Conceiving that the determination announced could not be really meant
as extensively as the words import, I asked and received an explanation
from the minister, as expressed in the letter and answer herein
enclosed: and on consideration of all circumstances, I cannot but
confide in the opinion expressed by him, that its sole object is to
exclude foreign vessels from the islands of Jersey and Guernsey. The
want of proportion between the motives expressed and the measure, its
magnitude, and consequences, total silence as to the proclamation on
which the intercourse between the two countries has hitherto hung, and
of which, in this broad sense, it would be a revocation, and the recent
manifestations of the disposition of that government to concur with this
in mutual offices of friendship and good will, support his construction.
The minister, moreover, assured me verbally, that he would immediately
write to his court for an explanation, and, in the mean time, is of
opinion that the usual intercourse of commerce between the two countries
(Jersey and Guernsey excepted) need not be suspended.
I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most profound respect and
attachment, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant,
Th: Jefferson.
LETTER CVII.--TO MESSRS.
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