, and having reciprocal
interests, both political and commercial, so extensive and so
important; and that, in the faithful and diligent discharge of
the duties of my mission, I flattered myself with hopes of the
approbation of His Most Serene Highness.

His Highness received the letter of credence, which he opened and
read. The answer that he made to me was in a voice so low and so
indistinctly pronounced that I comprehended only the conclusion
of it, which was that "he had made no difficulty against my
reception." He then fell into familiar conversation with me, and
asked me many questions about indifferent things, as is the
custom of Princes and Princesses upon such occasions. How long I
had been in Europe? How long I had been in this country? Whether
I had purchased a house at the Hague? Whether I had not lived
some time at Leyden? How long I had lived at Amsterdam? How I
liked the country? &c.

This conference passed in the Prince's chamber of audience, with
his Highness alone. I had waited some time in the antechamber, as
the Duc de la Vauguyon was in conference with the Prince. (p. 073)
The Duke, on his return through the antechamber, meeting me
unexpectedly, presented me his hand with an air of cordiality
which was remarked by every courtier, and had a very good effect.

The Prince has since said to the Duc de la Vauguyon that he was
obliged to me for not having pressed him upon the affair of my
reception at the beginning. He had reason; for if I had, and he
had said or done anything offensive to the United States or
disagreeable to me, it would now be remembered, much to the
disadvantage of the Court.

I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your most obedient and most humble servant,
John ADAMS.

No. 13. (p. 074)
PLATE XIII.

_October 8, 1782._

Favstissimo foedere jvnctae. die VII Octob. MDCCLXXXII. [Rx].
Justitiam et non temnere divos.

TREATY OF AMITY AND COMMERCE BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND
THE UNITED NETHERLANDS.

FAVSTISSIMO FOEDERE JVNCTAE. DIE VII OCTOB.[49] (_Octobris_)
MDCCLXXXII. (_United by a most auspicious alliance, October 7, 1782._)
Fame seated on the clouds is blowing a trumpe