[five copies sent on different ships] Last letter received dated last February, about surrender of Fort St. Philips. Important victory weakens enemy's ability to acquire fresh resources and enhances the reputation of a friendly nation's army, however inattentive to United States. Too dangerous to get into discussion of the many problems feeding distrust between the United States and Spain. Despite importance of Havana trade to Spain, has unjustifiable interruptions. Ships detained for months then sent without adequate protection, often falling into the hands of the British. If report published by Rivington is true, Bahamas surrendered to Spain. Pensacola did as well, thinks troops will be sent to New York or Charleston to strengthen garrisons there. Surprised that the Dutch should recognize the United States before Spain; perhaps Americans are too plain-spoken for refined Spanish court and simple enough to have expected something from the king's offer of friendship. Military campaign not yet begun, no news. Cabinet closed at Congress' behest so that Mr. Morgan couldn't call on them "with General Carleton's compliments." General Leslie because of "alteration in British system" as well as scarcity in Charleston, called for cessation of hostilities; General Greene replied with the contempt the offer deserved. Alliance with France strengthened, partly from their misfortune in West Indies as well as British attempts to separate the allies. Congress proposes change in "foreign arrangements" in order to cut costs, but nothing decided.
Subjects
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829