This is dated September the
28th, and may have been received by Pichon October the 1st; and nearly
five months elapse before it is communicated. Yesterday the President
nominated to the Senate William Vans Murray Minister Plenipotentiary to
the French republic, and added, that he shall be instructed not to go
to France, without direct and unequivocal assurances from the French
government that he shall be received in character, enjoy the due
privileges, and a minister of equal rank, title, and power, be appointed
to discuss and conclude our controversy by a new treaty. This had
evidently been kept secret from the federalists of both Houses, as
appeared by their dismay. The Senate have passed over this day without
taking it up. It is said they are graveled and divided; some are for
opposing, others do not know what to do. But in the mean time, they have
been permitted to go on with all the measures of war and patronage, and
when the close of the session is at hand it is made known. However,
it silences all arguments against the sincerity of France, and renders
desperate every further effort towards war. I enclose you a paper with
more particulars. Be so good as to keep it till you see me, and then
return it, as it is the copy of one I sent to another person, and is
the only copy I have.
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