Charles William Frederick Dumas to John Adams, January 12, 1781

[ , Start insertion, 12 January 1781 , End, ] 1

Sir

This is not the expected post, but rather a letter dated the 19th of last December [ , Start insertion, O.S. , End, ] that has arrived from the plenipotentiaries at St. Petersburg, announcing that the Empress was satisfied with the situation; that she has seen the last two British memorials presented by Sir Joseph Yorke to Their High Mightinesses 2 and is more indignant than surprised by them; that the convention would be signed on the 23rd [ , Start insertion, O.S. , End, ], 3 that is to say four days after the plenipotentiaries assumed the character of ambassadors extraordinary; and that another courier would be sent immediately with the signed convention. I am expecting the courier any moment now; then the manifesto can be published. 4 This small delay is nothing but a formality. 5 Meantime, it was resolved yesterday to distribute letters of marque to the privateers (and also orders to naval vessels) to seize all that they can from the British. This was done today. 6 You can rely on the accuracy and truth of what I have the honor to tell you, as well as on my punctuality in informing you officially of what will follow. In turn I will rely on you to inform Congress that I was the source of the information.

I hope that you made the trip to Amsterdam in perfect health. 7 Please accept the regards of my wife and daughter, and the assurances of respect and sincere attachment with which I remain always, sir, your very humble and very obedient servant,

Dumas

The decision by the court of Holland, concerning the conduct of Amsterdam, will not take place until mid-February; but one knows in advance it will be good. 8

Respond, if you please, to tell me if this letter reached you, and if it was in good condition.