Adams Papers, Microfilms, Reel Nos. 104, 106). Read in Congress on 12 Nov. 1782, the letter contains English translations of thirteen resolutions, petitions, and addresses supporting the recognition of American independence, the admission of JA as minister plenipotentiary from the United States, and the negotiation of a Dutch-American commercial treaty. Each document expressed concern that Dutch commercial opportunities, created by the American Revolution, would be lost unless the Dutch acted quickly, prior to an Anglo-American peace treaty. JA included several of the texts in A Collection of State-Papers, which documents the events leading to the States General’s resolution of 19 April to recognize the United States. Lb/JA/16 contains the texts of documents one through eleven, as indicated below, and Lb/JA/18 included documents twelve and thirteen: 1. Gelderland’s resolution of 23 Feb. supporting recognition, but postponing a final vote until the commercial provinces acted; 2. petition of 18 March from the manufacturers, merchants, and other traders of Leyden to the grand council of the city; 3. joint petition of 20 March from the merchants, manufacturers, and other inhabitants of Haarlem, Leyden, and Amsterdam to the States General (JA indicates it was only from Amsterdam); 4. petition from the merchants and manufacturers of Amsterdam to the burgomasters and regents of the city; 5. petition of 16 March from the merchants, insurers, and freighters of Rotterdam to the regency of the city; 6. identical petitions of 20 March from the merchants and manufacturers of Haarlem, Leyden, and Amsterdam to the States of Holland; 7. newspaper item of 20 March indicating that the active lobbying of the merchants of Dordrecht led the council of that city to instruct its delegates in the States of Holland to agree to JA’s admission as minister; 8. resolution of 29 March by the States of Holland to recognize the United States and admit JA as minister; 9. petition of the merchants, manufacturers, and factors of Zwolle to the States of Overijssel; 10. request by the merchants of Amsterdam that the city’s regency not be tempted by the illusory advantages of a Russian mediation of the Anglo-Dutch war, but rather continue to support JA’s admission as minister; 11. address of thanks from the merchants, citizens, and inhabitants of Amsterdam to the city’s regency for making it possible for the States of Holland to recognize the United States and admit JA as minister; 12. address of 15 April from the manufacturers, merchants, and other traders of Leyden to the city’s great council, thanking it for its efforts leading to the States of Holland’s recognition of American independence and admission of JA as minister; 13. address of thanks dated 28 April from the manufacturers, merchants, and other traders of Utrecht to the provincial states for its vote to recognize the United States, admit JA as minister, and negotiate a Dutch-American commercial treaty.


Title: From John Adams to Jean Luzac, 20 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Luzac, Jean

Amsterdam 20th March 1782
Sir

This morning I recd. the Letter, which You did me the honor to write me on the 19th. of this month with the two Copies inclosed, of the Petition of the Merchants, Manufacturers and Traders of Leyden, to the Great Council of that City, praying for the Conclusion of commercial Connections with the U. States of America.
You will be pleased to present my Acknowledgments to the respectable Body, whose Intentions You execute, for their obliging Attention to me, which does me much honor: and it is with great sincerity that I join in their Wishes and rejoice in the pleasing Prospect, of seeing the two Republicks acknowledged to be Sisters, which cannot fail to have the most favorable Effects upon the Manufactures, Commerce and Prosperity of Leyden.

Accept of my particular thanks, Sir, for the affectionate and obliging manner in which You have made the Communication and believe me to be, with sincere Esteem and great Respect, Sir, your most obedient & most humble Servant.


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to John Adams: A Translation, 20 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

The Hague, 20 March 1782
Sir

I received the enclosed for you, from where and from whom I don’t know, with the Gazette de Rotterdam, which had the merchants’ petition inserted in it. I suppose it contains the same thing. You will have seen in the newspapers that the 64 merchants and manufacturers acted the same in Leyden. I have reason to believe that the combined merchants of the province’s cities will make a similar petition tomorrow to the states of Holland and to the states general. I was given the substance of the Amsterdam resolution. Inasmuch as there is only one sticking point that could make trouble for us, I am happy. It will still depend on you, sir, that it is not successfully thwarted through a refusal to start any meetings before your credentials are accepted and you are treated accordingly.
I believe the matter will be up for discussion the day after tomorrow. Meantime, I do not dare add any more of the details I know to this letter, lest they fall before curious, indiscreet eyes.
I believe I must warn you, that I have been assured of Mr. Wentworth’s departure this afternoon for Amsterdam, where he has, he says, some business to attend to. He has sent most of his baggage by way of Rotterdam to Antwerp, where perhaps he will continue to reside since he is not allowed to stay here at the present time. The pretext for his coming here is over, and I have been informed of most of it. I am with great sentiments of respect and fondness, as you know, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant

Dumas

I put your excellent letter of the 14th to good use. I cannot say anything more about it until I speak to you face to face.


Title: From John Adams to Thomas Digges, 21 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Digges, Thomas

March 21. 1782

Mr Adams will Stay, at home, for the Gentleman in No. 10, whom he will receive at ten o Clock, this Day, Sans Ceremonie, providedthe Gentleman is content the Conversation Should pass in presence of Mr Thaxter, Mr Adams’s Secretary.
But Such is the Situation of Things here and elsewhere, that it is impossible for Mr. A. to have any Conversation with any Gentleman from England, without Witness. And indeed, Mr Adams’s Advice to the Gentleman is, to proceed forthwith to Paris, and communicate, whatever he has to Say to Dr Franklin and the Comte de Vergennes in the first Place, without Seeing Mr A. who will certainly think himself bound to communicate, whatever may be made known to him, without Loss of Time to those Ministers, as he has no Authority to treat, much less to conclude, but in Concert with them and others.


Title: To John Adams from M. Baraux, 21 March 1782
From: Baraux, M.
To: Adams, John

Antwerp 21 March 1782
Your Excelence

Being appointed Director of the Imperial priviledged trade Compagnÿ of Trieste and Fiume and almost ready to Set out for the first place where my residence will be, I take the liberty to apply to Your Protection in order to obtain an extensive list of the best Merchands in the different towns of America, with whose the Companÿ Could guet into a reciprocal advantageous connection; I dare flatter my Self, with the Smiling hope, that Your Excelence will be So Kind to grand me that favour.1 I have the honour to present my most dutiful Services and to be with Respect of Your Excelence The most obedient and Humble Servant

Baraux Directeur de La Compaignie Impérial et Roÿale Privilegiée de Trieste & Fiume


Title: From John Adams to Adrianus Dubbeldemuts, 22 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Dubbeldemuts, Adrianus

Amsterdam March 22d 1782
Sir

I have recd. the Letter, which You did me the honor to write me, the 18th. of this month, with a Copy inclosed of the Petition of the Committee of the Merchants of the City of Rotterdam to their Magistrates, presented last Saturday. You will please to accept of my thanks for this very acceptable present, and of my hearty Congratulations upon that remarkable Harmony and Unanimity in the sentiments of the various Cities and Provinces of the Republick, concerning the present subject of their Deliberations, a Treaty with America.
The Unanimity of the Republick in this important measure, and the forcible Arguments adduced in support of it, by the Bodies of Merchants and Manufacturers in the several Cities, will probably have a great Influence even in England for a general Peace: in such Case the Commerce will be free, and the City of Rotterdam from her Situation will have as large a Share at least in proportion as any other. I wish it all the Prosperity it can desire, and beg leave to subscribe myself very respectfully, Sir, your most obedient and most humble Servant


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 22 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

Lahaie 22e Mars 1782
Monsieur

Mardi ou Mercredi prochain nous pourrons selon toute apparence dire avec Ovide Dicite Io Paean, &c. c’est-à dire notre Soeur la Hollande, comme nous pouvons déjà dire notre Soeur la Frise; et puis les autres ne tarderont pas de compléter la Fraternité. Hier l’affaire de votre admission fut tout de bon sur le tapis; il n’y eut aucun débat là-dessus. 9 Villes, savoir Dort, Harlem, Delft, Leide, Amsterdam, Gouda, Schoonhoven, Purmerend, et la 9me je l’ai oubliee, donnerent leurs suffrages pour l’affirmative, sans aucune contradiction, pas même de Mr. le Gd. Pre, qui se montra fort traitable; et les Députés des 9 autres ne garderent le silence que parce qu’ils n’ayoient pas encore reçu leurs Instructions. Notre Ami déclara, qu’il ne souffrira pas que cette Assemblée se séparât sans qu’on prît une Resolution définitive à ce sujet, et lui ainsi qu’un autre ami m’ont assuré qu’elle passera unanimement mardi ou mercredi prochain. Ayez la bonté, Monsieur, de me dire d’abord en réponse, si la copie de la Résolution que vous avez reçue des Etats de Frise, est ce qu’on appelle une copie authentique, c’est-à-dire, si elle est signée de la main de Mr. Sminia le Secretaire des Etats de Frise: on me l’a demandé; et j’ai lieu de croire, que c’est pour se conduire en conséquence, c’est-à-dire, qu’on vous enverra aussi une Copie signée de Mr. Clotterboke le Secretaire des Etats d’Hollande. Notre ami est surpris que vous ne Soyiez pas venu aujourd’hui ici. Il dit qu’il est bon de vous montrer ici pendant quelques jours; et je crois que Mr. l’Ambassadr. sera bien aise aussi de pouvoir vous dire ce que je vous ai marqué il y a quelques jours de la part de Mr. de V—.
Pour le coup, je crois être sûr que Wth est parti hier tout de bon pour Amsterdam; A moins qu’il ne se soit caché dans quelque gouttiere.
Agréez les respects de ma petite famille. Je tirerai sur vous, Monsieur, l’un de ces jours, à l’ordre de Mrs. Moliere fils & Ce, pour le 15e d’Avril prochain, les ƒ6052.10 restants, afin d’être prêt à la Minute, quand il faudra qu’on me fasse le transport final de la Maison.

Je suis avec tout le respectueux attachement qui vous est connu et voué pour toujours, Monsieur, Votre très-humble & très obéissant Serviteur
Dumas

Je soupçonne qu’il S’agira encore d’une petite ruse, pour ôter quelque chose à l’authenticité de votre admission: mais vous pourrez éviter facilement ce petit piege, si tant est qu’on veuille l’essayer, en refusant tout net de présenter vos Lettres de créance autrement que comme tous les Ministres publics les présentent, c’est-à-dire, en pleine audience à l’Assemblée des E. G., et non à une Commission. Après cette premiere Audience, on pourra, tant qu’on voudra, traiter par Commissaires, à la bonne heure: mais l’audience doit précéder, pour prévenir toute chicane à l’avenir.
Il est bon de ne rien dire, encore du contenu de cette Lettre, à d’autres qu’à Mrs V. B., Biker, et Marsseveen; si vous jugez à propos de leur en parler. Tout autre ne doit savoir rien de la Résolution, que lorsqu’elle sera prise et communiquée.


Title: To John Adams from Leendert de Neufville, 22 March 1782
From: Neufville, Leendert de
To: Adams, John

from 22 March 82
Sir

Our Good friend Dumas beggd that I would inform Your Excelency of this—L’Emissaire P W devait partir hier pour Amsterdam. Il n’en a rien fait. Il est encore ici. Je crois et d’autres aussi que ce n’est pas Ce dis promis. Others Say however Confidentally that he has gone.
We have very Satisfactory tidings from Rotterdam and Dort. They are in motion at Utrecht. As I expect Some Gentn with me I am prevented from going out but hope to pay Your Excellency my respects to morrow meanwhile I am with very great respect & great hurry Your Excellencys most obt hb St

L de Neufville Son of


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 23 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

Lahaie 23e. mars 1782
Monsieur

Celle-ci n’est que pour vous confirmer la mienne d’hier, et que l’affaire va grand train. J’ai vu ce matin M. l’Ambr., qui m’a entretenu très-gracieusement, et avec une bonne humeur charmante. Il pense, tout comme notre ami, que votre apparition ici pour quelques jours est à propos, non pour faire aucune démarche, mais seulement pour vous montrer sans affectation.
Une Dépêche secrete d’un Ministre de la Rep. à certaine Cour, leur donne l’avis, de la part du Souverain de cette Cour-là, non seulement de la part intime qu’il prend et prendra toujours aux intérêts de la Rep., mais aussi celui de ne rien attendre de la prétendue Médiation, et d’être persuadés que cette médiation n’aboutira à rien, et n’est qu’un être de raison.
Permettez, Monsieur, que je présente ici mes remercimens à Mr. Thaxter, de l’obligeante Lettre qu’il m’a fait l’honneur de m’écrire par Mr. Harrisson,1 lequel j’ai fort regretté, avec Ma famille, de posséder si peu de temps ici. Nous nous impatientons tous ici, de voir passer le mois prochain, et de lui donner et recevoir des preuves journalieres de notre amitié, comme à V. E. de l’attachement sincere & respectueux pour votre personne, Monsieur, de votre très humble & très obéissant serviteur

Dumas


Title: C. W. F. Dumas to John Adams: A Translation, 23 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

The Hague, 23 March 1782
Sir

This letter is only to confirm yesterday’s letter and the fact that everything is moving forward. This morning I saw the ambassador who treated me very graciously and with charming good humor. He thinks, as does our friend, that it would be appropriate for you to be here for a few days, not to take any action, but rather just to present yourself without any affectation.
A secret dispatch by a minister of the republic to a certain court gives them advice on behalf of its sovereign, not only because of the close interest he takes and will always take in matters regarding the republic, but also to say that nothing is expected from this so-called mediation, which will not result in anything and is an impossibility.
Permit me, sir, to thank Mr. Thaxter for his obliging letter sent to me by Mr. Harrison. My family and I much regret that he had so little time to spend here. We are all impatient here to see him Thaxter next month and to give and receive written proof of our friendship, as I do to your Excellency with sincere and respectful attachment, sir, from your very humble and very obedient servant

Dumas


Title: To John Adams from Johann Christoph Baumberg, 24 March 1782
From: Baumberg, Johann Christoph
To: Adams, John

St Pölten nächst Wien in Unterösterreichden 24. März 1782
Excellenz

Unstern meines Lebens und Mißkenntniß meiner durch 23 Jahre erworbenen Verdienste zwingen mich, mein Vaterland zu verlassen und in fremden Ländern mein Brod und Glück zu suchen—. Ich wäre daher fest entschlossen, mich nach den vereinigten Staaten in Amerika überschiffen zu lassen, wenn ich nur abzusehen vermöchte, wie ich meine Frau, meinen 16 jährig hoffnungsvollen Sohn und meine 17 jährige Tochter indessen und bis zu deren Nachkommlassung versorgen, auch ob ich als ein purer Deutscher, aber auch—rechtschaffener (bin 42 Jahre alter) Deutscher, dem es weder an Muth, Traun und Fleiße, noch an sonst thätigster Verwendung gegen den meine Dienste und Verdienste erkennenden Staat im geringsten fehlet, gebrauchet und durch Euer Excellenz großmögende Veranlassung bald zu meinem erwünschlichen Zwecke gelangen könnte?—In dieser kurzerwähnten Absicht ergehen an Eure Excellenz, (von Derer erhabenen, edelmüthigen und menschenfreundlichen Denkungsart ich mir die vortheilhaftesten Begriffe mache,) meine gehorsamste Bitte, mich durch Ihren gütigst gefälligen Briefwechsel des Näheren unterrichten, und Ihre ggl. Befehle unter Endes stehender Addresse mich kennen zu lassen.
In gierigster Erwartung derselben verlasse ich mich unter gehorsamster Empfehlung zu Dero großmögenden Schutzhaltung mit vollkommenstem Respekte Eurer Excellenz. Gehors. Diener

Johann Christoph Baumbergk.k. öffentlicher Lehrer der deutschen Hauptschule allda

Addresse.M. Baumberg, Professeur de l’Ecole normale, de sa Majl. Imp. et Royl. ap. à p Bruxelles St. Pölten en Autriche inferieur


Title: Johann Christoph Baumberg to John Adams: A Translation, 24 March 1782
From: Baumberg, Johann Christoph
To: Adams, John

St. Pölten near Vienna in Lower Austria24 March 1782
Excellency

Misfortune in my life and the misjudgment of my merits, in the past 23 years, force me to leave my fatherland, and to seek my bread and fortune in foreign countries. I would have been firmly resolved to travel by ship to the United States, if only I knew what my wife, my promising 16-year-old son, and my 17-year-old daughter would live off until I could have them follow me, and also whether I, as a true German, but also an upright (42-year-old) German, who does not lack courage, entrepreneurial spirit or diligence, and who would be prepared to do anything for a country that recognizes my achievements and merits, could be of any use there, and whether, with the help of your Excellency, I could soon reach my desired goals. After having described my plans briefly, I bid your Excellency (whose eminent, noble and affable disposition I have the highest regard for) to consider my most obedient request, the details of which you could inform me of by means of the goodness of your correspondence, and in case you have orders, be made known to me at the below mentioned address. With eager anticipation I remain under the most obedient recommendation and put myself under your protection with complete respect of your Excellency’s Obedient Servant

Johann Christoph BaumbergImperial and Royal Instructor of the German Intermediate School

Address M. Baumberg, Professeur de l’Ecole normale, de sa Majl. Imp. et Royl. ap. à Bruxelles St. Pölten en Autriche inferieur


Title: To John Adams from John Bondfield, 24 March 1782
From: Bondfield, John
To: Adams, John

Bordeaux 24 March 1782
Sir

Permit me to congratulate you on the progress which the vigorous resolves of the province of Frise informs us is taking to a publick acknowledgement of the american Independance as also of the late resolves of the British parlement. The Neutral Consuls at this Port construe the late Acts to a licence to their flag to transport Goods to the United States under the privalidge and restrictions observed in Europe and at present in the West Indies. I dined yesterday with the prussien Consul he is ready to embark deeply in conections with us so soon as licence is granted. We have upwards of one hundred Sail of neutral Ships in this port all which wish to be Charterd for America. The late resolves of Parlement is not a direct acknowledgement of Independance but under the present situation of Great Britain with the neutral powers a spirritted instruction from the Emperor or the King of Prussia to their Consuls would smoth the road. Every State are anxious to open Commercial Conections with us. You have brought Holland to your terms. The Confederated Neutrals are impowerd by their Union to Act without Control being satisfied there can be no longer a doubt of Americas ever returning under the Gouvernment of Great Britain. To obtain a Cessation of Hostilities and establish a firm and speedy Peace Spirritted resolves of all the European Nations is the most certain line. But these Neutrals reap such advantages that is more probable they will add feul to the Flame than attempt any measure to bring about a Conciliation.
We expect our Great West India fleet from St Domingo dayly. We are held in suspence by the various reports transmitted of the Operations at St. Kitts from Cadiz by a vessel that left martinico 29 Jany. The French possest the Island but Brimstone Hill was stil in possession of the English. I have the Honor to be with due respect Sir your most Obedient Humble Servant

John Bondfield


Title: From John Adams to Benjamin Franklin, 26 March 1782
From: Adams, John
To: Franklin, Benjamin

The Hague March 26. 1782
Sir

One day, last Week, I recd at Amsterdam a Card from Diggs, inclosing two Letters to me from Mr David Hartley. The Card desired to see me upon Business of Importance: and the Letters from Mr Hartley contained an assurance that to his Knowledge the Bearer came from the highest Authority. I answered the Card, that in the present Situation of Affairs here and elsewhere, it was impossible for me to See any one from England without Witness, but if he was willing to see me in Presence of Mr Thaxter my Secretary and that I should communicate whatever, he should Say to me to Dr Franklin and the Comte de Vergennes, I would wait for him at home at ten o Clock, but that I had rather he should go to Paris without Seeing me and communicate what he had to Say to Dr Franklin, whose situation enabled him to consult the Court without loss of time. At ten, however he came, and told me a long story about Consultations with Mr Pen, Mr Hartley Lord Beauchamp and at last Lord North, by whom he was finally sent, to enquire of me, if I, or any other, had Authority, to treat with Great Britain of a Truce. I answered, that I came to Europe last with full Powers to make Peace, that those Powers had been announced to the public upon my Arrival, and continued in force untill last Summer, when Congress Sent a new Commission, containing the Same Powers to five Persons, whom I named. That if the King of England were my father, and I the Heir apparent to his throne, I would not advise him ever to think of a Truce, because it would be but a real War under a simulated appearance of Tranquility, and would finally end in another open and bloody War, without doing any real good to any of the Parties.
He Said, that the Ministry would send, Some Person of Consequence over, perhaps General Conway, but they were apprehensive, that he would be ill treated or exposed. I said, that if they resolved upon such a measure, I had rather they would send immediately to Dr Franklin, because of his Situation near the French Court. But there was no doubt, if they sent any respectable Personage properly authorised, who should come to treat honourably, he would be treated with great Respect. But that if he came to me, I could give him no opinion upon any thing without consulting my Colleagues, and should reserve a Right of communicating every Thing to my Colleagues, and to our Allies.
He then Said, that his Mission was finished. That the Fact to be ascertained was Simply, that there was a Commission in Europe to treat and conclude, but that there was not one Person in G. Britain who could affirm or prove that there was such a Commission, altho it had been announced in the Gazettes.
I desired him and he promised me not to mention Mr Laurens, to the Ministry without his Consent, and without informing him that it was impossible he should Say any thing in the Business, because he knew nothing of our Instructions, because altho it was possible that his being in such a Commission might induce them to release him, yet it was also possible, it might render them more difficult concerning his Exchange.
The Picture he gives of the situation of Things in England, is gloomy enough for them. The Distresses of the People and the Distractions in Administration and Parliament, are such as may produce any Effect, almost that can be imagined.
The only Use of all this I think is, to Strike dicisive Strokes at New York and Charlestown. There is no Position so advantageous for Negotiation, as when We have all an Ennemies Armies Prisoners. I must beg the favour of you, Sir, to send me, by one of the C de Vergennes’s Couriers to the Duc de la Vauguion, a Copy in Letters of our Peace Instructions. I have not been able to decypher one Quarter Part of mine. Some Mistake has certainly been made.
Ten or Eleven Cities of Holland, have declared themselves in favour of American Independence, and it is expected that to day or tomorrow, this Province will take the decisive Resolution of Admitting me to an Audience. Perhaps Some of the other Provinces, may delay it for, three or four Weeks. But the Prince has declared that he has no hopes of resisting the Torrent and therefore that he shall not attempt it. The Duc de la Vauguion has acted a very friendly and honourable Part in this Business, without, however doing any ministerial Act, in it.

With great Respect, I have the Honour to be, sir, your most obedient and most humble servant
J. Adams


Title: To John Adams from Thomas Digges, 26 March 1782
From: Digges, Thomas
To: Adams, John

Ostend, 26 March 1782

Dear Sir

I got here this day and am nearly about the hour to Embark. I find I passd Mr Laurens Jnr at Rotterdam, as some questions were askd in the Hotel Where I put up for a person answering my description, from one who was at another Hotel who did not leave His name, but answered the description of Mr Laurens.
I stopt at the Hotel Angleterre at the Hague and found that P. Wentworth had gone from thence for England rather suddenly the day before; He went from Antwerp for Brussells, and by the time Genl Faucit went from hence, for Brussels also, I do suppose these Heroes in different line of action and for as little purpose (I hope) met at Brussels: Faucit is going to Hannover (as was said here) and P. W embarkd in a purposely hird boat about 2 hours ago for England.
In the matter I lately visited You upon I have informd You of every step taken as well as my motives for acting, and shall keep nothing from You relative thereto.
Since our last conversation I have thought much on the subject of witholding from Dr. F a letter I bore to Him from M Hartley (wch I know is partly on a publick matter in agitation between them) as well as informing the Doctr that I had been in Holland; and upon much consideration I think I cannot acting fairly to Dr. F either carry back Mr Hartleys letter, or explain to Him my motives for being silent when I had got so much nearer Him and had matter of much private consequence to myself to explain and clear up, either by letter or personal appearance. Besides others, I have two motives for writing; the first is that of forwarding a letter wch I know contains matters of business between Dr F and David Hartley and wch would be rather unjustifiable in me to carry back to England, and the other is an explanation why I donot repair to Him while now abroad on the matter relative to myself. I cannot see another road for doing either without intimating to Him the Business I went on to You: I have mentiond my first intention to visit and explain it to You and the motives I had for altering that intention and going back as quick as possible to Engld and then Set out for Paris. That You did not think the matter in the stage it then was of so much moment as to think it necessary to make it known to your Colleagues; that my doing it soon and in person to Dr. F would be the best mode; That all future movements must be made known to Dr. F and Mr Vergennes, and that You urgd strongly to have any future movements in the business made directly to Dr. F whose residence made it more convenient to give the Communications to the French Minister. I am sorry in doing this that I have deviated from a purpose wch I had rather fixd with You; but on much thinking I really think I have done the best; for Dr. F would certainly here I was at Amsterdam and think rather odly of me that I had turnd my back upon Him and seemingly gone from a purpose of explaining a matter to Him which my reputation is at stake for.
I beg a thousd pardons for writing thus hastily and Desultorily to You. The Packet Boat is so near sailing I have not time to read over the letter and I am rather in the midst of hurry and noise. I will write You immediately on my arrival and if any thing occurs wch You want done or to say to me a line under cover to Mr Stockdale Bookseller Piccadilly London will get safe to Sir your very Obedient Hum Servant

T Digges


Title: To John Adams from the Marquis de Lafayette, 27 March 1782
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Adams, John

Paris March 27th 1782
My Dear Sir

I Beg You will Accept My Best thanks for the two letters You Have Been pleased to write Giving the Particulars of Your Situation in Holland, and favouring me with Your Opinion Upon the Operations of Next Campaign.
I am Happy to find You Are likely to Get the Better of British Cabals, and Hope our independance will Be Soon Aknowledged throughout the United Provinces. Such a Measure from a Republican and Commercial Nation will prove Particularly Agreable to America. You will Vastly oblige me, My Dear friend, to let me Hear of the Progress of Your Negotiations, and I do Assure You that independant of Public Considerations, the High Regard and warm Attachement I feel for You, will Greatly Contribute to My Satisfaction.
On My Departure from America I Have Been Desired By Mr Moriss to Represent the Necessity of a Pecuniary Assistance. It Has Been Granted, But four or Six Millions are wanting to Make up the Sum. Could it Be Possible to find them in Holland upon American Credit?
The defensive plans of general Connway are So Very absurd, that I think with You a General Evacuation will probably take place. However we ought not to Be too Sanguine. In all Cases, I am entirely of Your Opinion about what we ought to do. I Cannot write So Confidentially By post as I would wish, and will Be More Particular when an Opportunity offers. I Had a letter from Mr Jay. Things there as Usual. General Washington writes me that Every thing in the Several departements is taking a Good turn, and Great Improvements are Made. He Appears Much Satisfied with the Present Situation of Affairs.
You are to Receive a Visit, not from a friend. That I Had from the Ministers Here. You will Vastly oblige me with the Particulars. But let me know, what I am to Say, and Not to Say. The Next Safe Opportunity I will write You a Confidential letter, and wish it was in Your Power to let me Have a Cypher to Correspond with you. I will Remain Some weeks more in france, and am Sure Congress will approuve of the delay.

With the Highest Regard and Most Sincere Affection I Have the Honor to be dear Sir Yours
lafayette


Title: To John Adams from C. W. F. Dumas, 28 March 1782
From: Dumas, Charles William Frederic
To: Adams, John

La haie jeudi 28 Mars 82
Monsieur

La grande oeuvre est accomplie. Aujourd’hui les Etats d’Hollde ont résolu, que leurs Députés aux Etats Genx. seront instruits, de diriger les choses dans l’Assemblée de L. H. P. à telle fin, que Mr. Adams soit admis pour leur présenter ses Lettres de créance de la part des Etats unis; et les Etats ont chargé expressément Mr. le Grand Pensionaire de vous donner incessamment connoissance de cette Résolution. Le Corps des Nobles a déclaré, qu’il ne concouroit ni ne s’opposoit à cette résolution. Sigillum veri simplex. Je n’ajouterai donc rien à ce que dessus, qui vient de m’être communiqué par Mr. Zeberg avec ses complimens sinceres pour V. E. Je n’ai pu voir les autres qui sont actuellement à celebrer l’oeuvre en bonne compagnie, et le Verre en main, au sortir de l’assemblée, sans retourner chez eux, où je les ai cherché en vain.
Je suis d’avis qu’il est convenable, Monsieur, que vous témoigniez par une Lettre à Mr. le Duc de la Vauguyon, la part que vous prenez au facheux accident arrivé la nuit du mardi au mercredi.

Je suis avec le plus respectueux attachement Monsieur, Votre très humble & très obeisst. servit
Dumas