Document, 1776 December 03

Title
Document, 1776 December 03
Library Location
Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Columbia University
Name
Deane, Silas, 1737-1789 (Author)
Jay, John, 1745-1829 (Addressee)
Format
correspondence
Digital Project
Papers of John Jay
Date
1776 December 03
Physical Description
9
Subjects
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829
Summary
Lists articles sent from France. Deane judges that a war in Europe is inevitable. His most difficult obstacle in negotiations is the French fear that the United States will give up the war. Two or three frigates can destroy the important British fishing at Newfoundland. Liverpool and Glascow may be easily burned and plundered. France desires blank commissions to use against British commerce under the American flag. Spain is friendly, and the United States ought to act against Portugese commerce. Deane has sent an agent to Prussia because the King has made overtures concerning commerce. The western lands ought to be used as encouragement to the soldiers. Any number of German and Swiss troops may be obtained, but Deane has no power to make proposals. A number of frigates may be obtained at Leghorn. There is trouble in Ireland, and the native inhabitants of St. Vincent and Jamaica should be incited to revolt. The Queen favors an alliance, and Deane requests that a good horse be presented to her as she loves to ride. Williamson of Pennsylvania is a spy. Includes proposed articles of alliance between United States, France, and Spain.
Identifier
columbia.jay.12764