n an equal footing. I am at present engaged
in preparing a statement of objections in a letter to him, so that I
have not time to write very particularly to you. The Spanish
Ambassador presses me to proceed, but keeps back his powers. I tell
him that an exchange of copies of our commissions is a necessary and
usual previous step. This Court, as well as Spain, will dispute our
extension to the Mississippi. You see how necessary prudence and
entire circumspection will be on your side, and if possible secrecy. I
ought to add, that Dr Franklin does not see the conduct of this Court
in the light I do, and that he believes they mean nothing in their
proceedings, but what is friendly, fair, and honorable. Facts and
future events must determine which of us is mistaken. As soon as I can
possibly have time and health to give you details, you shall have
them. Let us be honest and grateful to France, but let us think for
ourselves.

With great regard and esteem, I am, &c.

JOHN JAY.

* * * * *

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO JOHN JAY.

Philadelphia, September 18th, 1782.

Dear Sir,

Since closing the despatches you will receive with this, I was honored
with yours of June. Nothing material having since occurred, I only
write to enclose the annexed resolutions of Congress, on the subject
of your powers for negotiating. I see by yours, that you entertain no
hope of a speedy termination of that business, even though you were
then unacquainted with the change, that has since taken place in the
administration, and which renders peace a more remote object. It has
certainly wrought a great change here. The state of negotiations we
are yet to learn, as neither you nor the Doctor have entered into that
subject.

I hope my despatches by Mr Laurens, with the cyphers under his care,
have reached you in safety, as very few either of your or Dr
Franklin's letters, passed through the channel through which I usually
receive them, come to me uninspected. Be pleased to acknowledge the
receipt of my letters, that I may know which have reached you.

I am, Dear Sir,

ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

* * * * *

TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.

Paris, September 28th, 1782.