New York, January 20, 1785.
Sir,
I have the honour to send your excellency two letters that came under cover from France.1 'Tis with pleasure I learn from Mr. Adams, that it is probable the negotiations of this winter may prevent the progress of hostilities in the spring, between the United Netherlands, and the emperor. And also that the spirits of your countrymen suffer no dejection, but that on the contrary, they are with much diligence and wisdom composing party quarrels, and preparing for the defence of the republic. Be so good as to present my compliments to your son, and be assured that I am, with every sentiment of esteem and regard sir,
your excellency's most obedient servant,
Richard Henry Lee.
MS not found; reprinted from Richard H. Lee, Memoir of the Life of Richard Henry Lee and His Correspondence , 2 vols. (Philadelphia: H. C. Carey and I. Lea, 1825), 2:55.
1 Undoubtedly letters from C. W. F. Dumas to Congress of October 8 and 12, 1784, which were enclosed in an October 20 letter from John Adams that was received this day. See Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783 - 89, 1:465 - 66, 3:519 - 24; and PCC, item 185, fol. 110.