Title
[Document, 1782 June 28]
Library Location
Name
Jay, John, 1745-1829 (Author)
Livingston, Robert R., 1746-1813 (Addressee)
Format
correspondence
Digital Project
Papers of John Jay
Date
June 28, 1782
Language
English
Physical Description
2 pages
Subjects
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829
Summary
This letter to be added to dispatch of June 25. Conferred with Marquis de Lafayette on several subjects, finds him "as active in serving us in the cabinet as he is in the field" and believes with Franklin and the Marquis that probably more useful in France for the present than on a United States military campaign. British government divided; Fox's side for independence while Lord Shelburne's prefers "compact" similar to that between Britain and Ireland. Attempt at negotiations in Philadelphia probable along these lines. Believes since peace cannot be discussed in America, especially a separate one, British sending out commissioners [to Philadelphia] can only be for purposes of "intrigue." Unsafe and unwise to allow British people, in public or private guise, into America at present critical juncture. Proposals ought to be referred to American commissioners in Europe; would also reassure America's friends. Prevailing opinion [in France] that a number of Americans, although wishing for independence, would prefer alliance with Britain more than France. Needs to be taken into consideration, as influential during the war.
Identifier
columbia.jay.03477