give me an account of him,
returning me the enclosed letter at the same time.

The campaign between the Turks and Russians has been tolerably
equal. The Austrians have suffered through the whole of it. By the
interposition of Prussia and England, peace is likely to be made between
Russia, Denmark, and Sweden. This is a proof that England does not mean
to engage in the war herself. This country will certainly engage herself
in no manner, externally, before the meeting of her States General. This
assembly has been so long disused, that the forms of its convocation
occasion difficulty. The _Notables_ have been convened to prescribe
them, and they are now in session. I am in hopes this will end in giving
a good degree of liberty to this country. They enjoy, at present, the
most perfect tranquillity within; their stocks, however, continue low,
and money difficult to be got for current expenses. It is hoped,
that Mr. Necker's talents and popularity, with the aid of a National
Assembly, will extricate them from their difficulties. We have been
daily expecting to hear of the death of the King of England: our last
news is of the 11th, when he was thought in the utmost danger. This
event might produce a great change in the situation of things: it
is supposed Mr. Fox would come into place, and he has been generally
understood to be disposed for war. Should the King survive, I think the
continuance of peace more probable at present, than it has been for some
time past. Be so good as to contrive the enclosed letter, by a very safe
conveyance. Remember me in the most friendly terms to Dr. Currie, and
be assured yourself of the esteem and attachment, with which I am. Dear
Sir, your affectionate friend and servant,

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CLXX.--TO JOHN JAY, November 19, 1788

TO JOHN JAY.

Sir,

Paris, November 19, 1788.

Since my letter of September the 5th, wherein I acknowledged Mr.
Remsen's favor of July the 25th, I have written those of September the
24th, and of the 14th instant. This last will accompany the present,
both going by the way of London, for want of a direct opportunity; but
they go by a private hand.

No late event worth notice has taken place between the Turks and
Austrians. The former continue in the territories of the latter, with
all the appearances of superiority. On the side of Russia, the war wears
an equal face, except that the Turks are still masters of the Black sea.
Oczakow is not yet