Papers of John Adams, volume 8
1779-06-12
This Moment I received yours of the 16 as it is dated, but I suppose was the 10.2 You cannot imagine how much I am obliged to you for this Letter and the other of the second, and the Parliamentary Remembrancer.3 I have read the 12 Letters and am charmed with their Spirit—hope the Author will continue, for his Abilities and Temper must be of great service to our Country.
Ld. N. is probably, at his old insidious Game, of taking Advantage of 84certain Disputes, in order to propose Terms. But his Lord ship may make himself easy, for if Congress should never meet again the Seperate states, would be two much for him. Your Letter for Gen. Gates have not received nor any other Letter from you, which I have not answered, but the two mentioned above, which contain Matters of such vast Importance that I cannot enlarge upon them at present.4
In his Letterbook copy, perhaps thinking of Jenings' dating of his letter, JA wrote “L'orient June 162. 1779.”
Now dated [ca. 6] June (above). See note 1 there.
In his Letterbook, from the preceding comma, JA wrote “with and the Parliamentary Register Remembrancer.”
JA had responded at length to Jenings' letter of 2 June on 8 June (above), but then decided not to send it.
1779-06-13
Since my Letter to you of the 9th. looking over the Answer to the Letter inclosed in it, I find it, of more importance than I was aware, and least it should be lost with me, I now inclose you a Copy of it.1 It will be Evidence, of some against some Misrepresentations, which have been made, and may be repeated, as injurious to the French Court as to you. I have the Honour to be, with great Esteem and Respect, sir, your humble servant.
This is Vergennes' answer of 13 Feb. to JA's letter of 11 Feb. (both above). For the copy made by JA and Lee's use of it see the descriptive note to Vergennes' letter of 13 Feb.