n to have the accounts
of every State with the United States settled on just principles, with
all possible expedition.

I am obliged by your communication as to Mr Searle's mission,[39] and
assure you, that I lament his disappointments, and still more so, that
his negotiations have met with any opposition, which to me was quite
unexpected. I freely confess, that I did not expect he would be
successful; nevertheless, he had my good wishes, and had it been in my
power, he should have experienced my readiness to assist every public
measure. I wish his efforts in Holland may be productive, but I have
very little expectation of it, being convinced that war with England
will create such demand for money, and procure for the lenders such
security as will prevent them from listening to American proposals. It
was from a belief that your Excellency and the Council would give your
support to measures which have the public good for their object, that
I sought your confidence, asked your advice, and relied on your
assistance. Entertaining still the same opinion, I shall freely and
candidly give my sentiments and opinions on every proposition, which
the Council may think proper to refer to me.

The arguments against drawing paper money from the treasury, and
throwing it into circulation, had forcibly impressed my mind; and
nothing but necessity will compel me to have recourse to it, being
very desirous to pay every possible attention to your Excellency's
request.

The determination to proceed with vigor and energy in the collection
of taxes, coincides with my judgment, and of course meets with my
earnest wishes for success. And your promise to strengthen my hands,
and enable me to proceed with cheerfulness, in the great work I have
undertaken, excites my warmest gratitude. The delays which attend the
collection of taxes, are indeed great and alarming. To remedy them
will be highly beneficial, and perhaps the modes suggested in your
letter may be effectual. Every proposition of this sort will command
my serious attention; and if it shall appear to me productive of the
public good, your Excellency may rely that it shall meet with all the
support in my power.

I am, respectfully, &c.

ROBERT MORRIS.

FOOTNOTES:

[39] Mission to Holland, for the purpose of borrowing money for the
State of Pennsylvania.

* * * * *

GEORGE