Papers of John Adams, volume 13

I. To Robert R. Livingston, 22 August 1782 JA Livingston, Robert R.

1782-08-22

I. To Robert R. Livingston, 22 August 1782 Adams, John Livingston, Robert R.

I. To Robert R. Livingston

Hague August 22d. 1782 1 Sir

Their High Mightinesses have at length recieved their Instructions from all the Provinces, and I have this day been in Conference 262with the Grand Committe, who communicated to me the Remarks and Propositions on their Part. To this I shall very soon give my Replication;2 and I hope the Affair will be soon ended.

I was recieved in state by two of the Lords at the Head of the Stairs, and by them conducted into the Committee Room where the Business is transacted. The Committee consisted of one or more Deputies from each Province, together with the Grand Pensionary Bleiswick and the Secretary Fagel.

I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient humble Servant. J. Adams3

RC in John Thaxter’s hand (PCC, No. 84, IV, f. 133–134).

According to its dispatch book, Congress did not receive this announcement that formal negotiations had begun until 1 April 1783, two and a half months after JA’s letter of 8 Oct. (No. XI, below) and the signed copies of the treaty and convention had arrived (PCC, No. 185, III, f. 60, 52).

For the “Remarks and Propositions” and JA’s responses, see Nos. II and III, below.

Signature in JA’s hand.