My letter will not leave until tomorrow, but I am writing it this morning in order to have it taken to the post office, because I am offering my services, before I go to Amsterdam, to go to Dordrecht to have a discussion with our friend not only on the subject of the loan but also about commerce between the two republics, concerning the perfection of which, in the grand scheme of things, I recently gathered important ideas that I will communicate to him as well as to Mr. Van Berckel.1

Here is a letter just this minute received from England. The paper on 304both sides of the seal was torn. I closed it again with doubled strands, and you will see from the grain of the paper, which is still whole under the seal, that there is at least the appearance that the letter was not opened.2

I forgot, sir, to tell you about a letter that Mr. Dana did me the honor of writing from St. Petersburg, dated 8 August. He tells me:

“I expect to [ta]ke my departure in about 12 days by a convenient opportunity now offering directly from this port for Boston— I pray you to present my regards to Mr. J. Q. Adams, and to acquaint him, that I shall take his Books, &c. with me to America.— Mr. Allen returns by this opportunity also.”3

I agree with you, sir, about the improvement of the affairs of the republic by means of the last war, and one proof of that is that the republican party, notably in Friesland and Utrecht, far from slowing down, vires aquirit eundo.4 I will give more details on this at another time.

Mr. De Linde, by a resolution of Zeeland on the 15th, is certain to be nominated and consequently definitely named the republic’s envoy to England as soon as the treaty ratifications are exchanged between the two powers, and he has permitted me to notify you, while sending his compliments, with the hope that he will be fortunate enough to see you at London.5

Today the military jurisdiction and the abolition of the High Council of War was decided by the plurality of the six towns of Zeeland against the prince, who had the seventh vote.6 It is remarkable to see how the American revolution has stirred up the phlegmatic leaders of this country. I could cite for you a curious and interesting anecdote as proof, but this is not yet the time to trumpet it. I do not want to have to rebuke myself for having laid bare their veins of ore.

With great respect, I am your excellency’s very humble and very humble servant