be employed against us,
no wise Court or reasonable man, can blame us for proposing to form
relations with countries, whose interests it is to befriend us. An
excess of modesty and reserve is an excess still. It was no dishonor
to us to propose a treaty to France, nor for our Ministers to reside
there more than a year, without being acknowledged. On the contrary,
all wise men applauded the measure, and I am confident the world in
general will now approve of an application to the maritime powers,
although we should remain without a public reception, as long as our
Ministers did in France and Spain, nay, although we should be
rejected. In this case, Congress and their constituents will all be
satisfied. They will have neglected no duty in their power; and the
world will then see the power and resources of three or four millions
of virtuous men, inhabiting a fine country, when contending for
everything which renders life worth supporting. The United States will
then fix a medium, establish taxes for the payment of interest,
acquire the confidence of her own capitalists, and borrow money at
home, and when this is done, they will find capitalists abroad willing
enough to venture in their funds.

With ardent wishes for your health and success, I have the honor to
be, &c.

JOHN ADAMS.

* * * * *

TO EDMUND JENNINGS.

Amsterdam, April 26th, 1781.

Dear Sir,

Have you an inclination to favor me with your company to a certain
place, where you seemed to think the presence of an American might be
very useful to our country? I have it not in my power to make you any
advantageous proffers, but perhaps it may be nearly equal to you to
reside at Petersburg or Brussels. It may eventually be turned much to
your benefit and honor.

I need not be more particular on this subject, or to request you to
keep it to yourself. If my loose proposition meets your approbation,
you will please to hasten on here, _without loss of time_, as I must
go forward soon. If you wish to confer with me before you decide, come
on immediately, but prepared, however, to proceed with me, in case you
think proper to agree to my proposals. Your expenses here and back
again shall be paid, if you choose to return. I should be very happy
to have your good company, and the assistance of your abilities.