Adams Papers Digital Edition

Papers of John Adams, volume 11

From the Duc de La Vauguyon

From Jean de Neufville & Fils
The Duc de La Vauguyon to John Adams: A Translation, 14 March 1781 La Vauguyon, Paul François de Quélen de Stuer de Causade, Duc de JA

1781-03-14

 The Duc de La Vauguyon to John Adams: A Translation, 14 March 1781 La Vauguyon, Paul François de Quélen de Stuer de Causade, Duc de Adams, John
The Duc de La Vauguyon to John Adams: A Translation
The Hague, 14 March 1781 1

I have received, sir, the letter which you did me the honor to write to me,2 and the enclosed copy of the resolution of the Congress of the United States of North America. You inform me that you have made an official communication thereof to the president of the assembly of the States General, and to the envoys of the courts of St. Petersburg, Stockholm, and Copenhagen, and request me to support this step with my good offices. I am persuaded, sir, that you clearly perceive the impossibility of my seconding this measure without the express order of the king, whatever may be my personal zeal for the true interests of North America. Receive, sir, the very sincere assurance of the sentiments of the most distinguished consideration with which I have the honor to be your very humble and very obedient servant,

Le Duc De la vauguyon

RC (Adams Papers); endorsed: “Le Duc de la Vauguyons Letter. 15. March. 1781.”

1.

Dumas sent this letter to JA under a brief covering note of 16 March (Adams Papers). Immediately preceding the translation of this letter in the Boston Patriot, JA wrote “Knowing perfectly well the game of the count de Vergennes and his ambassador, it was precisely what I expected” (JA, Corr. in the Boston Patriot , p. 402).

 2.

Of 8 March, above.