I hope that these manifestations of friendly
dispositions towards that country, will induce them to repeal the
very obnoxious laws respecting our commerce, which were passed by the
preceding National Assembly. The present session of Congress will pass
over, without any other notice of them than the friendly preferences
before mentioned. But if these should not produce a retaliation of good
on their part, a retaliation of evil must follow on ours. It will be
impossible to defer longer than the next session of Congress, some
counter regulations for the protection of our navigation and commerce.
I must entreat you, therefore, to avail yourself of every occasion of
friendly remonstrance on this subject. If they wish an equal and cordial
treaty with us, we are ready to enter into it. We would wish that this
could be the scene of negotiation, from considerations suggested by the
nature of our government which will readily occur to you. Congress will
rise on this day se'nnight. I enclose you a letter from Mrs. Greene, who
asks your aid in getting her son forwarded by the Diligence to London,
on his way to America. The letter will explain to you the mode and the
means, and the parentage and genius of the young gentleman will
insure your aid to him. As this goes by the French packet, I send no
newspapers, laws, or other articles of that kind, the postage of which
would be high.
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