Title
[Document, 1781 April 25]
Library Location
Name
Jay, John, 1745-1829 (Author)
Huntington, Samuel, 1731-1796 (Addressee)
Neufville, Jean de (Addressee)
Format
correspondence
Digital Project
Papers of John Jay
Date
April 25, 1781
Language
English
Physical Description
5 pages
Subjects
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829
Summary
Letterbook copy of a portion of document 4161 (lacking the first portion preceding the copy of Jay's letter to de Neufville). Reply to Huntington's letters of 6 and 17 October. Suspects they were intercepted by French court. Spain will make no concessions on navigation of the Mississippi and claims this is reason for failure to negotiate a treaty. Jay suspects, however, that there are other motives. Spanish court "so inexplicable," Jay claims, that they may have "no fixed System" whatever. Recounts efforts to raise money in France and Spain. Began work on seeking aid in the Netherlands when he learned of Adams's appointment for this mission. Inserts copy of his letter to Jean de Neufville & Cie, 8 January. In that letter Jay comments on English declaration of war on United Provinces that the tone of the declaration is "that of a nation going rather to give Correction to disobedient vassals, than to make war upon a free and independent people." Sure that the Dutch will defend themselves with valor. Jay also expresses pleasure that Adams has talked with de Neufville about American loans. Provided that America is well served, Jay will leave responsibility for a loan in Netherlands to Adams. Asks de Neufville & Son to aid Adams in this effort. Resuming his April letter to Huntington, Jay summarizes his efforts to raise money, culminating in the March 1781 crisis when Floridablanca refused to accept bills due in April. Montmorin and Franklin interceded to save American credit. Jay hopes to built at least one ship for Spain. Sends invoice (not present) for prize clothing presented to the United States by France and Spain; Montmorin instrumental in this affair. Needs more money for aid of captured American seamen. Portuguese situation. Alarmed at rumors of Franklin's retirement; feels it is crucial that he remain at his post. Laurens's plight. Publicly, at least, America must conceal differences with Spain and act as though the monarchy is her friend. Anything that we get from them is "pure gain." Has confidence in Floridablanca, but distrusts del Campo. The new Spanish envoy to the United States is del Campo's man. Dover cutter. Toscan will deliver this dispatch.
Identifier
columbia.jay.03408