I thank you for putting me in a position where I can answer questions concerning your return here, and I congratulate you on the new duty with which you have been entrusted. Although it might be a bit protracted, it must be agreeable to you for its importance, occupying at the same time your energy, your intellect, and your steadfastness.

In the state of uncertainty that you are in, sir, as to whether you will return next spring to America or reside at The Hague with your family, I wish you whatever is most to your liking, and on this subject, I ask you the favor of letting me know what Congress decides on this matter as soon as you have word in order that I might take the necessary steps so that my family and I may withdraw elsewhere during the time when you or your successor will want to make arrangements for the legation, because if one wants to have a choice in the matter, and not pay too much, one must rent in January to take occupancy in May.

I will do everything I possibly can for whatever you recommend, sir, regarding the loan, and to this effect, I will spend several days next week at Amsterdam, where I will conduct myself with the most scrupulous circumspection. In order to be in a position to arrive at the goal, quietly sounding out the terrain, and corresponding with Mr. Morris with some fruitful outcome, I would need a copy or a sketch of the terms and agreements of the current loan, which I will keep as secret as you stipulate, in order to know the benefits of the current guidelines and what point, sum, and time Congress is required to abide by it. You touched on this in conversation with 298me, but I did not retain a clear enough idea of it in order for it to provide instructions for me, and yours, sir, will put me in a position to act first, since I otherwise have to wait at least six months to receive instructions from America.2

My family, hoping, as it should, to remain in your good graces, sends their respects and asks that you pass along to your son their friendly regards with those of yours truly, who is with great respect your excellency’s very humble and very obedient servant