As Secretary for Foreign affairs I have been advised to address you. Towards the conclusion of the War I formed a Commercial connection in this Country with a view at that period of extending our Trade to the Southward by way of the Mississippi, the only communication we have from this quarter of the Continent with the Ocean. A young Man whom I entrusted with about ₤1000 in Goods proceeded from this place in May 1784 to Cumberland River and after disposing of the Cargoe for Peltries proceeded down the Mississippi, agreeable to my Instructions, as the readiest way of conveying the Property to Philada. He no sooner reached the Natches, the first Spanish Port on our Side of the River, than he, with Boat and Cargoe were seized by the Commandant of that Port. He was at last liberated and allowed to proceed to New Orleans, when he Petitioned the Governour, and after many fruitless attempts at an Audience, at last obtained one, when he was told that the Commandr. had done right in stopping him, but that he had no right to retain his property, and wrote an order to the Commandant to transmit a particular Account of this transaction to the Capitol.1

As a Citizen of the United States I appeal to you Sir, to make such a representation of my misfortune as may be the most likely to procure me redress. At the time my Boat took her departure from Pittsburgh we knew of no prohibition whatever from the Spanish Government that affected the Commerce of the United States, but on the contrary considered the Navigation of the Mississippi as free and unrestrained as that of the Delaware. I flatter myself timely means will be taken to redress me. Fortune seems to make me her sport in all situations. What with the Cringing servility of a Payne, and the haughty Arrogance of a Spaniard, I shall have nothing left me, not even fortitude to laugh at Misfortune. I hope to be gratified as well honored with a line from you on the above Subject.2 I am with respect Sir, Your Most obedt. Humble Servant