John Jay to John Adams, 17 July 1780
Madrid 17 July 1780
Dear Sir
On the 4 June last I had the Pleasure of writing you a Letter acknowleging the Reciept of yours of the 15 May 1 –since which none of your Favors have reached me.
I have just been reading the Capitulation of Charles Town. I suspect they wanted Provisions. The Reputation of the Garrison will suffer till the Reasons of their Conduct are explained. I wish a good one may be in their Power. They are severely censured here. 2 What the Consequence of this Event may be, cannot easily be conjectured. I should not be surprized if they should eventually be in our Favor. It is difficult while invaded in the Center to defend Extremities which have little natural Strength.
I wish Ternays Squadron may touch at Halifax–the Capture of that place would reduce the English Navy in the american Seas to extreme Difficulties. 3 The Affair of Charles Town has an unfavorable Aspect on the Expedition against New York–
After the Conclusions of this Campaign, I think you will have something to do. In my opinion all the Powers at War wish for peace. The pride of the King of England will be the greatest Obstacle, and it may happen that in attempting to save his Dignity he may lose his Crown.
No News yet of M r Laurens–what is to become of his Bills? I have accepted to the Amount of ^ between ^ 10 & 12–²000 Doll s of those drawn upon me. The Fate of the Residue is not yet fixed, but like many other Adventurers, I imagine they will have good Luck– 4
On a Presumption that you are acquainted with M rs . Izard, 5 I take the Liberty of committing the enclosed Letter for her to your Care. It has been written some Time, & waiting only for the french Courier by whom you will recieve this
My family was encreased last Week by the Birth of a Daughter– My Comp ts . to M r Dana– I am Dear Sir With great Regard & Esteem Your most obed t Servant
John Jay
His Excell y John Adams Esq r