1782.

The committee, to whom were referred the notes of the communication
made by the Minister of France to a committee of Congress, on the 24th
of September, brought in a report, which was agreed to, as follows;

That the Minister Plenipotentiary of his Most Christian Majesty be
informed, that the communication made by the said Minister on the 24th
of September last, is considered by Congress as an additional proof of
his Majesty's magnanimity, and has confirmed those sentiments of
affection and confidence, which his wise, steady, and liberal conduct
in every stage of the war has so justly inspired.

That his Most Christian Majesty's declaration to the British Minister
at Paris, that he will neither treat nor terminate any negotiation
unless the interests of his friends and allies shall be considered and
determined, is entirely correspondent to the part, which these United
States are resolved to take in any negotiation for peace.

That Congress, with the utmost satisfaction embrace this opportunity
to renew their assurances, that in every event these United States
will inviolably adhere to their alliance with his Most Christian
Majesty, which they consider to be equally essential to their interest
and their glory.

That they will hearken to no propositions for peace, which shall not
be discussed in confidence and in concert with his Most Christian
Majesty, agreeably to the declaration made to his Minister
Plenipotentiary on the 31st day of May last.

That upon this principle, Congress did not hesitate a moment, to
reject the proposition made by the British General and Admiral, as
Commissioners of Peace, for admitting Mr Morgan, their Secretary, to
an interview at Philadelphia.

And that they are resolved to prosecute the war with vigor, until a
general peace shall be obtained, in which their allies shall be
comprehended.

That Congress place the utmost confidence in his Majesty's assurances,
that he will readily employ his good offices in support of the United
States in all points relative to their prosperity; and considering the
territorial claims of these States as heretofore made, their
participation of the fisheries, and of the free navigation of the
Mississippi, not only as their indubitable rights, but as essential to
their prosperity, they trust that his Majesty's efforts will be
successfully employed to obtain a sufficient provision and security
for those rights. Nor can they refrain from making kno