Emperor of Austria recovered, but his life is not the subject of much hope. If matters continue as at present, it is possible that a continuation of the war will become unlikely. English King has passed from madness to imbecility and melancholy. In France a few minor riots occurred, but a recent riot in Paris resulted in the death of 100 at the hands of the troops. In the States-general the only me mbers of the nobility which show any liberality are those from the vicinity of Paris; the rural nobility give indications of a firm intention to tyrannize the people. As to the representatives of the clergy, the ecclesiastical elections have returned the lower orders of the clergy, the sons of peasants. The continuance of civil order depends on approval of equal taxation. Necker claims that the freeports of Bayonne and L'Orient result in a loss of 600,000 livres in duties to the crown and asks for the cancellation of United States privileges. Jefferson states he doesn't think the privileges are worth a cent to the United States. If the closing of the freeports has not been officially communicated by Moustier, he will attempt to obtain some statement from Montmorin.
Subjects
United States--History--1783-1865; Jay, John, 1745-1829