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My dear General, I have a few days ago written to you by M. de Moustier, the new Minister from this Court. He is a sensible and honest man, with whom I think that the people of America will be satisfied. He is very desirous to be presented to you, and I have invited him in your name to INIount Vernon, as well as Madame cle Brehan, a very agreeable lady, his sister-inlaw, who goes out with him.
Inclosed here, my dear General, is the copy of an official letter to Congress, wherein I have expressed my sentiments on the present state of affairs. What is become of the happy years, my beloved General, when, before my sentiments were formed, I had time to model them after your judgment? This comfort at least remains for me, — to endeavour guessing what your opinion will be on every case that occurs.
There is nothing new since my last. Amsterdam has ended her resistance, and there are now States Generals and Provincial States for each of the seven Provinces regularly elected, which are, to a man, bound to the Stadtholderian party. It is one of the vices of their Constitution, that the voice of their Magistrates, howsoever elected, is mistaken for the voice of the nation.
Mr. Jefferson and myself are now employed in commercial affairs for the United States. M. de Calonne's letter will be framed into an arret of the Council, and additional favors will be so adjusted as to take in every thing that is consistent with this Government. The disposition of the Minister is as good as we can wish ; and I am happy in the good fortune America had, that such a man as Mr. Jefferson was sent to this country. Nothing as yet is decided with respect to war. If it breaks out, the fjiult will be with England. The new Secretary at War has created a Board of General Officers, to carry on the affairs of that department, whereof he is the President. Such a measure is very meritorious, and cannot fail to do him great honor. He is, as you know, the brother to the Archbishop.
Adieu, my dear General. I hope you think often of an adoptive son, who loves you with all the powers
of his heart ; and, as long as it has life, will ever be
Your most grateful, affectionate, respectful friend,
P. S. My best and tenderest respects wait on Mrs. Washington. Remember me most respectfully to your mother and relations, particularly to George. I pay my compliments to all friends. Adieu, my dear General.
- 1787
- Source:
- Correspondence of the American Revolution; Being Letters of Eminent Men to George Washington, from the Time of His Taking Command of the Army to the End of His Presidency, Volume IV., Jared Sparks, 1853
