Mr. Thaxter, who returns unspoiled, is the Bearer of the definitive Treaty, and will deliver you this.

Mr Hartley expects soon to confer with us about Commerce, & says he is persuaded that Britain will be liberal. I should not doubt it, if it was certain that the United States could and would act like one Nation—

I think all our commercial Treaties should observe exact Reciprocity— Mr Hartley wishes that the American carrying Places on both Sides of the boundary Line may be in common forever. I doubt the Policy of our agreeing to it except for limited Terms, or during the Duration of the Treaty of Commerce, which in my Opinion should be temporary, unless very extensively free and reciprocal; because such Treaties if unequal and full of Restrictions, may in Time be very disadvantageous, tho’ at present convenient.

Dr. Franklin wishes to provide against privateering and Depredations on unarmed People in future wars— I agree with him perfectly, except that I wish every Army invading us may be a licentious predatory one, for in that Case the Inhabitants would oppose them with more vigor and perseverance—

It is my Determination to return next Summer, and therefore I hope my Friends will not think of employing me in Europe, in any Way that might interfere with it.

The prints herewith enclosed relate to a Subject which excites universal Attention—they will explain themselves—1

Mrs. Jay, who is just getting out of the Straw, presents her Compts. to You & Mrs. Thompson—with great Regard & Attachment I am Dear Sir Your Friend & Servt.