Received your last letter of July 16 but was about to leave for a six-week journey to Holland. Commander Gillon sailed from there to America in the ship L'Indien. James Searle (congressional agent) went as a passenger with him, but unaccountably left behind stones and goods that he had purchased for Congress in Holland. Has heard nothing new from America; received newspapers from Boston and Philade lphia (up to July 20th) filled with party disputes; Gouverneur Morris receiving a good deal of personal abuse, as well as Mr. Duane. He himself was mentioned as a friend of Mr. Duane and General Arnold, but cannot say he approved of Mr. Duane's conduct in Congress. Abuse in the press symptom of 'universal anarchy' that appears to be at the door. Has heard JJ has been appointment to negotiate the peace in Paris. Does not believe Mr. Jefferson or Mr. Laurens will do it; Mr. Adams is likewise much disgusted with affairs in Europe. Will be happy to see JJ in Paris, although despairs of achieving peace.
Subjects
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829