Although the letter you did me the honor of writing on 22 May did not delude me into thinking that I would receive the relief that Congress’ finances require, nevertheless, hopeful of the interest that I was well assured that you would take in such a worthy cause, I have undertaken to honor all the payments that have been presented up until now. It saddens me to anticipate the fatal moment, gentlemen, when I will have to cease honoring Mr. Morris’ bills, if you cannot obtain for me the means to avoid it.1

I regret infinitely that my resources are not sufficient to prevent a 7scandal, the consequences of which I do not even dare to reflect on, but my fortune does not permit me, as you may judge for yourselves, sirs, both by the sum involved and by the necessity of resolving the issue.

Several days ago I was presented with bills for 423,000 livres, which I must either accept or not. Since the publication of Mr. Morris’ letters to the Congress on his future retirement, the holders of these bills are in a great hurry to have them accepted.2 Unfortunately this sum represents only a fraction of the bills issued, as there is another of 921,000 livres that I learned of some time ago and that will be presented soon, which makes almost 1,400,000 livres that must be paid, and that does not count the loan offices and other ongoing or unforeseen expenses.

The idea of letting Mr. Morris’ bills be protested is so revolting to me that I cannot reconcile myself to it unless I see from your response, sirs, that there is no other course I can take.

I am with sincere respect, gentlemen, your very humble and very obedient servant