e character of the Barbary States, and their
policy, to be ignorant of the inefficacy and dangers of such a
measure. It would probably be less difficult to induce them to
acknowledge the independence of the United States, and to conclude
treaties with this new power. It is necessary to know beforehand, what
are the instructions of the Commissioners, and whether they are
authorised to negotiate with the Barbary Powers, under the mediation
of France. If Congress has this intention, then I could receive the
orders of the king to give the Commissioners the information necessary
for entering upon a negotiation with the Barbary Powers, and we
should be able to concert effectual measures for succeeding in this
object, without exposing our own interests for those of the United
States. This negotiation will be long and arduous, but I will neglect
nothing to assure its success, if the Congress determine to prosecute
it, and you consider the king pledged to forward it. I shall wait for
your reply before making any overtures.

I have the honor to be, &c.

DE SARTINE.

* * * * *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

Passy, 22d September, 1778.

Sir,

This will be delivered to you by Mr Jonathan Loring Austin, who was
sent the last year express to France, with the news of the convention
of Saratoga. He has resided chiefly in this kingdom from that time,
and has been employed in the service of the public a part of the time,
and his behavior from first to last has given entire satisfaction to
us. We think it our duty, therefore, to recommend him to Congress as a
gentleman of merit, of ability and diligence in business, zealously
attached to the cause of his country, and of exemplary prudence and
decency.

We have the honor to be, &c.

B. FRANKLIN,
ARTHUR LEE,
JOHN ADAMS.

* * * * *

E. T. VAN BERCKEL TO M. DUMAS.

Translation.

Amsterdam, September 23d, 1778.

Sir,

I have the honor to transmit to you herewith the declaration, which I
am authorised to make, in order to prevent any