In Congress April 23d. 1783
Dear Madam,
I arrivd in Philadelphia this day
1 & had the honor of receiving your Commands of the 9th. Tho' we were exceedingly desirous of the assitance of Mr. Adams in what yet remains to be done in Europe; yet his Letters were so pressing, that the Committee to whom they were referrd coud not resist reporting in favor of his resignation. Congress have not yet considered that report; but I think, Madam, you may rely upon it, that leave will be given as he requests.2
I shall participate with you in the pleasure of his return, after so long a sacrifice as he has made to the peace & prosperity of His Country. Her gratitude will I hope never forget, the essential services he has renderd. A French frigate, that left France, the beginning of March, arrivd here two days since; but did not bring one line for Congress. We learn however, that the general Treaty was not then settled.
I have the honor to be with the truest sentiments of respect & esteem, Dear Madam, Yr. most Obedt. & most humbl. Servt.
Arthur Lee
Receiver's copy, Adams Papers, Massachusetts Historical Society.
1 For Lee's recent trip to Virginia and return to Philadelphia, see James Madison to Edmund Randolph, April 1, 1783, note 5.
2 Congress had considered the committee's report on April 1, but had postponed accepting John Adams' resignation, for which see James Madison's Notes of Debates, April 1, note 7.