It appears to me important both to Congress and their officers, that the Duties & Rights of the latter, be ascertained with Precision. Until that be done, the greatest Circumspection cannot preserve their Conduct from Error, nor their Feelings from being sometimes unintentionally hurt.—

I have some Reason Sir! to apprehend, that I have come into the office of Secretary for foreign Affairs, with Ideas of its Duties & Rights somewhat different from those which seem to be entertained by Congress.—If that should prove to be Case, I shall certainly think it my Duty either to execute it on the Plan most agreable to them; or retire from it with as much acquiescence and Respect, as I accepted it with Confidence in their Delicacy, & Gratitude for the Honor they did me—I have the Honor to be Sir! with great Respect and Esteem Your Excellency’s most obedient and very h’ble Servant—