I have occasion for a public purpose1 to allude to the reprobated instructions to our commissioners for making peace with Great Britain obliging them to act under the direction of the French Assembly.2 But though I have a general recollection of their tenor it is not precise enough for my object. I take it for granted your papers can afford the exact information. You will much oblige me by giving it to me without delay; being assured that you will in no shape be brought into view as the source.

I will also thank you for a copy of that letter which I wrote to you while Envoy to G Britain & which you told me you had shewn to Lord Grenville in which I express the opinion that unless an arrangement on solid terms can be made it will be better to do nothing or something of that import.3 I did not keep a copy.

Yrs. respectfully & affect.