Believing that the enclosed paper might be interesting to you, I prevailed upon the Person, in whose hands I saw it at the Hague, to let me make a hasty translation of it, which, nevertheless, faithfully renders the sense of the original.

It is said here that both the Emperor and the King of Prussia are much dissatisfied, and I am inclined to believe that the discontents of both, though for different reasons, have a part of their source in these resolutions of the States of Friesland.

It is even said that the Emperor not only meditates a separate negociation with France—but is about to revive his claim to Silesia, which he is expected to invade.

The rapid success of the french arms has greatly alarmed the people here, who consider the invasion of Holland near at hand.

I think it a duty to state to you that in such an event the american property in this country will be greatly exposed. Mr. Short is absent— Mr. Dumas is not only a foreigner but superannuated— and there is no Person to represent the United States, or to vindicate the rights of our Citizens in Holland.

It is with great deference I presume to suggest to yourself and Mr. Pinckney the propriety of requesting Mr. Johnson to come for a short time to this Country to watch over the interests of the US.— I cannot help thinking that the impending crisis authorises Mr. Pinckney and yourself to appoint that Gentleman to this trust, for which his Knowledge of business and consular character are additional qualifications.

In any determination I persuade myself that you will excuse the zeal which has prompted this freedom—and that you will believe me to be, most respectfully, Dear Sir, Your faithful, obedient Servant