John Henry to Thomas Sim Lee

A letter was yesterday received from Mr. Jay dated the 23d of May at Madrid.¹ He has had several communications with the Spanish Minister, but has never been received in his public character. Many important questions has been put to him; such as the Number of regular Troops, the manner of arming, paying, cloathing and feeding them. The Constitution of Congress and the several States, the Debt of each of them, the continental Loans and emissions &c &c &c. The Court seems to have acted towards him with great caution. Money they inform him might have been had last year, but now there own expences are so great as to lay them under the necessity of borrowing themselves. From the Complexion of the whole letter I believe they will not suffer the Bills that have already been drawn on Mr. Jay to return protested. This is a happy circumstance and I hope when they fully understand our necessities they will not withhold further support. The navigation of the Mississippi for a considerable distance up it is a great object with them and should we agree to give it up to their sole use and jurisdiction, together with a guaranttee for their other Dominions in its neighbourhood we might almost demand with a certainty of success any thing in their power to grant. You will remember that I am at present writing from information and not from my own knowledge of this letter. I was not present in Congress owing to my indisposition, when it was read. I shall inform my self of its contents, and will give you satisfactory extracts by the next post. Our Countryman Mr. Carmichael was well.

Our Army is increasing fast and men in abundance I believe may be had if we can support them: upon this head I have the most alarming fears. Col Blain writes that he has but a weeks provision before hand and no flour at Trenton where a considerable quantity was expected.

The militia from this City will march to day. The Holker and Fair American has put into this port a packet from England bound to N. York; she had on board a number of officers who are now in this City.

My Compliments to Mrs. Lee and believe me to be with sincerity and affection,Yrs.

J. Henry