I am taking advantage of a courier of the republic to confirm the letter I sent yesterday by post,1 wherein I inform you of steps taken to get the fastest possible news of your son and to summon him here as soon as possible. I expect to learn that it is only the winter weather, in a northern country like Sweden, that has prevented him from setting forth as promptly as you wish.

This letter will come to you enclosed in another, which Mr. Visscher is writing to Mr. Brantsen.

What you mention, sir, in your letter of 5 February—or rather, what you omit—makes me impatient for your return. I refer to the conclusion of the general peace treaty, for I see no likelihood of having this satisfaction any sooner.

I am also impatient to learn what could be worse than the trick played on our friends. A glacial coldness reigns—not between them and me (quite the contrary), but between them and a certain character whom they nonetheless pity as a man; and if rumors here are to be believed, he is indeed to be pitied, given the efforts he has made to be of service and the success these efforts have had.2

We are very curious to hear how Mr. Heyden de Reynestein, the prince's chamberlain, is conducting himself at Paris and Versailles and what role he has played.3

Mr. Dedem is in Overijssel. Our friend showed me a letter he wrote today, stating Mr. Dedem must come back here immediately to be present when his name is put forward next week. Our friends have already spoken of this to the grand pensionary, who approves, and to the prince, who answered rather coldly that they had carte blanche,4 meaning they could do as they wished. I shall certainly be among the first to congratulate him when he arrives.

I am, sir, with great respect, your excellency's very humble and very obedient servant