Benjamin Franklin and John Jay to David Hartley, 31 March 1784
Benjamin Franklin and John Jay to David Hartley
Passy March 31st 1784
Sir
We have now the Pleasure of acquainting you, that the Ratification of the Definitive Treaty is arrived here by an Express from Congress. You have already been informed that the Severity of the Winter in America, which hindered Travelling had occasioned a delay in the assembling of the States. As soon as a sufficient Number were got together, the Treaty was taken into Consideration, and the Ratification passed unanimously. Inclosed you have Copies of the Proclamation issued on the Occasion, and of the Recommendatory Resolution. The Messenger was detained at New York near a Month, by the Ice which prevented the Packet-Boat’s sailing, otherwise he would probably have been here in February. We are now ready to exchange the Ratifications with you, whenever it shall be convenient to you. With great & sincere Esteem we have the honour to be Sir, your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servants,
B Franklin
John Jay1
His Excellency David Hartley Esqr &c &c &c
C, MiU-C: Hartley (EJ: 4944). Enclosures: 14 Jan. 1784 congressional proclamation enjoining strict compliance with the Definitive Treaty and congressional resolution of the same date recommending to the states the restitution of confiscated estates, for which see , 26: 29–31.
1. On the ratification, see the President of Congress to the American Peace Commissioners, 14 Jan. 1784, above.