I have just received your letter you honored me with on the 10th of this month. I consider it a particular mark of esteem, which your merits have earned you, that Congress has named you their minister plenipotentiary to His Britannic Majesty, and I am saddened that we are thereby losing the presence of a person who presented himself most agreeably to us, and who through his honest manner would have rendered himself more and more estimable. It is to be hoped that your successor will possess the same good qualities. I cannot hide from you that certain remarks were made here regarding your addressing your letters of credence to the king of England before having presented your letters of recall to the States General. I was even instructed to discuss the matter with Mr. Dumas, your secretary, who gave me an explanation of the matter in terms that upon presentation to the assembly were deemed satisfactory. When you receive your letters of recall it would be most agreeable to Their High Mightinesses that you present them in person. If the circumstances of your affairs do not permit it, it will suffice to have them presented by a memorial addressed to the States General. You may be convinced, sir, that the reply which Their High Mightinesses shall make to it will serve only to affirm their regard for Congress and their desire to cement the growing union and good understanding in which they have the happiness to live with them. I have the honor to be with the most respectful consideration, sir, your most humble and most obedient servant