It was not essential that Laurens be present at the signing of the definitive treaty. Indeed, he would rejoice at having been absent if it was composed of the provisional treaty without alteration. Franklin has undoubtedly told Jay of Laurens' impending visit to France and of the cause of it. Jay has no doubt read Mr. Edmund Jenings' "Candor of Henry Laurens, Esq." Jenings is a weak and wicked man.
Subjects
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829