this proof of his desire to concur in
whatever may best tend to promote that harmony and perfect friendship,
so interesting to both countries. He has, therefore, appointed Colonel
Humphreys to be minister resident for the United States at the court of
her Majesty. This gentleman has long been of the President's own family,
and enjoys his particular confidence. I make no doubt he will so conduct
himself, as to give perfect satisfaction to her Majesty and yourself,
and I therefore recommend him to your friendly attention and respect.
Mr. Freire will have every title to the same from us, and will assuredly
receive it. It is always with pleasure, that I repeat the homage of
those sentiments of respect and esteem with which I have the honor to be
your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant,

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER L.--TO WILLIAM SHORT, March 8,1791

TO WILLIAM SHORT.

Philadelphia, March 8,1791.

Dear Sir,

A conveyance offering by which we can send large packets, you will
receive herewith the following articles.

1. The newspapers.

2. The acts of the second session of Congress.

3. A report on the fisheries of the United States. It is thought that
this contains matter which may be usefully communicated. I am persuaded
the better this subject is understood in France, the more they will see
their interest in favoring our fisheries.

4. A letter from the President to the King, of which an open copy is
enclosed for your information.

5. A letter from myself to the Count de Moustier, in answer to his to
the President and myself, taking leave.

6. A letter from myself to the President of the National Assembly of
France, in answer to his to Congress on the death of Dr. Franklin.
Let it be understood, that Congress can only correspond through the
executive, whose organ in the case of foreign nations is the Secretary
of State. The President of the United States being co-ordinate with
Congress, cannot personally be their scribe.

7. Some papers in a case interesting to Dr. M'Henry, of Baltimore. He
at first sent them to me, with a desire to commit the subject of them
wholly to you. I informed him, we could not consent that you should be
used as the agent of private individuals, but that if he would provide
an agent on the spot who would undertake the details of solicitation,
management, correspondence, &c. I would desire you to patronize the
measure so far as you should find it prudent and just.