ng over one of my former letters, containing my propositions
to Spain, I find that I had omitted to explain the reason of the one
for a guarantee of our possessions in North America. That we should
_so_ guaranty the Spanish possessions as to _fight_ for them, was as
distant from my design, as it could be from that of Congress. A common
guarantee means nothing more than a _quit claim_, to which we
certainly could have had no objection. When more is intended,
provisional and express stipulations become necessary. To any such I
never would have consented. A confidant of the Minister (and I believe
by his directions) had assured me, that unless a guarantee was offered
any other propositions would not induce the minister to negotiate for
a treaty. To meet that objection I made the offer in the general terms
you have seen. I had no doubt but that the Minister was acquainted
with my instructions; and I considered this objection as a pretext for
delay. My opinion as to a certain proposed cession was known, and uses
not advantageous to us or to me had been made of it. It appeared to me
advisable, that the intention of Spain with respect to us should have
a full trial, and such a one as would convince Congress that I was
entirely guided by their views and wishes.

I therefore endeavored so to frame those propositions as that they
should not afford the Minister any pretence for refusing to commence
the negotiation. The issue you are acquainted with.

I hope nothing will be done by the States for the tories until the
British forces shall be withdrawn, and then I confess it would be for
our honor to forgive all except the perfidious and the cruel.

After the definitive treaties are finished, I hope I shall be excused
in trying the waters of Spa and Bath (which are recommended to me)
before I proceed to Spain. Whatever may be their effect, I shall not
loiter at either place. After my business at Madrid shall be finished,
I wish to devote my care to the recovery of my health, and the
concerns of my family, which must greatly interfere with the duties of
my commission. Besides, as my country has obtained her object, my
motives for entering into public life are at an end.

The same principles which drew me from the private station I formerly
occupied, bid me to return to it. Actions are the only proofs of
professions, and if I live mine shall not want that evidence.

I am, Dear Sir, &c.