I was yesterday honored with yours of the 3d. Decr last.1 our Vessels here being confined by Ice, I think it best to send you some Dispatches by the Packet.

In considering the Treaty, it will doubtless be remembered that there must be two to make a Bargain. We could not agree about the Negroes. was that a good Reason for breaking up the negociation? I mentioned in a former Letter2 that I considered our admission into the Islands as affording compensation for the Detention of the posts, and other Claims of that nature— in that way we obtain Satisfaction for the Negroes, tho’ not in express words.

We are not obliged by Treaty to permit France to sell Prizes in our ports: By denying that priviledge to all we adhere to the Line of Impartiality: and without being assured of Impartiality on our part, Britain would not have granted us what she has. I wish the Season had permitted me to accompany the Treaty, for I think I could give you satisfactory answers to every Question that can arise from it— I have the Honor to be with Respect & Esteem Sir your most obt. Servt