The Letter which your Excellency did me the Honor to write on the 13th. March last, was delivered to me by the Count D’Montmorin on my Arrival at Madrid.1

I should not have thus long have delayed the Pleasure of replying to it, if I could have prevailed upon myself to have given your Excellency complimentary Professions, instead of sincere Assurances. Unreserved Confidence in an Embassador of our good & great Ally was just as well as natural; & I am exceedingly happy to find that personal Considerations, instead of forbidding, prompt it. Mr. Gerard, whose Judgment I greatly respect, had given me a very Favorable Impression of this Gentleman, & I am convinced from my own Observation that he was not mistaken. His Conduct towards me has been that of a wise Minister & a candid Gentleman. Your Excellency may therefore rely on his recieving all that Confidence From me, which these Considerations dictate. Permit me to add, that I never endulge myself in contemplating the future Happiness, & Independence of my Country, without feeling the warmest Attachment to the Prince & People who are making such glorious Exertions to establish them.2 With the most lively Sentiments of Respect and Esteem I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant,