John Jay to Robert Morris, 26 December 1777

Fish Kill 26 Dec r . 1777

Dear Sir

About a Fortnight ago I rec d . three Letters from France, one dated at Dunkirk the 2 d June, another at Passy near Paris the 8 th . June, and the third at Havre the 10 th . June, 1777–€” All of the same Import & nearly in the same words; an exact Copy of the first is enclosed for the Committee. 1

I should have immediately on the Rec t . of them have sent you Copies, but the necessary Materials for rendering ^ them ^ visible, were in the Neighbourhood of Kingston; and the Ice on the River prevented my getting them till within a few Days past.

Military Matters with us are strangely managed. Gates is playing with his Laurels at Albany, and Putnam catching oysters on the Banks Shores of the Sound. In my opinion the Resolutions of Congress respecting the Forts & Navigation of Hudsons River, will not be ^ executed ^ properly, if at all, unless under other Directors. 2 Pray hasten the Inquiry into the Causes to which the Loss of the Forts &c a . is to be ascribed. A fair Opportunity will then offer of redressing one of the Evils we suffer.

I hear Deane is recalled. Greece over again. Nothing like the ostracism. 3 Your Confederation, if I am not mistaken will be ratified by our Legislature. Is there any Probability of a French War?

How has the little Temple you erected to Hospitality at the Hills fared? 4 polluted I suppose. God bless You I am Dear Sir with great Regard & Esteem your ob t . Serv t .

John Jay

The Hon–€™ble Rob t . Morris Esq r