our disposition to peace on reasonable
terms, and of our readiness to enter seriously into negotiations for
it, as soon as we shall have an opportunity of doing it in the only
manner in which it is possible for one nation to treat with another,
viz. on an equal footing.

"Had you been commissioned in the usual manner, we might have
proceeded; and as we can perceive no legal or other objection to this,
or some other such like expedient, it is to be wished that his Majesty
will not permit an obstacle so very unimportant to Great Britain, but
so essential and insuperable with respect to us, to delay the
re-establishment of peace especially, and in case the business could
be but once begun, the confidence we have in your candor and integrity
would probably render the settling all our articles only the work of a
few hours.

"We are, &c."

I submitted this draft to Dr Franklin's consideration. He thought it
rather too positive, and therefore rather imprudent, for that in case
Britain should remain firm, and future circumstances should compel us
to submit to their mode of treating, we should do it with an ill grace
after such a decided and peremptory refusal. Besides, the Doctor
seemed to be much perplexed and fettered by our instructions to be
guided by the advice of this Court. Neither of these considerations
had weight with me; for as to the first, I could not conceive of any
event, which would render it proper and therefore possible for America
to treat in any other character than as an independent nation; and, as
to the second, I could not believe, that Congress intended we should
follow any advice, which might be repugnant to their dignity and
interest.

On returning to town, Mr Oswald spoke to me about this letter. I told
him that I had prepared a draft of one, but that on further
consideration, and consulting with Dr Franklin, we thought it best not
to take the liberty of troubling his Court with any arguments or
reasonings, which without our aid must be very evident to them.

He appeared disappointed, and desired me to let him see the draft. I
did. He liked it. He requested a copy of it; but as I doubted the
propriety of such a step, I told him I would consider of it, and give
him an answer the next day.

It appeared to me on further reflection, that no bad consequences
would arise from giving him a copy of this paper; that, though
unsigned, it would nevertheless convey to the Ministry the sentiments
and op