From John Jay to John Vaughan, 27 June 1788
To John Vaughan
Poughkeepsie 27 June 1788
Dear Sir
I have considered the Hint suggested in your Letter of the 1 my long, and I may say habitual respect for the Sentiments of Dr. Franklin, at first inclined me to adopt them relative to the Subject in Question. Further Consideration induced me to suspect that he has estimated the Influence of my opinions beyond their Value— If the Reasoning in the Pamphlet you allude to is just, it will have its Effect on candid and discerning minds—if weak & inconclusive my name cannot render it otherwise.
Our convention has hitherto proceeded with Temper and Deliberation. The Issue is uncertain, and probable Conjectures respecting it, cannot yet be formed— I am Dr Sr your most obt. & hble Servt.
John Jay
Mr John Vaughan
ALS, PPAmP: Vaughan (EJ: 02567). Addressed: “Mr. John Vaughan / Philadelphia / John Jay”. Endorsed: “… no answer required.” Dft, NNC (EJ: 08144).
1. Space left blank in manuscript, as Vaughan’s letter is undated.