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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of A Collection of State-Papers, Relative to
+the First Acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the United States of America, by John Adams
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: A Collection of State-Papers, Relative to the First Acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the United States of America
+
+Author: John Adams
+
+Release Date: January 6, 2010 [EBook #30872]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK COLLECTION OF STATE-PAPERS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Bryan Ness, Susan Carr and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This
+book was produced from scanned images of public domain
+material from the Google Print project.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+A
+
+COLLECTION
+
+OF
+
+STATE-PAPERS.
+
+[Price Two Shillings.]
+
+
+
+
+A
+
+COLLECTION
+
+OF
+
+STATE-PAPERS,
+
+Relative to the First Acknowledgment of the
+
+SOVEREIGNTY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
+
+And the Reception of their
+
+Minister Plenipotentiary, by their High Mightinesses the
+
+STATES GENERAL OF THE UNITED NETHERLANDS
+
+To which is prefixed, the Political Character of
+
+JOHN ADAMS,
+
+Ambassador Plenipotentiary from the States of North America, to their
+High Mightinesses the States General of the United Provinces of the
+Netherlands.
+
+BY AN AMERICAN.
+
+LIKEWISE,
+
+AN ESSAY ON CANON AND FEUDAL LAW,
+
+BY JOHN ADAMS, ESQ;
+
+LONDON:
+
+Printed for JOHN FIELDING, No. 23, Pater-noster-row; JOHN DEBRETT,
+opposite Burlington-House, Piccadilly; and JOHN SEWELL, No. 32,
+Cornhill. 1782.
+
+[Entered at Stationers-Hall.]
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+As the States General of the United Provinces have acknowledged the
+independency of the United States of North America, and made a treaty of
+commerce with them, it may not be improper to prefix a short account of
+John Adams, Esq; who, pursuing the interests of his country, hath
+brought about these important events.
+
+Mr. Adams is descended from one of the first families which founded the
+colony of the Massachusets Bay in 1630. He applied himself early to the
+study of the laws of his country; and no sooner entered upon the
+practice thereof, but he drew the attention, admiration, and esteem of
+his countrymen, on account of his eminent abilities and probity of
+character. Not satisfied with barely maintaining the rights of
+individuals, he soon signalized himself in the defence of his country,
+and mankind at large, by writing his admirable Dissertation on the Canon
+and Feudal Laws; a work so well worth the attention of every man who is
+an enemy to ecclesiastical and civil tyranny, that it is here subjoined.
+It showed the author at an early period capable of seconding
+efficaciously the formation of republics on the principles of justice
+and virtue. Such a man became most naturally an object of Governor
+Barnard's seduction. The perversion of his abilities might be of use in
+a bad cause; the corruption of his principles might tarnish the best.
+But the arts of the Governor, which had succeeded with so many, were
+ineffectual with Mr. Adams, who openly declared he would not accept a
+favour, however flatteringly offered, which might in any manner connect
+him with the enemy of the rights of his country, or tend to embarrass
+him, as it had happened with too many others, in the discharge of his
+duty to the public. Seduction thus failing of its ends, calumny,
+menaces, and the height of power were made use of against him. They lost
+the effect proposed, but had that, which the show of baseness and
+violence ever produce on a mind truly virtuous. They increased his
+honest firmness, because they manifested, that the times required more
+than ordinary exertions of manliness. In consequence of this conduct,
+Mr. Adams obtained the highest honours which a virtuous man can receive
+from the good and the bad. He was honoured with the disapprobation of
+the Governor, who refused his admission into the council of the
+province; and he met with the applause of his countrymen in general, who
+sent him to assist at the Congress in 1774, in which he was most active,
+being one of the principal promoters of the famous resolution of the 4th
+of July, when the colonies declared themselves FREE AND INDEPENDENT
+STATES.
+
+This step being taken, Mr. Adams saw the inefficacy of meeting the
+English Commissioners, and voted against the proposition; Congress,
+however, having determined to pursue this measure, sent him, together
+with Dr. Franklin and Mr. Rutledge, to General Howe's head quarters.
+These Deputies, leading with them, in a manly way, the hostages which
+the general had given for their security, marched to the place of
+conference, in the midst of twenty thousand men ranged under arms.
+Whether this military shew was meant to do honour to the Americans, or
+to give them an high idea of the English force, is not worth enquiry. If
+its object was to terrify the Deputies of Congress, it failed; making no
+more impression on them, than the sudden discovery of elephants did upon
+certain embassadors of old. The utmost politeness having passed on both
+sides, the conference ended, as had been foreseen, without any effect.
+
+Mr. Adams having been fifteen months one of the Commissioners of the War
+department, and a principal suggestor of the terms to be offered to
+France, for forming treaties of alliance and commerce, he was sent to
+the court of Versailles, as one of the Ministers Plenipotentiary of the
+United States. After continuing some time invested with this important
+trust, he returned to America; where he no sooner appeared, than he was
+called upon by the State of Massachusets Bay, to assist in forming a
+system of government, that might establish the rights of all on clear,
+just, and permanent grounds. He was never employed in a business more
+agreeable to himself; for, the happiness of his Fellow-Citizens is his
+great object. He sought not honour in this arduous undertaking, but it
+fell ultimately upon _Him_. He has gained it all over Europe. If he
+endeavoured to obtain by it the esteem and love of his countrymen, he
+has succeeded; for they know they are chiefly indebted to him for the
+constitution of the State of Massachusets Bay, as it stands at this day.
+
+This important business being completed to the satisfaction of all, he
+came back to Europe, with full powers from Congress to assist at any
+conferences which might be opened for the establishment of peace; and
+had sent him, soon after, other powers to negociate a loan of money for
+the use of the United States; and to represent them, as their Minister
+Plenipotentiary, to their High Mightinesses the States General of the
+United Provinces. Such important trusts shew, in what estimation he is
+held by his country; and his manner of executing them, that confidence
+is well placed.
+
+On his arrival in Holland, nothing could have been more unpromising to
+the happy execution of his mission, than were the affairs of that
+country. The influence of the Court of St. James's over a certain set of
+men, the interest that many had in the funds and commerce of England,
+and the dread of her power, which generally prevailed throughout the
+Provinces, obliged him to act with the utmost circumspection. Unknown,
+and at first unnoticed, (at least but by a few) he had nothing to do but
+to examine into the state of things, and characters of the leading men.
+This necessary knowledge was scarcely acquired, when the conduct of the
+British Ministry afforded him an opportunity of shewing himself more
+openly. The contempt, insult and violence, with which the whole Belgic
+nation was treated, gave him great advantages over the English
+Embassador at the Hague. He served himself of his rivals rashness and
+folly with great coolness and ability; and, by consequence, became so
+particularly obnoxious to the prevailing party, that he did not dare to
+go to a village scarcely a day's journey from his residence, but with
+the utmost secrecy: the fate of Dorislaus was before his eyes. Having
+been therefore under the necessity of making himself a Burgher of
+Amsterdam, for protection against the malice of the times, he soon
+gained the good opinion of the Magistrates by his prudent conduct as a
+private Citizen. The bad policy of England, enabled him to step forward
+as a public character. As such he presented to the States General his
+famous Memorial, dated the 19th of April, 1781, wherein the declaration
+of the independency of America on the 4th of July, 1776, was justified;
+the unalterable resolution of the United States to abide thereby
+asserted; the interest that all the powers of Europe, and particularly
+the States General, have in maintaining it, proved; the political and
+natural grounds of a commercial connection between the two Republics
+pointed out; and information given that the Memorialist was invested
+with full powers from Congress to treat with their High Mightinesses for
+the good of both countries.
+
+The presenting this Memorial was a delicate step; Mr. Adams was
+sensible, that he alone was answerable for its consequences, it being
+taken not merely from his own single suggestion, but contrary to the
+opinion and advice of some of great weight and authority. However,
+maturely considering the measure, he saw it in all its lights, and
+boldly ventured on the undertaking. The full and immediate effect of it
+was not expected at once. The first object was, that the nation should
+consider the matter thoroughly; it being evident, that the more it was
+ruminated on, the more obvious would be the advantages and necessity of
+a connection between the two countries. When, therefore, the Memorial
+was taken by the States General _ad referendum_, the first point was
+gained; the people thought of, and reasoned on the matter set before
+them; many excellent writings appeared, and they made the greatest
+impression; a weekly paper in particular, entitled Le Politique
+Hollandois, drew the attention of all, on account of its information,
+the soundness of its argument, and its political judgment and
+patriotism. At length the time came when the work was to be compleated:
+the generality of the people of Holland, seeing the necessity of opening
+a new course to their trade, which the violent aggression of England,
+and the commercial spirit of other nations tended to diminish, demanded
+an immediate connection with the United States of America, as a means of
+indemnifying themselves for the loss which a declared enemy had brought
+on them, and the rivalship of neighbouring nations might produce.
+
+Mr. Adams seized the occasion which the public disposition afforded him,
+and presented his Ulteriour Address of the 9th of January, 1782;
+referring therein to his Memorial of the 19th of April, 1781, and
+demanding a categorical answer thereto. The Towns, Cities, Quarters, and
+States of the several Provinces took the whole matter into immediate
+deliberation, and instructed their several Deputies, in the States
+General, to concur in the admission of Mr. Adams in quality of Minister
+Plenipotentiary of the United States of North America. This was done by
+a resolution, passed by their High Mightinesses the 19th of April, 1782;
+and on the 22d of the same month, Mr. Adams was admitted accordingly,
+with all the usual ceremonies.
+
+This event seems to have been as great a blow as any that has been given
+to the pride and interests of England during the war. It shewed the
+Dutch were no longer over-awed by the power of their enemy, for they
+dared to brave him to his teeth. It set an example to other nations, to
+partake of the commerce of those countries, which England had lost by
+her inconsiderate conduct. It confounded at once the English partisans
+in Holland, and proved that Sir Joseph Yorke was not the great minister
+he had hitherto been supposed to be. It gave occasion to an ambassador
+of one of the greatest monarchs of Europe to say to Mr. Adams: _Vous
+avez frappé, Monsieur, le plus grand coup de tout l' Europe. C'est le
+plus grand coup, qui à etè frappé dans le cause Americain. C'est vous
+qui à effrayé et terrasse les Anglomannes. C'est vous qui à rempli
+cette nation d'enthousiasme._ And then turning to another gentleman, he
+said, _Ce n'est pas pour faire compliment a Monsieur Adams, que je dis
+cela: c'est parcequ'en verité, je crois que c'est sa due._
+
+This diplomatic compliment has been followed by others. I transcribe
+with pleasure a convivial one contained in the following lines, which an
+ingenious and patriotic Dutchman addressed to his excellency Mr. Adams,
+on drinking to him out of a large beautiful glass, which is called a
+_baccale_, and had inscribed round its brim, _Aurea Libertas_:
+
+  AUREA LIBERTAS! _gaude! pars altera mundi
+      Vindice te renuit subdere colla jugo.
+  Hæc tibi legatum quem consors Belga recepit
+      Pectore sincero pocula plena fero.
+  Utraque gens nectet, mox suspicienda tyrannis,
+      Quæ libertati vincula sacra precor!_
+
+They who have an opportunity of knowing his Excellency Mr. Adams trace
+in his features the most unequivocal marks of probity and candour. He
+unites to that gravity, suitable to the character with which he is
+invested, an affability, which prejudices you in his favour. Although of
+a silent turn, as William the Prince of Orange was, and most great men
+are, who engage in important affairs, he has nevertheless a natural
+eloquence for the discussion of matters which are the objects of his
+mission, and for the recommending and enforcing the truths, measures,
+and systems, which are dictated by sound policy. He has neither the
+corrupted nor corrupting principles of Lord Chesterfield, nor the
+qualities of Sir Joseph Yorke, but the plain and virtuous demeanor of
+Sir William Temple. Like him too he is simple in negociation, where he
+finds candour in those who treat with him. Otherwise he has the severity
+of a true republican, his high idea of virtue giving him a rigidness,
+which makes it difficult for him to accommodate himself to those
+intrigues which European politics have introduced into negociation. "_Il
+sait que l'art de negocier n'est pas l'art d'intriguer et de tromper;
+quil ne consiste pas à corrompre; à se jouer des sermens et à semer les
+alarmes et les divisions; qu'un negociateur habile peut parvenir à son
+but sans ces expediens, qui sont la triste ressource des intriguans,
+sans avoir recours à des manoeuvres detournès et extraordinaires. Il
+trouve dans la nature même des affaires quil négocie des incidens
+propres à faire réussir tous ses projéts._"
+
+
+
+
+MEMORIAL
+
+TO THEIR
+
+HIGH MIGHTINESSES
+
+THE
+
+STATES GENERAL
+
+OF THE
+
+United Provinces of the Low Countries.
+
+
+_High and Mighty Lords_;
+
+The Subscriber has the honour to propose to your High Mightinesses, that
+the United States of America, in Congress assembled, have lately thought
+fit to send him a commission (with full powers and instructions) to
+confer with your High Mightinesses concerning a treaty of amity and
+commerce, an authentic copy of which he has the honour to annex to this
+memorial.
+
+At the times when the treaties between this Republic and the Crown of
+Great Britain were made, the people, who now compose the United States
+of America, were a part of the English nation; as such, allies of the
+Republic, and parties to those treaties; entitled to all their benefits,
+and submitting chearfully to all their obligations.
+
+It is true, that when the British Administration, renouncing the ancient
+character of Englishmen for generosity, justice, and humanity, conceived
+the design of subverting the political systems of the Colonies;
+depriving them of the rights and liberties of Englishmen, and reducing
+them to the worst of all forms of government; starving the people by
+blockading the ports, and cutting off their fisheries and commerce;
+sending fleets and armies to destroy every principle and sentiment of
+liberty, and to consume their habitations and their lives; making
+contracts for foreign troops, and alliances with savage nations to
+assist them in their enterprise; casting formally, by act of parliament,
+three millions of people at once out of the protection of the Crown:
+Then, and not till then, did the United States of America, in Congress
+assembled, pass that memorable act, by which they assumed an equal
+station among the nations.
+
+This immortal declaration, of the 4th of July, 1776, when America was
+invaded by an hundred vessels of war, and, according to estimates laid
+before parliament, by 55,000 of veteran troops, was not the effect of
+any sudden passion or enthusiasm; but a measure which had been long in
+deliberation among the people, maturely discussed in some hundreds of
+popular assemblies, and by public writings in all the states. It was a
+measure which Congress did not adopt, until they had received the
+positive instructions of their constituents in all the States: It was
+then unanimously adopted by Congress, subscribed by all its members,
+transmitted to the assemblies of the several States, and by them
+respectively accepted, ratified, and recorded among their archives; so
+that no decree, edict, statute, placart, or fundamental law of any
+nation was ever made with more solemnity, or with more unanimity or
+cordiality adopted, as the act and consent of the whole people, than
+this: And it has been held sacred to this day by every state, with such
+unshaken firmness, that not even the smallest has ever been induced to
+depart from it; although the English have wasted many millions, and vast
+fleets and armies, in the vain attempt to invalidate it. On the
+contrary, each of the Thirteen States has instituted a form of
+government for itself, under the AUTHORITY OF THE PEOPLE; has erected
+its legislature in the several branches; its executive authority with
+all its offices; its judiciary departments and judges; its army,
+militia, revenue, and some of them their navy: And all those departments
+of government have been regularly and constitutionally organized under
+the associated superintendency of Congress, now these five years, and
+have acquired a consistency, solidity, and activity equal to the oldest
+and most established governments. It is true, that in some speeches and
+writings of the English it is still contended that the people of America
+are still in principle and affection with them: But these assertions are
+made against such evident truth and demonstration, that it is surprising
+they should find at this day one believer in the world. One may appeal
+to the writings and recorded speeches of the English for the last
+seventeen years, to shew that similar misrepresentations have been
+incessantly repeated through that whole period; and that the conclusion
+of every year has in fact confuted the confident assertions and
+predictions of the beginning of it. The subscriber begs leave to say
+from his own knowledge of the people of America, (and he has a better
+right to obtain credit, because he has better opportunities to know,
+than any Briton whatsoever) that _they are unalterably determined to
+maintain their Independence_. He confesses, that, notwithstanding his
+confidence through his whole life in the virtuous sentiments and
+uniformity of character among his countrymen, their unanimity has
+surprised him. That all the power, arts, intrigues, and bribes which
+have been employed in the several States, should have seduced from the
+standard of virtue so contemptible a few, is more fortunate than could
+have been expected. This independence stands upon so broad and firm a
+bottom of the people's interests, honour, consciences, and affections,
+that it will not be affected by any successes the English may obtain
+either in America, or against the European powers at war, nor by any
+alliances they can possibly form; if indeed, in so unjust and desperate
+a cause they can obtain any. Nevertheless, although compelled by
+necessity, and warranted by the fundamental laws of the colonies, and of
+the British constitution, by principles avowed in the English laws, and
+confirmed by many examples in the English history; by principles
+interwoven into the history and public right of Europe, in the great
+examples of the Helvetic and Belgic confederacies, and many others; and
+frequently acknowledged and ratified by the diplomatic body; principles
+founded in eternal justice, and the laws of God and nature, to cut
+asunder for ever all the ties which had connected them with Great
+Britain: Yet the people of America did not consider themselves as
+separating from their allies, especially the Republic of the United
+Provinces, or departing from their connections with any of the people
+under their government; but, on the contrary, they preserved the same
+affection, esteem and respect, for the Dutch nation, in every part of
+the world, which they and their ancestors had ever entertained.
+
+When sound policy dictated to Congress the precaution of sending persons
+to negotiate natural alliances in Europe, it was not from a failure in
+respect that they did not send a minister to your High Mightinesses,
+with the first whom they sent abroad: but, instructed in the nature of
+the connections between Great Britain and the Republic, and in the
+system of peace and neutrality, which she had so long pursued, they
+thought proper to respect both so far, as not to seek to embroil her
+with her allies, to excite divisions in the nation, or lay
+embarrassments before it. But, since the British administration, uniform
+and persevering in injustice, despising their allies, as much as their
+colonists and fellow-subjects; disregarding the faith of treaties, as
+much as that of royal charters; violating the law of nations, as they
+had before done the fundamental laws of the Colonies and the inherent
+rights of British subjects, have arbitrarily set aside all the treaties
+between the Crown and the Republic, declared war and commenced
+hostilities, the settled intentions of which they had manifested long
+before; all those motives, which before restrained the Congress, cease:
+and an opportunity presents itself of proposing such connections, as the
+United States of America have a right to form, consistent with the
+treaties already formed with France and Spain, which they are under
+every obligation of duty, interest and inclination, to observe sacred
+and inviolate; and consistent with such other treaties, as it is their
+intention to propose to other sovereigns.
+
+If there was ever among nations a natural alliance, one may be formed
+between the two Republics. The first planters of the four northern
+States found in this country an asylum from persecution, and resided
+here from the year 1608 to the year 1620, twelve years preceding their
+migration. They ever entertained and have transmitted to posterity, a
+grateful remembrance of that protection and hospitality, and especially
+of that religious liberty they found here, having sought it in vain in
+England.
+
+The first inhabitants of two other States, New-York and New-Jersey, were
+immediate emigrants from this nation, and have transmitted their
+religion, language, customs, manners and character: And America in
+general, until her connections with the House of Bourbon, has ever
+considered this nation as her first friend in Europe, whose history, and
+the great characters it exhibits, in the various arts of peace, as well
+as atchievements of war by sea and land, have been particularly
+studied, admired and imitated in every State.
+
+A similitude of religion, although it is not deemed so essential in this
+as in former ages to the alliance of nations, is still, as it ever will
+be thought, a desirable circumstance. Now it may be said with truth,
+that there are no two nations, whose worship, doctrine and discipline,
+are more alike than those of the two Republics. In this particular
+therefore, as far as it is of weight, an alliance would be perfectly
+natural.
+
+A similarity in the forms of government, is usually considered as
+another circumstance, which renders alliances natural: And although the
+constitutions of the two Republics are not perfectly alike, there is yet
+analogy enough between them, to make a connection easy in this respect.
+
+In general usages, and in the liberality of sentiments in those
+momentous points, the freedom of enquiry, the right of private judgment
+and the liberty of conscience, of so much importance to be supported in
+the world, and imparted to all mankind, and which at this hour are in
+more danger from Great Britain and that intolerant spirit which is
+secretly fomenting there, than from any other quarter, the two nations
+resemble each other more than any others.
+
+The originals of the two Republics are so much alike, that the history
+of one seems but a transcript from that of the other: so that every
+Dutchman instructed in the subject, must pronounce the American
+revolution just and necessary, or pass a censure upon the greatest
+actions of his immortal ancestors: actions which have been approved and
+applauded by mankind, and justified by the decision of Heaven.
+
+But the circumstance, which perhaps in this age has stronger influence
+than any other in the formation of friendships between nations, is the
+great and growing interest of commerce; of the whole system of which
+through the globe, your High Mightinesses are too perfect masters for me
+to say any thing that is not familiarly known. It may not, however, be
+amiss to hint, that the central situation of this country, her extensive
+navigation, her possessions in the East and West Indies, the
+intelligence of her merchants, the number of her capitalists, and the
+riches of her funds, render a connection with her very desirable to
+America: and, on the other hand, the abundance and variety of the
+productions of America, the materials of manufactures, navigation and
+commerce; the vast demand and consumption in America of the manufactures
+of Europe, of merchandises from the Baltic, and from the East Indies,
+and the situation of the Dutch possessions in the West Indies, cannot
+admit of a doubt, that a connection with the United States would be
+useful to this Republic. The English are so sensible of this, that
+notwithstanding all their professions of friendship, they have ever
+considered this nation as their rival in the American trade; a sentiment
+which dictated and maintained their severe act of navigation, as
+injurious to the commerce and naval power of this country, as it was
+both to the trade and the rights of the Colonists. There is now an
+opportunity offered to both, to shake off this shackle for ever. If any
+consideration whatever could have induced them to have avoided a war
+with your High Mightinesses, it would have been the apprehension of an
+alliance between the two Republics: and it is easy to foresee, that
+nothing will contribute more to oblige them to a peace, than such a
+connection once completely formed. It is needless to point out,
+particularly, what advantages might be derived to the possessions of the
+Republic in the West Indies from a trade opened, protected and
+encouraged, between them and the Continent of America; or what profits
+might be made by the Dutch East India Company, by carrying their effects
+directly to the American market; or how much even the trade of the
+Baltic might be secured and extended by a free intercourse with America;
+which has ever had so large a demand, and will have more for hemp,
+cordage, sail-cloth, and other articles of that commerce: how much the
+national navigation would be benefited by building and purchasing ships
+there: how much the number of seamen might be increased, or how much
+more advantageous it would prove to both countries, to have their ports
+mutually opened to their men of war and privateers, and to their prizes.
+
+If, therefore, an analogy of religion, government, origin, manners, and
+the most extensive and lasting commercial interests, can form a ground
+and an invitation to political connections, the subscriber flatters
+himself that, in all these particulars, the union is so obviously
+natural, that there has seldom been a more distinct designation of
+Providence to any two distant nations to unite themselves together.
+
+It is further submitted to the wisdom and humanity of your High
+Mightinesses, whether it is not visibly for the good of mankind, that
+the powers of Europe, who are convinced of the justice of the American
+cause, (and where is one to be found that is not?) should make haste to
+acknowledge the independence of the United States, and form equitable
+treaties with them, as the surest means of convincing Great Britain of
+the impracticability of her pursuits? Whether the late marine treaty
+concerning the rights of neutral vessels, noble and useful as it is, can
+be established against Great Britain, who will never adopt it, nor
+submit to it, but from necessity, without the independence of America?
+Whether the return of America, with her nurseries of seamen and
+magazines of materials for navigation and commerce, to the domination
+and monopoly of Great Britain, if that were practicable, would not put
+the possessions of other nations beyond seas wholly in the power of that
+enormous empire, which has been long governed wholly by the feeling of
+its own power, at least without a proportional attention to justice,
+humanity, or decency. When it is obvious and certain that the Americans
+are not inclined to submit again to the British government, on the one
+hand, and that the powers of Europe ought not and could not with safety
+consent to it, if they were so inclined, on the other; why should a
+source of contention be left open, for future contingencies to involve
+the nations of Europe in still more bloodshed, when, by one decisive
+step of the maritime powers, in making treaties with a nation long in
+possession of sovereignty by right and in fact, it might be closed?
+
+The example of your High Mightinesses would, it is, hoped, be followed
+by all the maritime powers, especially those which are parties to the
+late marine treaty: nor can the apprehension that the independence of
+America would be injurious to the trade of the Baltic, be any objection.
+This jealousy is so groundless that the reverse would happen. The
+freight and insurance in voyages across the Atlantic are so high, and
+the price of labour in America so dear, that tar, pitch, turpentine, and
+ship-timber never can be transported to Europe at so cheap a rate, as it
+has been and will be afforded by countries round the Baltic. This
+commerce was supported by the English before the revolution with
+difficulty, and not without large parliamentary bounties. Of hemp,
+cordage, and sail-cloth there will not probably be a sufficiency raised
+in America for her own consumption in many centuries, for the plainest
+of all reasons, because these articles may be imported from Amsterdam,
+or even from Petersburg and Archangel, cheaper than they can be raised
+at home. America will therefore be for ages a market for these articles
+of the Baltic trade.
+
+Nor is there more solidity in another supposition, propagated by the
+English to prevent other nations from pursuing their true interests,
+that the colonies of other nations will follow the example of the United
+States. Those powers, who have as large possessions as any beyond seas,
+have already declared against England, apprehending no such
+consequences. Indeed there is no probability of any other power of
+Europe following the example of England, in attempting to change the
+whole system of the government of colonies, and reducing them by
+oppression to the necessity of governing themselves: and, without such
+manifest injustice and cruelty on the part of the metropolis, there is
+no danger of colonies attempting innovations. Established governments
+are founded deep in the hearts, the passions, the imaginations and
+understandings of the people; and without some violent change from
+without, to alter the temper and character of the whole people, it is
+not in human nature to exchange safety for danger, and certain happiness
+for very precarious benefits.
+
+It is submitted to the consideration of your High Mightinesses, whether
+the system of the United States, which was minutely considered and
+discussed, and unanimously agreed on in Congress in the year 1776, in
+planning the treaty they proposed to France, to form equitable
+commercial treaties with all the maritime powers of Europe, without
+being governed or monopolized by any: a system which was afterwards
+approved by the king, and made the foundation of the treaties with his
+majesty: a system to which the United States have hitherto constantly
+adhered, and from which they never will depart, unless compelled by some
+powers declaring against them, which is not expected, is not the only
+means of preventing this growing country from being an object of
+everlasting jealousies, rivalries, and wars among the nations. If this
+idea be just, it follows, that _it is the interest of every state in
+Europe to acknowledge American independency immediately_. If such
+benevolent policy should be adopted, the new world will be a
+proportional blessing to every part of the old.
+
+The subscriber has the farther honour of informing your High
+Mightinesses, that the United States of America, in Congress assembled,
+impressed with an high sense of the wisdom and magnanimity of your High
+Mightinesses, and of your inviolable attachment to the rights and
+liberties of mankind, and being desirous of cultivating the friendship
+of a nation, eminent for its wisdom, justice, and moderation, have
+appointed the subscriber to be their minister plenipotentiary to reside
+near you, that he may give you more particular assurances of the great
+respect they entertain for your High Mightinesses; beseeching your High
+Mightinesses to give entire credit to every thing, which their said
+minister shall deliver on their part, especially when he shall assure
+you of the sincerity of their friendship and regard. The original letter
+of credence, under the seal of Congress, the subscriber is ready to
+deliver to your High Mightinesses, or to such persons as you shall
+direct to receive it. He has also a similar letter of credence to his
+most Serene Highness the Prince Stadtholder.
+
+All which is respectfully submitted to the consideration of your High
+Mightinesses, together with the propriety of appointing some person, or
+persons, to treat on the subject of his mission, by
+
+LEYDEN 19 April 1781.
+
+J. ADAMS
+
+
+
+
+GUELDERLAND.
+
+
+In the assembly of the States of Guelderland, holden in October 1781, to
+consider of the requisition of the king of France, of a negotiation of
+five millions of florins, under the warranty of the Republic, some were
+for an alliance with France. The Baron Nagel, Seneschal of Zutphen,
+avoided putting of the question, and said among other things, "That he
+had rather acknowledge the independence of the Americans, than contract
+an alliance with France."
+
+The Baron van der Capellen de Marsch was for an alliance with France and
+America too. He observed, "That nothing being more natural than to act
+in concert with the enemies of our enemy, it was an object of serious
+deliberation, to see, if the interest of the Republic did not require to
+accept, without farther tergiversations, the invitations and offers of
+the Americans: that no condescension for England could hinder us, at
+present, from uniting ourselves against a common enemy, with a nation so
+brave and so virtuous: a nation, which, after our example, owes its
+liberty to its valour, and even at this moment is employed in defending
+itself from the tyranny of the enemy of the two nations: that,
+consequently, nothing could restrain us from acknowledging the
+independence of this new Republic: that our conduct differed very much
+from that holden by our ancestors, who allied themselves with the
+Portuguese, as soon as they shook off the yoke of the Spaniards: that
+there was no doubt, that the said alliances with the enemies of our
+enemy would soon restrain his fury, and operate a general peace
+advantageous for us."
+
+
+
+
+The QUARTER
+
+of
+
+OOSTERGO.
+
+_The Quarter of Oostergo, in the Province of Friesland, in December,
+1781, was the first public Body which proposed a Connection with the
+United States of America in these Words._
+
+
+Every impartial Patriot has a long time perceived that, in the direction
+of affairs relative to this war with England, there have been manifested
+an inconceivable lukewarmness and sloth; but they discover themselves
+still more, at this moment, by the little inclination which, in general,
+the Regencies of the Belgic Provinces testify to commence a treaty of
+commerce and friendship with the new Republic of the Thirteen United
+States of North America; and to contract engagements, at least during
+the continuance of this common war with the Crowns of France and Spain.
+Nevertheless, the necessity of these measures appears clearly, since,
+according to our judgments, nothing was more natural, nor more
+conformable to sound policy, founded upon the laws of the nature the
+most precise, than that this Republic, immediately after the formal
+declaration of war by the English (not being yet able to do any thing by
+military exploits, not being in a state of defence sufficiently
+respectable to dare, at sea, to oppose one fleet or squadron, to our
+perfidious enemy) should have commenced by acknowledging, by a public
+declaration, the Independence of North America. This would have been
+from that time the greatest step to the humiliation of England, and our
+own re-establishment; and by this measure, the Republic would have
+proved her firm resolution to act with vigour. Every one of our
+inhabitants, all Europe, who have their eyes fixed upon us, the whole
+World expected, with just reason, this measure from the Republic. It is
+true, that before the formal declaration of war by England, one might
+perhaps have alleged some plausible reason, to justify, in some degree,
+the backwardness in this great and interesting affair. But, as at
+present Great Britain is no longer our secret, but declared enemy, which
+dissolves all the connections between the two nations; and as it is the
+duty, not only of all the Regencies, but also of all the Citizens of
+this Republic, to reduce, by all imaginable annoyances, this enemy so
+unjust to reason, and to force him, if possible, to conclude an
+honourable peace; why should we hesitate any longer, to strike, by this
+measure so reasonable, the most sensible blow to the common enemy? Will
+not this delay occasion a suspicion that we prefer the interest of our
+enemy to that of our country? North America, so sensibly offended by the
+refusal of her offer; France and Spain, in the midst of a war supported
+with activity, must they not regard us as the secret friends, and
+favourers of their and our common enemy? Have they not reason to
+conclude from it, that our inaction ought to be less attributed to our
+weakness, than to our affection for England? Will not this opinion
+destroy all confidence in our nation heretofore so renowned in this
+respect? And our allies, at this time natural, must they not imagine,
+that it is better to have in us declared enemies than pretended friends?
+And shall we not be involved in a ruinous war, which we might have
+rendered advantageous, if it had been well directed? While on the other
+hand it is evident, that by a new connection with the States of North
+America, by engagements at least during this war with France and Spain,
+we shall obtain, not only the confidence of these formidable powers,
+instead of their distrust, but by this means we shall moreover place our
+colonies in safety against any insult; we shall have a well grounded
+hope, of recovering, with the aid of the allied powers, our lost
+possessions, if the English should make themselves masters of them; and
+our commerce at present neglected, and so shamefully pillaged, would
+reassume a new vigour; considering that in such case, as it is
+manifestly proved by solid reasons, this Republic would derive from this
+commerce the most signal advantages. But, since our interest excites us
+forcibly to act in concert with the enemies of our enemy; since the
+United States of America invited us to it long ago; since France
+appears inclined to concert her military operations with ours (although
+this power has infinitely less interest to ally itself with us, whose
+weakness manifests itself in so palpable a manner, than we have to form
+an alliance, the most respectable in the universe) it is indubitably the
+duty of every Regency, to promote it with all their forces, and with all
+the celerity imaginable. To this end, we have thought it our duty, to
+lay it before your noble Mightinesses, in the firm persuasion that the
+zeal of your noble Mightinesses will be as earnest as ours, to concur to
+the accomplishment of this point, which is for us of the greatest
+importance; that, consequently, your noble Mightinesses will not delay
+to co-operate with us, that, upon this important subject, there may be
+made to their High Mightinesses, a proposition so vigorous, that it may
+have the desired success: and that this affair, of an importance beyond
+all expression for our common country, may be resolved and decided by
+unanimous suffrages, and in preference to every particular interest.
+
+
+
+
+ULTERIOUR ADDRESS.
+
+_On the 9th January, 1782, Mr. ADAMS waited on the President VAN DEN
+SANDHEUVEL, and addressed him as follows._
+
+
+On the fourth of May, I had the honour of a conference with the
+President of their High Mightinesses, in which I informed him, that I
+had received from the United States of America a commission, with full
+powers and instructions to propose and conclude a treaty of amity and
+commerce, between the said United States of America and the United
+Provinces of the Netherlands.
+
+At the same conference, I had the honour to demand an audience of their
+High Mightinesses, in order to present to them my letters of credence
+and full powers.
+
+The President assured me, that he would make report of all that I had
+said to him to their High Mightinesses, in order that it might be
+transmitted to the several members of the sovereignty of this country,
+for their deliberations and decisions.--I have not yet been honoured
+with an answer. I now do myself the honour to wait on you, Sir, to
+demand, as I do, a categorical answer, that I may be able to transmit it
+to the United States of America.
+
+
+
+
+GUELDERLAND.
+
+
+In an extraordinary assembly of the county of Zutphen, held at Nimeguen
+the 23d of February, 1782, the following measures were taken.
+
+After the report of the Committee of this Province to the Generality,
+laid this day upon the table, relative to what passed in the precedent
+assembly, and after the examination of an extract of the register of the
+resolutions of their High Mightinesses the States General of the Low
+Countries, of the ninth of last month, in relation to the Ulteriour
+Address of Mr. Adams to the President of their High Mightinesses,
+concerning the presentation of his letters of credence to their High
+Mightinesses, in behalf of the United States of America, demanding a
+categorical answer, whereof the Lords the Deputies of the respective
+Provinces have taken copies; the Baron Robert Jasper van der Capellen de
+Marsch, first by word of mouth, and afterwards in writing, proposed, and
+insisted, at the assembly of this Quarter, that, at present, and without
+delay, we should make a point of deliberation, and that we should make
+upon the table the necessary overture, conceived more at length, in the
+advice of this nobleman, inserted in these terms:
+
+NOBLE AND MIGHTY LORDS!
+
+The subscriber judges, upon good grounds, and with out fear of being
+contradicted, that he is able to affirm, that it is more than time that
+we should give a serious attention to the offer and the invitation, in
+every sense honourable and advantageous for this Republic, of
+friendship, and reciprocal connections with the Thirteen American
+Provinces, now become free _at the point of the sword_, in such sort,
+that the categorical answer demanded by their Minister Mr. Adams, may
+become a subject of the deliberations of your Grand Mightinesses, and
+that you may decide as soon as possible, concerning their respective
+interests. He judges, that he ought not to have any farther scruple in
+this regard; and that the uncertain consequences of the mediation
+offered by Russia cannot, when certain advantages for this Republic are
+in question, hinder that, out of regard for an enemy, with whom we
+(however salutary the views of her Imperial Majesty are represented)
+cannot make any Peace, at the expence of a negligence so irreparable:
+that a longer delay, to unite ourselves to a nation already so powerful,
+will have for its consequence, that our inhabitants will lose the means
+of extending, in a manner the most advantageous, their commerce and
+their prosperity: That by the vigorous prohibition to import English
+manufactures into America, our manufactures, by means of precautions
+taken in time, will rise out of their state of languor: and that, by
+delaying longer to satisfy the wishes of the nation, her leaders will
+draw upon them the reproach of having neglected and rejected the
+favourable offers of Providence: that, on the contrary, by adopting
+these measures, the essential interests of this unfortunate people will
+be taken to heart.
+
+The subscriber declaring, moreover, that he will abandon this
+unpardonable negligence of an opportunity favourable for the Republic,
+to the account of those whom it may concern; protesting against all the
+fatal consequences that a longer refusal of these necessary measures
+will certainly occasion: whereupon he demanded, that for his discharge,
+this note should be inserted in the registers of the Quarter.
+
+_Signed_
+
+R. J. VAN DER CAPELLEN.
+
+
+This advice having been read, Mr. Jacob Adolf de Heekeren d'Enghuisen,
+Counsellor and first Master of Accounts in Guelderland, President at
+this time of the Assembly of the Quarter, represented to the said Robert
+Jasper van der Capellen de Marsch, that "Although he must agree to the
+justice of all that he had laid down, besides several other reasons,
+equally strong, which occurred to his mind, the deliberation upon the
+point in question appeared to him premature, considering that the Lords
+the States of Holland and West Friesland, and of Zealand, as the
+principal commercial Provinces, who are directly interested, had not
+nevertheless as yet explained themselves in this regard; consequently
+that it would not be so convenient for the States of this Duchy and
+County, who are not interested in it, but in a consequential and
+indirect manner, to form the first their resolutions in this respect:
+for this reason he proposed to consideration, whether it would not be
+more proper to postpone the deliberations upon this matter to a future
+opportunity."
+
+Nevertheless, the before-mentioned Robert Jasper van der Capellan de
+Marsch insisting, that the voices should be collected upon the
+proposition and advice in question, and thereupon having deliberated,
+their noble Mightinesses have thought fit to resolve, that although the
+motives alledged by this Nobleman in his advice, appear to merit a
+serious consideration, nevertheless, for the reasons before alleged,
+they judge, that they ought to suspend the decision of it, until the
+commercial Provinces have formed their resolutions concerning it: and
+that, upon the requisition of Robert Jasper van der Capellan de Marsch,
+there be delivered to him an extract of the present, upon one as well
+the other.
+
+_Signed_
+
+HERM. SCHOMAKER.
+
+
+
+
+PETITION OF LEYDEN.
+
+
+To the noble, great, and venerable Lords of the Grand Council of the
+city of Leyden.
+
+The undersigned, all manufacturers, merchants, and other traders of this
+city, most respectfully give to understand, that it is a truth, as
+melancholy, as it is universally known, that the declension of
+manufactures, which all the well-disposed citizens have remarked with
+the most lively grief, from the beginning of this century, has increased
+more and more for several years; and that this principal branch of the
+subsistence of the good citizens, has fallen into such a state of
+languor, that our city, once so flourishing, so populous, so celebrated,
+on account of its commerce and of its trades, appears to be threatened
+with total ruin; that the diminution of its merchants houses, on the one
+hand, and on the other, a total loss, or the sensible decrease of
+several branches of commerce, furnish an evident proof of it; which the
+petitioners could demonstrate by several examples, if there were need of
+them to convince. Your noble and grand Lordships, to whom the increase
+of the multitude of the poor, the deplorable situation of several
+families, heretofore in easy circumstances, the depopulation of the
+city, which one cannot observe without emotion in the ruins of several
+streets, once neat and well inhabited, are fully known, will recollect
+no doubt upon this occasion, with grief, that this state of languor must
+appear so much the more desperate, if your noble and grand lordships
+will take into consideration, that in this decay of trades and
+manufactures, we find a new reason of their farther fall, considering,
+that from the time there is not continual employment, and an
+uninterrupted sale, the workmen desert in such manner, that when
+considerable commissions arrive, we cannot find capable hands, and we
+see ourselves entirely out of a condition to execute these orders.
+
+That the petitioners, with all the true friends of their country,
+extremely affected with this alarming situation of so rich a source of
+the public prosperity, have indeed sought the means of a remedy, in
+amending some defects, from which it seemed to arise, at least in part;
+but that the measures taken in this view, as is well know to your noble
+and grand Lordships, have not had the desired effect; at least, that
+they have not produced a re-establishment so effectual, that we have
+been able to observe a sensible influence in the increase of the sales
+of the manufactures of Leyden, as appears most evidently, by a
+comparison of the pieces fabricated here, which have been heretofore
+carried to the divers markets of this city, with those which are carried
+there at this day; a comparison which a true citizen cannot of consider
+without regret.
+
+That experience has also taught the petitioners, that the principal
+cause of the decay of the manufactures of Holland, particularly those of
+Leyden, is not to be found in any internal vice, either in the capacity,
+or the oeconomy of the inhabitants, but in circumstances which have
+happened abroad; and to which it is, consequently, beyond the power of
+the petitioners, or of any citizen whatsoever, to provide a remedy. That
+we might cite, for example, the commerce of our manufactures with
+Dantzic; and, through that commercial city, with all Poland; a commerce
+which was carried on with success and advantage heretofore in our city,
+but is absolutely interrupted at this day, and vanished, by the
+revolution which has happened in that kingdom, and by the burthensome
+duties to which the navigation of the Vistula has been subjected. But
+that, without entering into a detail of similar particular shackles, of
+which we might reckon a great number; the principal cause of the
+languishing state of our manufactures consists in the jealous emulation
+of the neighbouring nations, or rather of all the people of Europe;
+considering that, in this age, the several princes and governments,
+enlightened in the real sources of the public prosperity, and the true
+interests of their subjects, attach themselves with emulation to revive
+in their kingdoms and states the national industry, commerce, and
+navigation; to encourage them, and promote them even by exclusive
+privileges, or by heavy impositions upon foreign merchandizes;
+privileges and impositions, which tend equally to the prejudice of the
+commerce and the manufactures of our country, as your noble and grand
+Lordships will easily recollect the examples in the Austrian states and
+elsewhere.
+
+That in the midst of these powers and nations, emulous or jealous, it is
+impossible for the citizens of our Republic, however superior their
+manufactures may be in quality and fineness, to resist a rivalry so
+universal; especially considering the dearness of labour, caused by that
+of the means of subsistence; which, in its turn, is a necessary
+consequence of the taxes and imposts which the inhabitants of this State
+pay in a greater number, and a higher rate, than in any other country,
+by reason of her natural situation, and of its means to support itself;
+so that by the continual operation of this principal, but irreparable
+cause of decline, it is to be feared, that the impoverishment and the
+diminution of the good citizens increasing with the want of employment,
+the Dutch nation, heretofore the purveyor of all Europe, will be obliged
+to content itself with the sale of its own productions in the interior
+of the country; (and how much does not even this resource suffer by the
+importation of foreign manufactures?) and that Leyden, lately so rich
+and flourishing, will exhibit desolated quarters in its declining
+streets; and its multitude, disgraced with want and misery; an affecting
+proof of the sudden fall of countries formerly overflowing with
+prosperity.
+
+That, if we duly consider these motives, no citizen, whose heart is
+upright, (as the petitioners assure themselves) much less your noble and
+grand Lordships, whose good dispositions they acknowledge with
+gratitude, will take it amiss, that we have fixed our eyes on the
+present conjuncture of affairs, to enquire whether these times might not
+furnish them some means of reviving the languishing manufactures of
+Leyden; and that after a consideration well matured, they flatter
+themselves with the hope (a hope which unprejudiced men will not regard
+as a vain chimera) that in fact, by the present circumstances, there
+opens in their favour an issue for arriving at the re-establishment
+desired.
+
+That from the time when the rupture between Great Britain and the
+Colonies upon the continent of North America appeared to be irreparable,
+every attentive spectator of this event perceived, or at least was
+convinced, that this rupture, by which there was born a republic, as
+powerful as industrious, in the new world, would have the most important
+consequences for commerce and navigation; and that the other commercial
+nations of Europe would soon share in a very considerable commerce,
+whereof the kingdom of Great Britain had reserved to itself, until that
+time, the exclusive possession by its Act of Navigation, and by the
+other acts of parliament prescribed to the Colonies; that in the time of
+it, this reflection did not escape your petitioners; and they foresaw,
+from that time, the advantage which might arise, in the sequel, from a
+revolution so important for the United Provinces in general, and for
+their native city in particular. But that they should have been afraid
+to have placed this favourable occasion before the eyes of your noble
+and grand Lordships, at an epoch when the relations which connected our
+Republic with Great Britain, her neighbour, seemed to forbid all
+measures of this nature, or at least ought to make them be considered as
+out of season.
+
+That, in the mean time, this reason of silence has entirely ceased, by
+the hostilities which the said kingdom has commenced against our
+Republic, under pretences, and in a manner the injustice of which has
+been demonstrated by the supreme government of the State, with an
+irrefragable evidence, in the eyes of impartial Europe; whilst the
+petitioners themselves, by the illegal capture of so large a number of
+Dutch ships, and afterwards by the absolute stagnation of navigation,
+and of voyages to foreign countries, have experienced in the most
+grievous manner, the consequences of this hostile and unforeseen attack,
+and feel them still every day, as is abundantly known to your noble and
+grand Lordships. That since that epoch, a still more considerable number
+of workmen must have remained without employment, and several fathers of
+families have quitted the city, abandoning, to the farther expense of
+the treasury of the poor, their wives and their children plunged in
+misery.
+
+That during this rupture, which has subsisted now for fifteen months,
+there has occurred another circumstance, which has encouraged the
+petitioners still more, and which to them appears to be of such a
+nature, that they would be guilty of an excessive indifference, and an
+unpardonable negligence towards the city, towards the lower class of
+inhabitants, towards their own families, and towards themselves, if
+they should delay any longer to lay open their interests to your noble
+and grand Lordships, in a manner the most respectful, but the most
+energetic; to wit, that the United States of America have very
+rigorously forbidden, by a resolution of Congress, agreed to in all the
+Thirteen States, the importation of all English manufactures, and in
+general, all the merchandizes fabricated in the dominions which yet
+remain to Great Britain. That the effect of this prohibition must
+necessarily be a spirit of emulation between all the commercial nations
+to take place of the British merchants and manufacturers in this
+important branch of exportation, which is entirely cut off from them at
+this day. That nevertheless, among all the nations there is none which
+can entertain a hope, better founded, and more sure, in this respect,
+than the citizens of this free Republic, whether on account of the
+identity of religion, the fashion of living, and the manners, whether
+because of the extent of its commerce, and the convenience of its
+navigation, but above all, by reason of the activity and good faith,
+which still distinguishes (without boasting too much) the Dutch nation
+above all other people; qualities in consideration of which, the
+citizens of United America are inclined even at present, to prefer, in
+equal circumstances, the citizens of our free States, to every other
+nation.
+
+That, nevertheless, all relations and connections of commerce between
+the two people, cannot but be uncertain and fluctuating, as long as
+their offers and reciprocal engagements are not fixed and regulated by a
+treaty of commerce. That at this day, if ever, (according to the
+respectful opinion of the petitioners) there exists a necessity the most
+absolute for the conclusion of a similar treaty of commerce, there,
+where we may say with truth, that there arises for the Republic, for our
+Leyden especially, a moment, which once escaped, perhaps never will
+return; since the national assembly of Great Britain, convinced, by a
+terrible and fatal experience, of the absolute impossibility of
+re-attaching united America to the British crown, has laid before the
+throne its desire to conclude a necessary peace with a people, free as
+this day at the price of their blood: So that if this peace should be
+once concluded, the Dutch nation would see itself perhaps excluded from
+all advantages of commerce with this new Republic, or at least would be
+treated by her with an indifference, which the small value which we
+should have put upon its friendship in former times, would seem to
+merit.
+
+That, supposing, for a moment, that a peace between England and United
+America were not so near as we have reason to presume, not without
+probability, there would be found in that case nations enough who will
+be jealous of acquiring, after the example of France, the earliest right
+to commerce with a country, which already peopled by several millions of
+inhabitants, augments every day in population, in a manner incredible;
+but, as a new people, unprovided as yet with several necessary articles,
+will procure a rich, even an immense outlet, for the fabricks and
+manufactures of Europe.
+
+That, however manifest the interest which the petitioners and all the
+citizens of Leyden would have in the conclusion of such a treaty of
+commerce, they would however have made a scruple to lay before the
+paternal eyes of your noble and grand Lordships the utility, or rather
+the necessity of such a measure, in respect to them, if they could
+believe, that their particular advantage would be, in any wise, contrary
+to the more universal interests of all the Republic. But, as far as the
+petitioners may judge, as citizens, of the situation, and the political
+existence of their country, they are ignorant of any reasons of this
+kind: but, on the contrary, they dare appeal to the unanimous voice of
+their fellow-citizens, well intentioned, in the other cities and
+provinces, even of the Regents the most distinguished; since it is
+universally known that the Province of Friesland has already preceded
+the other confederates, by a resolution for opening negotiations with
+America; and that in other Provinces, which have an interest less direct
+in commerce and manufactures, celebrated Regents appear to wait merely
+for the example of the commercial Provinces, for taking a similar
+resolution.
+
+That the petitioners will not detain the attention of your noble and
+grand Mightinesses by a more ample detail of their reasons and motives,
+since, on one hand, they assure themselves, that these reasons and
+motives will not escape the enlightened and attentive judgment of your
+grand and noble Lordships; and on the other, they know by experience,
+that your grand and noble Lordships are disposed not to suffer any
+occasion to pass for promoting the well-being of their city, for
+advancing the prosperity of the citizens, to render their names dear to
+their contemporaries, and make them blessed by posterity.
+
+In which firm expectation, the petitioners address themselves to this
+grand Council with the respectful but serious request, that it may
+please your noble and great Lordships, to direct, by their powerful
+influence, thing in such sort, that, in the Assembly highly respected of
+their noble and grand Mightinesses the Lords the States of Holland and
+West Friesland, there be opened deliberations, or if already opened,
+carried as speedily as possible to an effectual conclusion, such as they
+shall find the most proper for obtaining the lawful end, and fulfilling
+the desires of the petitioners, or as they shall judge conformable to
+the general interest.
+
+So doing, &c.
+
+
+
+
+LEYDEN.
+
+_AN ADDRESS of Thanks, with a farther Petition_.
+
+
+To the noble, great, and venerable lords, the great council of the city
+of Leyden,
+
+The undersigned manufacturers, merchants, and other traders, interested
+in the manufactures and fabrics of this city, give respectfully to
+understand,
+
+That a number of the undersigned, having taken, the 18th of March, the
+liberty to present to your noble and great Lordships, a respectful
+request to obtain the conclusion of connections of commerce with United
+America, "the petitioners judge that they ought to hold it for a duty,
+as agreeable as indispensible, to testify their sincere gratitude, not
+only for the gracious manner in which your noble and great Lordships
+have been pleased to accept that request, but also for the patriotic
+resolution that your noble and great Lordships have taken upon its
+object; a resolution, in virtue of which the city of Leyden (as the
+petitioners have the best reasons to suppose) hath been one of the first
+cities of this province, from whose unanimous co-operation has
+originated the resolution of their noble and grand Mightinesses, of the
+date of the 28th of March last, to direct things on the part of their
+noble and grand Mightinesses, in the assembly of the States General, and
+to make there the strongest instances, to the end that Mr. Adams may be
+admitted and acknowledged as Minister of the United States of America."
+
+That the petitioners regard, with all honest-hearted citizens, the
+present epoch as one of the most glorious in the annals of our dear
+country, seeing that there has been manifested, in a most signal manner,
+on the one hand, a confidence the most cordial of the good citizens
+towards their regents, and on the other hand a paternal attention and
+deference of the regents to the respectful but well-founded prayers of
+their faithful citizens; and, in general, the most exemplary unanimity
+throughout the whole nation, to the confusion of those who, having
+endeavoured to sow the seeds of discord, would have rejoiced if they
+could say, with truth, that a dissention so fatal had rooted itself to
+the ruin of the country and of the people.
+
+That the petitioners, feeling themselves penetrated with the most
+pleasing emotions, by an harmony so universal, cannot pass over in
+silence the reflection that your noble and great Lordships, taking a
+resolution the most favourable upon the said request, have discovered
+thereby, that they would not abandon the footsteps of their ancestors,
+who found, in the united sentiments of magistrates and citizens, the
+resources necessary to resist a powerful oppressor, who even would not
+have undertaken that difficult, but glorious task, if they had not been
+supported by the voice of the most respectable part of the nation.
+
+That encouraged by this reflection, the petitioners assure themselves,
+that your noble and great Lordships will honour, with the same
+approbation, the step which they take to day, to recommend to your noble
+and great Lordships, in a manner the most respectful, but at the same
+time the most pressing, the prompt and efficacious execution of the
+aforesaid resolution of their noble and grand Mightinesses of the 28th
+of March last, with every thing which depends thereon; a proceeding
+which does not spring from a desire, on the part of the petitioners, to
+raise themselves above the sphere of their duties and vocations, or to
+interfere, indiscreetly, in the affairs of government, but only from a
+conviction that it cannot but be agreeable to well intentioned regents
+(such as your noble and great Lordships have shewn yourselves by deeds
+to your good citizens) to see themselves applauded in their salutary
+efforts and patriotic designs, and supported against the perverse views,
+and secret machinations of the ill-disposed, who, however small their
+number, are always found in a nation.
+
+That although the petitioners may be convinced that their noble and
+grand Mightinesses, having taken a resolution so agreeable to all true
+patriots, will not neglect to employ means to carry it to an efficacious
+conclusion among the other confederates, and to procure to the good
+citizens the real enjoyment of the commerce with United America, they
+cannot, nevertheless, dissemble that, lately, some new reasons have
+arisen, which make them conceive some fears respecting the prompt
+consummation of this desirable affair.
+
+That the probability of an offer of peace, on the part of Great-Britain,
+to United America, whereof the petitioners made mention in their former
+request, having at present become a full certainty by the revolution
+arrived since in the British ministry, they have not learned without
+uneasiness the attempt made, at the same time, by the new ministers of
+the court of London, to involve this state in a negociation for a
+separate peace, the immediate consequence of which would be (as the
+petitioners fear) a cessation of all connections with the American
+Republic, whilst that in the mean time our Republic, deprived on the one
+hand of the advantages which it reasonably promises itself from these
+connections, might, on the other hand, be detained by negociations, spun
+out to a great length, and not effect till late, perhaps after the other
+belligerent powers, a separate peace with England.
+
+That, in effect, the difficulties which oppose themselves to a like
+partial pacification are too multiplied for one to promise himself to
+see them suddenly removed, such as the restitution of the possessions
+taken from the state, and retaken from the English by France, a
+restitution which is become thereby impracticable, the indemnification
+of the immense losses that the unexpected and perfidious attack of
+England hath caused to the Dutch nation in general, to the petitioners
+in particular; the assurance of a free navigation for the future, upon
+the principles of the armed neutrality, and conformably to the law of
+nations; the dissolution of the bonds which, without being productive of
+any utility to the two nations, have been a source of contestations,
+always springing up, and which, in every war between Great-Britain and
+any other power, have threatened to involve our Republic in it, or have
+in effect done it; the annihilation, if possible, of the act of
+navigation, an act which carries too evident marks of the supremacy
+affected by England over all other maritime people, not to attract
+attention at the approaching negociation of peace; finally, the
+necessity of breaking the yoke that Great-Britain would impose on our
+flag, to make her's respected in the Northern Ocean, as the seat of her
+maritime empire; and other objects of this nature, which, as the
+petulant proceedings of the court of London have given rise to them,
+will certainly furnish matter for claims and negociations.
+
+That as, by these considerations, a speedy consummation of a separate
+peace with England is out of all probability, especially when one
+compares with them the dubious and limited manner in which it is
+offered; on the other hand, a general peace appears not to be so far
+distant, as that to obtain a more prompt reconciliation with England,
+the Republic hath occasion to abandon its interests relative to North
+America, seeing that the British government hath resolved, upon the
+request of the national assembly, even to discontinue offensive
+hostilities against the new Republic; and that, even under the present
+administration of the new ministers, it appears ready to acknowledge
+positively its independence; an acknowledgment which, in removing the
+principal stumbling block of a negociation of a general peace, will pave
+the way to a prompt explication of all the difficulties between the
+belligerent powers.
+
+That the petitioners should exceed much the bounds of their plan, if
+they entered into a more ample detail of the reasons which might be
+alleged upon this subject, and which certainly will not escape the
+political penetration of your noble and great Lordships; among others,
+the engagements recently entered into with the Court of France, and
+which will not be violated by our Republic, which acknowledges the
+sanctity of its engagements, and respects them: but which will serve
+much rather to convince the Empress of Russia of the impossibility of
+entering, in the present juncture of affairs, into such a negociation as
+the court of London proposes, when even it will not be permitted to
+presume but that Sovereign will feel herself the change of circumstances
+which have happened with regard to America since the offer of her
+mediation, by the revolution in the British ministry, and that she ought
+even to regard a separate peace between our State and England, as the
+most proper mean to retard the general tranquillity, that she hath
+endeavoured to procure to all the commercial nations now in war.
+
+That from these motives the petitioners respectfully hope that the
+aforesaid offer of England will occasion no obstacle which may prevent
+that the resolution of their noble and grand Mightinesses to acknowledge
+the independence of North America, and to conclude with that power a
+treaty of commerce, may not have a prompt execution, nor that even one
+only of the other confederates will suffer itself to be diverted thereby
+from the design of opening unanimously with this Province, and the
+others which have declared themselves conformably with Holland,
+negociations with the United States, and of terminating them as soon as
+possible.
+
+That the favourable resolutions already taken for this effect in
+Zealand, Utrecht, Overyssel, and at present (as the petitioners learn)
+in the Province of Groningen after the examples of Holland and
+Friesland, confirm them in that hope, and seem to render entirely
+superfluous, a request that, in every other case, the petitioners would
+have found themselves obliged to make with the commercial Citizens of
+the other Cities, to the end that, by the resistance of one Province,
+not immediately interested in commerce and navigation, they might not be
+deprived of the advantages and of the protection, that the sovereign
+Assembly of their proper Provinces had been disposed to procure them,
+without it; but that, to the end to provide for it, their noble and
+grand Mightinesses, and the States of the other Provinces in this
+respect, unanimous with them, should make use of the power which belongs
+to each free State of our federative Republic; at least in regard to
+treaties of commerce, of which there exists an example in 1649, not only
+in a treaty of redemption of the toll of the Sound, but also in a
+defensive treaty concluded with the Crown of Denmark, by the three
+Provinces of Guelderland, Holland, and Friesland.
+
+But as every apprehension of a similar dissension, among the members of
+the confederation, appears at present absolutely unseasonable, the
+petitioners will confine themselves rather to another request, to wit,
+that after the formation of connections of commerce with North America,
+the effectual enjoyment of it may be assured to the commercial Citizens
+of this country, by a sufficient protection of their navigation; without
+which the conclusion even of such a treaty of commerce would be
+absolutely illusory. That, for a long time, especially the last year,
+the petitioners have tasted the bitter fruits of the defenceless state
+in which the Dutch flag has been incessantly found; as they have already
+said, conformably to the truth, in their first request, "that by the
+total stagnation of the navigation, and of expeditions, they have felt,
+in the most painful manner, the effects of the hostile and unexpected
+attack of Great Britain, and that they feel them still every day." That,
+in the mean time, this stagnation of commerce, absolutely abandoned to
+the rapacity of an enemy greedy of pillage, and destitute of all
+protection whatever, hath appeared to the petitioners, as well as to all
+the other commercial inhabitants; yes! even to all true Citizens, so
+much the more hard and afflicting, as they not only have constantly
+contributed, with a good heart, to all the public imports, but that, at
+the time even that the commerce was absolutely abandoned to itself, and
+deprived of all safeguard, it supported a double charge to obtain that
+protection which it hath never enjoyed; seeing that the hope of such a
+protection (the Republic not being entirely without maritime force) hath
+appeared indeed more than once, but always vanished in the most
+unexpected manner, by accidents and impediments, which, if they have
+given rise, perhaps wrongfully, to discontent and to distrust among the
+good Citizens, will not nevertheless be read and meditated by posterity
+without surprize.
+
+That, without intention to legitimate, in any manner, the suspicions
+arising from this failure of protection, the petitioners believe
+themselves, nevertheless, with all proper respect, warranted in
+addressing their complaints on this head, to the bosoms of your noble
+and great Lordships, and (seeing that the commerce with North America
+cannot subsist without navigation, no more than navigation without a
+safeguard) in reckoning upon the active direction, the useful
+employment, and prompt augmentation of our naval forces, in proportion
+to the means which shall be the most proper effectually to secure to the
+commerce of this Republic the fruits of its connections with United
+North America.
+
+For which reasons, the petitioners, returning their solemn thanks to
+your noble and great Lordships, for the favourable resolution taken upon
+their request the 18th of March last, address themselves anew to you on
+this occasion, with the respectful prayer, "That it may graciously
+please your noble and great Lordships to be willing to effectuate by
+your powerful influence, whether in the illustrious assembly of their
+noble and grand Mightinesses, whether among the other Confederates, or
+elsewhere, there, and in such manner, as your noble and great Lordships
+shall judge most proper, that the resolution of their noble and grand
+Mightinesses of the date of the 28th of March last, for the admission of
+Mr. Adams, in quality of Minister of the United States of America, be
+promptly executed; and that the petitioners, with the other commercial
+Citizens, obtain the effectual enjoyment of a treaty of commerce with
+the said Republic, as well by the activity of the marine of the State,
+and the protection of commerce and navigation, as by all other measures,
+that your noble and great Lordships with the other members of the
+Sovereign Government of the Republic, shall judge to tend to the public
+good, and to serve to the prosperity of our dear country, as well as to
+the maintenance of its precious liberties."
+
+_So doing, &c._
+
+
+
+
+ROTTERDAM.
+
+_PETITION of the Merchants, Insurers, and Freighters of Rotterdam to the
+Regency of that City_.
+
+
+Give to understand, in the most respectful manner, that it is
+sufficiently notorious that the inhabitants of this Republic have, as
+well as any other nation, an interest, that they give us an opportunity
+to open a free communication and correspondence with the inhabitants of
+America, by making a treaty of commerce, as Mr. Adams has represented in
+his memorial; to which they add, that the advantages which must result
+from it, are absolutely the only means of reviving the fallen commerce
+of this country; for re-establishing the navigation, and for repairing
+the great damages which the perfidious proceedings of the English have,
+for so many years, caused to the commercial part of this country.
+
+That with all due respect, they represent to the venerable Regency the
+danger we run, in prolonging farther the deliberations concerning the
+article of an alliance of commerce with North America; being moreover
+certain that the interposition of this State cannot add any thing more
+to the solidity of its independence, and that the English Ministry has
+even made to the Deputies of the American Congress propositions to what
+point they would establish a correspondence there, to our prejudice, and
+thereby deprive the inhabitants of this country of the certain
+advantages which might result from this reciprocal commerce; and that
+thus we ought not to delay one day, nor even one hour, to try all the
+efforts, that we may pursue the negociation offered by Mr. Adams, and
+that we may decide finally upon it. Whereupon the petitioners represent,
+with all respect possible, but at the same time with the firmest
+confidence, to the venerable Regency of this City, that they would
+authorize and qualify the Lords theirs Deputies at the Assembly of their
+noble and grand Mightinesses, to the end, that they insist in a manner
+the most energetic, at the Assembly of their noble and grand
+Mightinesses, that the resolution demanded may be taken without the
+least delay, to the end that, on the part of this Province, it be
+effected, at the Assembly of the States General, that the American
+Minister, Mr. Adams be as soon as possible admitted to the audience
+which he has demanded, and that they take with him the determinations
+necessary to render free and open to the reciprocal inhabitants, the
+correspondence demanded.
+
+_So doing, &c._
+
+
+
+
+_The PETITIONS of the Merchants, and Manufacturers of HAERLEM, LEIDEN,
+and AMSTERDAM, which have been presented, on the twentieth of March, to
+their HIGH MIGHTINESSES, were accompanied with another to the STATES of
+HOLLAND and WEST FRIESLAND, conceived in these Terms._
+
+
+The subscribers, inhabitants of this country, merchants, manufacturers,
+and others, living by commerce, give with all respect to understand,
+that they have the honour to annex hereto a copy of a petition presented
+by them to their High Mightinesses, the States-General of the United Low
+Countries. The importance of the thing which it contains, the
+considerable commerce which these countries might establish in North
+America, the profits which we might draw from it, and the importance of
+industry and manufactures, by the relation which they have with commerce
+in general, as well as the navigation to that extensive country; all
+these objects have made them take the liberty to represent, in the most
+respectful manner, this great affair for them, and for the connections
+which the petitioners may have, in quality of manufacturers, with the
+merchants, most humbly praying your noble and grand Mightinesses, for
+the acquisition of these important branches of commerce, and for the
+advantage of all the manufactures, and other works of labour and of
+traffic, to be so good as to take this petition, and the reasons which
+it contains, into your high consideration, and to favour it with your
+powerful support and protection, and by a favourable resolution, which
+may be taken at the Assembly of their High Mightinesses, to direct, on
+the part of this Province, things in such a manner, that for obtaining
+this commerce so desired and so necessary for this Republic, that there
+be concerted such efficacious measures, as the high wisdom and patriotic
+sentiments of your noble and grand Mightinesses may find convenient, for
+the well-being of so great a number of inhabitants, and for the
+prejudice of their enemies.
+
+_So doing, &c._
+
+
+
+
+DORDRECHT.
+
+
+At Dordrecht there has not been presented any petition. But on the
+twentieth of March, the merchants, convinced by redoubled proofs of the
+zeal, and of the efforts of their Regency, for the true interests of
+commerce, judged it unnecessary to present a petition after the example
+of the merchants of other cities. They contented themselves with
+testifying verbally their desire that there might be contracted
+connections of commerce with the United States of America: That this
+step had been crowned with such happy success, that the same day 20th of
+March, 1782, it was resolved, by the ancient Council, to authorize their
+deputies, at the Assembly of Holland, to concur in every manner
+possible, that, without delay, Mr. Adams be acknowledged in his quality
+of Minister Plenipotentiary; that his letters of credence be accepted;
+and conferences opened upon this object.
+
+
+
+
+ZWOLL
+
+IN OVERYSSEL.
+
+
+The subscribers, all merchants, manufacturers, and factors of the city
+of Zwoll, give respectfully to understand, that every one of them, in
+his private concerns, finds by experience, as well as the inhabitants of
+the Republic in general, the grievous effects of the decay into which
+commerce, and the manufactures of this country are fallen, little by
+little, and above all, since the hostile attack of the kingdom of
+England against this State; that it being their duty to their country,
+as well as to themselves, to make use of all the circumstances which
+might contribute to their re-establishment, the requisition made not
+long since by Mr. Adams to the Republic, to wit, to conclude a treaty of
+commerce with the United States of North America, could not escape their
+attention; an affair, the utility, advantage, and necessity of which,
+for these Provinces, are so evident, and have been so often proved in an
+incontestible manner, that the petitioners will not fatigue your noble
+Lordships, by placing them before you, nor the general interests of this
+city, nor the particular relations of the petitioners, considering that
+they are convinced, in the first place, that England making against the
+Republic the most ruinous war, and having broken every treaty with her,
+all kind of complaisance for that kingdom is unseasonable.
+
+In the second place, that America, which ought to be regarded as become
+free at the point of the sword, and as willing, by the prohibition of
+all the productions and manufactures of England, to break absolutely
+with that kingdom; it is precisely the time, and perhaps the only time,
+in which we may have a favourable opportunity to enter into connection
+with this new and powerful Republic; a time which we cannot neglect
+without running the greatest risque of being irrevocably prevented by
+the other powers, and even by England. Thus we take the liberty
+respectfully to supplicate your noble Lordships, that, having shewn, for
+a long time, that you set a value upon the formation of alliances with
+powerful states, you may have the goodness, at the approaching assembly
+of the nobility, and of the cities forming the States of this Province,
+to redouble your efforts, to the end that, in the name of this country,
+it may be decided at the Generality, that Mr. Adams be acknowledged, and
+the proposed negotiations opened as soon as possible.
+
+So doing, &c.
+
+
+
+
+PETITION OF AMSTERDAM.
+
+
+To their High Mightinesses, the States General of the United Provinces,
+the undersigned, merchants, manufacturers, and others, inhabitants
+living by commerce in this country, give respectfully to understand:
+
+That, although the petitioners have always relied, with entire
+confidence, upon the administration and the resolutions of your High
+Mightinesses, and it is against their inclinations to interrupt your
+important deliberations, they think, however, that they ought, at this
+time to take the liberty; and believe as well intentioned inhabitants,
+that it is their indispensible duty in the present moment, which is most
+critical for the Republic, to lay humbly before your High Mightinesses
+their interests.
+
+What good citizen in the Republic, having at heart the interest of his
+dear country, can dissemble, or represent to himself without dismay, the
+sad situation to which we are reduced by the attack, equally sudden,
+unjust, and perfidious of the English? Who would have dared two years
+ago to foretell, and, notwithstanding the dark clouds which even then
+began to form themselves, could even have imagined that our commerce and
+our navigation, with the immense affairs which depend upon them, the
+support and the prosperity of this Republic, could have fallen and
+remained in such a terrible decay? that in 1780, more than two thousands
+of Dutch vessels having passed the Sound, not one was found upon the
+list in 1781? That the ocean, heretofore covered with our vessels,
+should see at present scarcely any? and that we may be reduced to see
+our navigation, formerly so much respected and preferred by all the
+nations, pass entirely into the hands of other powers? It would be
+superfluous to endeavour to explain at length the damages, the enormous
+losses, which our inhabitants have sustained by the sudden invasion and
+the pillage of the colonies, and of their ships; disasters, which not
+only fall directly upon the merchant, but which have also a general
+influence, and make themselves felt in the most melancholy manner, even
+by the lowest artisans and labourers, by the languor which they occasion
+in commerce. But, how great soever they may be, it might, perhaps, be
+possible, by the aid of the paternal cares of your High Mightinesses,
+and by opposing a vigorous resistance to the enemy, already enervated,
+to repair in time all these losses, (without mentioning
+indemnifications) if this stagnation of commerce was only momentary, and
+if the industrious merchant did not see beforehand the sources of his
+future felicity dried up. It is this gloomy foresight which, in this
+moment, afflicts, in the highest degree, the petitioners; for, it would
+be the height of folly and inconsideration to desire still to flatter
+ourselves, and to remain quiet, in the expectation that, after the
+conclusion of the peace, the business, at present turned out of its
+direction, should return entirely into this country; for experience
+shews the contrary in a manner the most convincing; and it is most
+probable, that the same nations, who are actually in possession of it,
+will preserve, at that time, the greatest part of it. Your alarmed
+petitioners throw their eyes round every where, to discover new sources,
+capable of procuring them more success, in future. They even flatter
+themselves that they have found them upon the new theatre of commerce
+which the United States of America offer them; a commerce, of which, in
+this moment, but in this moment only, they believe themselves to be in a
+condition to be able to assure to themselves a good share; and the great
+importance of which, joined to the fear of seeing escape from their
+hands this only and last resource, has induced them to take the
+resolution to lay open respectfully their observations concerning this
+important object to your High Mightinesses, with the earnest prayer that
+you would consider them with a serious attention, and not interpret in
+ill part this measure of the petitioners, especially as their future
+well-being, perhaps even that of the whole Republic, depends on the
+decision of this affair.
+
+No man can call in question that England has derived her greatest forces
+from her commerce with America; those immense treasures, which that
+commerce has poured into the coffers of the state; the uncommon
+prosperity of several of her commercial houses, the extreme reputation
+of her manufactures, the consumption of which, in quantities beyond all
+bounds, contributes efficaciously to their perfection, are convincing
+proofs of it. However it may be, and notwithstanding the supposition,
+too lightly adopted, that we cannot imitate the British manufactures,
+the manufacture of painted linens of Rouen; those of wool of Amiens, of
+Germany, of Overyssel; and the Pins of Zwoll prove visibly that all
+things need not be drawn from England; and that, moreover, we are as
+well in a condition, or shall soon be, to equal them in several
+respects.
+
+Permit us, high and mighty Lords, to the end to avoid all further
+digression, to request in this regard the attention of your High
+Mightinesses to the situation of commerce in France at the beginning of
+the war. Continual losses had almost ruined it altogether. Like ours,
+several of her merchants failed of capitals; and others wanted courage
+to continue their commerce; her manufactures languished; the people
+groaned; in one word, every thing there marked out the horrors of war.
+But, at present, her maritime towns, overpeopled, have occasion to be
+enlarged; her manufactures, having arrived at a degree of exportation
+unknown before, begin to perfect themselves more and more, in such a
+degree, that the melancholy consequences of the war are scarcely felt in
+that kingdom. But, since it is incontestible that this favourable
+alteration results almost entirely from its commerce with America, that
+even this has taken place in time of war; which, moreover, is ever
+prejudicial, we leave it to the enlightened judgment of your High
+Mightinesses to decide, what it is that we may expect from a commerce of
+this nature, even at present, but especially in time of peace. In the
+mean time, we have had the happiness to make a trial, of short duration
+it is true, but very strong in proportion to its continuance, in our
+colony of St. Eustatia, of the importance of the commerce, though not
+direct, with North America. The registers of the West India Company may
+furnish proofs of it very convincing to your High Mightinesses; in fact,
+their productions are infinitely suitable to our market; whilst, on our
+side, we have to send them several articles of convenience and of
+necessity from our own country; or from the neighbouring states of
+Germany. Moreover, several of our languishing manufactures, scattered
+in the seven United Provinces, may perhaps be restored to their former
+vigour, by means of bounties, or the diminution of imposts. The
+importance of manufactures for a country is sufficiently proved, by the
+considerable gratifications promised and paid by British policy for
+their encouragement, and by the advantages which that kingdom has
+procured to itself by this means, even beyond what had been expected.
+
+The petitioners know perfectly well the obstacles, almost
+insurmountable, which always oppose themselves to the habitual use of
+new manufactures, although certainly better in quality; and they dare
+advance, without hesitation, that several of our manufactures are
+superior to those of the English. A moment more favourable can never
+offer itself than the present, when, by a resolution of Congress, the
+importation of all the effects of the produce of Great Britain, and of
+her colonies, is forbidden; which reduces the merchant and the purchaser
+to the necessity of recurring to other merchandises, the use of which
+will serve to dissipate the prejudice conceived against them. It is not
+only the manufactures, high and mighty Lords, which promise a permanent
+advantage to our Republic. The navigation will derive also great
+advantages; for it is very far from being true (as several would
+maintain) that the Americans, being once in the tranquil possession of
+their independence, would themselves exercise with vigour these two
+branches; and that in the sequel, we shall be wholly frustrated of them.
+Whoever has the least knowledge of the country of America, and of its
+vast extent, knows that the number of inhabitants is not there in
+proportion. That even the two banks of the Mississippi, the most
+beautiful tract of this country, otherwise so fertile, remain still
+uncultivated; and as there are wanted so many hands, it is not at all
+probable to presume, that they will or can occupy themselves to
+establish new manufactures, both because of the new charges, which they
+would put upon the augmentation and exportation of their productions.
+
+It is then for these same reasons (the want of population) that they
+will scarcely find the hands necessary to take advantage of the
+fisheries, which are the property of their country; which will certainly
+oblige them to abandon to us the navigation of freight. There is not
+therefore any one of our provinces, much less any one of our cities,
+which cannot enjoy the advantage of this commerce: No, high and mighty
+Lords, the petitioners are persuaded that the utility and the benefit of
+it will spread itself over all the provinces and countries of the
+Generality. Guelderland and Overyssel cannot too much extend their
+manufactures of wool, of swanskin, and other things; even the shoemakers
+of the mayoralty, and of Langstret, will find a considerable opening;
+almost all the manufactures of Utrecht and of Leyden will flourish anew.
+Harlem will see revive its manufactures of stuffs, of laces of ribbons,
+of twist, at present in the lowest state of decay. Delft will see vastly
+augmented the sale of its earthen ware, and Gouda that of its
+tobacco-pipes.
+
+However great may be the advantages foreseen by the petitioners, from a
+legal commerce duly protected with America, their fear is not less, lest
+we should suffer to escape the happy moment of assuring to them, and to
+all the Republic, these advantages. The present moment must determine
+the whole. The English nation is weary of the war; and as that people
+runs easily into extremes, the petitioners are afraid, with strong
+probable appearances, that a compleat acknowledgment of American
+independence will soon take place; above all, if the English see an
+opportunity of being able still to draw from America some conditions
+favourable for them, or at least something to our disadvantage. Ah! what
+is it which should instigate the Americans in making peace, and renewing
+friendship with Great Britain, to have any regard for the interests of
+our republic? If England could only obtain for a condition, that we
+should be obliged to pay duties more burthensome for our vessels, this
+would be not only a continual and permanent prejudice; but would be
+sufficient to transmit to posterity, a lamentable proof of our excessive
+deference for unbridled enemies.
+
+The petitioners dare flatter themselves that a measure so frank of this
+Republic, may powerfully serve for the acceleration of a general peace.
+A general ardour to extinguish the flames of war reigns in England; an
+upright and vigorous conduct, on the part of this Republic, will
+contribute to accelerate the accomplishment of the wishes for peace.
+
+We flatter ourselves, high and mighty Lords, that we have in this regard
+alleged sufficient reasons for an immediate decision; and that we have
+so visibly proved the danger of delay, that we dare to hope from the
+paternal equity of your High Mightinesses, a reasonable attention to the
+respectful proposition which we have made. It proceeds from no other
+motive than a sincere affection for the precious interests of our dear
+country; since we consider it as certain, that as soon as the step taken
+by us shall be known by the English, and that they shall have the least
+hope of preventing us, they will not fail, as soon as possible, to
+acknowledge American independence. Supported by all these reasons, the
+petitioners address themselves to your High Mightinesses, humbly
+requesting that it may please your High Mightinesses, after the
+occurrences and affairs above-mentioned, to take, for the greatest
+advantage of this country, as soon as possible, such resolution as your
+High Mightinesses shall judge most convenient.
+
+This doing, &c.
+
+
+
+
+PETITION
+
+To the Burgomasters and Regents of
+
+AMSTERDAM:
+
+
+The subscribers, all merchants and manufacturers of this city, with all
+due respect, give to understand: That the difference arisen between the
+kingdom of Great Britain and the United States of America, has not only
+given occasion for a long and violent war, but that the arms of America
+have covered themselves with a success so happy, that the Congress,
+assisted by the Courts of France and Spain, have so well established
+their liberty and independence, and reduced Great Britain to extremities
+so critical, that the House of Commons in England, notwithstanding all
+the opposition of the British Ministry, have lately formed the important
+resolution to turn the King from an offensive war against America, with
+no other design than to accelerate, if it is possible, a reconciliation
+with America.
+
+That to this happy revolution in the dispositions of the English in
+favour of the liberty and independence of America, according to all
+appearances, the resolution taken by the Congress, towards the end of
+the last year, to wit, to forbid in all America the importation of
+British manufactures and productions, has greatly contributed: a
+resolution, of which they perceive in England, too visibly, the
+consequences ruinous to their manufactures, trade, commerce, and
+navigation, to be able to remain indifferent in this regard. For all
+other commercial nations, who take to heart, ever so little, their own
+prosperity, will apply themselves ardently, to collect from it all the
+fruit possible. To this effect, it would be unpardonable for the
+business and commerce of this Republic in general, and for those of this
+city in particular, to suffer to escape this occasion so favourable for
+the encouragement of our manufactures so declined, and languishing in
+the interior cities, as well as that of the commerce and navigation in
+the maritime cities; or to suffer that other commercial nations, even
+with a total exclusion of the mercantile interests of this Republic,
+should profit of it, and this, upon an occasion, when, by reason of the
+war, equally unjust and ruinous, in which the kingdom of Great Britain
+has involved this Republic, we cannot, and ought not to have the least
+regard or condescension for that jealous State, being able even to
+oblige this arrogant neighbour, in the just fear of the consequences
+which a more intimate connection between this Republic and North America
+would undoubtedly have, to lay down the sooner her arms, and restore
+tranquility to all Europe.
+
+That the petitioners, notwithstanding the inclination they have for it,
+ought not nevertheless to explain themselves farther upon this object,
+nor make a demonstration in detail of the important advantages which
+this Republic may procure itself by a connection and a relation more
+intimate with North America; both, because that no well-informed man can
+easily call the thing in question, or contradict it; but also, because
+the States of Friesland themselves have very lately explained
+themselves, in a manner so remarkable, in this respect; and which is
+still more remarkable, because in very different circumstances, with a
+foresight, which posterity will celebrate by so much the more, as it is
+attacked in our time by ill designing citizens, the Lords your
+predecessors thought, four years ago, upon the means of hindering this
+Republic from being excluded from the business of the new world, and
+from falling into the disagreeable situation in which the kingdom of
+Portugal is at present, considering that according to the informations
+of your petitioners, the Congress has excluded that kingdom from all
+commerce and business with North America, solely, because it had
+perceived that it suffered itself to be too strongly directed by the
+influence of the British Court. This example makes us fear with reason
+that if the propositions made, in the name of America, by Mr. Adams to
+this Republic, should remain, as they still are, without an answer, or
+that, if, contrary to all expectation, they should be rejected, in that
+case the Republic ought not to expect a better treatment.
+
+That, for these reasons and many others, the petitioners had flattered
+themselves that we should long ago have opened negotiations, and a
+closer correspondence, with the United States of America. But this
+important work appeared to meet with difficulties with some, as
+incompatible with the accession of this Republic to the armed
+neutrality, and, in course, with the accepted mediation; whilst that
+others cannot be persuaded to make this so necessary step, in the
+opinion that we cannot draw any advantage, or at least of much
+importance, from a more strict connection with America: Reasons,
+according to the petitioners, the frivolity of which is apparent to
+every one who is not filled with prejudice, without having occasion to
+employ many words to point it out. For, as to the first point,
+supposing, for a moment, that it might be made a question whether the
+Republic, after her accession to the armed neutrality, before the war
+with England, could take a step of this nature, without renouncing at
+the same time the advantages of the armed neutrality which it had
+embraced; it is at least very certain, that every difficulty concerning
+the competency of the Republic to take a similar step vanishes and
+disappears of itself at present, when it finds itself involved in a war
+with Great Britain, since from that moment she could not only demand the
+assistance and succour of all the confederates in the armed neutrality,
+but that thereby the finds herself authorized, for her own defence, to
+employ all sorts of means, violent and others, which she could not
+before adopt nor put in use, while she was really in the position of a
+neutral power which would profit of the advantages of the armed
+neutrality. This reasoning then proves evidently, that, in the present
+situation of affairs, the Republic might acknowledge the independence of
+America; and, notwithstanding this, claim of full right the assistance
+of her neutral allies, at least, if we would not maintain one of the two
+following absurdities: That, notwithstanding the violent aggression of
+England in resentment of our accession to the armed neutrality, we dare
+not defend ourselves, until our confederates shall think proper to come
+to our assistance; or, otherwise, that being attacked by the English, it
+should be permitted us, conformably to the rights of the armed
+neutrality, to resist them in arms, whether on the Doggers-bank or
+elsewhere, but not by contracting alliances, which certainly do no
+injury or harm to the convention of the armed neutrality,
+notwithstanding even the small hope we have of being succored by the
+allies of the armed confederation. The argument of the mediation is
+still more contrary to common sense in this, that it supposes, that the
+Republic, by accepting the mediation, has also renounced the employment
+of all the means, by the way of arms, of alliances, or otherwise, which
+it might judge useful or necessary to annoy her enemy: a supposition,
+which certainly is destitute of all foundation, and which would reduce
+it simply to a real suspension of hostilities on the part of the
+Republic only; to which the Republic can never have consented, neither
+directly nor indirectly.
+
+Besides this last argument, the petitioners ought to observe, in the
+first place, that by means of a good harmony and friendship with the
+United States of America, there will spring up, not only different
+sources of business for this Republic, founded solely on commerce and
+navigation, but in particular the manufactures and trade will assume a
+new activity in the interior cities; for they may consume the amount of
+millions of our manufactures in that new country, of so vast extent: In
+the second place, abstracted from all interests of commerce, the
+friendship or the enmity of a nation, which, after having made prisoners
+of two English armies, has known how to render herself respectable and
+formidable, if it were only in relation to the western possessions of
+this State, is not and cannot be in any manner indifferent for our
+Republic. In the last place, it is necessary that the petitioners remark
+farther in this respect, that several inhabitants of this Republic, in
+the present situation of affairs, suffer very considerable losses and
+damages, which at least hereafter might be wholly prevented, or in part,
+in case we should make with the United States of America, with relation
+to vessels and effects recaptured, a convention similar to that which
+has been made with the Crown of France the last year; for, venerable
+Regents, if a convention of this nature had been contracted in the
+beginning of this war, the inhabitants of the Republic would have
+already derived important advantages from it, considering that several
+ships and cargoes, taken by the English from the inhabitants of this
+State, have fallen into the hands of the Americans; among others, two
+vessels from the West Indies, richly loaded, and making sail for the
+ports of the Republic, and both estimated at more than a million of
+florins of Holland; which, captured by the English at the commencement
+of the year past, were carried into North America, where, after the
+capitulation of General Cornwallis, they passed from the hands of the
+English into others.
+
+That, although the petitioners are fully convinced, that the interests
+of the commerce of this common country, and of this city, have
+constantly, but especially in these last years, attracted, and still
+attract every day, a great part of the cares of the venerable Regency;
+nevertheless, having regard to the importance of the affair, the
+petitioners have thought that they might, and that they ought to take
+the liberty to address themselves with this petition to you, venerable
+Regents, to inform you, according to truth, that the moments are
+precious, that we cannot lose any time, how little soever it may be,
+without running the greatest risque of losing all; since, by hesitating
+longer, the Republic, according to all appearances, would not derive any
+advantage, not even more than it has derived from its accession to the
+armed neutrality; because that in the fear of British menaces, we did
+not determine to accede to it, until the opportunity of improving the
+advantage of it was passed.
+
+For these causes, the petitioners address themselves to you, venerable
+Regents, respectfully soliciting, that your efficacious influence may
+condescend, at the Assembly of their noble and grand Mightinesses the
+States of this Province, to direct affairs in such a manner, that upon
+this important object there may be taken as soon as possible, and, if
+possible, even during the continuance of this Assembly, a final and
+decisive resolution, such as you, venerable Regents, and their noble and
+grand Mightinesses, according to their high wisdom, shall judge the most
+convenient: and if, contrary to all expectation, this important
+operation should meet with any obstacle on the part of one or more of
+the confederates, that in that case you, venerable Regents, in concert
+with the Province of Friesland, and those of the other Provinces who
+make no difficulty to open a negotiation with America, will condescend
+to consider the means, which shall be found proper and convenient to
+effectuate, that the commerce of this Province, as well as that of
+Friesland, and the other members adopting the same opinion, may not be
+prejudiced by any dilatory deliberations, nor too late resolved, for the
+conclusion of a measure as important as necessary.
+
+So doing, &c.
+
+
+
+
+AMSTERDAM
+
+_ADDRESS of the Merchants, &c. to their Regency_.
+
+
+NOBLE, GREAT, AND VENERABLE LORDS!
+
+It is for us a particular satisfaction to be able to offer to your noble
+and great lordships, as heads of the regency of this city, this well
+intentioned address that a multitude of our most respectable
+fellow-citizens have signed. It was already prepared and signed by many,
+when we learned, as well by the public papers as otherwise, the
+propositions of a particular peace, with an offer of an immediate
+suspension of hostilities on the part of Great-Britain, made to this
+state by the mediation of the Russian ambassador. This is the only
+reason why no immediate mention was made of it in the address itself. It
+is by no means the idea, that these offers would have made any
+impression upon the merchants; since we can, on the contrary, in truth
+assure your noble and great Lordships, that the unanimous sentiment
+nearly of the Exchange of Amsterdam, as much as that is interested in
+it, is entirely conformable to that which the merchants of Rotterdam
+have made known in so energetic a manner: that consequently we have the
+greatest aversion to like offers, as artful as dangerous, which, being
+adopted, would very probably throw this Republic into other situations
+very embarrassing, the immediate consequences of which would be, to ruin
+it totally: whereas, on the other hand, these offers shew that we have
+only to deal with an enemy exhausted; whom we could force to a general
+and durable peace in the end, by following only the example of France,
+Spain, and North America; and by using the means which are in our hands.
+
+It is improper for us, however, to enlarge farther upon this project,
+important as it may be, being well assured, that your noble and great
+Lordships see those grievous consequences more clearly than we can trace
+them.
+
+The merchants continue to recommend their commerce and navigation to the
+constant care and protection of your noble and great Lordships, and to
+insist only, that in case these offers of the court of England should
+be, at any time, the cause that the affair of the admission of Mr.
+Adams, in quality of Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of
+America, should meet with any difficulty or delay on the part of the
+other confederates, that your noble and great lordships, conformably to
+the second article of our requisition, inserted in this request, would
+have the goodness to think upon measures which would secure this
+province from the ruinous consequences of such a proceeding.
+
+
+_To the foregoing was joined the Address presented to the Burgomasters
+and the Council, which is of the following tenor._
+
+NOBLE, GREAT, VENERABLE, AND NOBLE AND VENERABLE LORDS!
+
+The undersigned merchants, citizens, and inhabitants of the city of
+Amsterdam, have learned with an inexpressible joy, the news of the
+resolution taken the 28th of March last by their noble and grand
+Mightinesses, the lords the States of Holland and West-Friesland. Their
+noble and grand Mightinesses have thereby not only satisfied the general
+wishes of the greatest and best part of the inhabitants of this
+province, but they have laid the foundations of ulteriour alliances and
+correspondencies of friendship and of good understanding with the United
+States of America, which promise new life to the languishing state of
+our commerce, navigation, and manufactures. The unanimity with which
+that resolution was decided in the assembly of Holland, gives us grounds
+to hope that the States of the other provinces will not delay to take a
+similar resolution; whilst the same unanimity fills with the most lively
+satisfaction the well intentioned inhabitants of this city, and without
+doubt those of the whole country, in convincing them fully that the
+union among the sage and venerable fathers of the country increases
+more and more; whilst that the promptness and activity with which it
+hath been concluded, make us hope, with reason, that we shall reap, in
+time, from a step so important and so necessary for this Republic, the
+desired fruits. Who then can call in question, or disavow that the
+moment seems to approach nearer and nearer, when this Republic shall
+enter into new relations with a people, who find themselves in
+circumstances which differ but little from those in which our ancestors
+found themselves two centuries ago, with a people which conciliates more
+and more the general affection and esteem.
+
+The conformity of religion and government, which is found between us and
+America, joined to the indubitable marks that she hath already long
+since given of the preference that she feels for our friendship, makes
+the undersigned not only suppose, but inspires them with a confidence
+that our connections with her will be equally solid, advantageous, and
+salutary to the interests of the two nations. The well-being and
+prosperity which will very probably result from them; the part which you
+noble, great, venerable, and noble and venerable lords, have had in the
+conclusion of a resolution so remarkable; the conviction that the
+venerable council of this city had of it, upon the proposition of the
+noble, great, and venerable Lords, almost consented to, before the
+request relative to this project presented not long since to you, noble,
+great, and venerable Lords, had come to the knowledge of the council;
+finally the remembrance of that which was done upon this matter in the
+year 1778, with the best intentions and the most laudable views, finding
+itself at present crowned with an approbation as public as it is
+general, indispensibly oblige the undersigned to approach you with this
+address; not only to congratulate you upon so remarkable an event, but
+to thank you at the same time with as much zeal as solemnity, for all
+those well intentioned cares, and those well concerted measures, for
+that inflexible attachment, and that faithful adherence to the true
+interests of the country in general, and of this city in particular,
+which manifest themselves in so striking a manner, in all the
+proceedings and resolutions of your noble, great, and venerable
+Lordships, and of the venerable council of this city, and which
+certainly will attract the esteem and veneration of the latest
+posterity, when comparing the annals and events of the present with
+those of former times, it shall discover that Amsterdam might still
+boast itself of possessing patriots who dared sacrifice generously all
+views of private interests, of grandeur and consideration to the sacred
+obligations that their country requires of them.
+
+We flatter ourselves, noble, great, venerable, noble and venerable
+Lords, that the present public demonstration of our esteem and
+attachment will be so much the more agreeable, as it is more rare in our
+republic, and perhaps even it is without example; and as it is more
+proper to efface all the odious impressions that the calumny and
+malignity of the English ministry, not long ago so servilely adored by
+many, but whose downfal is at present consummated, had endeavoured to
+spread, particularly a little before and at the beginning of this war,
+insinuations, which have since found partisans in the United Provinces,
+among those who have not been ashamed to paint the Exchange of Amsterdam
+(that is to say the most respectable and the most useful part of the
+citizens of this city, and at the same time the principal support of the
+well-being of the United Provinces) as if it consisted in a great part
+of a contemptible herd of vile interested souls, having no other object
+than to give loose to their avidity, and to their desire of amassing
+treasures, in defrauding the public revenues, and in transporting
+articles, against the faith of treaties; calumniators, who have had at
+the same time, and have still the audacity to affront the most upright
+regency of the most considerable city of the Republic, and to expose it
+to public contempt, as if it participated by connivance, and otherwise,
+in so shameful a commerce; insinuations and accusations which have been
+spread with as much falshood as wickedness, and which ought to excite so
+much the more the indignation of every sensible heart, when it is
+considered that not only the merchants of this city, but also those of
+the whole Republic have so inviolably respected the faith of treaties
+that, to the astonishment of every impartial man, one cannot produce any
+proofs, at least no sufficient proofs; that there hath ever been
+transported from this country contraband merchandizes; whilst that the
+conjuncture in which imputations of this kind have been spread rendered
+the proceeding still more odious, seeing it has been done at an epoch
+when the commerce and navigation of Amsterdam, and of the whole
+Republic, would have experienced the first and almost the only attack of
+an unjust and perfidious ally, for want of necessary protection, upon
+which you, noble, great, venerable, and noble and venerable Lords, have
+so often and so seriously insisted, even before the commencement of the
+troubles between Great Britain and the United States of America; at an
+epoch, when the merchant, formed for enterprises, was obliged to see the
+fruit of his labour, and of his cares, the recompence of his
+indefatigable industry, and the patrimony destined to his posterity,
+ravished from his hands by foreign violence and an unbounded rapacity;
+at an epoch finally, when the wise and prudent politicians, who had
+exhausted themselves and spared no pains for the public good, saw their
+patriotic views dissipated, and their projects vanish.
+
+Receive then, noble, great, venerable, and noble and venerable Lords,
+this solemn testimony of our lively gratitude, as graciously as it is
+given sincerely on our part. Receive it as a proof of our attachment to
+your persons; an attachment which is not founded upon fear, nor an
+exteriour representation of authority and grandeur, but which is founded
+on more noble and immoveable principles, those of esteem and respect,
+arising from a sentiment of true greatness and of generosity. Be assured
+that when contemptible discord, with its odious attendants, artifice and
+imposture, could effectuate nothing, absolutely nothing, at the moment
+when the present war broke out, to prejudice in the least the fidelity
+of the Citizens of the Amstel, or to shake them in the observance of
+their duties; the inconveniencies and the evils that a war naturally and
+necessarily draws after it will not produce the effect neither. Yes, we
+will submit more willingly to them, according as we shall perceive that
+the means that GOD and Nature have put into our hands are more and more
+employed to reduce and humble an haughty enemy. Continue then, noble,
+great, venerable, noble and venerable Lords, to proceed with safety in
+the road that you follow, the only one, which in our opinion can, under
+the divine benediction, tend to save the country from its present
+situation. Let nothing divert or intimidate you from it. You have
+already surmounted the greatest difficulties, and the most pointed
+cares. A more pleasing perspective already opens. Great Britain, not
+long since so proud of her forces, that she feared not to declare war
+against an ancient and faithful Ally, already repents of that unjust and
+rash proceeding; and, succumbing under the weight of a war, which
+becomes more and more burthensome, she sighs after peace; whilst that
+the harmony among the members of the supreme Government of this country
+increases with our arms, according as your political system, whose
+necessity and salutary influence were heretofore less acknowledged,
+gains every day more numerous imitators. The resolution lately taken by
+the States of Friesland, and so unanimously adopted by our Province,
+furnishes, among many others, one incontestible proof of it; whilst the
+naval combat fought the last year on Doggersbank, hath shewn to
+astonished Europe, that so long a peace hath not made the Republic
+forget the management of arms, but that, on the contrary, it nourishes
+in its bosom warriors who tread in the footsteps of the _Tromps_ and
+_Ruiters_, from whose prudence and intrepidity, after a beginning so
+glorious, we may promise ourselves the most heroic actions; that their
+invincible courage, little affected with an evident superiority, will
+procure, one day, to our country an honourable and permanent peace,
+which, in eternizing their military glory, will cause the wise policy of
+your noble, great, venerable, and noble and venerable Lordships, to be
+blessed by the latest posterity.
+
+
+
+
+UTRECHT.
+
+_24th April, 1782._
+
+TO THEIR NOBLE MIGHTINESSES, THE LORDS THE STATES OF THE COUNTRY OF
+UTRECHT.
+
+
+The undersigned manufacturers, merchants, and other traders of this City
+give, with due respect, to understand, that the petitioners, placing
+their confidence in the interest that your noble Mightinesses have
+always appeared to take in the advancement of manufactures and commerce,
+have not been at all scrupulous to recommend to the vigilant attention
+of your noble Mightinessess, the favourable occasion that offers itself
+in this moment, to revive the manufactures, commerce, and trades fallen
+into decay in this City and Province, in case that your noble
+Mightinesses acknowledged, in the name of this City, Mr. Adams as
+Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America, to the end
+that there might be formed with them a treaty of commerce for this
+Republic. As the petitioners founded themselves thus upon the intimate
+sentiment of the execution of that which your noble Mightinesses judge
+proper to the advancement of the well-being of the petitioners and of
+their interests, the petitioners have further the satisfaction of seeing
+the most agreeable proofs of it, when your noble Mightinesses, in your
+last Assembly, resolved unanimously to consent, not only to the
+admission of Mr. Adams in quality of Minister of the Congress of North
+America, but to authorise the Lords the Deputies of this Province at the
+Generality, to conform themselves in the name of this Province, to the
+resolutions of the Lords the States of Holland and West Friesland, and
+of Friesland; and, doing this, to consent to the acknowledgment and
+admission of Mr. Adams, as Minister of the United States of America. As
+that resolution furnishes the proofs the best intentioned, the most
+patriotic, for the advancement of that which may serve to the well-being
+and to the encouragement of manufactures, of commerce, and of decayed
+trades, as well in general, as of this City and Province in particular,
+and which had been so ardently desired; the petitioners think themselves
+indispensibly obliged to testify, in the most respectful manner, their
+gratitude for it to your noble Mightinesses. The petitioners find
+themselves absolutely unable to express, in words, the general
+satisfaction that this event hath caused; not only to them; but also to
+the great and small of this Province; joined to the confirmation of the
+perfect conviction in which they repose themselves, also, for the
+future, upon the paternal care of your noble Mightinesses, that the
+consummation of the desired treaty of commerce with the Americans may be
+soon effected. The petitioners attest by the present, before your noble
+Mightinesses, their solemn and well-meant gratitude, which they address
+at the same time to your noble Mightinesses, as the most sincere mark of
+veneration and respect for the persons, and the direction of public
+affairs, of your noble Mightinesses; praying that Almighty God may deign
+to bless the efforts and the councils of your noble Mightinesses, as
+well as those of the Confederates; that moreover this Province, and our
+dear country, by the propositions of an Armistice, and that which
+depends thereon, should not be involved in any negotiations for a
+particular peace with our perfidious enemy, but that we obtain no other
+peace than a general peace, which (as your noble Mightinesses express
+yourselves in your resolution) may be compatible with their honour and
+dignity; and serve not only for this generation, but also for the latest
+posterity, as a monument of glory, of eternal gratitude to, and esteem
+for the persons and public administration of the present time.
+
+
+
+
+FRIESLAND.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register-Book of the Lords the States of Friesland_.
+
+
+The requisition of Mr. Adams, for presenting his letters of credence
+from the United States of America to their High Mightinesses, having
+been brought into the assembly, and put into deliberation, as also the
+ulteriour address to the same purpose, with a demand of a categorical
+answer, made by him, as is more amply mentioned in the minutes of their
+High Mightinesses of the 4th of May, 1781, and the 9th of January, 1782;
+whereupon it having been taken into consideration that the said Mr.
+Adams would probably have some propositions to make to their High
+Mightinesses, and to present to them the principle articles and
+foundations upon which the Congress, on their part, would enter into a
+treaty of commerce and friendship, or other affairs to propose, in
+regard to which dispatch would be requisite.
+
+It has been thought fit and resolved to authorize the Lords the Deputies
+of this Province at the Generality, and to instruct them to direct
+things, at the table of their High Mightinesses, in such a manner that
+the said Mr. Adams be admitted forthwith as Minister of the Congress of
+North America; with further order to the said Deputies that if there
+should be made moreover any similar propositions by the same, to inform
+immediately their noble Mightinesses of them. And an extract of the
+present resolution shall be sent them for their information, that they
+may conduct themselves conformably.
+
+Thus resolved at the Province House the 26th February, 1782.
+
+Compared with the aforesaid book to my knowledge.
+
+_Signed_
+
+A. J. V. SMINIA.
+
+
+
+
+HOLLAND
+
+AND
+
+WESTFRIESLAND.
+
+_EXTRACT of the Resolutions of the Lords the States of Holland and
+Westfriesland, taken in the Assembly of their Noble and Grand
+Mightinesses, Thursday 28th March, 1782_.
+
+
+Deliberated by resumption upon the address and the ulteriour address of
+Mr. Adams, made the 4th of May, 1781, and the 9th of January, 1782, to
+the President of the States General, communicated to the Assembly the
+9th May, 1781, and the 22d of last month, to present his letters of
+credence, in the name of the United States of America, to their High
+Mightinesses; by which ulteriour address, the said Mr. Adams hath
+demanded a categorical answer, that he may acquaint his constituents
+thereof: deliberated also upon the petitions of a great number of
+merchants, manufacturers and other inhabitants of this Province,
+interested in commerce to support their request presented to the States
+General, the twentieth current, to the end, that efficacious measures
+might be taken to establish a commerce between this country and North
+America, copy of which petitions have been given to the members, the
+twenty-first; it hath been thought fit and resolved that the affair
+shall be directed on the part of their noble and grand Mightinesses, at
+the assembly of the States General, and that there shall be made the
+strongest instances that Mr. Adams be admitted and acknowledged, as soon
+as possible, by their High Mightinesses, in quality of Ambassador of the
+United States of America. And the Counsellor Pensionary hath been
+charged to inform under hand the said Mr. Adams of this resolution of
+their noble and grand Mightinesses.
+
+
+
+
+ZEALAND.
+
+
+_EXTRACT of the Resolutions of their High Mightinesses the States
+General of the United Provinces. Monday 8th April, 1782_.
+
+
+The Deputies of the Province of Zealand have brought to the Assembly,
+and have caused to be read there, the resolution of the States of the
+said Province, their principals, to cause to be admitted, as soon as
+possible, Mr. Adams in quality of Ambassador of the Congress of North
+America, according to the following resolution.
+
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of the Lords the States of
+Zealand, 4th of April, 1782_.
+
+
+It hath been thought fit and ordered, that the Lords, the ordinary
+Deputies of this Province at the Generality, shall be authorised, as it
+is done by the present, to assist, in the direction of affairs at the
+Assembly of their High Mightinesses, in such a manner, that Mr. Adams
+may be acknowledged, as soon as possible, as Ambassador of the Congress
+of North America; that his letters of credence be accepted; and that he
+be admitted in that quality, according to the ordinary form; enjoining
+further upon the said Lords the ordinary Deputies, to take such
+propositions, as should be made to this Republic by the said Mr. Adams,
+for the information and deliberation of their High Mightinesses, to the
+end to transmit them here as soon as possible. And an extract of this
+resolution of their noble Mightinesses shall be sent to the Lords, their
+ordinary Deputies, to serve them as an instruction.
+
+_Signed_
+
+J. M. CHALMERS.
+
+
+Upon which having deliberated, it hath been thought fit and resolved to
+pray, by the present, the Lords the Deputies of the Province of
+Guelderland, Utrecht, and Groningen and Ommelanden, who have not yet
+explained themselves upon the subject, to be pleased to do it as soon as
+possible.
+
+
+
+
+OVERYSSEL.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of the Equestrian Order,
+and of the Cities composing the States of Overyssel. Zwoll, 5th April,
+1782._
+
+
+Mr. the Grand Bailiff of Saalland, and the other Commissioners of their
+noble Mightinesses for the affairs of finance, having examined,
+conformably to their commissorial resolution of the third of this month,
+the addresses of Mr. Adams, communicated to the Assembly the 4th of May,
+1781, and the 22d of February, 1782, to present his letters of credence
+to their High Mightinesses, in the name of the United States of America;
+as well as the resolution of the Lords the States of Holland and
+Westfriesland, dated the 28th of March, 1782, carried the 29th of the
+same month to the Assembly of their High Mightinesses, for the admission
+and acknowledgment of Mr. Adams, have reported to the Assembly, that
+they should be of opinion, that the Lords the Deputies of this Province
+in the States General ought to be authorised and charged to declare in
+the Assembly of their High Mightinesses, that the Equestrian order and
+the Cities judge that it is proper to acknowledge, as soon as possible,
+Mr. Adams in quality of Minister of the United States of North America
+to their High Mightinesses. Upon which, having deliberated, the
+Equestrian order and the Cities have conformed themselves to the said
+report.
+
+Compared with the aforesaid Register.
+
+_Signed_
+
+DERK DUNBAR.
+
+
+
+
+GRONINGEN.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of their noble
+Mightinesses, the States of Groningen and Ommelanden. Tuesday 9th April,
+1782._
+
+
+The Lords the States of Groningen and Ommelanden, having heard the
+report of the Lords the Commissioners for the petitions of the Council
+of State and the Finances of the Province, and having carefully examined
+the demand of Mr. Adams, to present his letters of credence from the
+United States of America to their High Mightinesses, have, after
+deliberation upon the subject, declared themselves of opinion, that in
+the critical circumstances in which the Republic finds itself at
+present, it is proper to take, without loss of time, such efficacious
+measures, as may not only repair the losses and damages that the kingdom
+of Great Britain hath caused in a manner so unjust, and against every
+shadow of right, to the commerce of the Republic, as well before as
+after the war, but particularly such as may establish the free
+navigation and the commerce of the Republic, for the future, upon on the
+most solid foundations, as may confirm and re-assure it, by the
+strongest bonds of reciprocal interest; and that, in consequence, the
+Lords the Deputies at the Assembly of their High Mightinesses ought to
+be authorised, on the part of the Province, as they are by the present,
+to admit Mr. Adams to present his letters of credence from the United
+States of America, and to receive the propositions which he shall make,
+to make report of them to the Lords the States of this Province.
+
+_Signed_
+
+E. LEWE, Secretary.
+
+The States General, having deliberated the same day upon the resolution,
+have resolved, that the Deputies of this Province of Guelderland, which
+has not yet declared itself upon the same subject, should be requested,
+to be pleased to do it as soon as possible.
+
+
+
+
+UTRECHT.
+
+_EXTRACT of the Resolutions of their noble Mightinesses, the States of
+the Province of Utrecht, 10 April 1782_.
+
+
+Heard the report of Mr. De Westerveld and other deputies of their noble
+Mightinesses for the department of war, who, in virtue of the
+commissorial resolutions of the 9th of May 1781, 16th January and 20th
+March of the present year 1782, have examined the resolutions of their
+High Mightinesses of the 4th of May 1781, containing an overture, that
+Mr. the President of the Assembly of their High Mightinesses had made,
+"that a person styling himself J. Adams had been with him, and had given
+him to understand, that he had received letters of credence for their
+High Mightinesses from the United States of America, with a request,
+that he would be pleased to communicate them to their High Mightinesses;
+as well as the resolution of their High Mightinesses of the 9th of
+January, containing an ulteriour overture of Mr. the President, that the
+said Mr. Adams had been with him, and had insisted upon a categorical
+answer, whether his said letters of credence would be accepted or not;
+finally the resolution of their High Mightinesses of the 5th of March
+last, with the insertion of the resolution of Friesland, containing a
+proposition to admit Mr. Adams in quality of Minister of the Congress of
+North America."
+
+Upon which having deliberated, and remarked that the Lords the States of
+Holland and West Friesland, by their resolution carried the 29th of
+March to the States General, have also consented to the admission of the
+said Mr. Adams in quality of minister of the Congress of North America,
+it hath been thought fit and resolved, that the Lords the Deputies of
+this Province in the States General should be authorised, as their noble
+Mightinesses authorise them by the present, to conform themselves, in
+the name of this Province, to the resolution of the Lords the States of
+Holland and Westfriesland, and of Friesland, and to consent by
+consequence, that Mr. Adams be acknowledged and admitted as Minister of
+the United States of America; their noble Mightinesses being, in the
+mean time, of opinion, that it would be necessary to acquaint her
+Majesty the Empress of Russia, and the other Neutral Powers, with the
+resolution to be taken by their High Mightinesses upon this subject, in
+communicating to them, as much as shall be necessary, the reasons which
+have induced their High Mightinesses to it, and giving them the
+strongest assurances that the intention of their High Mightinesses is by
+no means to prolong thereby the war, which they would have willingly
+prevented and terminated long since; but on the contrary, that their
+High Mightinesses with nothing with more ardor, than a prompt
+re-establishment of peace; and that they shall be always ready, on their
+part, to co-operate in it, in all possible ways, and with a suitable
+readiness, so far as that shall be any way compatible with their honour
+and their dignity, and for this end an extract of this shall be carried
+by Missive to the Lords the Deputies at the Generality.
+
+
+
+
+GUELDERLAND.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Recès of the ordinary Diet, holden in the City of
+Nimeguen, in the Month of April 1782. Wednesday, 17 April 1782._
+
+
+The requisition of Mr. Adams, to present his letters of credence to
+their High Mightinesses in the name of the United States of America,
+having been brought to the assembly and read, as well as an ulteriour
+address made upon this subject, with a demand of a categorical answer by
+the said Mr. Adams, more amply mentioned in the registers of their High
+Mightinesses of the date of the 4th of May 1781, and of the 9th of
+January 1782; moreover the resolutions of the Lords the States of the
+five other provinces, carried successively to the assembly of their High
+Mightinesses, and all tending to admit Mr. Adams in quality of
+Ambassador of the United States of America to this Republic; upon which
+their noble Mightinesses, after deliberation, have resolved to authorise
+the deputies of this Province at the States General, as they authorise
+them by the present, to conform themselves in the name of this Province
+to the resolution of the Lords the States of Holland and Westfriesland,
+and to consent, by consequence, that Mr. Adams may be acknowledged and
+admitted in quality of Ambassador of the United States of America to
+this Republic. In consequence, an extract of the present shall be sent
+to the said Deputies, to make as soon as possible the requisite overture
+of it to the assembly of their High Mightinesses.
+
+In fidem extracti.
+
+_Signed_
+
+J. IN DE BETOUW.
+
+
+
+
+THE STATES GENERAL.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of their High Mightinesses
+the States General of the United Provinces. Friday 19 April, 1782._
+
+
+Deliberated by resumption, upon the address and the ulteriour address,
+made by Mr. Adams the 4th of May 1781, and the 9th of January of the
+current year to Mr. the President of the Assembly of their High
+Mightinesses, to present to their High Mightinesses his letters of
+credence in the name of the United States of North America; and by which
+ulteriour address the said Mr. Adams hath demanded a categorical answer,
+to the end to be able to acquaint his Constituents thereof; it hath been
+thought fit and resolved that Mr. Adams shall be admitted and
+acknowledged in quality of Ambassador of the United States of North
+America to their High Mightinesses, as he is admitted and acknowledged
+by the present.
+
+_Signed_
+
+W. BOREEL, _President_.
+
+
+_Lower down_
+
+Compared with the aforesaid Register.
+
+_Signed_
+
+H. FAGEL.
+
+
+
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of their High Mightinesses
+the States General of the United Provinces, Monday, 22d April, 1782_.
+
+
+Mr. Boreel, who presided in the Assembly the last week, hath reported to
+their High Mightinesses, and notified to them, that Mr. John Adams,
+Ambassador of the United States of America, had been with him last
+Saturday, and presented to him a letter from the Assembly of Congress,
+written at Philadelphia, the first of January, 1781, containing a
+credence, for the said Mr. Adams, to the end to reside in quality of its
+Minister Plenipotentiary near their High Mightinesses: Upon which having
+deliberated, it hath been thought fit and resolved, to declare by the
+present: "That the said Mr. Adams is agreeable to their High
+Mightinesses; that he shall be acknowledged in quality of Minister
+Plenipotentiary; and that there shall be granted to him an audience, or
+assigned Commissioners, when he shall demand it." Information of the
+above shall be given to the said Mr. Adams, by the Agent van der Burch
+de Spieringshoek.
+
+_Signed_
+
+W. VAN CITTERS, _President_.
+
+
+_Lower down_
+
+Compared with the aforesaid Register.
+
+_Signed_
+
+H. FAGEL.
+
+
+
+
+MEDAL.
+
+TO THE NOBLE AND MIGHTY LORDS, THE STATES OF FRIESLAND,
+
+
+The Society of Citizens, established at Leeuwarden, under the motto, "By
+Liberty and Zeal," most humbly represents, that it desires to have an
+opportunity of testifying publicly, by facts, to your noble
+Mightinesses, the most lively, but, at the same time, the most
+respectful sentiments of gratitude, which not only animate them, but
+also, as they assure themselves, all the well intentioned Citizens,
+especially, with relation to the resolutions equally important, and full
+of wisdom; which your noble Mightinesses have taken upon all the points,
+in regard to which the critical circumstances, in which our dear country
+finds itself plunged, have furnished to your noble Mightinesses, objects
+equally numerous and disagreeable, particularly, at the ordinary Diet of
+the year 1782, and at the extraordinary Diet holden in the month of
+April last; resolutions which bear not only the characters of wisdom,
+but also those of the best intentioned solicitude, and the purest love
+of our country; and which prove, in the most convincing manner, that
+your noble Mightinesses have no greater ambition than its universal
+prosperity; assiduously proposing to yourselves, as the most important
+object of your attention, of your enterprises, and of your attachment,
+the rule, _Salus Populi suprema Lex esto_; resolutions, in fine, which
+ought perfectly to re-assure the good Citizens of this Province, and
+encourage them to persevere in that full and tranquil confidence which
+has hindered them from representing to your noble Mightinesses the true
+interests of the country, and to exhort them, at the same time, by their
+supplications, to act with courage, and to fulfil their duties;
+considering that the said resolutions have fully assured them, that
+their possessions, with that which is above all things dear to them,
+their Liberty (that right which is more precious to them than their
+lives; to which the smallest injury cannot be done, without doing wrong
+and dishonour to humanity; a right, nevertheless, which, if we consider
+the world in general, has been, alas! almost every where equally
+violated) are deposited in safety, under the vigilant eye of your noble
+Mightinesses.
+
+The Society has thought that it might accomplish its wishes, in the most
+convenient and decent manner, in causing to be stricken, at its expence,
+a Medal of silver, which may remain to posterity a durable monument of
+the perfect harmony which at the present dangerous epoch has reigned
+between the government and the people. It has conceived, for this
+purpose, a sketch or project, as yet incomplete, according to which one
+of the sides of the Medal should bear the Arms of Friesland, held by an
+hand, which descends from the clouds, with an inscription in the
+following terms: _To the States of Friesland, in grateful Memory of the
+Diets of February and of April, 1782, dedicated by the Society_ LIBERTY
+AND ZEAL. An inscription, which would thus contain a general applause of
+all the resolutions taken in these two Diets; whilst upon the reverse,
+one should distinguish, more particularly, the two events which interest
+the most our common country, in regard of which your noble Mightinesses
+have given the example to the States of the other Provinces, and which
+merit, for this reason, as placed in the foremost situation, to shew
+itself the most clearly to the fight: to wit, "The admission of Mr.
+Adams in quality of Minister of the United States of America to this
+Republic; and the refusal of a separate peace with Great Britain."
+Events which should be represented symbolically by a Frisian, dressed
+according to the ancient characteristic custom of the Frisians, holding
+out his right-hand to an inhabitant of North America, in token of
+friendship and brotherly love; whilst with the left-hand he rejects the
+peace which England offers him. The whole with such convenient
+additions, and symbolical ornaments, which the Society, perhaps, would
+do well to leave to the invention of the medalist, &c.
+
+[_The remainder of this request relates to other subjects._]
+
+Done at Leeuwarden the 8th May, 1782.
+
+The Society "BY LIBERTY AND ZEAL."
+
+_Signed at its request_
+
+W. WOPKENS,
+
+_in the absence of the Secretary_.
+
+
+
+
+AN
+
+ESSAY
+
+ON
+
+CANON AND FEUDAL LAW.
+
+BY JOHN ADAMS,
+
+AMBASSADOR PLENIPOTENTIARY
+
+FROM THE
+
+UNITED AND INDEPENDENT STATES OF NORTH AMERICA,
+
+TO THEIR
+
+HIGH MIGHTINESS THE STATES GENERAL OF THE UNITED PROVINCES OF HOLLAND.
+
+
+
+
+AN
+
+ESSAY
+
+ON
+
+CANON AND FEUDAL LAW.
+
+
+"Ignorance and inconsideration, are the two great causes of the ruin of
+mankind."--This is an observation of Dr. _Tillotson_, with relation to
+the interest of his fellow-men, in a future and immortal state: But it
+is of equal truth and importance, if applied to the happiness of men in
+society, on this side the grave.--In the earliest ages of the world,
+_absolute Monarchy_ seems to have been the universal form of
+government.--Kings, and a few of their great counsellors and captains,
+exercised a cruel tyranny over the people who held a rank in the scale
+of intelligence, in those days, but little higher than the camels and
+elephants, that carried them and their engines to war.
+
+By what causes it was brought to pass, that the people in the middle
+ages, became more _intelligent_ in general, would not perhaps be
+possible in these days to discover: But the fact is certain, and
+wherever a general knowledge and sensibility have prevailed among the
+people, arbitrary government and every kind of oppression have lessened
+and disappeared in proportion.--Man has certainly an exalted soul! and
+the same principle in human nature; that aspiring noble principle,
+founded in benevolence and cherished by knowledge; I mean the love of
+power, which has been so often the cause of _slavery_, has, whenever
+freedom has existed, been the cause of freedom. If it is this principle,
+that has always prompted the princes and nobles of the earth, by every
+species of fraud and violence, to shake off all the limitations of their
+power; it is the same that has always stimulated the common people to
+aspire at independency, and to endeavour at confining the power of the
+great, within the limits of equity and reason.
+
+The poor people, it is true, have been much less successful than the
+great--They have seldom found either leisure or opportunity to form an
+union and exert their strength--ignorant as they were of arts and
+letters, they have seldom been able to frame and support a regular
+opposition. This, however, has been known, by the great, to be the
+temper of mankind, and they have accordingly laboured, in all ages, to
+wrest from the populace, as they are contemptuously called, the
+knowledge of their rights and wrongs, and the power to assert the former
+or redress the latter. I say RIGHTS, for such they have, undoubtedly,
+antecedent to all earthly government--_Rights_, that cannot be repealed
+or restrained by human laws--_Rights_, derived from the great Legislator
+of the universe.
+
+Since the promulgation of christianity, the two greatest systems of
+tyranny, that have sprung from this original, are the _cannon_ and the
+_feudal_ law--The desire of dominion, that great principle by which we
+have attempted to account for so much good, and so much evil, is, when
+properly restrained, a very useful and noble movement in the human mind:
+but when such restraints are taken off, it becomes an encroaching,
+grasping, restless and ungovernable power. Numberless have been the
+systems of iniquity, contrived by the great, for the gratification of
+this passion in themselves: but in none of them were they ever more
+successful, than in the invention and establishment of the _canon_ and
+the _feudal_ law.
+
+By the former of these, the most refined, sublime, extensive, and
+astonishing constitution of policy, that ever was conceived by the mind
+of man, was framed by the Romish clergy for the aggrandisement of their
+own order. All the epithets I have here given to the Romish policy are
+just; and will be allowed to be so, when it is considered, that they
+even persuaded mankind to believe, faithfully and undoubtingly, that GOD
+ALMIGHTY had intrusted them with the keys of heaven, whose gates they
+might open and close at pleasure--with a power of dispensation over all
+the rules and obligations of morality--with authority to license all
+sorts of sins and crimes--with a power of deposing princes, and
+absolving subjects from allegiance--with a power of procuring or
+withholding the rain of heaven, and the beams of the sun--with the
+management of earthquakes, pestilence and famine.----Nay, with the
+mysterious, awful, incomprehensible power of creating out of bread and
+wine, the flesh and blood of GOD himself.--All these opinions they were
+enabled to spread and rivet among the people, by reducing their minds to
+a state of sordid ignorance and staring timidity; and by infusing into
+them a _religious_ horror of letters and knowledge. Thus was human
+nature chained fast for ages, in a cruel, shameful, and deplorable
+servitude, to him and his subordinate tyrants; who, it was foretold,
+would exalt himself above all that was called GOD, and that was
+worshipped.----
+
+In the latter we find another system similar in many respects to the
+former; which, although it was originally formed perhaps for the
+necessary defence of a barbarous people, against the inroads and
+invasions of her neighbouring nations; yet, for the same purposes of
+tyranny, cruelty and lust, which had dictated the _canon_ law, it was
+soon adopted by almost all the Princes of Europe, and wrought into the
+constitutions of their government.--It was originally a code of laws,
+for a vast army in a perpetual encampment.--The general was invested
+with the sovereign propriety of all the lands within the territory.--Of
+him, his servants and vassals, the first rank of his great officers held
+the lands; and in the same manner, the other subordinate officers held
+of them; and all ranks and degrees, held their lands, by a variety of
+duties and services, all tending to bind the chains the faster, on every
+order of mankind. In this manner, the common people were holden
+together, in herds and clans, in a state of servile dependance on their
+Lords; bound, even by the tenure of their lands to follow them, whenever
+they commanded, to their wars; and in a state of total ignorance of
+every thing divine and human, excepting the use of arms, and the culture
+of their lands.
+
+But, another event still more calamitous to human liberty, was a wicked
+confederacy, between the two systems of tyranny above described.--It
+seems to have been even stipulated between them, that the temporal
+grandees should contribute every thing in their power to maintain the
+ascendency of the priesthood; and that the spiritual grandees, in, their
+turn, should employ that ascendency over the consciences of the people,
+in impressing on their minds, a blind, implicit obedience to civil
+magistracy.--
+
+Thus, as long as this confederacy lasted, and the people were held in
+ignorance; Liberty, and with her, knowledge, and virtue too, seem to
+have deserted the earth; and one age of darkness succeeded another, till
+GOD, in his benign Providence, raised up the champions, who began and
+conducted the Reformation.--From the time of the Reformation, to the
+first settlement of America, knowledge gradually spread in Europe, but
+especially in England; and in proportion as that increased and spread
+among the people, ecclesiastical and civil tyranny, which I use as
+synonymous expressions, for the _canon_ and _feudal_ laws, seem to have
+lost their strength and weight. The people grew more and more sensible
+of the wrong that was done them, by these systems; more and more
+impatient under it; and determined at all hazards to rid themselves of
+it; till, at last, under the execrable race of the Stuarts, the struggle
+between the people and the confederacy aforesaid of temporal and
+spiritual tyranny, became formidable, violent and bloody.----
+
+It was this great struggle that peopled America.--It was not religion
+alone, as is commonly supposed; but it was a love of _universal_
+liberty, and an hatred, a dread, an horror of the infernal confederacy
+before described, that projected, conducted, and accomplished the
+settlement of America.----
+
+It was a resolution formed by a sensible people, I mean the _Puritans_
+almost in despair. They had become intelligent in general, and many of
+them learned.--For this fact I have the testimony of Archbishop _King_
+himself, who observed of that people, that they were more intelligent,
+and better read than even the members of the church whom he censures
+warmly for that reason.--This people had been so vexed, and tortured by
+the powers of those days, for no other crime than their knowledge, and
+their freedom of enquiry and examination; and they had so much reason to
+despair of deliverance from those miseries on that side the ocean, that
+they at last resolved to fly to the _wilderness_ for refuge, from the
+temporal and spiritual principalities and powers, and plagues, and
+scourges of their native country.
+
+After their arrival here, they began their settlement, and formed their
+plan both of ecclesiastical and civil government, in direst opposition
+to the _canon_ and the _feudal_ systems.----The leading men among them,
+both of the clergy and the laity were men of sense and learning: To many
+of them, the historians, orators, poets and philosophers of Greece and
+Rome were quite familiar: and some of them have left libraries that are
+still in being, consisting chiefly of volumes, in which the wisdom of
+the most enlightened ages and nations is deposited, written however in
+languages, which their great grandsons, _though educated in European
+Universities_, can scarcely read.
+
+Thus accomplished were many of the first planters of these colonies.--It
+may be thought polite and fashionable, by many modern fine gentlemen,
+perhaps, to deride the characters of these persons as enthusiastical,
+superstitious and republican: But such ridicule is founded in nothing
+but foppery and affectation, and is grosly injurious and
+false.----Religious to some degree of enthusiasm, it may be admitted
+they were; but this can be no peculiar derogation from their character,
+because it was at that time almost the universal character, not only of
+England but of Christendom. Had this however been otherwise, their
+enthusiasm, considering the principles in which it was founded, and the
+ends to which it was directed, far from being a reproach to them, was
+greatly to their honour: for I believe it will be found universally
+true, that no great enterprize, for the honour or happiness of mankind,
+was ever atchieved without a large mixture of that noble
+infirmity. Whatever imperfections may be justly ascribed to them, which
+however are as few as any mortals have discovered, their judgment in
+framing their policy was founded in wise, humane and benevolent
+principles. It was founded in revelation and in reason too: It was
+consistent with the principles of the best, and greatest, and wisest
+legeslators of antiquity.----Tyranny in every form, shape and
+appearance, was their disdain and abhorrence; no fear of punishment, nor
+even of death itself, in exquisite tortures, had been sufficient to
+conquer that steady, manly, pertinacious spirit, with which they had
+opposed the tyrants of those days, in church and state. They were very
+far from being enemies to monarchy; and they knew as well as any men,
+the just regard and honour that is due to the character of a dispenser
+of the mysteries of the gospel of grace: But they saw clearly, that
+popular powers must be placed as a guard, a controul, a balance, to the
+powers of the monarch and the priest in every government; or else it
+would soon become the man of sin, the whore of Babylon, the mystery of
+iniquity, a great and detestable system of fraud, violence and
+usurpation. Their greatest concern seems to have been to establish a
+government of the church more consistent with the Scriptures, and a
+government of the state more agreeable to the dignity of human nature,
+than any they had seen in Europe: and to transmit such a government down
+to their posterity, with the means of securing and preserving it for
+ever. To render the popular power in their new government as great and
+wise as their principles of theory, i. e. as human nature and the
+christian religion require it should be, they endeavoured to remove from
+it as many of the feudal inequalities and dependencies as could be
+spared, consistently with the preservation of a mild limited monarchy.
+And in this they discovered the depth of their wisdom, and the warmth of
+their friendship to human nature.--But the first place is due to
+religion.----They saw clearly, that of all the nonsense and delusion
+which had ever passed through the mind of man, none had ever been more
+extravagant than the notions of absolutions, indelible characters,
+uninterrupted successions, and the rest of those fantastical ideas,
+derived from the canon law, which had thrown such a glare of mystery,
+sanctity, reverence and right, reverend eminence, and holiness around
+the idea of a priest, as no mortal could deserve and as always must,
+from the constitution of human nature, be dangerous in society. For this
+reason, they demolished the whole system of Diocesan episcopacy, and
+deriding, as all reasonable and impartial men must do, the ridiculous
+fancies of sanctified effluvia from episcopal fingers, they established
+sacerdotal ordination on the foundation of the Bible and common
+sense.----This conduct at once imposed an obligation on the whole body
+of the clergy, to industry, virtue, piety and learning; and rendered
+that whole body infinitely more independent on the civil powers, in all
+respects, than they could be where they were formed into a scale of
+subordination, from a Pope down to Priests and friars and confessors,
+necessarily and essentially, a sordid, stupid, and wretched herd; or
+than they could be in any other country, where an archbishop held the
+place of an universal bishop, and the vicars and curates that of the
+ignorant, dependent, miserable rabble aforesaid; and infinitely more
+sensible and learned than they could be in either.----This subject has
+been seen in the same light by many illustrious patriots, who have lived
+in America, since the days of our forefathers, and who have adored their
+memory for the same reason.----And methinks there has not appeared in
+New England, a stronger veneration for their memory, a more penetrating
+insight into the grounds and principles and spirit of their policy, nor
+a more earnest desire of perpetuating the blessings of it to posterity,
+than that fine institution of the late Chief Justice Dudley, of a
+lecture against popery, and on the validity of presbyterian ordination.
+This was certainly intended by that wise and excellent man, as an
+eternal memento of the wisdom and goodness of the very principles that
+settled America. But I must again return to the feudal law.----The
+adventurers so often mentioned, had an utter contempt of all that dark
+ribaldry of hereditary indefeasible right,--the Lord's anointed,--and
+the divine miraculous original of government, with which the priesthood
+had inveloped the feudal monarch in clouds and mysteries, and from
+whence they had deduced the most mischievous of all doctrines, that of
+passive obedience and non-resistance. They knew that government was a
+plain, simple, intelligible thing, founded in nature and reason, and
+quite comprehensible by common sense.----They detested all the base
+services, and servile dependencies of the feudal system.----They knew
+that no such unworthy dependencies took place in the ancient seats of
+liberty, the republic of Greece and Rome: and they thought all such
+slavish subordinations were equally inconsistent with the constitution
+of human nature, and that religious liberty with which Jesus had made
+them free. This was certainly the opinion they had formed, and they were
+far from being singular or extravagant in thinking so.----Many
+celebrated modern writers in Europe have espoused the same
+sentiments.--Lord Kaims, a Scottish writer of great reputation, whose
+authority in this case ought to have the more weight, as his countrymen
+have not the most worthy ideas of liberty, speaking of the feudal law,
+says, "A constitution so contradictory to all the principles which
+govern mankind, can never be brought about, one should imagine, but by
+foreign conquest or native usurpations." Brit. Ant. p. 2.--Rousseau
+speaking of the same system, calls it, "That most iniquitous and absurd
+form of government, by which human nature was so shamefully degraded."
+Social compact, Page 164.----It would be easy to multiply authorities;
+but it must be needless, because as the original of this form of
+government was among savages, as the spirit of it is military and
+despotic, every writer, who would allow the people to have any right to
+life or property or freedom, more than the beasts of the field, and who
+was not hired or inlisted under arbitrary lawless power, has been always
+willing to admit the feudal system to be inconsistent with liberty and
+the rights of mankind.
+
+To have holden their lands allodially, or for every man to have been the
+sovereign lord and proprietor of the ground he occupied, would have
+constituted a government, too nearly like a commonwealth.--They were
+contented, therefore, to hold their lands of their King, as their
+sovereign lord, and to him they were willing to render homage: but to no
+mesne and subordinate lords, nor were they willing to submit to any of
+the baser services.--In all this they were so strenuous, that they have
+even transmitted to their posterity, a very general contempt and
+detestation of holdings by quit rents: As they have also an hereditary
+ardour for liberty, and thirst for knowledge.--
+
+They were convinced by their knowledge of human nature derived from
+history and their own experience, that nothing could preserve their
+posterity from the encroachments of the two systems of tyranny, in
+opposition to which, as has been observed already, they erected their
+government in church and state, but knowledge diffused generally through
+the whole body of the people.--Their civil and religious principles,
+therefore, conspired to prompt them to use every measure, and take every
+precaution in their power to propagate and perpetuate knowledge. For
+this purpose they laid very early the foundations of colleges, and
+invested them with ample privileges and emoluments; and it is
+remarkable, that they have left among their posterity, so universal an
+affection and veneration for those seminaries, and for liberal
+education, that the meanest of the people contribute chearfully to the
+support and maintenance of them every year, and that nothing is more
+generally popular than productions for the honour, reputation, and
+advantage of those seats of learning. But the wisdom and benevolence of
+our fathers rested not here. They made an early provision by law, that
+every town, consisting of so many families, should be always furnished
+with a grammar school.--They made it a crime for such a town to be
+destitute of a grammar school-master for a few months, and subjected it
+to an heavy penalty.--So that the education of all ranks of people was
+made the care and expence of the public in a manner, that I believe has
+been unknown to any other people ancient or modern.
+
+The consequences of these establishments we see and feel every day.--A
+native of America who cannot read and write, is as rare an appearance as
+a Jacobite, or a Roman Catholic, i. e. as rare as a comet or an
+earthquake.--It has been observed, that we are all of us lawyers,
+divines, politicians, and philosophers.--And I have good authorities to
+say, that all candid foreigners who have passed through this country,
+and conversed freely with all sorts of people here, will allow, that
+they have never seen so much knowledge and civility among the common
+people in any part or the world.--It is true there has been among us a
+party for some years, consisting chiefly, not of the descendants of the
+first settlers of this country, but of high churchmen and high
+statesmen, imported since, who affect to censure this provision for the
+education of our youth as a needless expence, and an imposition upon
+the rich in favour of the poor;--and as an institution productive of
+idleness and vain speculation among the people, whose time and
+attention, it is said, ought to be devoted to labour, and not to public
+affairs, or to examination into the conduct of their superiors. And
+certain officers of the crown, and certain other missionaries of
+ignorance, foppery, servility, and slavery, have been most inclined to
+countenance and encrease the same party.--Be it remembered, however,
+that liberty must at all hazards be supported. _We have a right to it,
+derived from our_ MAKER! But if we had not, our fathers have earned and
+bought it for us at the expence of their ease, their estates, their
+pleasure, and their blood.--And Liberty cannot be preserved without a
+general knowledge among the people, who have a right, from the frame of
+their nature, to knowledge, as their great CREATOR, who does nothing in
+vain, has given them understandings and a desire to know; but besides
+this they have a right, an indisputable, unalienable, indefeasible,
+divine right, to that most dreaded and envied kind of knowledge, I mean
+of the characters and conduct of their rulers. _Rulers are no more than
+attornies, agents, and trustees for the people_: and if the cause, the
+interest, and trust are insidiously betrayed, or wantonly trifled away,
+the people have a right to revoke the authority that they themselves
+have deputed, and to constitute abler and better agents, attornies, and
+trustees. And the preservation of the means of knowledge, among the
+lowest rank, is of more importance to the public, than all the property
+of all the rich men in the country. It is even of more consequence to
+the rich themselves, and to their posterity.--The only question is,
+whether it is a public emolument? and if it is, the rich ought
+undoubtedly to contribute in the same proportion as to all other public
+burdens, i. e. in proportion to their wealth, which is secured by public
+expences.--But none of the means of information are more sacred, or have
+been cherished with more tenderness and care by the settlers of America,
+than the press. Care has been taken that the art of printing should be
+encouraged, and that it should be easy and cheap, and safe for any
+person to communicate his thoughts to the Public.--And you, Messieurs
+Printers, whatever the tyrants of the earth may say of your Paper, have
+done important service to your country, by your readiness and freedom
+in publishing the speculations of the curious. The stale, impudent
+insinuations of slander and sedition, with which the gormandizers of
+power have endeavoured to discredit your Paper, are so much the more to
+your honour; for the jaws of power are always opened to devour, and her
+arm is always stretched out, if possible to destroy, the freedom of
+thinking, speaking, and writing.--And if the public interest, liberty
+and happiness have been in danger, from the ambition or avarice of any
+great man, or number of great men, whatever may be their politeness,
+address, learning, ingenuity, and in other respects integrity and
+humanity, you have done yourselves honour, and your country service, by
+publishing and pointing out that avarice and ambition.--These views are
+so much the more dangerous and pernicious, for the virtues with which
+they may be accompanied in the same character, and with so much the more
+watchful jealousy to be guarded against.
+
+"Curse on such virtues, they've undone their country."
+
+_Be not intimidated, therefore, by any terrors, from publishing, with
+the utmost freedom whatever can be warranted by the laws of your
+country; nor suffer yourselves to be wheedled out of your liberty by any
+pretences of politeness, delicacy, or decency._ These, as they are often
+used, are but three different names for hypocrisy, chicanery, and
+cowardice. Much less, I presume, will you be discouraged by any
+pretences, that malignants on this side the water[A] will represent your
+Paper as facetious and seditious, or that the Great on the other side
+the water will take offence at them. This dread of representation has
+had for a long time in this province effects very similar to what the
+physicians call an _hydrophobia_, or dread of water.--It has made us
+delirious--and we have rushed headlong into the water, till we are
+almost drowned, out of simple or phrensical fear of it. Believe me, the
+character of this country has suffered more in Britain, by the
+pusillanimity with which we have borne many insults and indignities from
+the creatures of power at home, and the creatures of those creatures
+here, than it ever did, or ever will by the freedom and spirit that has
+been or will be discovered in writing or action. Believe me, my
+countrymen, they have imbibed an opinion on the other side the water,
+that we are an ignorant, a timid, and a stupid people; nay, their tools
+on this side have often the impudence to dispute your bravery.--But I
+hope in God the time is near at hand, when they will be fully convinced
+of your understanding, integrity, and courage. But can any thing be more
+ridiculous, were it not too provoking to be laughed at, than to pretend
+that offence should be taken at home for writings here?--Pray let them
+look at home. Is not the human understanding exhausted there? Are not
+reason, imaginations, wit, passion, senses and all, tortured to find out
+satire and invective against the characters of the vile and futile
+fellows who sometimes get into place and power?--The most exceptionable
+paper that ever I saw here is perfect prudence and modesty, in
+comparison of multitudes of their applauded writings. Yet the high
+regard they have for the freedom of the Press, indulges all.--I must and
+will repeat it, Newspapers deserve the patronage of every friend to his
+country. And whether the defamers of them are arrayed in robes of
+scarlet or sable, whether they lurk and skulk in an insurance office,
+whether they assume the venerable character of a priest, the sly one of
+a scrivener, or the dirty, infamous, abandoned one of an informer, they
+are all the creatures and tools of the lust of domination.----
+
+[Footnote A: Boston in America.]
+
+The true source of our sufferings, has been our timidity.
+
+We have been afraid to think.--We have felt a reluctance to examining
+into the grounds of our privileges, and the extent in which we have an
+indisputable right to demand them, against all the power and authority
+on earth.--And many who have not scrupled to examine for themselves,
+have yet, for certain prudent reasons, been cautious, and diffident of
+declaring the result of their enquiries.
+
+The cause of this timidity is perhaps hereditary, and to be traced back
+in history, as far as the cruel treatment the first settlers of this
+country received, before their embarkation for America, from the
+government at home.--Every body knows how dangerous it was, to speak or
+write in favour of any thing, in those days, but the triumphant system
+of religion and politicks. And our fathers were, particularly, the
+objects of the persecutions and proscriptions of the times.--It is not
+unlikely therefore, that, although they were inflexibly steady in
+refusing their positive assent to any thing against their principles,
+they might have contracted habits of reserve, and a cautious diffidence
+of asserting their opinions publicly.--These habits they probably
+brought with them to America, and have transmitted down to us.--Or, we
+may possibly account for this appearance, by the great affection and
+veneration, Americans have always entertained for the country from
+whence they sprang--or by the quiet temper for which they have been
+remarkable, no country having been less disposed to discontent than
+this--or by a sense they have that it is their duty to acquiesce under
+the administration of government, even when in many smaller matters
+grievous to them, and until the essentials of the great compact are
+destroyed or invaded. These peculiar causes might operate upon them; but
+without these, we all know, that human nature itself, from indolence,
+modesty, humanity or fear, has always too much reluctance to a manly
+assertion of its rights. Hence perhaps it has happened, that nine-tenths
+of the species, are groaning and gasping in misery and servitude.
+
+But whatever the cause has been, the fact is certain, we have been
+excessively cautious of giving offence by complaining of
+grievances.----And it is as certain, that American governors, and their
+friends, and all the crown officers, have availed themselves of this
+disposition in the people.--They have prevailed on us to consent to many
+things, which were grossly injurious to us, and to surrender many others
+with voluntary tameness, to which we had the clearest right. Have we not
+been treated formerly, with abominable insolence, by officers of the
+navy?----I mean no insinuation against any gentleman now on this
+station, having heard no complaint of any one of them to his
+dishonour.--Have not some generals, from England, treated us like
+servants, nay, more like slaves than like Britons?--Have we not been
+under the most ignominious contribution, the most abject submission, the
+most supercilious insults of some custom-house officers? Have we not
+been trifled with, browbeaten, and trampled on, by former governors, in
+a manner which no King of England since James the Second has dared to
+indulge towards his subjects? Have we not raised up one family, placed
+in them an unlimited confidence, and been soothed, and flattered, and
+intimidated by their influence, into a great part of this infamous
+tameness and submission?----"These are serious and alarming questions,
+and deserve a dispassionate consideration."--
+
+This disposition has been the great wheel and the main spring in the
+American machine of court politics.--We have been told, that "the word
+_Rights_ is an offensive expression." That "the King, his Ministry, and
+Parliament, will not endure to hear Americans talk of their _Rights_."
+That "Britain is the mother and we the children, that a filial duty and
+submission is due from us to her," and that "we ought to doubt our own
+judgment, and presume that she is right, even when she seems to us to
+shake the foundations of government." That "Britain is immensely rich,
+and great, and powerful, has fleets and armies at her command, which
+have been the dread and terror of the universe, and that the will force
+her own judgment into execution, right or wrong." But let me intreat
+you, Sir, to pause--Do you consider yourself as a missionary of loyalty
+or of rebellion? Are you not representing your K--, his Ministry and
+Parliament, as tyrants, imperious, unrelenting tyrants, by such
+reasoning as this?--Is not this representing your most gracious
+Sovereign, as endeavouring to destroy the foundations of his own
+throne?--Are you not representing every Member of Parliament as
+renouncing the transactions at _Runyn Mead_; [the meadow, near Windsor,
+where _Magna Charta_ was signed,] and as repealing in effect the bill of
+rights, when the Lords and Commons asserted and vindicated the rights of
+the people and their own rights, and insisted on the King's assent to
+that assertion and vindication? Do you not represent them, as forgetting
+that the Prince of Orange was created King William by the People, on
+purpose that their rights might be eternal and inviolable?--Is there not
+something extremely fallacious, in the common place images of mother
+country and children colonies? Are we the children of Great Britain, any
+more than the cities of London, Exeter and Bath? Are we not brethren and
+fellow-subjects, with those in Britain, only under a somewhat different
+method of legislation, and a totally different method of taxation? But
+admitting we are children, have not children a right to complain when
+their parents are attempting to break their limbs, to administer poison,
+or to sell them to enemies for slaves? Let me intreat you to consider,
+will the mother be pleased, when you represent her as deaf to the cries
+of her children? When you compare her to the infamous miscreant, who
+lately stood on the gallows for starving her child? When you resemble
+her to Lady Macbeth in Shakespear, (I cannot think of it without horror)
+
+  Who "had given suck, and knew
+      "How tender 'twas to love the babe that milk'd her."
+  But yet, who could
+      "Even while 'twas smiling in her face,
+  "Have pluck'd her nipple from the boneless gums,
+      "And dash'd the brains out."
+
+Let us banish for ever from our minds, my countrymen, all such unworthy
+ideas of the K--g, his Ministry, and Parliament. Let us not suppose,
+that all are become luxurious, effeminate and unreasonable, on the other
+side the water, as many designing persons would insinuate. Let us
+presume, what is in fact true, that the spirit of liberty is as ardent
+as ever among the body of the nation, though a few individuals may be
+corrupted.--Let us take it for granted, that the same great spirit,
+which once gave Cæsar so warm a reception; which denounced hostilities
+against John, 'till Magna Charta was signed; which severed the head of
+Charles the First from his body, and drove James the Second from his
+kingdom; the same great spirit (MAY HEAVEN PRESERVE IT TILL THE EARTH
+SHALL BE NO MORE!) which first seated the great grandfather of his
+present most gracious Majesty on the throne of Britain, is still alive
+and active, and warm in England; and that the same spirit in America,
+instead of provoking the inhabitants of that country, will endear us to
+them for ever, and secure their good-will.
+
+This spirit, however, without knowledge, would be little better than a
+brutal rage.----Let us tenderly and kindly cherish therefore the means
+of knowledge. Let us dare to read, think, speak and write.----Let every
+order and degree among the people rouse their attention and animate
+their resolution.--Let them all become attentive to the grounds and
+principles of government, ecclesiastical and civil.--Let us study the
+law of nature; search into the spirit of the British constitution; read
+the histories of ancient ages; contemplate the great examples of Greece
+and Rome; set before us the conduct of our own British ancestors, who
+have defended, for _us_, the inherent rights of mankind against foreign
+and domestic tyrants and usurpers, against arbitrary kings and cruel
+priests, in short against the gates of earth and hell.--Let us read and
+recollect, and impress upon our souls the views and ends of our own more
+immediate forefathers, in exchanging their native country for a dreary,
+inhospitable wilderness. Let us examine into the nature of that power,
+and the cruelty of that oppression which drove them from their homes.
+Recollect their amazing fortitude, their bitter sufferings! The hunger,
+the nakedness, the cold, which they patiently endured! The severe
+labours of clearing their grounds, building their houses, raising their
+provisions, amidst dangers from wild beasts and savage men, before they
+had time or money, or materials for commerce! Recollect the civil and
+religious principles, and hopes, and expectations, which constantly
+supported and carried them through all hardships, with patience and
+resignation! Let us recollect it was liberty! The hope of liberty for
+themselves and us and ours, which conquered all discouragements, dangers
+and trials!----In such researches as these, let us all in our several
+departments chearfully engage! But especially the proper patrons and
+supporters of law, learning and religion.
+
+Let the pulpit resound with the doctrines and sentiments of religious
+liberty.----Let us hear the danger of thraldom to our consciences, from
+ignorance, extream poverty and dependance, in short from civil and
+political slavery.--Let us see delineated before us, the true map of
+man. Let us hear the dignity of his nature, and the noble rank he holds
+among the works of GOD! that consenting to slavery is a sacrilegious
+breach of trust, as offensive in the sight of GOD, as it is derogatory
+from our own honour, or interest or happiness; and that GOD ALMIGHTY has
+promulgated from heaven, liberty, peace, and good-will to man!----
+
+Let the Bar proclaim, "the laws, the rights, the generous plan of
+power," delivered down from remote antiquity; inform the world of the
+mighty struggles, and numberless sacrifices, made by our ancestors, in
+the defence of freedom.--Let it be known, that British liberties are not
+the grants of princes or parliaments, but original rights, conditions of
+original contracts, co-equal with prerogative, and co-eval with
+government.--That many of our rights are inherent and essential, agreed
+on as maxims and established as preliminaries, even before a parliament
+existed.--Let them search for the foundation of British laws and
+government in the frame of human nature, in the constitution of the
+intellectual and moral world.--There let us see, that truth, liberty,
+justice, and benevolence, are its everlasting basis; and if these could
+be removed, the superstructure is overthrown of course.--
+
+Let the colleges join their harmony, in the same delightful
+concert.--Let every declamation turn upon the beauty of liberty and
+virtue, and the deformity, turpitude and malignity of slavery and
+vice.--Let the public disputations become researches into the grounds
+and nature and ends of government, and the means of preserving the good
+and demolishing the evil.--Let the dialogues and all the exercises
+become the instruments of impressing on the tender mind, and of
+spreading and distributing, far and wide, the ideas of right and the
+sensations of freedom.
+
+In a word, let every sluice of knowledge be opened and set a flowing.
+The encroachments upon liberty, in the reigns of the first James and the
+first Charles, by turning the general attention of learned men to
+government, are said to have produced the greatest number of consummate
+statesmen, which has ever been seen in any age, or nation. The Brooke's,
+Hamden's, Falkland's, Vane's, Milton's, Nedham's, Harrington's,
+Neville's, Sydney's, Locke's, are all said to have owed their eminence
+in political knowledge, to the tyrannies of those reigns. The prospect,
+now before us, in America, ought, in the same manner, to engage the
+attention of every man of learning to matters of power and of right,
+that we may be neither led nor driven blindfolded to irretrievable
+destruction.----_Nothing less than this seems to have been meditated for
+us, by somebody or other in Great Britain._ There seems to be a direct
+and formal design on foot, to enslave all America.--This however must
+be done by degrees.----The first step that is intended seems to be an
+entire subversion of the whole system of our Fathers, by the
+introduction of the canon and feudal law, into America.----The canon and
+feudal systems though greatly mutilated in England, are not yet
+destroyed. Like the temples and palaces, in which the great contrivers
+of them were once worshiped and inhabited, they exist in ruins; and much
+of the domineering spirit of them still remains.--The designs and
+labours of a certain society, to introduce the former of them into
+America, have been well exposed to the public by a writer of great
+abilities; and the further attempts to the same purpose that may be made
+by that society, or by the ministry or parliament, I leave to the
+conjectures of the thoughtful.--But it seems very manifest from the
+Stamp Act itself, that a design is formed to strip us in a great measure
+of the means of knowledge, by loading the Press, the Colleges, and even
+an Almanack and a News-Paper, with restraints and duties; and to
+introduce the inequalities and dependencies of the feudal system, by
+taking from the poorer sort of people all their little subsistence, and
+conferring it on a set of stamp officers, distributors and their
+deputies.--But I must proceed no farther at present.--The sequel,
+whenever I shall find health and leisure to pursue it, will be a
+"disquisition of the policy of the stamp act."----In the mean time,
+however, let me add, These are not the vapours of a melancholy mind, nor
+the effusions of envy, disappointed ambition, nor of a spirit of
+opposition to government: but the emanations of an heart that burns for
+its country's welfare. No one of any feeling, born and educated in this
+once happy country, can consider the numerous distresses, the gross
+indignities, the barbarous ignorance, the haughty usurpations, that we
+have reason to fear are meditating for ourselves, our children, our
+neighbours, in short for all our countrymen, and all their posterity,
+without the utmost agonies of heart, and many tears.
+
+FINIS.
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's Notes:
+18th Century English typography has been modernized for ease of reading,
+for example, long-s has been rendered using an ordinary s. Spelling
+conventions of the times have been maintained.
+
+Several misprints and punctuation errors corrected.
+
+Page 7, Added close quotes to end of quotation.
+
+Page 13, "achievements" spelled "atchievements" Left as is.
+
+Page 26, Added close quotes to end of quotation.
+
+Page 43, "necessay" changed to "necessary".
+
+Page 77, "extrardinary" changed to "extraordinary".
+
+Page 87, "achieved" spelled "atchieved" Left as is.
+
+Ligatures removed in ASCII Version: man[oe]oeuvres to manoeuvres,
+[oe]conomy to oeconomy.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of A Collection of State-Papers, Relative
+to the First Acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the United States of America, by John Adams
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK COLLECTION OF STATE-PAPERS ***
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+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of A Collection of State-Papers, Relative to
+the First Acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the United States of America, by John Adams
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: A Collection of State-Papers, Relative to the First Acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the United States of America
+
+Author: John Adams
+
+Release Date: January 6, 2010 [EBook #30872]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK COLLECTION OF STATE-PAPERS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Bryan Ness, Susan Carr and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This
+book was produced from scanned images of public domain
+material from the Google Print project.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+<h1><small>A</small><br />
+
+COLLECTION<br />
+
+<small>OF</small><br />
+
+STATE-PAPERS.</h1>
+
+<h3>[Price Two Shillings.]</h3>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h1><small>A</small><br />
+
+COLLECTION<br />
+
+<small>OF</small><br />
+
+STATE-PAPERS.</h1>
+
+<h4>Relative to the First Acknowledgment of the</h4>
+
+<h3>Sovereignty of the United States of America,</h3>
+
+<h4>And the Reception of their</h4>
+
+<h3>Minister Plenipotentiary, by their High Mightinesses the<br />
+States General of the United Netherlands.</h3>
+
+<h3>To which is prefixed, the Political Character of</h3>
+
+<h2>JOHN ADAMS,</h2>
+
+<h3>Ambassador Plenipotentiary from the States of North America,<br />
+to their High Mightinesses the States General of the<br />
+United Provinces of the Netherlands.</h3>
+
+<hr class="thought" />
+<h2><span class="smcap">By an American</span>.</h2>
+<hr class="thought" />
+
+<h3>LIKEWISE,</h3>
+
+<h2><span class="smcap">An Essay on Canon and Feudal Law</span>,</h2>
+
+<h2><span class="smcap">By JOHN ADAMS, Esq</span>;</h2>
+
+<hr class="thought" />
+
+<h3>LONDON:</h3>
+
+<h3>Printed for <span class="smcap">John Fielding</span>, No. 23, Pater-noster-row;<br />
+<span class="smcap">John Debrett</span>, opposite Burlington-House, Piccadilly; and<br />
+<span class="smcap">John Sewell</span>, No. 32, Cornhill. 1782.</h3>
+
+<h3>[Entered at Stationers-Hall.]</h3>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>INTRODUCTION</h2>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">As</span> the States General of the United Provinces have
+acknowledged the independency of the United States
+of North America, and made a treaty of commerce with
+them, it may not be improper to prefix a short account of
+John Adams, Esq; who, pursuing the interests of his
+country, hath brought about these important events.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Adams is descended from one of the first families
+which founded the colony of the Massachusets Bay in 1630.
+He applied himself early to the study of the laws of his
+country; and no sooner entered upon the practice thereof,
+but he drew the attention, admiration, and esteem of
+his countrymen, on account of his eminent abilities and
+probity of character. Not satisfied with barely maintaining
+the rights of individuals, he soon signalized himself
+in the defence of his country, and mankind at large, by
+writing his admirable Dissertation on the Canon and
+Feudal Laws; a work so well worth the attention of every
+man who is an enemy to ecclesiastical and civil tyranny,
+that it is here subjoined. It showed the author at an early
+period capable of seconding efficaciously the formation of
+republics on the principles of justice and virtue. Such a
+man became most naturally an object of Governor Barnard's
+seduction. The perversion of his abilities might be of use in
+a bad cause; the corruption of his principles might tarnish
+the best. But the arts of the Governor, which had succeeded
+with so many, were ineffectual with Mr. Adams, who
+openly declared he would not accept a favour, however
+<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span>flatteringly offered, which might in any manner connect
+him with the enemy of the rights of his country, or tend
+to embarrass him, as it had happened with too many
+others, in the discharge of his duty to the public. Seduction
+thus failing of its ends, calumny, menaces, and
+the height of power were made use of against him. They
+lost the effect proposed, but had that, which the show of
+baseness and violence ever produce on a mind truly virtuous.
+They increased his honest firmness, because they
+manifested, that the times required more than ordinary
+exertions of manliness. In consequence of this conduct,
+Mr. Adams obtained the highest honours which a virtuous
+man can receive from the good and the bad. He was
+honoured with the disapprobation of the Governor, who
+refused his admission into the council of the province;
+and he met with the applause of his countrymen in general,
+who sent him to assist at the Congress in 1774,
+in which he was most active, being one of the principal
+promoters of the famous resolution of the 4th of July,
+when the colonies declared themselves <span class="smcap">free and independent
+states</span>.</p>
+
+<p>This step being taken, Mr. Adams saw the inefficacy of
+meeting the English Commissioners, and voted against
+the proposition; Congress, however, having determined
+to pursue this measure, sent him, together with Dr.
+Franklin and Mr. Rutledge, to General Howe's head
+quarters. These Deputies, leading with them, in a manly
+way, the hostages which the general had given for their
+security, marched to the place of conference, in the midst
+of twenty thousand men ranged under arms. Whether
+this military shew was meant to do honour to the Americans,
+or to give them an high idea of the English force,
+is not worth enquiry. If its object was to terrify the Deputies
+of Congress, it failed; making no more impression
+on them, than the sudden discovery of elephants did upon
+certain embassadors of old. The utmost politeness having
+passed on both sides, the conference ended, as had been
+foreseen, without any effect.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Adams having been fifteen months one of the
+Commissioners of the War department, and a principal
+suggestor of the terms to be offered to France, for forming
+treaties of alliance and commerce, he was sent to the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span>
+court of Versailles, as one of the Ministers Plenipotentiary
+of the United States. After continuing some time
+invested with this important trust, he returned to America;
+where he no sooner appeared, than he was called
+upon by the State of Massachusets Bay, to assist in forming
+a system of government, that might establish the rights
+of all on clear, just, and permanent grounds. He was
+never employed in a business more agreeable to himself;
+for, the happiness of his Fellow-Citizens is his great object.
+He sought not honour in this arduous undertaking,
+but it fell ultimately upon <i>Him</i>. He has gained it all
+over Europe. If he endeavoured to obtain by it the
+esteem and love of his countrymen, he has succeeded;
+for they know they are chiefly indebted to him for the
+constitution of the State of Massachusets Bay, as it stands
+at this day.</p>
+
+<p>This important business being completed to the satisfaction
+of all, he came back to Europe, with full powers
+from Congress to assist at any conferences which might be
+opened for the establishment of peace; and had sent him,
+soon after, other powers to negociate a loan of money
+for the use of the United States; and to represent them,
+as their Minister Plenipotentiary, to their High Mightinesses
+the States General of the United Provinces. Such
+important trusts shew, in what estimation he is held by
+his country; and his manner of executing them, that confidence
+is well placed.</p>
+
+<p>On his arrival in Holland, nothing could have been
+more unpromising to the happy execution of his mission,
+than were the affairs of that country. The influence
+of the Court of St. James's over a certain set of men,
+the interest that many had in the funds and commerce of
+England, and the dread of her power, which generally
+prevailed throughout the Provinces, obliged him to act
+with the utmost circumspection. Unknown, and at first
+unnoticed, (at least but by a few) he had nothing to do
+but to examine into the state of things, and characters of
+the leading men. This necessary knowledge was scarcely
+acquired, when the conduct of the British Ministry afforded
+him an opportunity of shewing himself more
+openly. The contempt, insult and violence, with which<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span>
+the whole Belgic nation was treated, gave him great
+advantages over the English Embassador at the Hague.
+He served himself of his rivals rashness and folly with
+great coolness and ability; and, by consequence, became
+so particularly obnoxious to the prevailing party, that
+he did not dare to go to a village scarcely a day's journey
+from his residence, but with the utmost secrecy: the fate
+of Dorislaus was before his eyes. Having been therefore
+under the necessity of making himself a Burgher of Amsterdam,
+for protection against the malice of the times,
+he soon gained the good opinion of the Magistrates by his
+prudent conduct as a private Citizen. The bad policy of
+England, enabled him to step forward as a public character.
+As such he presented to the States General his
+famous Memorial, dated the 19th of April, 1781, wherein
+the declaration of the independency of America on the
+4th of July, 1776, was justified; the unalterable resolution
+of the United States to abide thereby asserted; the
+interest that all the powers of Europe, and particularly
+the States General, have in maintaining it, proved; the
+political and natural grounds of a commercial connection
+between the two Republics pointed out; and information
+given that the Memorialist was invested with full powers
+from Congress to treat with their High Mightinesses for
+the good of both countries.</p>
+
+<p>The presenting this Memorial was a delicate step;
+Mr. Adams was sensible, that he alone was answerable
+for its consequences, it being taken not merely from his
+own single suggestion, but contrary to the opinion and
+advice of some of great weight and authority. However,
+maturely considering the measure, he saw it in all
+its lights, and boldly ventured on the undertaking. The
+full and immediate effect of it was not expected at once.
+The first object was, that the nation should consider the
+matter thoroughly; it being evident, that the more it
+was ruminated on, the more obvious would be the advantages
+and necessity of a connection between the two
+countries. When, therefore, the Memorial was taken by
+the States General <i>ad referendum</i>, the first point was gained;
+the people thought of, and reasoned on the matter set
+before them; many excellent writings appeared, and they<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span>
+made the greatest impression; a weekly paper in particular,
+entitled Le Politique Hollandois, drew the attention of
+all, on account of its information, the soundness of its
+argument, and its political judgment and patriotism.
+At length the time came when the work was to be compleated:
+the generality of the people of Holland, seeing the
+necessity of opening a new course to their trade, which
+the violent aggression of England, and the commercial
+spirit of other nations tended to diminish, demanded an
+immediate connection with the United States of America,
+as a means of indemnifying themselves for the loss which
+a declared enemy had brought on them, and the rivalship
+of neighbouring nations might produce.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Adams seized the occasion which the public disposition
+afforded him, and presented his Ulteriour Address
+of the 9th of January, 1782; referring therein to his
+Memorial of the 19th of April, 1781, and demanding a
+categorical answer thereto. The Towns, Cities, Quarters,
+and States of the several Provinces took the whole
+matter into immediate deliberation, and instructed their
+several Deputies, in the States General, to concur in the
+admission of Mr. Adams in quality of Minister Plenipotentiary
+of the United States of North America. This was
+done by a resolution, passed by their High Mightinesses
+the 19th of April, 1782; and on the 22d of the same
+month, Mr. Adams was admitted accordingly, with all the
+usual ceremonies.</p>
+
+<p>This event seems to have been as great a blow as any
+that has been given to the pride and interests of England
+during the war. It shewed the Dutch were no longer
+over-awed by the power of their enemy, for they dared
+to brave him to his teeth. It set an example to other
+nations, to partake of the commerce of those countries,
+which England had lost by her inconsiderate conduct. It
+confounded at once the English partisans in Holland, and
+proved that Sir Joseph Yorke was not the great minister
+he had hitherto been supposed to be. It gave occasion to
+an ambassador of one of the greatest monarchs of Europe
+to say to Mr. Adams: <i>Vous avez frappé, Monsieur, le plus
+grand coup de tout l' Europe. C'est le plus grand coup, qui
+à etè frappé dans le cause Americain. C'est vous qui à effrayé<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span>
+et terrasse les Anglomannes. C'est vous qui à rempli cette
+nation d'enthousiasme.</i> And then turning to another gentleman,
+he said, <i>Ce n'est pas pour faire compliment a Monsieur
+Adams, que je dis cela: c'est parcequ'en verité, je crois
+que c'est sa due.</i></p>
+
+<p>This diplomatic compliment has been followed by others.
+I transcribe with pleasure a convivial one contained in the
+following lines, which an ingenious and patriotic Dutchman
+addressed to his excellency Mr. Adams, on drinking
+to him out of a large beautiful glass, which is called a
+<i>baccale</i>, and had inscribed round its brim, <i>Aurea Libertas</i>:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Aurea Libertas!</span> <i>gaude! pars altera mundi</i><br /></span>
+<span class="i2"><i>Vindice te renuit subdere colla jugo.</i><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><i>Hæc tibi legatum quem consors Belga recepit</i><br /></span>
+<span class="i2"><i>Pectore sincero pocula plena fero.</i><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><i>Utraque gens nectet, mox suspicienda tyrannis,</i><br /></span>
+<span class="i2"><i>Quæ libertati vincula sacra precor!</i><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>They who have an opportunity of knowing his Excellency
+Mr. Adams trace in his features the most unequivocal
+marks of probity and candour. He unites to that
+gravity, suitable to the character with which he is invested,
+an affability, which prejudices you in his favour.
+Although of a silent turn, as William the Prince of Orange
+was, and most great men are, who engage in important
+affairs, he has nevertheless a natural eloquence for the
+discussion of matters which are the objects of his mission,
+and for the recommending and enforcing the truths, measures,
+and systems, which are dictated by sound policy.
+He has neither the corrupted nor corrupting principles
+of Lord Chesterfield, nor the qualities of Sir Joseph
+Yorke, but the plain and virtuous demeanor of Sir
+William Temple. Like him too he is simple in negociation,
+where he finds candour in those who treat with
+him. Otherwise he has the severity of a true republican,
+his high idea of virtue giving him a rigidness, which makes
+it difficult for him to accommodate himself to those intrigues
+which European politics have introduced into
+negociation. "<i>Il sait que l'art de negocier n'est pas l'art<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span> d'intriguer et de tromper; quil ne consiste pas à corrompre;
+à se jouer des sermens et à semer les alarmes et les divisions;
+qu'un negociateur habile peut parvenir à son but sans ces
+expediens, qui sont la triste ressource des intriguans, sans avoir
+recours à des man&oelig;uvres detournès et extraordinaires. Il
+trouve dans la nature même des affaires quil négocie des incidens
+propres à faire réussir tous ses</i> <ins title="Transcriber's note: Added quotes after projets.">
+<i>projéts.</i>"</ins></p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>MEMORIAL</h2>
+
+<h3>TO THEIR<br />
+
+HIGH MIGHTINESSES<br />
+
+THE<br />
+
+STATES GENERAL<br />
+
+OF THE<br />
+
+United Provinces of the Low Countries.</h3>
+
+
+<p class="hanging-indent"><i>High and Mighty Lords</i>;</p>
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> Subscriber has the honour to propose to your
+High Mightinesses, that the United States of America,
+in Congress assembled, have lately thought fit to
+send him a commission (with full powers and instructions)
+to confer with your High Mightinesses concerning a treaty
+of amity and commerce, an authentic copy of which he
+has the honour to annex to this memorial.</p>
+
+<p>At the times when the treaties between this Republic
+and the Crown of Great Britain were made, the people,
+who now compose the United States of America, were
+a part of the English nation; as such, allies of the Republic,
+and parties to those treaties; entitled to all their
+benefits, and submitting chearfully to all their obligations.</p>
+
+<p>It is true, that when the British Administration, renouncing
+the ancient character of Englishmen for generosity,
+justice, and humanity, conceived the design of
+subverting the political systems of the Colonies; depriving
+them of the rights and liberties of Englishmen, and reducing
+them to the worst of all forms of government;
+starving the people by blockading the ports, and cutting
+off their fisheries and commerce; sending fleets and ar<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span>mies to destroy every principle and sentiment of liberty,
+and to consume their habitations and their lives; making
+contracts for foreign troops, and alliances with savage
+nations to assist them in their enterprise; casting formally,
+by act of parliament, three millions of people at
+once out of the protection of the Crown: Then, and not
+till then, did the United States of America, in Congress
+assembled, pass that memorable act, by which they assumed
+an equal station among the nations.</p>
+
+<p>This immortal declaration, of the 4th of July, 1776,
+when America was invaded by an hundred vessels of war,
+and, according to estimates laid before parliament, by
+55,000 of veteran troops, was not the effect of any sudden
+passion or enthusiasm; but a measure which had been
+long in deliberation among the people, maturely discussed
+in some hundreds of popular assemblies, and by public
+writings in all the states. It was a measure which Congress
+did not adopt, until they had received the positive instructions
+of their constituents in all the States: It was
+then unanimously adopted by Congress, subscribed by all
+its members, transmitted to the assemblies of the several
+States, and by them respectively accepted, ratified, and
+recorded among their archives; so that no decree, edict,
+statute, placart, or fundamental law of any nation was
+ever made with more solemnity, or with more unanimity
+or cordiality adopted, as the act and consent of the whole
+people, than this: And it has been held sacred to this
+day by every state, with such unshaken firmness, that
+not even the smallest has ever been induced to depart
+from it; although the English have wasted many millions,
+and vast fleets and armies, in the vain attempt to invalidate
+it. On the contrary, each of the Thirteen States
+has instituted a form of government for itself, under the
+<span class="smcap">Authority of the People</span>; has erected its legislature
+in the several branches; its executive authority with
+all its offices; its judiciary departments and judges; its
+army, militia, revenue, and some of them their navy:
+And all those departments of government have been regularly
+and constitutionally organized under the associated
+superintendency of Congress, now these five years, and
+have acquired a consistency, solidity, and activity equal
+to the oldest and most established governments. It is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span>
+true, that in some speeches and writings of the English it
+is still contended that the people of America are still in
+principle and affection with them: But these assertions
+are made against such evident truth and demonstration,
+that it is surprising they should find at this day one believer
+in the world. One may appeal to the writings and
+recorded speeches of the English for the last seventeen
+years, to shew that similar misrepresentations have been
+incessantly repeated through that whole period; and that
+the conclusion of every year has in fact confuted the confident
+assertions and predictions of the beginning of it.
+The subscriber begs leave to say from his own knowledge
+of the people of America, (and he has a better right
+to obtain credit, because he has better opportunities to
+know, than any Briton whatsoever) that <i>they are unalterably
+determined to maintain their Independence</i>. He confesses,
+that, notwithstanding his confidence through his
+whole life in the virtuous sentiments and uniformity of
+character among his countrymen, their unanimity has
+surprised him. That all the power, arts, intrigues, and
+bribes which have been employed in the several States,
+should have seduced from the standard of virtue so contemptible
+a few, is more fortunate than could have been
+expected. This independence stands upon so broad and
+firm a bottom of the people's interests, honour, consciences,
+and affections, that it will not be affected by any
+successes the English may obtain either in America, or
+against the European powers at war, nor by any alliances
+they can possibly form; if indeed, in so unjust and desperate
+a cause they can obtain any. Nevertheless, although
+compelled by necessity, and warranted by the fundamental
+laws of the colonies, and of the British constitution,
+by principles avowed in the English laws, and confirmed
+by many examples in the English history; by principles
+interwoven into the history and public right of Europe,
+in the great examples of the Helvetic and Belgic
+confederacies, and many others; and frequently acknowledged
+and ratified by the diplomatic body; principles
+founded in eternal justice, and the laws of God and nature,
+to cut asunder for ever all the ties which had connected
+them with Great Britain: Yet the people of America
+did not consider themselves as separating from their<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span>
+allies, especially the Republic of the United Provinces, or
+departing from their connections with any of the people
+under their government; but, on the contrary, they preserved
+the same affection, esteem and respect, for the
+Dutch nation, in every part of the world, which they and
+their ancestors had ever entertained.</p>
+
+<p>When sound policy dictated to Congress the precaution
+of sending persons to negotiate natural alliances in Europe,
+it was not from a failure in respect that they did not
+send a minister to your High Mightinesses, with the first
+whom they sent abroad: but, instructed in the nature of
+the connections between Great Britain and the Republic,
+and in the system of peace and neutrality, which she had
+so long pursued, they thought proper to respect both so
+far, as not to seek to embroil her with her allies, to excite
+divisions in the nation, or lay embarrassments before it.
+But, since the British administration, uniform and persevering
+in injustice, despising their allies, as much as
+their colonists and fellow-subjects; disregarding the faith
+of treaties, as much as that of royal charters; violating
+the law of nations, as they had before done the fundamental
+laws of the Colonies and the inherent rights of
+British subjects, have arbitrarily set aside all the treaties
+between the Crown and the Republic, declared war and
+commenced hostilities, the settled intentions of which
+they had manifested long before; all those motives, which
+before restrained the Congress, cease: and an opportunity
+presents itself of proposing such connections, as the United
+States of America have a right to form, consistent with
+the treaties already formed with France and Spain, which
+they are under every obligation of duty, interest and inclination,
+to observe sacred and inviolate; and consistent
+with such other treaties, as it is their intention to propose
+to other sovereigns.</p>
+
+<p>If there was ever among nations a natural alliance,
+one may be formed between the two Republics. The
+first planters of the four northern States found in this
+country an asylum from persecution, and resided here
+from the year 1608 to the year 1620, twelve years preceding
+their migration. They ever entertained and have
+transmitted to posterity, a grateful remembrance of that
+protection and hospitality, and especially of that religious<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span>
+liberty they found here, having sought it in vain in
+England.</p>
+
+<p>The first inhabitants of two other States, New-York
+and New-Jersey, were immediate emigrants from this
+nation, and have transmitted their religion, language,
+customs, manners and character: And America in general,
+until her connections with the House of Bourbon,
+has ever considered this nation as her first friend in
+Europe, whose history, and the great characters it exhibits,
+in the various arts of peace, as well as <ins
+title="Transcriber's note: Archaic spelling of achievements.">atchievements</ins>
+of war by sea and land, have been particularly
+studied, admired and imitated in every State.</p>
+
+<p>A similitude of religion, although it is not deemed so
+essential in this as in former ages to the alliance of nations,
+is still, as it ever will be thought, a desirable circumstance.
+Now it may be said with truth, that there are no
+two nations, whose worship, doctrine and discipline, are
+more alike than those of the two Republics. In this particular
+therefore, as far as it is of weight, an alliance
+would be perfectly natural.</p>
+
+<p>A similarity in the forms of government, is usually
+considered as another circumstance, which renders alliances
+natural: And although the constitutions of the
+two Republics are not perfectly alike, there is yet analogy
+enough between them, to make a connection easy in this
+respect.</p>
+
+<p>In general usages, and in the liberality of sentiments in
+those momentous points, the freedom of enquiry, the
+right of private judgment and the liberty of conscience, of
+so much importance to be supported in the world, and
+imparted to all mankind, and which at this hour are in
+more danger from Great Britain and that intolerant spirit
+which is secretly fomenting there, than from any other
+quarter, the two nations resemble each other more than
+any others.</p>
+
+<p>The originals of the two Republics are so much alike,
+that the history of one seems but a transcript from that of
+the other: so that every Dutchman instructed in the
+subject, must pronounce the American revolution just and
+necessary, or pass a censure upon the greatest actions of
+his immortal ancestors: actions which have been approved<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span>
+and applauded by mankind, and justified by the decision
+of Heaven.</p>
+
+<p>But the circumstance, which perhaps in this age has
+stronger influence than any other in the formation of
+friendships between nations, is the great and growing
+interest of commerce; of the whole system of which
+through the globe, your High Mightinesses are too perfect
+masters for me to say any thing that is not familiarly
+known. It may not, however, be amiss to hint, that
+the central situation of this country, her extensive navigation,
+her possessions in the East and West Indies, the
+intelligence of her merchants, the number of her capitalists,
+and the riches of her funds, render a connection
+with her very desirable to America: and, on the other
+hand, the abundance and variety of the productions of
+America, the materials of manufactures, navigation and
+commerce; the vast demand and consumption in America
+of the manufactures of Europe, of merchandises from
+the Baltic, and from the East Indies, and the situation of
+the Dutch possessions in the West Indies, cannot admit of
+a doubt, that a connection with the United States would
+be useful to this Republic. The English are so sensible
+of this, that notwithstanding all their professions of friendship,
+they have ever considered this nation as their rival in
+the American trade; a sentiment which dictated and
+maintained their severe act of navigation, as injurious to
+the commerce and naval power of this country, as it was
+both to the trade and the rights of the Colonists. There
+is now an opportunity offered to both, to shake off this
+shackle for ever. If any consideration whatever could
+have induced them to have avoided a war with your High
+Mightinesses, it would have been the apprehension of an
+alliance between the two Republics: and it is easy to
+foresee, that nothing will contribute more to oblige them
+to a peace, than such a connection once completely
+formed. It is needless to point out, particularly, what
+advantages might be derived to the possessions of the Republic
+in the West Indies from a trade opened, protected
+and encouraged, between them and the Continent of
+America; or what profits might be made by the Dutch
+East India Company, by carrying their effects directly to
+the American market; or how much even the trade of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span>
+the Baltic might be secured and extended by a free intercourse
+with America; which has ever had so large a demand,
+and will have more for hemp, cordage, sail-cloth,
+and other articles of that commerce: how much the
+national navigation would be benefited by building and
+purchasing ships there: how much the number of seamen
+might be increased, or how much more advantageous it
+would prove to both countries, to have their ports mutually
+opened to their men of war and privateers, and to their
+prizes.</p>
+
+<p>If, therefore, an analogy of religion, government,
+origin, manners, and the most extensive and lasting commercial
+interests, can form a ground and an invitation to
+political connections, the subscriber flatters himself that,
+in all these particulars, the union is so obviously natural,
+that there has seldom been a more distinct designation of
+Providence to any two distant nations to unite themselves
+together.</p>
+
+<p>It is further submitted to the wisdom and humanity of
+your High Mightinesses, whether it is not visibly for the
+good of mankind, that the powers of Europe, who are
+convinced of the justice of the American cause, (and
+where is one to be found that is not?) should make haste
+to acknowledge the independence of the United States,
+and form equitable treaties with them, as the surest means
+of convincing Great Britain of the impracticability of her
+pursuits? Whether the late marine treaty concerning the
+rights of neutral vessels, noble and useful as it is, can be
+established against Great Britain, who will never adopt it,
+nor submit to it, but from necessity, without the independence
+of America? Whether the return of America,
+with her nurseries of seamen and magazines of materials
+for navigation and commerce, to the domination and
+monopoly of Great Britain, if that were practicable,
+would not put the possessions of other nations beyond seas
+wholly in the power of that enormous empire, which has
+been long governed wholly by the feeling of its own
+power, at least without a proportional attention to justice,
+humanity, or decency. When it is obvious and certain
+that the Americans are not inclined to submit again to the
+British government, on the one hand, and that the powers
+of Europe ought not and could not with safety consent to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span>
+it, if they were so inclined, on the other; why should a
+source of contention be left open, for future contingencies
+to involve the nations of Europe in still more bloodshed,
+when, by one decisive step of the maritime powers, in
+making treaties with a nation long in possession of sovereignty
+by right and in fact, it might be closed?</p>
+
+<p>The example of your High Mightinesses would, it is,
+hoped, be followed by all the maritime powers, especially
+those which are parties to the late marine treaty: nor can
+the apprehension that the independence of America would
+be injurious to the trade of the Baltic, be any objection.
+This jealousy is so groundless that the reverse would happen.
+The freight and insurance in voyages across the
+Atlantic are so high, and the price of labour in America
+so dear, that tar, pitch, turpentine, and ship-timber never
+can be transported to Europe at so cheap a rate, as it has
+been and will be afforded by countries round the Baltic.
+This commerce was supported by the English before the
+revolution with difficulty, and not without large parliamentary
+bounties. Of hemp, cordage, and sail-cloth
+there will not probably be a sufficiency raised in America
+for her own consumption in many centuries, for the plainest
+of all reasons, because these articles may be imported
+from Amsterdam, or even from Petersburg and Archangel,
+cheaper than they can be raised at home. America will
+therefore be for ages a market for these articles of the
+Baltic trade.</p>
+
+<p>Nor is there more solidity in another supposition, propagated
+by the English to prevent other nations from
+pursuing their true interests, that the colonies of other
+nations will follow the example of the United States.
+Those powers, who have as large possessions as any beyond
+seas, have already declared against England, apprehending
+no such consequences. Indeed there is no probability
+of any other power of Europe following the example
+of England, in attempting to change the whole
+system of the government of colonies, and reducing them
+by oppression to the necessity of governing themselves:
+and, without such manifest injustice and cruelty on the
+part of the metropolis, there is no danger of colonies
+attempting innovations. Established governments are
+founded deep in the hearts, the passions, the imaginations<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span>
+and understandings of the people; and without some violent
+change from without, to alter the temper and character
+of the whole people, it is not in human nature to
+exchange safety for danger, and certain happiness for very
+precarious benefits.</p>
+
+<p>It is submitted to the consideration of your High Mightinesses,
+whether the system of the United States, which
+was minutely considered and discussed, and unanimously
+agreed on in Congress in the year 1776, in planning the
+treaty they proposed to France, to form equitable commercial
+treaties with all the maritime powers of Europe,
+without being governed or monopolized by any: a system
+which was afterwards approved by the king, and made
+the foundation of the treaties with his majesty: a system
+to which the United States have hitherto constantly adhered,
+and from which they never will depart, unless
+compelled by some powers declaring against them, which
+is not expected, is not the only means of preventing this
+growing country from being an object of everlasting jealousies,
+rivalries, and wars among the nations. If this
+idea be just, it follows, that <i>it is the interest of every state
+in Europe to acknowledge American independency immediately</i>.
+If such benevolent policy should be adopted, the new
+world will be a proportional blessing to every part of
+the old.</p>
+
+<p>The subscriber has the farther honour of informing your
+High Mightinesses, that the United States of America,
+in Congress assembled, impressed with an high sense of the
+wisdom and magnanimity of your High Mightinesses, and
+of your inviolable attachment to the rights and liberties
+of mankind, and being desirous of cultivating the friendship
+of a nation, eminent for its wisdom, justice, and
+moderation, have appointed the subscriber to be their
+minister plenipotentiary to reside near you, that he may
+give you more particular assurances of the great respect
+they entertain for your High Mightinesses; beseeching your
+High Mightinesses to give entire credit to every thing,
+which their said minister shall deliver on their part, especially
+when he shall assure you of the sincerity of their
+friendship and regard. The original letter of credence,
+under the seal of Congress, the subscriber is ready to deliver
+to your High Mightinesses, or to such persons as you<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span>
+shall direct to receive it. He has also a similar letter
+of credence to his most Serene Highness the Prince
+Stadtholder.</p>
+
+<p>All which is respectfully submitted to the consideration
+of your High Mightinesses, together with the propriety of
+appointing some person, or persons, to treat on the subject
+of his mission, by</p>
+
+<p>
+<span class="smcap">Leyden</span><br />
+19 April 1781.</p>
+
+<div class="right">J. ADAMS.<br /></div>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>GUELDERLAND.</h2>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">In</span> the assembly of the States of Guelderland, holden in
+October 1781, to consider of the requisition of the king
+of France, of a negotiation of five millions of florins,
+under the warranty of the Republic, some were for an
+alliance with France. The Baron Nagel, Seneschal of
+Zutphen, avoided putting of the question, and said among
+other things, "That he had rather acknowledge the independence
+of the Americans, than contract an alliance
+with France."</p>
+
+<p>The Baron van der Capellen de Marsch was for an
+alliance with France and America too. He observed,
+"That nothing being more natural than to act in concert
+with the enemies of our enemy, it was an object of serious
+deliberation, to see, if the interest of the Republic
+did not require to accept, without farther tergiversations,
+the invitations and offers of the Americans: that no condescension
+for England could hinder us, at present, from
+uniting ourselves against a common enemy, with a nation
+so brave and so virtuous: a nation, which, after our
+example, owes its liberty to its valour, and even at this
+moment is employed in defending itself from the tyranny
+of the enemy of the two nations: that, consequently, nothing
+could restrain us from acknowledging the independence
+of this new Republic: that our conduct differed
+very much from that holden by our ancestors, who allied
+themselves with the Portuguese, as soon as they shook off
+the yoke of the Spaniards: that there was no doubt, that
+the said alliances with the enemies of our enemy would
+soon restrain his fury, and operate a general peace advantageous
+for us."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>The QUARTER<br />
+
+of<br />
+
+OOSTERGO.</h2>
+
+<p class="hanging-indent"><i>The Quarter of Oostergo, in the Province of Friesland, in
+December, 1781, was the first public Body which proposed
+a Connection with the United States of America in these
+Words.</i></p>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">Every</span> impartial Patriot has a long time perceived
+that, in the direction of affairs relative to this war
+with England, there have been manifested an inconceivable
+lukewarmness and sloth; but they discover themselves
+still more, at this moment, by the little inclination which,
+in general, the Regencies of the Belgic Provinces testify
+to commence a treaty of commerce and friendship with the
+new Republic of the Thirteen United States of North
+America; and to contract engagements, at least during
+the continuance of this common war with the Crowns of
+France and Spain. Nevertheless, the necessity of these
+measures appears clearly, since, according to our judgments,
+nothing was more natural, nor more conformable
+to sound policy, founded upon the laws of the nature the
+most precise, than that this Republic, immediately after
+the formal declaration of war by the English (not being
+yet able to do any thing by military exploits, not being in a
+state of defence sufficiently respectable to dare, at sea, to
+oppose one fleet or squadron, to our perfidious enemy)
+should have commenced by acknowledging, by a public
+declaration, the Independence of North America. This
+would have been from that time the greatest step to the
+humiliation of England, and our own re-establishment;
+and by this measure, the Republic would have proved her
+firm resolution to act with vigour. Every one of our inhabitants,
+all Europe, who have their eyes fixed upon us,
+the whole World expected, with just reason, this measure<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span>
+from the Republic. It is true, that before the formal declaration
+of war by England, one might perhaps have alleged
+some plausible reason, to justify, in some degree, the
+backwardness in this great and interesting affair. But, as
+at present Great Britain is no longer our secret, but declared
+enemy, which dissolves all the connections between
+the two nations; and as it is the duty, not only of all the
+Regencies, but also of all the Citizens of this Republic, to
+reduce, by all imaginable annoyances, this enemy so unjust
+to reason, and to force him, if possible, to conclude an
+honourable peace; why should we hesitate any longer, to
+strike, by this measure so reasonable, the most sensible blow
+to the common enemy? Will not this delay occasion a
+suspicion that we prefer the interest of our enemy to that
+of our country? North America, so sensibly offended by
+the refusal of her offer; France and Spain, in the midst of
+a war supported with activity, must they not regard us as
+the secret friends, and favourers of their and our common
+enemy? Have they not reason to conclude from it, that
+our inaction ought to be less attributed to our weakness,
+than to our affection for England? Will not this opinion
+destroy all confidence in our nation heretofore so renowned
+in this respect? And our allies, at this time natural, must
+they not imagine, that it is better to have in us declared
+enemies than pretended friends? And shall we not be involved
+in a ruinous war, which we might have rendered
+advantageous, if it had been well directed? While on the
+other hand it is evident, that by a new connection with
+the States of North America, by engagements at least
+during this war with France and Spain, we shall obtain,
+not only the confidence of these formidable powers, instead
+of their distrust, but by this means we shall moreover
+place our colonies in safety against any insult; we shall
+have a well grounded hope, of recovering, with the aid of
+the allied powers, our lost possessions, if the English should
+make themselves masters of them; and our commerce at
+present neglected, and so shamefully pillaged, would reassume
+a new vigour; considering that in such case, as it
+is manifestly proved by solid reasons, this Republic would
+derive from this commerce the most signal advantages.
+But, since our interest excites us forcibly to act in concert
+with the enemies of our enemy; since the United States of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span>
+America invited us to it long ago; since France appears
+inclined to concert her military operations with ours (although
+this power has infinitely less interest to ally itself
+with us, whose weakness manifests itself in so palpable a
+manner, than we have to form an alliance, the most respectable
+in the universe) it is indubitably the duty of
+every Regency, to promote it with all their forces, and
+with all the celerity imaginable. To this end, we have
+thought it our duty, to lay it before your noble Mightinesses,
+in the firm persuasion that the zeal of your noble
+Mightinesses will be as earnest as ours, to concur to the
+accomplishment of this point, which is for us of the
+greatest importance; that, consequently, your noble
+Mightinesses will not delay to co-operate with us, that,
+upon this important subject, there may be made to their
+High Mightinesses, a proposition so vigorous, that it may
+have the desired success: and that this affair, of an importance
+beyond all expression for our common country,
+may be resolved and decided by unanimous suffrages, and
+in preference to every particular interest.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>ULTERIOUR ADDRESS.</h2>
+
+<p class="hanging-indent"><i>On the 9th January, 1782, Mr. <span class="smcap">Adams</span> waited on the
+President <span class="smcap">van den Sandheuvel,</span> and addressed
+him as follows.</i></p>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">On</span> the fourth of May, I had the honour of a conference
+with the President of their High Mightinesses,
+in which I informed him, that I had received from
+the United States of America a commission, with full
+powers and instructions to propose and conclude a treaty
+of amity and commerce, between the said United States
+of America and the United Provinces of the Netherlands.</p>
+
+<p>At the same conference, I had the honour to demand
+an audience of their High Mightinesses, in order to present
+to them my letters of credence and full powers.</p>
+
+<p>The President assured me, that he would make report
+of all that I had said to him to their High Mightinesses,
+in order that it might be transmitted to the several members
+of the sovereignty of this country, for their deliberations
+and decisions.&mdash;I have not yet been honoured with
+an answer. I now do myself the honour to wait on you,
+Sir, to demand, as I do, a categorical answer, that I
+may be able to transmit it to the United States of America.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>GUELDERLAND.</h2>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">In</span> an extraordinary assembly of the county of Zutphen,
+held at Nimeguen the 23d of February, 1782, the
+following measures were taken.</p>
+
+<p>After the report of the Committee of this Province to
+the Generality, laid this day upon the table, relative to
+what passed in the precedent assembly, and after the examination
+of an extract of the register of the resolutions
+of their High Mightinesses the States General of the Low
+Countries, of the ninth of last month, in relation to the
+Ulteriour Address of Mr. Adams to the President of their
+High Mightinesses, concerning the presentation of his
+letters of credence to their High Mightinesses, in behalf
+of the United States of America, demanding a categorical
+answer, whereof the Lords the Deputies of the respective
+Provinces have taken copies; the Baron Robert
+Jasper van der Capellen de Marsch, first by word of
+mouth, and afterwards in writing, proposed, and insisted,
+at the assembly of this Quarter, that, at present, and without
+delay, we should make a point of deliberation, and
+that we should make upon the table the necessary overture,
+conceived more at length, in the advice of this
+nobleman, inserted in these terms:</p>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Noble and Mighty Lords!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>The subscriber judges, upon good grounds, and with
+out fear of being contradicted, that he is able to affirm,
+that it is more than time that we should give a serious
+attention to the offer and the invitation, in every sense
+honourable and advantageous for this Republic, of friendship,
+and reciprocal connections with the Thirteen American
+Provinces, now become free <i>at the point of the
+sword</i>, in such sort, that the categorical answer demanded
+by their Minister Mr. Adams, may become a subject of
+the deliberations of your Grand Mightinesses, and that
+you may decide as soon as possible, concerning their
+respective interests. He judges, that he ought not to
+have any farther scruple in this regard; and that the un<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span>certain consequences of the mediation offered by Russia
+cannot, when certain advantages for this Republic are in
+question, hinder that, out of regard for an enemy, with
+whom we (however salutary the views of her Imperial
+Majesty are represented) cannot make any Peace, at the
+expence of a negligence so irreparable: that a longer
+delay, to unite ourselves to a nation already so powerful,
+will have for its consequence, that our inhabitants will
+lose the means of extending, in a manner the most advantageous,
+their commerce and their prosperity: That
+by the vigorous prohibition to import English manufactures
+into America, our manufactures, by means of precautions
+taken in time, will rise out of their state of languor:
+and that, by delaying longer to satisfy the wishes of the
+nation, her leaders will draw upon them the reproach of
+having neglected and rejected the favourable offers of
+Providence: that, on the contrary, by adopting these
+measures, the essential interests of this unfortunate people
+will be taken to heart.</p>
+
+<p>The subscriber declaring, moreover, that he will abandon
+this unpardonable negligence of an opportunity favourable
+for the Republic, to the account of those whom
+it may concern; protesting against all the fatal consequences
+that a longer refusal of these necessary measures
+will certainly occasion: whereupon he demanded, that
+for his discharge, this note should be inserted in the registers
+of the Quarter.</p>
+
+<p><i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">R. J. van der Capellen</span>.<br /></div>
+
+<p>This advice having been read, Mr. Jacob Adolf de
+Heekeren d'Enghuisen, Counsellor and first Master of
+Accounts in Guelderland, President at this time of the
+Assembly of the Quarter, represented to the said Robert
+Jasper van der Capellen de Marsch, that "Although he
+must agree to the justice of all that he had laid down, besides
+several other reasons, equally strong, which occurred
+to his mind, the deliberation upon the point in question
+appeared to him premature, considering that the Lords
+the States of Holland and West Friesland, and of Zea<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span>land, as the principal commercial Provinces, who are
+directly interested, had not nevertheless as yet explained
+themselves in this regard; consequently that it would not
+be so convenient for the States of this Duchy and County,
+who are not interested in it, but in a consequential and
+indirect manner, to form the first their resolutions in this
+respect: for this reason he proposed to consideration, whether
+it would not be more proper to postpone the deliberations
+upon this matter to a future <ins
+title="Transcriber's note: Added quotes after opportunity.">opportunity."</ins></p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, the before-mentioned Robert Jasper van
+der Capellan de Marsch insisting, that the voices should
+be collected upon the proposition and advice in question,
+and thereupon having deliberated, their noble Mightinesses
+have thought fit to resolve, that although the motives
+alledged by this Nobleman in his advice, appear to
+merit a serious consideration, nevertheless, for the reasons
+before alleged, they judge, that they ought to suspend
+the decision of it, until the commercial Provinces have
+formed their resolutions concerning it: and that, upon
+the requisition of Robert Jasper van der Capellan de
+Marsch, there be delivered to him an extract of the present,
+upon one as well the other.</p>
+
+<p>
+<i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">Herm. Schomaker</span>.</div>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>PETITION OF LEYDEN.</h2>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">To</span> the noble, great, and venerable Lords of the
+Grand Council of the city of Leyden.</p>
+
+<p>The undersigned, all manufacturers, merchants, and
+other traders of this city, most respectfully give to understand,
+that it is a truth, as melancholy, as it is universally
+known, that the declension of manufactures, which all the
+well-disposed citizens have remarked with the most lively
+grief, from the beginning of this century, has increased
+more and more for several years; and that this principal
+branch of the subsistence of the good citizens,
+has fallen into such a state of languor, that our city, once
+so flourishing, so populous, so celebrated, on account of
+its commerce and of its trades, appears to be threatened
+with total ruin; that the diminution of its merchants
+houses, on the one hand, and on the other, a total loss,
+or the sensible decrease of several branches of commerce,
+furnish an evident proof of it; which the petitioners could
+demonstrate by several examples, if there were need of
+them to convince. Your noble and grand Lordships, to
+whom the increase of the multitude of the poor, the deplorable
+situation of several families, heretofore in easy circumstances,
+the depopulation of the city, which one cannot
+observe without emotion in the ruins of several streets,
+once neat and well inhabited, are fully known, will recollect
+no doubt upon this occasion, with grief, that this
+state of languor must appear so much the more desperate,
+if your noble and grand lordships will take into consideration,
+that in this decay of trades and manufactures, we
+find a new reason of their farther fall, considering, that
+from the time there is not continual employment, and an
+uninterrupted sale, the workmen desert in such manner,
+that when considerable commissions arrive, we cannot
+find capable hands, and we see ourselves entirely out of a
+condition to execute these orders.</p>
+
+<p>That the petitioners, with all the true friends of their
+country, extremely affected with this alarming situation
+of so rich a source of the public prosperity, have indeed
+sought the means of a remedy, in amending some defects,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span>
+from which it seemed to arise, at least in part; but that
+the measures taken in this view, as is well know to your
+noble and grand Lordships, have not had the desired effect;
+at least, that they have not produced a re-establishment
+so effectual, that we have been able to observe a sensible
+influence in the increase of the sales of the manufactures
+of Leyden, as appears most evidently, by a comparison
+of the pieces fabricated here, which have been heretofore
+carried to the divers markets of this city, with those which
+are carried there at this day; a comparison which a true
+citizen cannot of consider without regret.</p>
+
+<p>That experience has also taught the petitioners, that the
+principal cause of the decay of the manufactures of Holland,
+particularly those of Leyden, is not to be found in
+any internal vice, either in the capacity, or the &oelig;conomy
+of the inhabitants, but in circumstances which have happened
+abroad; and to which it is, consequently, beyond
+the power of the petitioners, or of any citizen whatsoever,
+to provide a remedy. That we might cite, for example,
+the commerce of our manufactures with Dantzic;
+and, through that commercial city, with all Poland; a
+commerce which was carried on with success and advantage
+heretofore in our city, but is absolutely interrupted at
+this day, and vanished, by the revolution which has happened
+in that kingdom, and by the burthensome duties to
+which the navigation of the Vistula has been subjected.
+But that, without entering into a detail of similar particular
+shackles, of which we might reckon a great number; the principal cause of the languishing state of our
+manufactures consists in the jealous emulation of the neighbouring
+nations, or rather of all the people of Europe;
+considering that, in this age, the several princes and governments,
+enlightened in the real sources of the public
+prosperity, and the true interests of their subjects, attach
+themselves with emulation to revive in their kingdoms and
+states the national industry, commerce, and navigation;
+to encourage them, and promote them even by exclusive
+privileges, or by heavy impositions upon foreign merchandizes;
+privileges and impositions, which tend equally
+to the prejudice of the commerce and the manufactures of
+our country, as your noble and grand Lordships will easily
+recollect the examples in the Austrian states and elsewhere.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>That in the midst of these powers and nations, emulous
+or jealous, it is impossible for the citizens of our Republic,
+however superior their manufactures may be in quality
+and fineness, to resist a rivalry so universal; especially
+considering the dearness of labour, caused by that of the
+means of subsistence; which, in its turn, is a necessary
+consequence of the taxes and imposts which the inhabitants
+of this State pay in a greater number, and a higher rate,
+than in any other country, by reason of her natural situation,
+and of its means to support itself; so that by the
+continual operation of this principal, but irreparable cause
+of decline, it is to be feared, that the impoverishment and
+the diminution of the good citizens increasing with the
+want of employment, the Dutch nation, heretofore the
+purveyor of all Europe, will be obliged to content itself
+with the sale of its own productions in the interior of the
+country; (and how much does not even this resource
+suffer by the importation of foreign manufactures?) and
+that Leyden, lately so rich and flourishing, will exhibit
+desolated quarters in its declining streets; and its multitude,
+disgraced with want and misery; an affecting proof
+of the sudden fall of countries formerly overflowing with
+prosperity.</p>
+
+<p>That, if we duly consider these motives, no citizen,
+whose heart is upright, (as the petitioners assure themselves)
+much less your noble and grand Lordships, whose
+good dispositions they acknowledge with gratitude, will
+take it amiss, that we have fixed our eyes on the present
+conjuncture of affairs, to enquire whether these times
+might not furnish them some means of reviving the languishing
+manufactures of Leyden; and that after a consideration
+well matured, they flatter themselves with the
+hope (a hope which unprejudiced men will not regard as
+a vain chimera) that in fact, by the present circumstances,
+there opens in their favour an issue for arriving at the re-establishment
+desired.</p>
+
+<p>That from the time when the rupture between Great Britain
+and the Colonies upon the continent of North America
+appeared to be irreparable, every attentive spectator of
+this event perceived, or at least was convinced, that this
+rupture, by which there was born a republic, as powerful
+as industrious, in the new world, would have the most<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span>
+important consequences for commerce and navigation;
+and that the other commercial nations of Europe would
+soon share in a very considerable commerce, whereof the
+kingdom of Great Britain had reserved to itself, until
+that time, the exclusive possession by its Act of Navigation,
+and by the other acts of parliament prescribed to
+the Colonies; that in the time of it, this reflection did
+not escape your petitioners; and they foresaw, from that
+time, the advantage which might arise, in the sequel, from
+a revolution so important for the United Provinces in
+general, and for their native city in particular. But that
+they should have been afraid to have placed this favourable
+occasion before the eyes of your noble and grand Lordships,
+at an epoch when the relations which connected
+our Republic with Great Britain, her neighbour, seemed
+to forbid all measures of this nature, or at least ought to
+make them be considered as out of season.</p>
+
+<p>That, in the mean time, this reason of silence has entirely
+ceased, by the hostilities which the said kingdom
+has commenced against our Republic, under pretences,
+and in a manner the injustice of which has been demonstrated
+by the supreme government of the State, with
+an irrefragable evidence, in the eyes of impartial Europe;
+whilst the petitioners themselves, by the illegal
+capture of so large a number of Dutch ships, and afterwards
+by the absolute stagnation of navigation, and of
+voyages to foreign countries, have experienced in the
+most grievous manner, the consequences of this hostile
+and unforeseen attack, and feel them still every day,
+as is abundantly known to your noble and grand Lordships.
+That since that epoch, a still more considerable
+number of workmen must have remained without employment,
+and several fathers of families have quitted the
+city, abandoning, to the farther expense of the treasury
+of the poor, their wives and their children plunged
+in misery.</p>
+
+<p>That during this rupture, which has subsisted now for
+fifteen months, there has occurred another circumstance,
+which has encouraged the petitioners still more, and which
+to them appears to be of such a nature, that they would be
+guilty of an excessive indifference, and an unpardonable
+negligence towards the city, towards the lower class of in<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span>habitants, towards their own families, and towards themselves,
+if they should delay any longer to lay open their interests
+to your noble and grand Lordships, in a manner the
+most respectful, but the most energetic; to wit, that the
+United States of America have very rigorously forbidden,
+by a resolution of Congress, agreed to in all the Thirteen
+States, the importation of all English manufactures, and
+in general, all the merchandizes fabricated in the dominions
+which yet remain to Great Britain. That the
+effect of this prohibition must necessarily be a spirit of
+emulation between all the commercial nations to take
+place of the British merchants and manufacturers in this
+important branch of exportation, which is entirely cut off
+from them at this day. That nevertheless, among all the
+nations there is none which can entertain a hope, better
+founded, and more sure, in this respect, than the citizens
+of this free Republic, whether on account of the identity of
+religion, the fashion of living, and the manners, whether
+because of the extent of its commerce, and the convenience
+of its navigation, but above all, by reason of the
+activity and good faith, which still distinguishes (without
+boasting too much) the Dutch nation above all other people;
+qualities in consideration of which, the citizens of
+United America are inclined even at present, to prefer,
+in equal circumstances, the citizens of our free States, to
+every other nation.</p>
+
+<p>That, nevertheless, all relations and connections of
+commerce between the two people, cannot but be uncertain
+and fluctuating, as long as their offers and reciprocal
+engagements are not fixed and regulated by a treaty of
+commerce. That at this day, if ever, (according to the
+respectful opinion of the petitioners) there exists a necessity
+the most absolute for the conclusion of a similar treaty
+of commerce, there, where we may say with truth,
+that there arises for the Republic, for our Leyden especially,
+a moment, which once escaped, perhaps never will
+return; since the national assembly of Great Britain, convinced,
+by a terrible and fatal experience, of the absolute
+impossibility of re-attaching united America to the British
+crown, has laid before the throne its desire to conclude a
+necessary peace with a people, free as this day at the price
+of their blood: So that if this peace should be once con<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span>cluded,
+the Dutch nation would see itself perhaps excluded
+from all advantages of commerce with this new Republic,
+or at least would be treated by her with an indifference,
+which the small value which we should have put
+upon its friendship in former times, would seem to merit.</p>
+
+<p>That, supposing, for a moment, that a peace between
+England and United America were not so near as we
+have reason to presume, not without probability, there
+would be found in that case nations enough who will be
+jealous of acquiring, after the example of France, the
+earliest right to commerce with a country, which already
+peopled by several millions of inhabitants, augments every
+day in population, in a manner incredible; but, as a new
+people, unprovided as yet with several necessary articles,
+will procure a rich, even an immense outlet, for the fabricks
+and manufactures of Europe.</p>
+
+<p>That, however manifest the interest which the petitioners
+and all the citizens of Leyden would have in the
+conclusion of such a treaty of commerce, they would
+however have made a scruple to lay before the paternal
+eyes of your noble and grand Lordships the utility, or
+rather the necessity of such a measure, in respect to them,
+if they could believe, that their particular advantage
+would be, in any wise, contrary to the more universal interests
+of all the Republic. But, as far as the petitioners
+may judge, as citizens, of the situation, and the political
+existence of their country, they are ignorant of any reasons
+of this kind: but, on the contrary, they dare appeal to the
+unanimous voice of their fellow-citizens, well intentioned,
+in the other cities and provinces, even of the Regents the
+most distinguished; since it is universally known that the
+Province of Friesland has already preceded the other confederates,
+by a resolution for opening negotiations with
+America; and that in other Provinces, which have an interest
+less direct in commerce and manufactures, celebrated
+Regents appear to wait merely for the example
+of the commercial Provinces, for taking a similar resolution.</p>
+
+<p>That the petitioners will not detain the attention of
+your noble and grand Mightinesses by a more ample detail
+of their reasons and motives, since, on one hand, they
+assure themselves, that these reasons and motives will not<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span>
+escape the enlightened and attentive judgment of your
+grand and noble Lordships; and on the other, they know
+by experience, that your grand and noble Lordships are disposed
+not to suffer any occasion to pass for promoting the
+well-being of their city, for advancing the prosperity of
+the citizens, to render their names dear to their contemporaries,
+and make them blessed by posterity.</p>
+
+<p>In which firm expectation, the petitioners address themselves
+to this grand Council with the respectful but serious
+request, that it may please your noble and great Lordships,
+to direct, by their powerful influence, thing in such sort,
+that, in the Assembly highly respected of their noble and
+grand Mightinesses the Lords the States of Holland and
+West Friesland, there be opened deliberations, or if already
+opened, carried as speedily as possible to an effectual conclusion,
+such as they shall find the most proper for obtaining
+the lawful end, and fulfilling the desires of the petitioners,
+or as they shall judge conformable to the general
+interest.</p>
+
+<p class="center">So doing, &amp;c.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>LEYDEN.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">An Address</span> <i>of Thanks, with a farther Petition</i>.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">To</span> the noble, great, and venerable lords, the great
+council of the city of Leyden,</p>
+
+<p>The undersigned manufacturers, merchants, and other
+traders, interested in the manufactures and fabrics of
+this city, give respectfully to understand,</p>
+
+<p>That a number of the undersigned, having taken, the
+18th of March, the liberty to present to your noble and
+great Lordships, a respectful request to obtain the conclusion
+of connections of commerce with United America,
+"the petitioners judge that they ought to hold it for a
+duty, as agreeable as indispensible, to testify their sincere
+gratitude, not only for the gracious manner in which
+your noble and great Lordships have been pleased to accept
+that request, but also for the patriotic resolution that
+your noble and great Lordships have taken upon its object;
+a resolution, in virtue of which the city of Leyden (as
+the petitioners have the best reasons to suppose) hath been
+one of the first cities of this province, from whose unanimous
+co-operation has originated the resolution of their
+noble and grand Mightinesses, of the date of the 28th of
+March last, to direct things on the part of their noble and
+grand Mightinesses, in the assembly of the States General,
+and to make there the strongest instances, to the end
+that Mr. Adams may be admitted and acknowledged as
+Minister of the United States of America."</p>
+
+<p>That the petitioners regard, with all honest-hearted
+citizens, the present epoch as one of the most glorious in
+the annals of our dear country, seeing that there has been
+manifested, in a most signal manner, on the one hand, a confidence
+the most cordial of the good citizens towards their
+regents, and on the other hand a paternal attention and deference
+of the regents to the respectful but well-founded
+prayers of their faithful citizens; and, in general, the
+most exemplary unanimity throughout the whole nation,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span>
+to the confusion of those who, having endeavoured to
+sow the seeds of discord, would have rejoiced if they
+could say, with truth, that a dissention so fatal had rooted
+itself to the ruin of the country and of the people.</p>
+
+<p>That the petitioners, feeling themselves penetrated with
+the most pleasing emotions, by an harmony so universal,
+cannot pass over in silence the reflection that your noble
+and great Lordships, taking a resolution the most favourable
+upon the said request, have discovered thereby, that
+they would not abandon the footsteps of their ancestors,
+who found, in the united sentiments of magistrates and
+citizens, the resources necessary to resist a powerful oppressor,
+who even would not have undertaken that difficult,
+but glorious task, if they had not been supported by
+the voice of the most respectable part of the nation.</p>
+
+<p>That encouraged by this reflection, the petitioners
+assure themselves, that your noble and great Lordships
+will honour, with the same approbation, the step which
+they take to day, to recommend to your noble and great
+Lordships, in a manner the most respectful, but at the same
+time the most pressing, the prompt and efficacious execution
+of the aforesaid resolution of their noble and grand
+Mightinesses of the 28th of March last, with every thing
+which depends thereon; a proceeding which does not
+spring from a desire, on the part of the petitioners, to
+raise themselves above the sphere of their duties and vocations,
+or to interfere, indiscreetly, in the affairs of government,
+but only from a conviction that it cannot but be
+agreeable to well intentioned regents (such as your noble
+and great Lordships have shewn yourselves by deeds to
+your good citizens) to see themselves applauded in their
+salutary efforts and patriotic designs, and supported against
+the perverse views, and secret machinations of the ill-disposed,
+who, however small their number, are always
+found in a nation.</p>
+
+<p>That although the petitioners may be convinced that
+their noble and grand Mightinesses, having taken a resolution
+so agreeable to all true patriots, will not neglect to
+employ means to carry it to an efficacious conclusion
+among the other confederates, and to procure to the good
+citizens the real enjoyment of the commerce with United
+America, they cannot, nevertheless, dissemble that, lately,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span>
+some new reasons have arisen, which make them conceive
+some fears respecting the prompt consummation of this
+desirable affair.</p>
+
+<p>That the probability of an offer of peace, on the part
+of Great-Britain, to United America, whereof the petitioners
+made mention in their former request, having at
+present become a full certainty by the revolution arrived
+since in the British ministry, they have not learned without
+uneasiness the attempt made, at the same time, by the
+new ministers of the court of London, to involve this
+state in a negociation for a separate peace, the immediate
+consequence of which would be (as the petitioners fear)
+a cessation of all connections with the American Republic,
+whilst that in the mean time our Republic, deprived
+on the one hand of the advantages which it reasonably
+promises itself from these connections, might, on the other
+hand, be detained by negociations, spun out to a great
+length, and not effect till late, perhaps after the other
+belligerent powers, a separate peace with England.</p>
+
+<p>That, in effect, the difficulties which oppose themselves
+to a like partial pacification are too multiplied for one
+to promise himself to see them suddenly removed, such as
+the restitution of the possessions taken from the state, and
+retaken from the English by France, a restitution which
+is become thereby impracticable, the indemnification of
+the immense losses that the unexpected and perfidious attack
+of England hath caused to the Dutch nation in general,
+to the petitioners in particular; the assurance of a free
+navigation for the future, upon the principles of the armed
+neutrality, and conformably to the law of nations; the
+dissolution of the bonds which, without being productive
+of any utility to the two nations, have been a source of
+contestations, always springing up, and which, in every
+war between Great-Britain and any other power, have
+threatened to involve our Republic in it, or have in effect
+done it; the annihilation, if possible, of the act of navigation,
+an act which carries too evident marks of the
+supremacy affected by England over all other maritime
+people, not to attract attention at the approaching negociation
+of peace; finally, the necessity of breaking the
+yoke that Great-Britain would impose on our flag, to
+make her's respected in the Northern Ocean, as the seat<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span>
+of her maritime empire; and other objects of this nature,
+which, as the petulant proceedings of the court of London
+have given rise to them, will certainly furnish matter
+for claims and negociations.</p>
+
+<p>That as, by these considerations, a speedy consummation
+of a separate peace with England is out of all probability,
+especially when one compares with them the dubious
+and limited manner in which it is offered; on the
+other hand, a general peace appears not to be so far distant,
+as that to obtain a more prompt reconciliation with England,
+the Republic hath occasion to abandon its interests
+relative to North America, seeing that the British government
+hath resolved, upon the request of the national
+assembly, even to discontinue offensive hostilities against
+the new Republic; and that, even under the present administration
+of the new ministers, it appears ready to acknowledge
+positively its independence; an acknowledgment
+which, in removing the principal stumbling block
+of a negociation of a general peace, will pave the way to
+a prompt explication of all the difficulties between the
+belligerent powers.</p>
+
+<p>That the petitioners should exceed much the bounds
+of their plan, if they entered into a more ample detail of
+the reasons which might be alleged upon this subject, and
+which certainly will not escape the political penetration
+of your noble and great Lordships; among others, the
+engagements recently entered into with the Court of
+France, and which will not be violated by our Republic,
+which acknowledges the sanctity of its engagements, and
+respects them: but which will serve much rather to convince
+the Empress of Russia of the impossibility of entering,
+in the present juncture of affairs, into such a negociation
+as the court of London proposes, when even it
+will not be permitted to presume but that Sovereign will
+feel herself the change of circumstances which have happened
+with regard to America since the offer of her mediation,
+by the revolution in the British ministry, and
+that she ought even to regard a separate peace between
+our State and England, as the most proper mean to retard
+the general tranquillity, that she hath endeavoured to procure
+to all the commercial nations now in war.</p>
+
+<p>That from these motives the petitioners respectfully<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span>
+hope that the aforesaid offer of England will occasion no
+obstacle which may prevent that the resolution of their
+noble and grand Mightinesses to acknowledge the independence
+of North America, and to conclude with that
+power a treaty of commerce, may not have a prompt
+execution, nor that even one only of the other confederates
+will suffer itself to be diverted thereby from the design of
+opening unanimously with this Province, and the others
+which have declared themselves conformably with Holland,
+negociations with the United States, and of terminating
+them as soon as possible.</p>
+
+<p>That the favourable resolutions already taken for this
+effect in Zealand, Utrecht, Overyssel, and at present
+(as the petitioners learn) in the Province of Groningen
+after the examples of Holland and Friesland, confirm them
+in that hope, and seem to render entirely superfluous, a
+request that, in every other case, the petitioners would
+have found themselves obliged to make with the commercial
+Citizens of the other Cities, to the end that, by the
+resistance of one Province, not immediately interested in
+commerce and navigation, they might not be deprived
+of the advantages and of the protection, that the sovereign
+Assembly of their proper Provinces had been disposed to
+procure them, without it; but that, to the end to provide
+for it, their noble and grand Mightinesses, and the
+States of the other Provinces in this respect, unanimous
+with them, should make use of the power which belongs
+to each free State of our federative Republic; at least in
+regard to treaties of commerce, of which there exists an
+example in 1649, not only in a treaty of redemption of
+the toll of the Sound, but also in a defensive treaty concluded
+with the Crown of Denmark, by the three Provinces
+of Guelderland, Holland, and Friesland.</p>
+
+<p>But as every apprehension of a similar dissension, among
+the members of the confederation, appears at present absolutely
+unseasonable, the petitioners will confine themselves
+rather to another request, to wit, that after the
+formation of connections of commerce with North America,
+the effectual enjoyment of it may be assured to the
+commercial Citizens of this country, by a sufficient protection
+of their navigation; without which the conclusion<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span>
+even of such a treaty of commerce would be absolutely
+illusory. That, for a long time, especially the last year,
+the petitioners have tasted the bitter fruits of the defenceless
+state in which the Dutch flag has been incessantly
+found; as they have already said, conformably to the
+truth, in their first request, "that by the total stagnation
+of the navigation, and of expeditions, they have felt,
+in the most painful manner, the effects of the hostile
+and unexpected attack of Great Britain, and that they
+feel them still every day." That, in the mean time,
+this stagnation of commerce, absolutely abandoned to the
+rapacity of an enemy greedy of pillage, and destitute of
+all protection whatever, hath appeared to the petitioners, as
+well as to all the other commercial inhabitants; yes! even
+to all true Citizens, so much the more hard and afflicting,
+as they not only have constantly contributed, with a good
+heart, to all the public imports, but that, at the time even
+that the commerce was absolutely abandoned to itself, and
+deprived of all safeguard, it supported a double charge to
+obtain that protection which it hath never enjoyed;
+seeing that the hope of such a protection (the Republic
+not being entirely without maritime force) hath appeared
+indeed more than once, but always vanished in the most
+unexpected manner, by accidents and impediments,
+which, if they have given rise, perhaps wrongfully, to
+discontent and to distrust among the good Citizens, will
+not nevertheless be read and meditated by posterity without
+surprize.</p>
+
+<p>That, without intention to legitimate, in any manner,
+the suspicions arising from this failure of protection, the
+petitioners believe themselves, nevertheless, with all proper
+respect, warranted in addressing their complaints on
+this head, to the bosoms of your noble and great Lordships,
+and (seeing that the commerce with North America
+cannot subsist without navigation, no more than
+navigation without a safeguard) in reckoning upon the
+active direction, the useful employment, and prompt
+augmentation of our naval forces, in proportion to the
+means which shall be the most proper effectually to secure
+to the commerce of this Republic the fruits of its connections
+with United North America.</p>
+
+<p>For which reasons, the petitioners, returning their solemn<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span>
+thanks to your noble and great Lordships, for the
+favourable resolution taken upon their request the 18th of
+March last, address themselves anew to you on this occasion,
+with the respectful prayer, "That it may graciously
+please your noble and great Lordships to be willing to
+effectuate by your powerful influence, whether in the
+illustrious assembly of their noble and grand Mightinesses,
+whether among the other Confederates, or elsewhere,
+there, and in such manner, as your noble and
+great Lordships shall judge most proper, that the resolution
+of their noble and grand Mightinesses of the
+date of the 28th of March last, for the admission of
+Mr. Adams, in quality of Minister of the United States
+of America, be promptly executed; and that the petitioners,
+with the other commercial Citizens, obtain
+the effectual enjoyment of a treaty of commerce with
+the said Republic, as well by the activity of the marine
+of the State, and the protection of commerce and
+navigation, as by all other measures, that your noble
+and great Lordships with the other members of the
+Sovereign Government of the Republic, shall judge to
+tend to the public good, and to serve to the prosperity
+of our dear country, as well as to the maintenance of
+its precious liberties."</p>
+
+<p class="center"><i>So doing, &amp;c.</i></p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>ROTTERDAM.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Petition</span> <i>of the Merchants, Insurers, and Freighters
+of Rotterdam to the Regency of that City</i>.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">Give</span> to understand, in the most respectful manner,
+that it is sufficiently notorious that the inhabitants of
+this Republic have, as well as any other nation, an interest,
+that they give us an opportunity to open a free
+communication and correspondence with the inhabitants
+of America, by making a treaty of commerce, as Mr.
+Adams has represented in his memorial; to which they
+add, that the advantages which must result from it, are
+absolutely the only means of reviving the fallen commerce
+of this country; for re-establishing the navigation, and
+for repairing the great damages which the perfidious proceedings
+of the English have, for so many years, caused
+to the commercial part of this country.</p>
+
+<p>That with all due respect, they represent to the venerable
+Regency the danger we run, in prolonging farther the
+deliberations concerning the article of an alliance of
+commerce with North America; being moreover certain
+that the interposition of this State cannot add any
+thing more to the solidity of its independence, and that
+the English Ministry has even made to the Deputies of
+the American Congress propositions to what point they
+would establish a correspondence there, to our prejudice,
+and thereby deprive the inhabitants of this country of the
+certain advantages which might result from this reciprocal
+commerce; and that thus we ought not to delay one
+day, nor even one hour, to try all the efforts, that we
+may pursue the negociation offered by Mr. Adams, and
+that we may decide finally upon it. Whereupon the petitioners
+represent, with all respect possible, but at the
+same time with the firmest confidence, to the venerable
+Regency of this City, that they would authorize and
+qualify the Lords theirs Deputies at the Assembly of
+their noble and grand Mightinesses, to the end, that they
+insist in a manner the most energetic, at the Assembly of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span>
+their noble and grand Mightinesses, that the resolution
+demanded may be taken without the least delay, to the
+end that, on the part of this Province, it be effected, at
+the Assembly of the States General, that the American
+Minister, Mr. Adams be as soon as possible admitted to
+the audience which he has demanded, and that they take
+with him the determinations necessary to render free and
+open to the reciprocal inhabitants, the correspondence demanded.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><i>So doing, &amp;c.</i></p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span></p>
+
+<blockquote><p><i>The <span class="smcap">Petitions</span> of the Merchants, and Manufacturers of
+<span class="smcap">Haerlem</span>, <span class="smcap">Leiden</span>, and <span class="smcap">Amsterdam</span>,
+which have been presented, on the twentieth of March, to their <span class="smcap">High Mightinesses</span>,
+were accompanied with another to the <span class="smcap">States</span> of <span class="smcap">Holland</span>
+and <span class="smcap">West Friesland</span>, conceived in these Terms.</i></p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> subscribers, inhabitants of this country, merchants,
+manufacturers, and others, living by commerce,
+give with all respect to understand, that they have
+the honour to annex hereto a copy of a petition presented
+by them to their High Mightinesses, the States-General
+of the United Low Countries. The importance of the
+thing which it contains, the considerable commerce which
+these countries might establish in North America, the
+profits which we might draw from it, and the importance
+of industry and manufactures, by the relation which they
+have with commerce in general, as well as the navigation
+to that extensive country; all these objects have made
+them take the liberty to represent, in the most respectful
+manner, this great affair for them, and for the connections
+which the petitioners may have, in quality of manufacturers,
+with the merchants, most humbly praying your
+noble and grand Mightinesses, for the acquisition of these
+important branches of commerce, and for the advantage
+of all the manufactures, and other works of labour and
+of traffic, to be so good as to take this petition, and the
+reasons which it contains, into your high consideration,
+and to favour it with your powerful support and protection,
+and by a favourable resolution, which may be
+taken at the Assembly of their High Mightinesses, to
+direct, on the part of this Province, things in such a manner,
+that for obtaining this commerce so desired and so <ins
+title="Transcriber's note: Original reads 'necessay'">necessary</ins> for this Republic, that there be concerted such
+efficacious measures, as the high wisdom and patriotic
+sentiments of your noble and grand Mightinesses may find
+convenient, for the well-being of so great a number of inhabitants,
+and for the prejudice of their enemies.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><i>So doing, &amp;c.</i></p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>DORDRECHT.</h2>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">At</span> Dordrecht there has not been presented any petition.
+But on the twentieth of March, the merchants, convinced
+by redoubled proofs of the zeal, and of the efforts
+of their Regency, for the true interests of commerce,
+judged it unnecessary to present a petition after the example
+of the merchants of other cities. They contented
+themselves with testifying verbally their desire that there
+might be contracted connections of commerce with the
+United States of America: That this step had been
+crowned with such happy success, that the same day 20th
+of March, 1782, it was resolved, by the ancient Council, to
+authorize their deputies, at the Assembly of Holland, to
+concur in every manner possible, that, without delay, Mr.
+Adams be acknowledged in his quality of Minister Plenipotentiary;
+that his letters of credence be accepted; and
+conferences opened upon this object.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>ZWOLL<br />
+<span class="smcap">In OVERYSSEL</span>.</h2>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> subscribers, all merchants, manufacturers, and
+factors of the city of Zwoll, give respectfully to understand,
+that every one of them, in his private concerns,
+finds by experience, as well as the inhabitants of the Republic
+in general, the grievous effects of the decay into
+which commerce, and the manufactures of this country
+are fallen, little by little, and above all, since the hostile
+attack of the kingdom of England against this State; that
+it being their duty to their country, as well as to themselves,
+to make use of all the circumstances which might
+contribute to their re-establishment, the requisition made
+not long since by Mr. Adams to the Republic, to wit, to
+conclude a treaty of commerce with the United States of
+North America, could not escape their attention; an affair,
+the utility, advantage, and necessity of which, for these Provinces,
+are so evident, and have been so often proved in an
+incontestible manner, that the petitioners will not fatigue
+your noble Lordships, by placing them before you, nor the
+general interests of this city, nor the particular relations of
+the petitioners, considering that they are convinced, in the
+first place, that England making against the Republic the
+most ruinous war, and having broken every treaty with
+her, all kind of complaisance for that kingdom is unseasonable.</p>
+
+<p>In the second place, that America, which ought to be
+regarded as become free at the point of the sword, and as
+willing, by the prohibition of all the productions and manufactures
+of England, to break absolutely with that
+kingdom; it is precisely the time, and perhaps the only
+time, in which we may have a favourable opportunity to
+enter into connection with this new and powerful Republic;
+a time which we cannot neglect without running
+the greatest risque of being irrevocably prevented by the
+other powers, and even by England. Thus we take the
+liberty respectfully to supplicate your noble Lordships,
+that, having shewn, for a long time, that you set a value<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span>
+upon the formation of alliances with powerful states, you
+may have the goodness, at the approaching assembly of the
+nobility, and of the cities forming the States of this Province,
+to redouble your efforts, to the end that, in the name
+of this country, it may be decided at the Generality, that
+Mr. Adams be acknowledged, and the proposed negotiations
+opened as soon as possible.</p>
+
+<p class="center">So doing, &amp;c.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2><span class="smcap">PETITION of AMSTERDAM</span>.</h2>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">To</span> their High Mightinesses, the States General of the
+United Provinces, the undersigned, merchants, manufacturers,
+and others, inhabitants living by commerce
+in this country, give respectfully to understand:</p>
+
+<p>That, although the petitioners have always relied,
+with entire confidence, upon the administration and the
+resolutions of your High Mightinesses, and it is against
+their inclinations to interrupt your important deliberations,
+they think, however, that they ought, at this time
+to take the liberty; and believe as well intentioned inhabitants,
+that it is their indispensible duty in the present
+moment, which is most critical for the Republic, to lay
+humbly before your High Mightinesses their interests.</p>
+
+<p>What good citizen in the Republic, having at heart
+the interest of his dear country, can dissemble, or represent
+to himself without dismay, the sad situation to which
+we are reduced by the attack, equally sudden, unjust, and
+perfidious of the English? Who would have dared two
+years ago to foretell, and, notwithstanding the dark clouds
+which even then began to form themselves, could even
+have imagined that our commerce and our navigation,
+with the immense affairs which depend upon them, the
+support and the prosperity of this Republic, could have
+fallen and remained in such a terrible decay? that in
+1780, more than two thousands of Dutch vessels having
+passed the Sound, not one was found upon the list in
+1781? That the ocean, heretofore covered with our
+vessels, should see at present scarcely any? and that we
+may be reduced to see our navigation, formerly so much
+respected and preferred by all the nations, pass entirely
+into the hands of other powers? It would be superfluous
+to endeavour to explain at length the damages, the enormous
+losses, which our inhabitants have sustained by the
+sudden invasion and the pillage of the colonies, and of
+their ships; disasters, which not only fall directly upon
+the merchant, but which have also a general influence,
+and make themselves felt in the most melancholy manner,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span>
+even by the lowest artisans and labourers, by the languor
+which they occasion in commerce. But, how great soever
+they may be, it might, perhaps, be possible, by the
+aid of the paternal cares of your High Mightinesses, and
+by opposing a vigorous resistance to the enemy, already
+enervated, to repair in time all these losses, (without mentioning
+indemnifications) if this stagnation of commerce
+was only momentary, and if the industrious merchant did
+not see beforehand the sources of his future felicity dried
+up. It is this gloomy foresight which, in this moment,
+afflicts, in the highest degree, the petitioners; for, it would
+be the height of folly and inconsideration to desire still
+to flatter ourselves, and to remain quiet, in the expectation
+that, after the conclusion of the peace, the business,
+at present turned out of its direction, should return entirely
+into this country; for experience shews the contrary
+in a manner the most convincing; and it is most
+probable, that the same nations, who are actually in possession
+of it, will preserve, at that time, the greatest part of
+it. Your alarmed petitioners throw their eyes round
+every where, to discover new sources, capable of procuring
+them more success, in future. They even flatter themselves
+that they have found them upon the new theatre of
+commerce which the United States of America offer
+them; a commerce, of which, in this moment, but in
+this moment only, they believe themselves to be in a condition
+to be able to assure to themselves a good share;
+and the great importance of which, joined to the fear of
+seeing escape from their hands this only and last resource,
+has induced them to take the resolution to lay open respectfully
+their observations concerning this important
+object to your High Mightinesses, with the earnest prayer
+that you would consider them with a serious attention,
+and not interpret in ill part this measure of the petitioners,
+especially as their future well-being, perhaps even that
+of the whole Republic, depends on the decision of this
+affair.</p>
+
+<p>No man can call in question that England has derived
+her greatest forces from her commerce with America;
+those immense treasures, which that commerce has poured
+into the coffers of the state; the uncommon prosperity
+of several of her commercial houses, the extreme reputa<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span>tion
+of her manufactures, the consumption of which, in
+quantities beyond all bounds, contributes efficaciously to
+their perfection, are convincing proofs of it. However
+it may be, and notwithstanding the supposition, too lightly
+adopted, that we cannot imitate the British manufactures,
+the manufacture of painted linens of Rouen; those of
+wool of Amiens, of Germany, of Overyssel; and the Pins
+of Zwoll prove visibly that all things need not be drawn
+from England; and that, moreover, we are as well in a condition,
+or shall soon be, to equal them in several respects.</p>
+
+<p>Permit us, high and mighty Lords, to the end to avoid
+all further digression, to request in this regard the attention
+of your High Mightinesses to the situation of commerce
+in France at the beginning of the war. Continual losses
+had almost ruined it altogether. Like ours, several of her
+merchants failed of capitals; and others wanted courage
+to continue their commerce; her manufactures languished;
+the people groaned; in one word, every thing there
+marked out the horrors of war. But, at present, her
+maritime towns, overpeopled, have occasion to be enlarged;
+her manufactures, having arrived at a degree of
+exportation unknown before, begin to perfect themselves
+more and more, in such a degree, that the melancholy
+consequences of the war are scarcely felt in that kingdom.
+But, since it is incontestible that this favourable alteration
+results almost entirely from its commerce with America,
+that even this has taken place in time of war; which,
+moreover, is ever prejudicial, we leave it to the enlightened
+judgment of your High Mightinesses to decide, what
+it is that we may expect from a commerce of this nature,
+even at present, but especially in time of peace. In the
+mean time, we have had the happiness to make a trial, of
+short duration it is true, but very strong in proportion to
+its continuance, in our colony of St. Eustatia, of the importance
+of the commerce, though not direct, with North
+America. The registers of the West India Company
+may furnish proofs of it very convincing to your High
+Mightinesses; in fact, their productions are infinitely suitable
+to our market; whilst, on our side, we have to send
+them several articles of convenience and of necessity from
+our own country; or from the neighbouring states of Germany.
+Moreover, several of our languishing manufac<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span>tures,
+scattered in the seven United Provinces, may perhaps
+be restored to their former vigour, by means of bounties,
+or the diminution of imposts. The importance of
+manufactures for a country is sufficiently proved, by the
+considerable gratifications promised and paid by British
+policy for their encouragement, and by the advantages
+which that kingdom has procured to itself by this means,
+even beyond what had been expected.</p>
+
+<p>The petitioners know perfectly well the obstacles, almost
+insurmountable, which always oppose themselves
+to the habitual use of new manufactures, although certainly
+better in quality; and they dare advance, without
+hesitation, that several of our manufactures are superior
+to those of the English. A moment more favourable can
+never offer itself than the present, when, by a resolution
+of Congress, the importation of all the effects of the produce
+of Great Britain, and of her colonies, is forbidden;
+which reduces the merchant and the purchaser to the necessity
+of recurring to other merchandises, the use of
+which will serve to dissipate the prejudice conceived against
+them. It is not only the manufactures, high and mighty
+Lords, which promise a permanent advantage to our Republic.
+The navigation will derive also great advantages;
+for it is very far from being true (as several would
+maintain) that the Americans, being once in the tranquil
+possession of their independence, would themselves exercise
+with vigour these two branches; and that in the sequel,
+we shall be wholly frustrated of them. Whoever
+has the least knowledge of the country of America, and
+of its vast extent, knows that the number of inhabitants is
+not there in proportion. That even the two banks of the
+Mississippi, the most beautiful tract of this country, otherwise
+so fertile, remain still uncultivated; and as there are
+wanted so many hands, it is not at all probable to presume,
+that they will or can occupy themselves to establish new
+manufactures, both because of the new charges, which
+they would put upon the augmentation and exportation of
+their productions.</p>
+
+<p>It is then for these same reasons (the want of population)
+that they will scarcely find the hands necessary to
+take advantage of the fisheries, which are the property
+of their country; which will certainly oblige them to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span>
+abandon to us the navigation of freight. There is not
+therefore any one of our provinces, much less any one of
+our cities, which cannot enjoy the advantage of this commerce:
+No, high and mighty Lords, the petitioners are
+persuaded that the utility and the benefit of it will spread
+itself over all the provinces and countries of the Generality.
+Guelderland and Overyssel cannot too much extend
+their manufactures of wool, of swanskin, and other things;
+even the shoemakers of the mayoralty, and of Langstret,
+will find a considerable opening; almost all the manufactures
+of Utrecht and of Leyden will flourish anew. Harlem
+will see revive its manufactures of stuffs, of laces of
+ribbons, of twist, at present in the lowest state of decay.
+Delft will see vastly augmented the sale of its earthen ware,
+and Gouda that of its tobacco-pipes.</p>
+
+<p>However great may be the advantages foreseen by the
+petitioners, from a legal commerce duly protected with
+America, their fear is not less, lest we should suffer to
+escape the happy moment of assuring to them, and to all
+the Republic, these advantages. The present moment
+must determine the whole. The English nation is weary
+of the war; and as that people runs easily into extremes,
+the petitioners are afraid, with strong probable appearances,
+that a compleat acknowledgment of American independence
+will soon take place; above all, if the English see
+an opportunity of being able still to draw from America
+some conditions favourable for them, or at least something
+to our disadvantage. Ah! what is it which should instigate
+the Americans in making peace, and renewing
+friendship with Great Britain, to have any regard for the
+interests of our republic? If England could only obtain
+for a condition, that we should be obliged to pay duties
+more burthensome for our vessels, this would be not only
+a continual and permanent prejudice; but would be sufficient
+to transmit to posterity, a lamentable proof of our
+excessive deference for unbridled enemies.</p>
+
+<p>The petitioners dare flatter themselves that a measure
+so frank of this Republic, may powerfully serve for the
+acceleration of a general peace. A general ardour to extinguish
+the flames of war reigns in England; an upright
+and vigorous conduct, on the part of this Republic, will<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span>
+contribute to accelerate the accomplishment of the wishes
+for peace.</p>
+
+<p>We flatter ourselves, high and mighty Lords, that we
+have in this regard alleged sufficient reasons for an immediate
+decision; and that we have so visibly proved the
+danger of delay, that we dare to hope from the paternal
+equity of your High Mightinesses, a reasonable attention
+to the respectful proposition which we have made. It proceeds
+from no other motive than a sincere affection for the
+precious interests of our dear country; since we consider
+it as certain, that as soon as the step taken by us shall be
+known by the English, and that they shall have the least
+hope of preventing us, they will not fail, as soon as possible,
+to acknowledge American independence. Supported
+by all these reasons, the petitioners address themselves
+to your High Mightinesses, humbly requesting that it may
+please your High Mightinesses, after the occurrences and
+affairs above-mentioned, to take, for the greatest advantage
+of this country, as soon as possible, such resolution
+as your High Mightinesses shall judge most convenient.</p>
+
+<p class="center">This doing, &amp;c.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>PETITION<br />
+
+To the Burgomasters and Regents of<br />
+
+AMSTERDAM:</h2>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> subscribers, all merchants and manufacturers of
+this city, with all due respect, give to understand:
+That the difference arisen between the kingdom of Great
+Britain and the United States of America, has not only
+given occasion for a long and violent war, but that the
+arms of America have covered themselves with a success
+so happy, that the Congress, assisted by the Courts of
+France and Spain, have so well established their liberty and
+independence, and reduced Great Britain to extremities so
+critical, that the House of Commons in England, notwithstanding
+all the opposition of the British Ministry, have
+lately formed the important resolution to turn the King
+from an offensive war against America, with no other design
+than to accelerate, if it is possible, a reconciliation with
+America.</p>
+
+<p>That to this happy revolution in the dispositions of the
+English in favour of the liberty and independence of
+America, according to all appearances, the resolution
+taken by the Congress, towards the end of the last year, to
+wit, to forbid in all America the importation of British
+manufactures and productions, has greatly contributed: a
+resolution, of which they perceive in England, too visibly,
+the consequences ruinous to their manufactures,
+trade, commerce, and navigation, to be able to remain
+indifferent in this regard. For all other commercial nations,
+who take to heart, ever so little, their own prosperity,
+will apply themselves ardently, to collect from it all
+the fruit possible. To this effect, it would be unpardonable
+for the business and commerce of this Republic in
+general, and for those of this city in particular, to suffer to
+escape this occasion so favourable for the encouragement
+of our manufactures so declined, and languishing in the
+interior cities, as well as that of the commerce and navigation
+in the maritime cities; or to suffer that other com<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span>mercial nations, even with a total exclusion of the mercantile
+interests of this Republic, should profit of it, and
+this, upon an occasion, when, by reason of the war, equally
+unjust and ruinous, in which the kingdom of Great
+Britain has involved this Republic, we cannot, and ought
+not to have the least regard or condescension for that jealous
+State, being able even to oblige this arrogant neighbour,
+in the just fear of the consequences which a more
+intimate connection between this Republic and North
+America would undoubtedly have, to lay down the sooner
+her arms, and restore tranquility to all Europe.</p>
+
+<p>That the petitioners, notwithstanding the inclination
+they have for it, ought not nevertheless to explain themselves
+farther upon this object, nor make a demonstration
+in detail of the important advantages which this Republic
+may procure itself by a connection and a relation more
+intimate with North America; both, because that no well-informed
+man can easily call the thing in question, or contradict
+it; but also, because the States of Friesland themselves
+have very lately explained themselves, in a manner
+so remarkable, in this respect; and which is still more remarkable,
+because in very different circumstances, with a
+foresight, which posterity will celebrate by so much the
+more, as it is attacked in our time by ill designing citizens,
+the Lords your predecessors thought, four years ago, upon
+the means of hindering this Republic from being excluded
+from the business of the new world, and from falling
+into the disagreeable situation in which the kingdom of
+Portugal is at present, considering that according to the
+informations of your petitioners, the Congress has excluded
+that kingdom from all commerce and business with
+North America, solely, because it had perceived that it
+suffered itself to be too strongly directed by the influence
+of the British Court. This example makes us fear with
+reason that if the propositions made, in the name of America,
+by Mr. Adams to this Republic, should remain, as
+they still are, without an answer, or that, if, contrary to
+all expectation, they should be rejected, in that case the
+Republic ought not to expect a better treatment.</p>
+
+<p>That, for these reasons and many others, the petitioners
+had flattered themselves that we should long ago have
+opened negotiations, and a closer correspondence, with<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span>
+the United States of America. But this important work
+appeared to meet with difficulties with some, as incompatible
+with the accession of this Republic to the armed
+neutrality, and, in course, with the accepted mediation;
+whilst that others cannot be persuaded to make this so necessary
+step, in the opinion that we cannot draw any advantage,
+or at least of much importance, from a more
+strict connection with America: Reasons, according to
+the petitioners, the frivolity of which is apparent to every
+one who is not filled with prejudice, without having occasion
+to employ many words to point it out. For, as to the
+first point, supposing, for a moment, that it might be made
+a question whether the Republic, after her accession to the
+armed neutrality, before the war with England, could take
+a step of this nature, without renouncing at the same time
+the advantages of the armed neutrality which it had embraced;
+it is at least very certain, that every difficulty concerning
+the competency of the Republic to take a similar
+step vanishes and disappears of itself at present, when it
+finds itself involved in a war with Great Britain, since
+from that moment she could not only demand the assistance
+and succour of all the confederates in the armed neutrality,
+but that thereby the finds herself authorized, for her
+own defence, to employ all sorts of means, violent and
+others, which she could not before adopt nor put in use,
+while she was really in the position of a neutral power
+which would profit of the advantages of the armed neutrality.
+This reasoning then proves evidently, that, in
+the present situation of affairs, the Republic might acknowledge
+the independence of America; and, notwithstanding
+this, claim of full right the assistance of her
+neutral allies, at least, if we would not maintain one of
+the two following absurdities: That, notwithstanding
+the violent aggression of England in resentment of our
+accession to the armed neutrality, we dare not defend ourselves,
+until our confederates shall think proper to come to
+our assistance; or, otherwise, that being attacked by the
+English, it should be permitted us, conformably to the
+rights of the armed neutrality, to resist them in arms,
+whether on the Doggers-bank or elsewhere, but not by
+contracting alliances, which certainly do no injury or
+harm to the convention of the armed neutrality, notwith<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span>standing even the small hope we have of being succored
+by the allies of the armed confederation. The argument
+of the mediation is still more contrary to common sense
+in this, that it supposes, that the Republic, by accepting
+the mediation, has also renounced the employment of all
+the means, by the way of arms, of alliances, or otherwise,
+which it might judge useful or necessary to annoy
+her enemy: a supposition, which certainly is destitute of
+all foundation, and which would reduce it simply to a real
+suspension of hostilities on the part of the Republic only;
+to which the Republic can never have consented, neither
+directly nor indirectly.</p>
+
+<p>Besides this last argument, the petitioners ought to observe,
+in the first place, that by means of a good harmony
+and friendship with the United States of America, there
+will spring up, not only different sources of business for
+this Republic, founded solely on commerce and navigation,
+but in particular the manufactures and trade will
+assume a new activity in the interior cities; for they may
+consume the amount of millions of our manufactures in
+that new country, of so vast extent: In the second place,
+abstracted from all interests of commerce, the friendship
+or the enmity of a nation, which, after having made prisoners
+of two English armies, has known how to render
+herself respectable and formidable, if it were only in relation
+to the western possessions of this State, is not and
+cannot be in any manner indifferent for our Republic.
+In the last place, it is necessary that the petitioners remark
+farther in this respect, that several inhabitants of this Republic,
+in the present situation of affairs, suffer very considerable
+losses and damages, which at least hereafter might
+be wholly prevented, or in part, in case we should make
+with the United States of America, with relation to
+vessels and effects recaptured, a convention similar to that
+which has been made with the Crown of France the last
+year; for, venerable Regents, if a convention of this
+nature had been contracted in the beginning of this war,
+the inhabitants of the Republic would have already derived
+important advantages from it, considering that several
+ships and cargoes, taken by the English from the inhabitants
+of this State, have fallen into the hands of the Americans;
+among others, two vessels from the West Indies,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span>
+richly loaded, and making sail for the ports of the Republic,
+and both estimated at more than a million of florins
+of Holland; which, captured by the English at the
+commencement of the year past, were carried into North
+America, where, after the capitulation of General Cornwallis,
+they passed from the hands of the English into
+others.</p>
+
+<p>That, although the petitioners are fully convinced, that
+the interests of the commerce of this common country,
+and of this city, have constantly, but especially in these
+last years, attracted, and still attract every day, a great part
+of the cares of the venerable Regency; nevertheless,
+having regard to the importance of the affair, the petitioners
+have thought that they might, and that they ought
+to take the liberty to address themselves with this petition
+to you, venerable Regents, to inform you, according to
+truth, that the moments are precious, that we cannot lose
+any time, how little soever it may be, without running the
+greatest risque of losing all; since, by hesitating longer,
+the Republic, according to all appearances, would not derive
+any advantage, not even more than it has derived
+from its accession to the armed neutrality; because that in
+the fear of British menaces, we did not determine to accede
+to it, until the opportunity of improving the advantage
+of it was passed.</p>
+
+<p>For these causes, the petitioners address themselves to
+you, venerable Regents, respectfully soliciting, that your
+efficacious influence may condescend, at the Assembly of
+their noble and grand Mightinesses the States of this Province,
+to direct affairs in such a manner, that upon this important
+object there may be taken as soon as possible, and,
+if possible, even during the continuance of this Assembly,
+a final and decisive resolution, such as you, venerable Regents,
+and their noble and grand Mightinesses, according
+to their high wisdom, shall judge the most convenient:
+and if, contrary to all expectation, this important operation
+should meet with any obstacle on the part of one or
+more of the confederates, that in that case you, venerable
+Regents, in concert with the Province of Friesland, and
+those of the other Provinces who make no difficulty to
+open a negotiation with America, will condescend to
+consider the means, which shall be found proper and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span>
+convenient to effectuate, that the commerce of this
+Province, as well as that of Friesland, and the other
+members adopting the same opinion, may not be prejudiced
+by any dilatory deliberations, nor too late resolved,
+for the conclusion of a measure as important as
+necessary.</p>
+
+<p class="center">So doing, &amp;c.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>AMSTERDAM</h2>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Address</span> <i>of the Merchants, &amp;c. to their Regency</i>.</p>
+
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Noble, great, and venerable Lords!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">It</span> is for us a particular satisfaction to be able to offer
+to your noble and great lordships, as heads of the regency
+of this city, this well intentioned address that a
+multitude of our most respectable fellow-citizens have
+signed. It was already prepared and signed by many,
+when we learned, as well by the public papers as otherwise,
+the propositions of a particular peace, with an offer
+of an immediate suspension of hostilities on the part of
+Great-Britain, made to this state by the mediation of the
+Russian ambassador. This is the only reason why no
+immediate mention was made of it in the address itself.
+It is by no means the idea, that these offers would have
+made any impression upon the merchants; since we can,
+on the contrary, in truth assure your noble and great
+Lordships, that the unanimous sentiment nearly of the Exchange
+of Amsterdam, as much as that is interested in it,
+is entirely conformable to that which the merchants of
+Rotterdam have made known in so energetic a manner:
+that consequently we have the greatest aversion to like
+offers, as artful as dangerous, which, being adopted,
+would very probably throw this Republic into other situations
+very embarrassing, the immediate consequences of
+which would be, to ruin it totally: whereas, on the other
+hand, these offers shew that we have only to deal with
+an enemy exhausted; whom we could force to a general
+and durable peace in the end, by following only the example
+of France, Spain, and North America; and by using
+the means which are in our hands.</p>
+
+<p>It is improper for us, however, to enlarge farther upon
+this project, important as it may be, being well assured,
+that your noble and great Lordships see those grievous
+consequences more clearly than we can trace them.</p>
+
+<p>The merchants continue to recommend their commerce<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span>
+and navigation to the constant care and protection of your
+noble and great Lordships, and to insist only, that in case
+these offers of the court of England should be, at any
+time, the cause that the affair of the admission of Mr.
+Adams, in quality of Minister Plenipotentiary of the United
+States of America, should meet with any difficulty or
+delay on the part of the other confederates, that your
+noble and great lordships, conformably to the second article
+of our requisition, inserted in this request, would have
+the goodness to think upon measures which would secure
+this province from the ruinous consequences of such a
+proceeding.</p>
+
+
+<p><br /><i>To the foregoing was joined the Address presented
+to the Burgomasters and the Council, which is of the
+following tenor.</i></p>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Noble, great, venerable, and noble and
+venerable Lords!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>The undersigned merchants, citizens, and inhabitants
+of the city of Amsterdam, have learned with an inexpressible
+joy, the news of the resolution taken the 28th of
+March last by their noble and grand Mightinesses, the
+lords the States of Holland and West-Friesland. Their
+noble and grand Mightinesses have thereby not only satisfied
+the general wishes of the greatest and best part of
+the inhabitants of this province, but they have laid the
+foundations of ulteriour alliances and correspondencies of
+friendship and of good understanding with the United
+States of America, which promise new life to the languishing
+state of our commerce, navigation, and manufactures.
+The unanimity with which that resolution was
+decided in the assembly of Holland, gives us grounds to
+hope that the States of the other provinces will not delay
+to take a similar resolution; whilst the same unanimity
+fills with the most lively satisfaction the well intentioned
+inhabitants of this city, and without doubt those of the
+whole country, in convincing them fully that the union<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span>
+among the sage and venerable fathers of the country increases
+more and more; whilst that the promptness and
+activity with which it hath been concluded, make us hope,
+with reason, that we shall reap, in time, from a step so
+important and so necessary for this Republic, the desired
+fruits. Who then can call in question, or disavow that
+the moment seems to approach nearer and nearer, when
+this Republic shall enter into new relations with a people,
+who find themselves in circumstances which differ but little
+from those in which our ancestors found themselves two
+centuries ago, with a people which conciliates more and
+more the general affection and esteem.</p>
+
+<p>The conformity of religion and government, which is
+found between us and America, joined to the indubitable
+marks that she hath already long since given of the preference
+that she feels for our friendship, makes the undersigned
+not only suppose, but inspires them with a confidence
+that our connections with her will be equally solid,
+advantageous, and salutary to the interests of the two
+nations. The well-being and prosperity which will very
+probably result from them; the part which you noble,
+great, venerable, and noble and venerable lords, have had
+in the conclusion of a resolution so remarkable; the conviction
+that the venerable council of this city had of it,
+upon the proposition of the noble, great, and venerable
+Lords, almost consented to, before the request relative to
+this project presented not long since to you, noble, great,
+and venerable Lords, had come to the knowledge of the
+council; finally the remembrance of that which was done
+upon this matter in the year 1778, with the best intentions
+and the most laudable views, finding itself at present
+crowned with an approbation as public as it is general,
+indispensibly oblige the undersigned to approach you with
+this address; not only to congratulate you upon so remarkable
+an event, but to thank you at the same time
+with as much zeal as solemnity, for all those well intentioned
+cares, and those well concerted measures, for that
+inflexible attachment, and that faithful adherence to the
+true interests of the country in general, and of this city
+in particular, which manifest themselves in so striking a
+manner, in all the proceedings and resolutions of your
+noble, great, and venerable Lordships, and of the venera<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span>ble
+council of this city, and which certainly will attract
+the esteem and veneration of the latest posterity, when
+comparing the annals and events of the present with those
+of former times, it shall discover that Amsterdam might
+still boast itself of possessing patriots who dared sacrifice
+generously all views of private interests, of grandeur and
+consideration to the sacred obligations that their country
+requires of them.</p>
+
+<p>We flatter ourselves, noble, great, venerable, noble
+and venerable Lords, that the present public demonstration
+of our esteem and attachment will be so much the more
+agreeable, as it is more rare in our republic, and perhaps
+even it is without example; and as it is more proper to
+efface all the odious impressions that the calumny and
+malignity of the English ministry, not long ago so servilely
+adored by many, but whose downfal is at present
+consummated, had endeavoured to spread, particularly a
+little before and at the beginning of this war, insinuations,
+which have since found partisans in the United Provinces,
+among those who have not been ashamed to paint the
+Exchange of Amsterdam (that is to say the most respectable
+and the most useful part of the citizens of this city,
+and at the same time the principal support of the well-being
+of the United Provinces) as if it consisted in a great
+part of a contemptible herd of vile interested souls, having
+no other object than to give loose to their avidity, and
+to their desire of amassing treasures, in defrauding the
+public revenues, and in transporting articles, against the
+faith of treaties; calumniators, who have had at the same
+time, and have still the audacity to affront the most upright
+regency of the most considerable city of the Republic,
+and to expose it to public contempt, as if it participated
+by connivance, and otherwise, in so shameful a
+commerce; insinuations and accusations which have been
+spread with as much falshood as wickedness, and which
+ought to excite so much the more the indignation of every
+sensible heart, when it is considered that not only the
+merchants of this city, but also those of the whole Republic
+have so inviolably respected the faith of treaties
+that, to the astonishment of every impartial man, one cannot
+produce any proofs, at least no sufficient proofs; that
+there hath ever been transported from this country con<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span>traband
+merchandizes; whilst that the conjuncture in
+which imputations of this kind have been spread rendered
+the proceeding still more odious, seeing it has been
+done at an epoch when the commerce and navigation of
+Amsterdam, and of the whole Republic, would have experienced
+the first and almost the only attack of an unjust
+and perfidious ally, for want of necessary protection, upon
+which you, noble, great, venerable, and noble and venerable
+Lords, have so often and so seriously insisted, even
+before the commencement of the troubles between Great
+Britain and the United States of America; at an epoch,
+when the merchant, formed for enterprises, was obliged
+to see the fruit of his labour, and of his cares, the recompence
+of his indefatigable industry, and the patrimony
+destined to his posterity, ravished from his hands by foreign
+violence and an unbounded rapacity; at an epoch
+finally, when the wise and prudent politicians, who had
+exhausted themselves and spared no pains for the public
+good, saw their patriotic views dissipated, and their projects
+vanish.</p>
+
+<p>Receive then, noble, great, venerable, and noble and
+venerable Lords, this solemn testimony of our lively
+gratitude, as graciously as it is given sincerely on our
+part. Receive it as a proof of our attachment to your
+persons; an attachment which is not founded upon fear,
+nor an exteriour representation of authority and grandeur,
+but which is founded on more noble and immoveable
+principles, those of esteem and respect, arising from a
+sentiment of true greatness and of generosity. Be assured
+that when contemptible discord, with its odious attendants,
+artifice and imposture, could effectuate nothing, absolutely
+nothing, at the moment when the present war
+broke out, to prejudice in the least the fidelity of the
+Citizens of the Amstel, or to shake them in the observance
+of their duties; the inconveniencies and the evils that a
+war naturally and necessarily draws after it will not produce
+the effect neither. Yes, we will submit more willingly
+to them, according as we shall perceive that the
+means that <span class="smcap">God</span> and Nature have put into our hands
+are more and more employed to reduce and humble an
+haughty enemy. Continue then, noble, great, venerable,
+noble and venerable Lords, to proceed with safety in the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span>
+road that you follow, the only one, which in our opinion
+can, under the divine benediction, tend to save the country
+from its present situation. Let nothing divert or intimidate
+you from it. You have already surmounted the
+greatest difficulties, and the most pointed cares. A more
+pleasing perspective already opens. Great Britain, not
+long since so proud of her forces, that she feared not to
+declare war against an ancient and faithful Ally, already
+repents of that unjust and rash proceeding; and, succumbing
+under the weight of a war, which becomes more and
+more burthensome, she sighs after peace; whilst that
+the harmony among the members of the supreme Government
+of this country increases with our arms, according
+as your political system, whose necessity and salutary influence
+were heretofore less acknowledged, gains every
+day more numerous imitators. The resolution lately
+taken by the States of Friesland, and so unanimously
+adopted by our Province, furnishes, among many others,
+one incontestible proof of it; whilst the naval combat
+fought the last year on Doggersbank, hath shewn to
+astonished Europe, that so long a peace hath not made
+the Republic forget the management of arms, but that,
+on the contrary, it nourishes in its bosom warriors who
+tread in the footsteps of the <i>Tromps</i> and <i>Ruiters</i>, from whose
+prudence and intrepidity, after a beginning so glorious,
+we may promise ourselves the most heroic actions; that
+their invincible courage, little affected with an evident
+superiority, will procure, one day, to our country an honourable
+and permanent peace, which, in eternizing their
+military glory, will cause the wise policy of your noble,
+great, venerable, and noble and venerable Lordships, to
+be blessed by the latest posterity.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>UTRECHT.</h2>
+
+<p class="center"><i>24th April, 1782.</i></p>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">To their noble Mightinesses, the Lords the
+States of the Country of Utrecht</span>.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> undersigned manufacturers, merchants, and other
+traders of this City give, with due respect, to understand,
+that the petitioners, placing their confidence in
+the interest that your noble Mightinesses have always appeared
+to take in the advancement of manufactures and
+commerce, have not been at all scrupulous to recommend
+to the vigilant attention of your noble Mightinessess, the
+favourable occasion that offers itself in this moment, to
+revive the manufactures, commerce, and trades fallen
+into decay in this City and Province, in case that your
+noble Mightinesses acknowledged, in the name of this
+City, Mr. Adams as Minister Plenipotentiary of the
+United States of America, to the end that there might
+be formed with them a treaty of commerce for this Republic.
+As the petitioners founded themselves thus upon
+the intimate sentiment of the execution of that which
+your noble Mightinesses judge proper to the advancement
+of the well-being of the petitioners and of their interests,
+the petitioners have further the satisfaction of seeing the
+most agreeable proofs of it, when your noble Mightinesses,
+in your last Assembly, resolved unanimously to consent,
+not only to the admission of Mr. Adams in quality of
+Minister of the Congress of North America, but to authorise
+the Lords the Deputies of this Province at the
+Generality, to conform themselves in the name of this
+Province, to the resolutions of the Lords the States of
+Holland and West Friesland, and of Friesland; and, doing
+this, to consent to the acknowledgment and admission
+of Mr. Adams, as Minister of the United States of America.
+As that resolution furnishes the proofs the best
+intentioned, the most patriotic, for the advancement of
+that which may serve to the well-being and to the encouragement
+of manufactures, of commerce, and of de<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span>cayed
+trades, as well in general, as of this City and Province
+in particular, and which had been so ardently desired;
+the petitioners think themselves indispensibly
+obliged to testify, in the most respectful manner, their
+gratitude for it to your noble Mightinesses. The petitioners
+find themselves absolutely unable to express, in
+words, the general satisfaction that this event hath caused;
+not only to them; but also to the great and small of this
+Province; joined to the confirmation of the perfect conviction
+in which they repose themselves, also, for the future,
+upon the paternal care of your noble Mightinesses,
+that the consummation of the desired treaty of commerce
+with the Americans may be soon effected. The petitioners
+attest by the present, before your noble Mightinesses, their
+solemn and well-meant gratitude, which they address at
+the same time to your noble Mightinesses, as the most
+sincere mark of veneration and respect for the persons,
+and the direction of public affairs, of your noble Mightinesses;
+praying that Almighty God may deign to bless
+the efforts and the councils of your noble Mightinesses,
+as well as those of the Confederates; that moreover this
+Province, and our dear country, by the propositions of
+an Armistice, and that which depends thereon, should
+not be involved in any negotiations for a particular peace
+with our perfidious enemy, but that we obtain no other
+peace than a general peace, which (as your noble Mightinesses
+express yourselves in your resolution) may be compatible
+with their honour and dignity; and serve not only
+for this generation, but also for the latest posterity, as a
+monument of glory, of eternal gratitude to, and esteem
+for the persons and public administration of the present
+time.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>FRIESLAND.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>from the Register-Book of the Lords the
+States of Friesland</i>.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> requisition of Mr. Adams, for presenting his letters
+of credence from the United States of America
+to their High Mightinesses, having been brought into the
+assembly, and put into deliberation, as also the ulteriour
+address to the same purpose, with a demand of a categorical
+answer, made by him, as is more amply mentioned
+in the minutes of their High Mightinesses of the 4th of
+May, 1781, and the 9th of January, 1782; whereupon
+it having been taken into consideration that the said Mr.
+Adams would probably have some propositions to make to
+their High Mightinesses, and to present to them the principle
+articles and foundations upon which the Congress,
+on their part, would enter into a treaty of commerce and
+friendship, or other affairs to propose, in regard to which
+dispatch would be requisite.</p>
+
+<p>It has been thought fit and resolved to authorize the
+Lords the Deputies of this Province at the Generality, and
+to instruct them to direct things, at the table of their
+High Mightinesses, in such a manner that the said Mr.
+Adams be admitted forthwith as Minister of the Congress
+of North America; with further order to the said Deputies
+that if there should be made moreover any similar
+propositions by the same, to inform immediately their
+noble Mightinesses of them. And an extract of the present
+resolution shall be sent them for their information,
+that they may conduct themselves conformably.</p>
+
+<p>Thus resolved at the Province House the 26th February,
+1782.</p>
+
+<p>Compared with the aforesaid book to my knowledge.</p>
+
+<p><i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">A. J. V. Sminia</span>.</div>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>HOLLAND<br />
+
+AND<br />
+
+WESTFRIESLAND.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>of the Resolutions of the Lords the States of
+Holland and Westfriesland, taken in the Assembly of their
+Noble and Grand Mightinesses, Thursday 28th March,
+1782</i>.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">Deliberated</span> by resumption upon the address
+and the ulteriour address of Mr. Adams, made the
+4th of May, 1781, and the 9th of January, 1782, to the
+President of the States General, communicated to the
+Assembly the 9th May, 1781, and the 22d of last month,
+to present his letters of credence, in the name of the United
+States of America, to their High Mightinesses; by which
+ulteriour address, the said Mr. Adams hath demanded a
+categorical answer, that he may acquaint his constituents
+thereof: deliberated also upon the petitions of a great
+number of merchants, manufacturers and other inhabitants
+of this Province, interested in commerce to support
+their request presented to the States General, the twentieth
+current, to the end, that efficacious measures might be
+taken to establish a commerce between this country and
+North America, copy of which petitions have been given
+to the members, the twenty-first; it hath been thought fit
+and resolved that the affair shall be directed on the part of
+their noble and grand Mightinesses, at the assembly of the
+States General, and that there shall be made the strongest
+instances that Mr. Adams be admitted and acknowledged,
+as soon as possible, by their High Mightinesses, in quality
+of Ambassador of the United States of America. And
+the Counsellor Pensionary hath been charged to inform
+under hand the said Mr. Adams of this resolution of their
+noble and grand Mightinesses.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>ZEALAND.</h2>
+
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>of the Resolutions of their High Mightinesses
+the States General of the United Provinces. Monday
+8th April, 1782</i>.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> Deputies of the Province of Zealand have brought
+to the Assembly, and have caused to be read there,
+the resolution of the States of the said Province, their
+principals, to cause to be admitted, as soon as possible,
+Mr. Adams in quality of Ambassador of the Congress of
+North America, according to the following resolution.</p>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>from the Register of the Resolutions of the
+Lords the States of Zealand, 4th of April, 1782</i>.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p>It hath been thought fit and ordered, that the Lords,
+the ordinary Deputies of this Province at the Generality,
+shall be authorised, as it is done by the present, to assist, in
+the direction of affairs at the Assembly of their High
+Mightinesses, in such a manner, that Mr. Adams may be
+acknowledged, as soon as possible, as Ambassador of the
+Congress of North America; that his letters of credence
+be accepted; and that he be admitted in that quality, according
+to the ordinary form; enjoining further upon the
+said Lords the ordinary Deputies, to take such propositions,
+as should be made to this Republic by the said Mr.
+Adams, for the information and deliberation of their
+High Mightinesses, to the end to transmit them here as
+soon as possible. And an extract of this resolution of their
+noble Mightinesses shall be sent to the Lords, their ordinary
+Deputies, to serve them as an instruction.</p>
+
+<p><i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">J. M. Chalmers</span>.<br /></div>
+
+<p>Upon which having deliberated, it hath been thought
+fit and resolved to pray, by the present, the Lords the Deputies
+of the Province of Guelderland, Utrecht, and
+Groningen and Ommelanden, who have not yet explained
+themselves upon the subject, to be pleased to do it as soon
+as possible.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>OVERYSSEL.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>from the Register of the Resolutions of the
+Equestrian Order, and of the Cities composing the States of
+Overyssel. Zwoll, 5th April, 1782.</i></p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">Mr.</span> the Grand Bailiff of Saalland, and the other Commissioners
+of their noble Mightinesses for the affairs
+of finance, having examined, conformably to their commissorial
+resolution of the third of this month, the addresses
+of Mr. Adams, communicated to the Assembly the 4th of
+May, 1781, and the 22d of February, 1782, to present
+his letters of credence to their High Mightinesses, in the
+name of the United States of America; as well as the
+resolution of the Lords the States of Holland and Westfriesland,
+dated the 28th of March, 1782, carried the
+29th of the same month to the Assembly of their High
+Mightinesses, for the admission and acknowledgment of
+Mr. Adams, have reported to the Assembly, that they
+should be of opinion, that the Lords the Deputies of this
+Province in the States General ought to be authorised and
+charged to declare in the Assembly of their High Mightinesses,
+that the Equestrian order and the Cities judge that
+it is proper to acknowledge, as soon as possible, Mr.
+Adams in quality of Minister of the United States of
+North America to their High Mightinesses. Upon which,
+having deliberated, the Equestrian order and the Cities
+have conformed themselves to the said report.</p>
+
+<p>Compared with the aforesaid Register.</p>
+
+<p><i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">Derk Dunbar</span>.</div>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>GRONINGEN.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>from the Register of the Resolutions of their
+noble Mightinesses, the States of Groningen and Ommelanden.
+Tuesday 9th April, 1782.</i></p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> Lords the States of Groningen and Ommelanden,
+having heard the report of the Lords the Commissioners
+for the petitions of the Council of State and the
+Finances of the Province, and having carefully examined
+the demand of Mr. Adams, to present his letters of credence
+from the United States of America to their High
+Mightinesses, have, after deliberation upon the subject,
+declared themselves of opinion, that in the critical circumstances
+in which the Republic finds itself at present,
+it is proper to take, without loss of time, such efficacious
+measures, as may not only repair the losses and damages
+that the kingdom of Great Britain hath caused in a
+manner so unjust, and against every shadow of right, to
+the commerce of the Republic, as well before as after the
+war, but particularly such as may establish the free navigation
+and the commerce of the Republic, for the future,
+upon on the most solid foundations, as may confirm and re-assure
+it, by the strongest bonds of reciprocal interest;
+and that, in consequence, the Lords the Deputies at the
+Assembly of their High Mightinesses ought to be authorised,
+on the part of the Province, as they are by the present,
+to admit Mr. Adams to present his letters of credence
+from the United States of America, and to receive
+the propositions which he shall make, to make report of
+them to the Lords the States of this Province.</p>
+
+<p><i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">E. Lewe</span>, Secretary.<br /></div>
+
+<p><br />The States General, having deliberated the same day
+upon the resolution, have resolved, that the Deputies of
+this Province of Guelderland, which has not yet declared
+itself upon the same subject, should be requested, to be
+pleased to do it as soon as possible.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>UTRECHT.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>of the Resolutions of their noble Mightinesses, the
+States of the Province of Utrecht, 10 April 1782</i>.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">Heard</span> the report of Mr. De Westerveld and other
+deputies of their noble Mightinesses for the department
+of war, who, in virtue of the commissorial resolutions
+of the 9th of May 1781, 16th January and 20th March
+of the present year 1782, have examined the resolutions
+of their High Mightinesses of the 4th of May 1781, containing
+an overture, that Mr. the President of the Assembly
+of their High Mightinesses had made, "that a person
+styling himself J. Adams had been with him, and had
+given him to understand, that he had received letters of
+credence for their High Mightinesses from the United
+States of America, with a request, that he would be
+pleased to communicate them to their High Mightinesses;
+as well as the resolution of their High Mightinesses of the
+9th of January, containing an ulteriour overture of Mr.
+the President, that the said Mr. Adams had been with
+him, and had insisted upon a categorical answer, whether
+his said letters of credence would be accepted or not;
+finally the resolution of their High Mightinesses of the 5th
+of March last, with the insertion of the resolution of
+Friesland, containing a proposition to admit Mr. Adams
+in quality of Minister of the Congress of North America."</p>
+
+<p>Upon which having deliberated, and remarked that
+the Lords the States of Holland and West Friesland, by
+their resolution carried the 29th of March to the States
+General, have also consented to the admission of the said
+Mr. Adams in quality of minister of the Congress of
+North America, it hath been thought fit and resolved,
+that the Lords the Deputies of this Province in the States
+General should be authorised, as their noble Mightinesses
+authorise them by the present, to conform themselves, in
+the name of this Province, to the resolution of the Lords
+the States of Holland and Westfriesland, and of Friesland,
+and to consent by consequence, that Mr. Adams be ac<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span>knowledged and admitted as Minister of the United States
+of America; their noble Mightinesses being, in the mean
+time, of opinion, that it would be necessary to acquaint
+her Majesty the Empress of Russia, and the other Neutral
+Powers, with the resolution to be taken by their High
+Mightinesses upon this subject, in communicating to them,
+as much as shall be necessary, the reasons which have
+induced their High Mightinesses to it, and giving them
+the strongest assurances that the intention of their High
+Mightinesses is by no means to prolong thereby the war,
+which they would have willingly prevented and terminated
+long since; but on the contrary, that their High Mightinesses
+with nothing with more ardor, than a prompt
+re-establishment of peace; and that they shall be always
+ready, on their part, to co-operate in it, in all possible
+ways, and with a suitable readiness, so far as that shall be
+any way compatible with their honour and their dignity,
+and for this end an extract of this shall be carried by
+Missive to the Lords the Deputies at the Generality.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>GUELDERLAND.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>from the Recès of the ordinary Diet, holden in the
+City of Nimeguen, in the Month of April 1782. Wednesday,
+17 April 1782.</i></p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> requisition of Mr. Adams, to present his letters
+of credence to their High Mightinesses in the name
+of the United States of America, having been brought to
+the assembly and read, as well as an ulteriour address
+made upon this subject, with a demand of a categorical
+answer by the said Mr. Adams, more amply mentioned
+in the registers of their High Mightinesses of the date of
+the 4th of May 1781, and of the 9th of January 1782;
+moreover the resolutions of the Lords the States of the
+five other provinces, carried successively to the assembly
+of their High Mightinesses, and all tending to admit Mr.
+Adams in quality of Ambassador of the United States of
+America to this Republic; upon which their noble Mightinesses,
+after deliberation, have resolved to authorise the
+deputies of this Province at the States General, as they
+authorise them by the present, to conform themselves in
+the name of this Province to the resolution of the Lords
+the States of Holland and Westfriesland, and to consent,
+by consequence, that Mr. Adams may be acknowledged
+and admitted in quality of Ambassador of the United States
+of America to this Republic. In consequence, an extract
+of the present shall be sent to the said Deputies, to make as
+soon as possible the requisite overture of it to the assembly
+of their High Mightinesses.</p>
+
+<p>In fidem extracti.<br />
+<i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">J. In de Betouw</span>.</div>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>THE<br />
+STATES GENERAL.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>from the Register of the Resolutions of their High
+Mightinesses the States General of the United Provinces.
+Friday 19 April, 1782.</i></p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">Deliberated</span> by resumption, upon the address
+and the ulteriour address, made by Mr. Adams the
+4th of May 1781, and the 9th of January of the current
+year to Mr. the President of the Assembly of their High
+Mightinesses, to present to their High Mightinesses his
+letters of credence in the name of the United States of
+North America; and by which ulteriour address the said
+Mr. Adams hath demanded a categorical answer, to the
+end to be able to acquaint his Constituents thereof; it hath
+been thought fit and resolved that Mr. Adams shall be
+admitted and acknowledged in quality of Ambassador of
+the United States of North America to their High
+Mightinesses, as he is admitted and acknowledged by the
+present.</p>
+
+<p><i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">W. Boreel</span>, <i>President</i>.<br /></div>
+
+<p><i>Lower down</i></p>
+
+<p class="center">Compared with the aforesaid Register.
+<br />
+<i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">H. Fagel</span>.</div>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span></p>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Extract</span> <i>from the Register of the Resolutions of their
+High Mightinesses the States General of the United Provinces,
+Monday, 22d April, 1782</i>.</p></blockquote>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">Mr. Boreel,</span> who presided in the Assembly the
+last week, hath reported to their High Mightinesses,
+and notified to them, that Mr. John Adams, Ambassador of
+the United States of America, had been with him last
+Saturday, and presented to him a letter from the Assembly
+of Congress, written at Philadelphia, the first of January,
+1781, containing a credence, for the said Mr. Adams,
+to the end to reside in quality of its Minister Plenipotentiary
+near their High Mightinesses: Upon which having
+deliberated, it hath been thought fit and resolved, to declare
+by the present: "That the said Mr. Adams is
+agreeable to their High Mightinesses; that he shall
+be acknowledged in quality of Minister Plenipotentiary;
+and that there shall be granted to him an audience,
+or assigned Commissioners, when he shall demand it."
+Information of the above shall be given to the said Mr.
+Adams, by the Agent van der Burch de Spieringshoek.</p>
+
+<p><i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">W. van Citters</span>, <i>President</i>.<br /></div>
+
+<p><i>Lower down</i></p>
+
+<p class="center">Compared with the aforesaid Register.
+<br />
+<i>Signed</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">H. Fagel</span>.</div>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p>
+
+
+<h2>MEDAL.</h2>
+
+<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">To the noble and mighty Lords, the States
+of Friesland</span>,</p></blockquote>
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">The</span> Society of Citizens, established at Leeuwarden,
+under the motto, "By Liberty and Zeal," most
+humbly represents, that it desires to have an opportunity
+of testifying publicly, by facts, to your noble Mightinesses,
+the most lively, but, at the same time, the most
+respectful sentiments of gratitude, which not only animate
+them, but also, as they assure themselves, all the well
+intentioned Citizens, especially, with relation to the
+resolutions equally important, and full of wisdom; which
+your noble Mightinesses have taken upon all the points,
+in regard to which the critical circumstances, in which
+our dear country finds itself plunged, have furnished to
+your noble Mightinesses, objects equally numerous and
+disagreeable, particularly, at the ordinary Diet of the year
+1782, and at the <ins
+title="Transcriber's note: original reads 'extrardinary'">
+extraordinary</ins> Diet holden in the month
+of April last; resolutions which bear not only the characters
+of wisdom, but also those of the best intentioned
+solicitude, and the purest love of our country; and which
+prove, in the most convincing manner, that your noble
+Mightinesses have no greater ambition than its universal
+prosperity; assiduously proposing to yourselves, as the
+most important object of your attention, of your enterprises,
+and of your attachment, the rule, <i>Salus Populi
+suprema Lex esto</i>; resolutions, in fine, which ought perfectly
+to re-assure the good Citizens of this Province,
+and encourage them to persevere in that full and tranquil
+confidence which has hindered them from representing
+to your noble Mightinesses the true interests of the
+country, and to exhort them, at the same time, by their
+supplications, to act with courage, and to fulfil their duties;
+considering that the said resolutions have fully as<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span>sured them, that their possessions, with that which is
+above all things dear to them, their Liberty (that right
+which is more precious to them than their lives; to
+which the smallest injury cannot be done, without doing
+wrong and dishonour to humanity; a right, nevertheless,
+which, if we consider the world in general, has been,
+alas! almost every where equally violated) are deposited
+in safety, under the vigilant eye of your noble Mightinesses.</p>
+
+<p>The Society has thought that it might accomplish
+its wishes, in the most convenient and decent manner,
+in causing to be stricken, at its expence, a Medal of
+silver, which may remain to posterity a durable monument
+of the perfect harmony which at the present dangerous
+epoch has reigned between the government and
+the people. It has conceived, for this purpose, a sketch
+or project, as yet incomplete, according to which one
+of the sides of the Medal should bear the Arms of Friesland,
+held by an hand, which descends from the clouds,
+with an inscription in the following terms: <i>To the States
+of Friesland, in grateful Memory of the Diets of February
+and of April, 1782, dedicated by the Society</i> <span class="smcap">Liberty
+and Zeal</span>. An inscription, which would thus contain
+a general applause of all the resolutions taken in
+these two Diets; whilst upon the reverse, one should
+distinguish, more particularly, the two events which
+interest the most our common country, in regard of
+which your noble Mightinesses have given the example
+to the States of the other Provinces, and which merit,
+for this reason, as placed in the foremost situation, to
+shew itself the most clearly to the fight: to wit, "The
+admission of Mr. Adams in quality of Minister of the
+United States of America to this Republic; and the refusal
+of a separate peace with Great Britain." Events
+which should be represented symbolically by a Frisian,
+dressed according to the ancient characteristic custom
+of the Frisians, holding out his right-hand to an inhabitant
+of North America, in token of friendship and
+brotherly love; whilst with the left-hand he rejects the
+peace which England offers him. The whole with such
+convenient additions, and symbolical ornaments, which<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span>
+the Society, perhaps, would do well to leave to the invention
+of the medalist, &amp;c.</p>
+
+<p>[<i>The remainder of this request relates to other subjects.</i>]</p>
+
+<p class="center">Done at Leeuwarden the 8th May, 1782.<br />
+The Society "<span class="smcap">By Liberty and Zeal</span>."</p>
+
+<p><i>Signed at its request</i></p>
+
+<div class="right"><span class="smcap">W. Wopkens</span>,<br />
+<i>in the absence of the Secretary</i>.</div>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p>
+
+<h1><small>AN</small><br />
+
+ESSAY<br />
+
+<small>ON</small><br />
+
+<span class="smcap">Canon and Feudal Law</span>.</h1>
+
+<h2>By JOHN ADAMS,</h2>
+
+<h3>AMBASSADOR PLENIPOTENTIARY</h3>
+
+<h4>FROM THE</h4>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">United and Independent States of<br />
+North America</span>,</h3>
+
+<h4>TO THEIR</h4>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">High Mightiness the States General of
+the United Provinces of Holland</span>.</h3>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span></p>
+
+<h1><small>AN</small><br />
+
+ESSAY<br />
+
+<small>ON</small><br />
+
+<span class="smcap">Canon and Feudal Law</span>.</h1>
+
+
+<p class="cap"><span class="dcap">"Ignorance</span> and inconsideration, are the two
+great causes of the ruin of mankind."&mdash;This is an
+observation of Dr. <i>Tillotson</i>, with relation to the interest
+of his fellow-men, in a future and immortal state: But
+it is of equal truth and importance, if applied to the happiness
+of men in society, on this side the grave.&mdash;In the
+earliest ages of the world, <i>absolute Monarchy</i> seems to
+have been the universal form of government.&mdash;Kings,
+and a few of their great counsellors and captains, exercised
+a cruel tyranny over the people who held a rank in
+the scale of intelligence, in those days, but little higher
+than the camels and elephants, that carried them and their
+engines to war.</p>
+
+<p>By what causes it was brought to pass, that the people
+in the middle ages, became more <i>intelligent</i> in general,
+would not perhaps be possible in these days to discover:
+But the fact is certain, and wherever a general knowledge
+and sensibility have prevailed among the people, arbitrary
+government and every kind of oppression have lessened
+and disappeared in proportion.&mdash;Man has certainly an
+exalted soul! and the same principle in human nature;
+that aspiring noble principle, founded in benevolence and
+cherished by knowledge; I mean the love of power,
+which has been so often the cause of <i>slavery</i>, has, whenever
+freedom has existed, been the cause of freedom. If
+it is this principle, that has always prompted the princes<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span>
+and nobles of the earth, by every species of fraud and
+violence, to shake off all the limitations of their power;
+it is the same that has always stimulated the common
+people to aspire at independency, and to endeavour at
+confining the power of the great, within the limits of
+equity and reason.</p>
+
+<p>The poor people, it is true, have been much less successful
+than the great&mdash;They have seldom found either
+leisure or opportunity to form an union and exert their
+strength&mdash;ignorant as they were of arts and letters, they
+have seldom been able to frame and support a regular opposition.
+This, however, has been known, by the great,
+to be the temper of mankind, and they have accordingly
+laboured, in all ages, to wrest from the populace, as they
+are contemptuously called, the knowledge of their rights
+and wrongs, and the power to assert the former or redress
+the latter. I say <span class="smcap">Rights</span>, for such they have, undoubtedly,
+antecedent to all earthly government&mdash;<i>Rights</i>, that
+cannot be repealed or restrained by human laws&mdash;<i>Rights</i>,
+derived from the great Legislator of the universe.</p>
+
+<p>Since the promulgation of christianity, the two greatest
+systems of tyranny, that have sprung from this original,
+are the <i>cannon</i> and the <i>feudal</i> law&mdash;The desire of dominion,
+that great principle by which we have attempted
+to account for so much good, and so much evil, is, when
+properly restrained, a very useful and noble movement in
+the human mind: but when such restraints are taken off,
+it becomes an encroaching, grasping, restless and ungovernable
+power. Numberless have been the systems of
+iniquity, contrived by the great, for the gratification of
+this passion in themselves: but in none of them were they
+ever more successful, than in the invention and establishment
+of the <i>canon</i> and the <i>feudal</i> law.</p>
+
+<p>By the former of these, the most refined, sublime, extensive,
+and astonishing constitution of policy, that ever
+was conceived by the mind of man, was framed by the
+Romish clergy for the aggrandisement of their own order.
+All the epithets I have here given to the Romish policy
+are just; and will be allowed to be so, when it is considered,
+that they even persuaded mankind to believe,
+faithfully and undoubtingly, that <span class="smcap">God Almighty</span> had intrusted
+them with the keys of heaven, whose gates they<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span>
+might open and close at pleasure&mdash;with a power of dispensation
+over all the rules and obligations of morality&mdash;with
+authority to license all sorts of sins and crimes&mdash;with
+a power of deposing princes, and absolving subjects
+from allegiance&mdash;with a power of procuring or withholding
+the rain of heaven, and the beams of the sun&mdash;with
+the management of earthquakes, pestilence and famine.&mdash;&mdash;Nay,
+with the mysterious, awful, incomprehensible
+power of creating out of bread and wine, the flesh
+and blood of <span class="smcap">God</span> himself.&mdash;All these opinions they were
+enabled to spread and rivet among the people, by reducing
+their minds to a state of sordid ignorance and staring
+timidity; and by infusing into them a <i>religious</i> horror of
+letters and knowledge. Thus was human nature chained
+fast for ages, in a cruel, shameful, and deplorable servitude,
+to him and his subordinate tyrants; who, it was
+foretold, would exalt himself above all that was called
+<span class="smcap">God</span>, and that was worshipped.&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>In the latter we find another system similar in many
+respects to the former; which, although it was originally
+formed perhaps for the necessary defence of a barbarous
+people, against the inroads and invasions of her neighbouring
+nations; yet, for the same purposes of tyranny,
+cruelty and lust, which had dictated the <i>canon</i> law, it was
+soon adopted by almost all the Princes of Europe, and
+wrought into the constitutions of their government.&mdash;It
+was originally a code of laws, for a vast army in a perpetual
+encampment.&mdash;The general was invested with the
+sovereign propriety of all the lands within the territory.&mdash;Of
+him, his servants and vassals, the first rank of his
+great officers held the lands; and in the same manner,
+the other subordinate officers held of them; and all ranks
+and degrees, held their lands, by a variety of duties and
+services, all tending to bind the chains the faster, on
+every order of mankind. In this manner, the common
+people were holden together, in herds and clans, in a state
+of servile dependance on their Lords; bound, even by
+the tenure of their lands to follow them, whenever they
+commanded, to their wars; and in a state of total ignorance
+of every thing divine and human, excepting the use
+of arms, and the culture of their lands.</p>
+
+<p>But, another event still more calamitous to human liberty,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span>
+was a wicked confederacy, between the two systems
+of tyranny above described.&mdash;It seems to have been
+even stipulated between them, that the temporal grandees
+should contribute every thing in their power to maintain
+the ascendency of the priesthood; and that the spiritual
+grandees, in, their turn, should employ that ascendency
+over the consciences of the people, in impressing on their
+minds, a blind, implicit obedience to civil magistracy.&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>Thus, as long as this confederacy lasted, and the people
+were held in ignorance; Liberty, and with her,
+knowledge, and virtue too, seem to have deserted the
+earth; and one age of darkness succeeded another, till
+<span class="smcap">God</span>, in his benign Providence, raised up the champions,
+who began and conducted the Reformation.&mdash;From the
+time of the Reformation, to the first settlement of America,
+knowledge gradually spread in Europe, but especially
+in England; and in proportion as that increased and
+spread among the people, ecclesiastical and civil tyranny,
+which I use as synonymous expressions, for the <i>canon</i> and
+<i>feudal</i> laws, seem to have lost their strength and weight.
+The people grew more and more sensible of the wrong
+that was done them, by these systems; more and more
+impatient under it; and determined at all hazards to rid
+themselves of it; till, at last, under the execrable race of
+the Stuarts, the struggle between the people and the
+confederacy aforesaid of temporal and spiritual tyranny,
+became formidable, violent and bloody.&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>It was this great struggle that peopled America.&mdash;It
+was not religion alone, as is commonly supposed; but it
+was a love of <i>universal</i> liberty, and an hatred, a dread,
+an horror of the infernal confederacy before described,
+that projected, conducted, and accomplished the settlement
+of America.&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>It was a resolution formed by a sensible people, I mean
+the <i>Puritans</i> almost in despair. They had become intelligent
+in general, and many of them learned.&mdash;For this
+fact I have the testimony of Archbishop <i>King</i> himself,
+who observed of that people, that they were more intelligent,
+and better read than even the members of the
+church whom he censures warmly for that reason.&mdash;This
+people had been so vexed, and tortured by the powers of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span>
+those days, for no other crime than their knowledge, and
+their freedom of enquiry and examination; and they had
+so much reason to despair of deliverance from those miseries
+on that side the ocean, that they at last resolved to
+fly to the <i>wilderness</i> for refuge, from the temporal and
+spiritual principalities and powers, and plagues, and
+scourges of their native country.</p>
+
+<p>After their arrival here, they began their settlement,
+and formed their plan both of ecclesiastical and civil government,
+in direst opposition to the <i>canon</i> and the <i>feudal</i>
+systems.&mdash;&mdash;The leading men among them, both of the
+clergy and the laity were men of sense and learning: To
+many of them, the historians, orators, poets and philosophers
+of Greece and Rome were quite familiar: and
+some of them have left libraries that are still in being,
+consisting chiefly of volumes, in which the wisdom of
+the most enlightened ages and nations is deposited, written
+however in languages, which their great grandsons,
+<i>though educated in European Universities</i>, can scarcely
+read.</p>
+
+<p>Thus accomplished were many of the first planters of
+these colonies.&mdash;It may be thought polite and fashionable,
+by many modern fine gentlemen, perhaps, to deride the
+characters of these persons as enthusiastical, superstitious
+and republican: But such ridicule is founded in nothing
+but foppery and affectation, and is grosly injurious and
+false.&mdash;&mdash;Religious to some degree of enthusiasm, it may
+be admitted they were; but this can be no peculiar derogation
+from their character, because it was at that time
+almost the universal character, not only of England but
+of Christendom. Had this however been otherwise, their
+enthusiasm, considering the principles in which it was
+founded, and the ends to which it was directed, far from
+being a reproach to them, was greatly to their honour:
+for I believe it will be found universally true, that no
+great enterprize, for the honour or happiness of mankind,
+was ever <ins
+title="Transcriber's note: Archaic spelling of achieved.">atchieved</ins> without a large mixture of that noble
+infirmity. Whatever imperfections may be justly ascribed
+to them, which however are as few as any mortals have
+discovered, their judgment in framing their policy was
+founded in wise, humane and benevolent principles. It
+was founded in revelation and in reason too: It was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span>
+consistent with the principles of the best, and greatest,
+and wisest legeslators of antiquity.&mdash;&mdash;Tyranny in every
+form, shape and appearance, was their disdain and abhorrence;
+no fear of punishment, nor even of death itself,
+in exquisite tortures, had been sufficient to conquer that
+steady, manly, pertinacious spirit, with which they had
+opposed the tyrants of those days, in church and state.
+They were very far from being enemies to monarchy;
+and they knew as well as any men, the just regard and
+honour that is due to the character of a dispenser of the
+mysteries of the gospel of grace: But they saw clearly,
+that popular powers must be placed as a guard, a controul,
+a balance, to the powers of the monarch and the
+priest in every government; or else it would soon become
+the man of sin, the whore of Babylon, the mystery
+of iniquity, a great and detestable system of fraud, violence
+and usurpation. Their greatest concern seems to
+have been to establish a government of the church more
+consistent with the Scriptures, and a government of the
+state more agreeable to the dignity of human nature, than
+any they had seen in Europe: and to transmit such a government
+down to their posterity, with the means of
+securing and preserving it for ever. To render the popular
+power in their new government as great and wise
+as their principles of theory, i. e. as human nature and
+the christian religion require it should be, they endeavoured
+to remove from it as many of the feudal inequalities
+and dependencies as could be spared, consistently
+with the preservation of a mild limited monarchy.
+And in this they discovered the depth of their wisdom,
+and the warmth of their friendship to human nature.&mdash;But
+the first place is due to religion.&mdash;&mdash;They saw clearly,
+that of all the nonsense and delusion which had ever passed
+through the mind of man, none had ever been more extravagant
+than the notions of absolutions, indelible characters,
+uninterrupted successions, and the rest of those
+fantastical ideas, derived from the canon law, which
+had thrown such a glare of mystery, sanctity, reverence
+and right, reverend eminence, and holiness around the
+idea of a priest, as no mortal could deserve and as always
+must, from the constitution of human nature, be
+dangerous in society. For this reason, they demolished<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span>
+the whole system of Diocesan episcopacy, and deriding,
+as all reasonable and impartial men must do, the ridiculous
+fancies of sanctified effluvia from episcopal fingers,
+they established sacerdotal ordination on the foundation of
+the Bible and common sense.&mdash;&mdash;This conduct at once
+imposed an obligation on the whole body of the clergy,
+to industry, virtue, piety and learning; and rendered that
+whole body infinitely more independent on the civil
+powers, in all respects, than they could be where they
+were formed into a scale of subordination, from a Pope
+down to Priests and friars and confessors, necessarily and
+essentially, a sordid, stupid, and wretched herd; or than
+they could be in any other country, where an archbishop
+held the place of an universal bishop, and the vicars and
+curates that of the ignorant, dependent, miserable rabble
+aforesaid; and infinitely more sensible and learned than
+they could be in either.&mdash;&mdash;This subject has been seen in
+the same light by many illustrious patriots, who have lived
+in America, since the days of our forefathers, and who
+have adored their memory for the same reason.&mdash;&mdash;And
+methinks there has not appeared in New England, a
+stronger veneration for their memory, a more penetrating
+insight into the grounds and principles and spirit of their
+policy, nor a more earnest desire of perpetuating the blessings
+of it to posterity, than that fine institution of the
+late Chief Justice Dudley, of a lecture against popery,
+and on the validity of presbyterian ordination. This was
+certainly intended by that wise and excellent man, as an
+eternal memento of the wisdom and goodness of the very
+principles that settled America. But I must again return
+to the feudal law.&mdash;&mdash;The adventurers so often mentioned,
+had an utter contempt of all that dark ribaldry
+of hereditary indefeasible right,&mdash;the Lord's anointed,&mdash;and
+the divine miraculous original of government, with
+which the priesthood had inveloped the feudal monarch
+in clouds and mysteries, and from whence they had deduced
+the most mischievous of all doctrines, that of passive
+obedience and non-resistance. They knew that government
+was a plain, simple, intelligible thing, founded
+in nature and reason, and quite comprehensible by common
+sense.&mdash;&mdash;They detested all the base services, and
+servile dependencies of the feudal system.&mdash;&mdash;They knew
+that no such unworthy dependencies took place in the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span>
+ancient seats of liberty, the republic of Greece and
+Rome: and they thought all such slavish subordinations
+were equally inconsistent with the constitution of human
+nature, and that religious liberty with which Jesus had
+made them free. This was certainly the opinion they
+had formed, and they were far from being singular or extravagant
+in thinking so.&mdash;&mdash;Many celebrated modern
+writers in Europe have espoused the same sentiments.&mdash;Lord
+Kaims, a Scottish writer of great reputation, whose
+authority in this case ought to have the more weight,
+as his countrymen have not the most worthy ideas of liberty,
+speaking of the feudal law, says, "A constitution
+so contradictory to all the principles which govern mankind,
+can never be brought about, one should imagine,
+but by foreign conquest or native usurpations." Brit.
+Ant. p. 2.&mdash;Rousseau speaking of the same system, calls
+it, "That most iniquitous and absurd form of government,
+by which human nature was so shamefully degraded."
+Social compact, Page 164.&mdash;&mdash;It would be easy
+to multiply authorities; but it must be needless, because
+as the original of this form of government was among
+savages, as the spirit of it is military and despotic, every
+writer, who would allow the people to have any right to
+life or property or freedom, more than the beasts of the
+field, and who was not hired or inlisted under arbitrary
+lawless power, has been always willing to admit the feudal
+system to be inconsistent with liberty and the rights
+of mankind.</p>
+
+<p>To have holden their lands allodially, or for every man
+to have been the sovereign lord and proprietor of the
+ground he occupied, would have constituted a government,
+too nearly like a commonwealth.&mdash;They were
+contented, therefore, to hold their lands of their King, as
+their sovereign lord, and to him they were willing to render
+homage: but to no mesne and subordinate lords, nor
+were they willing to submit to any of the baser services.&mdash;In
+all this they were so strenuous, that they have even
+transmitted to their posterity, a very general contempt and
+detestation of holdings by quit rents: As they have also
+an hereditary ardour for liberty, and thirst for knowledge.&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>They were convinced by their knowledge of human
+nature derived from history and their own experience, that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span>
+nothing could preserve their posterity from the encroachments
+of the two systems of tyranny, in opposition to
+which, as has been observed already, they erected their
+government in church and state, but knowledge diffused
+generally through the whole body of the people.&mdash;Their
+civil and religious principles, therefore, conspired to
+prompt them to use every measure, and take every precaution
+in their power to propagate and perpetuate knowledge.
+For this purpose they laid very early the foundations
+of colleges, and invested them with ample privileges
+and emoluments; and it is remarkable, that they have left
+among their posterity, so universal an affection and veneration
+for those seminaries, and for liberal education, that
+the meanest of the people contribute chearfully to the support
+and maintenance of them every year, and that nothing
+is more generally popular than productions for the
+honour, reputation, and advantage of those seats of learning.
+But the wisdom and benevolence of our fathers
+rested not here. They made an early provision by law,
+that every town, consisting of so many families, should be
+always furnished with a grammar school.&mdash;They made it
+a crime for such a town to be destitute of a grammar
+school-master for a few months, and subjected it to an
+heavy penalty.&mdash;So that the education of all ranks of
+people was made the care and expence of the public in a
+manner, that I believe has been unknown to any other
+people ancient or modern.</p>
+
+<p>The consequences of these establishments we see and
+feel every day.&mdash;A native of America who cannot read
+and write, is as rare an appearance as a Jacobite, or a Roman
+Catholic, i. e. as rare as a comet or an earthquake.&mdash;It
+has been observed, that we are all of us lawyers, divines,
+politicians, and philosophers.&mdash;And I have good
+authorities to say, that all candid foreigners who have
+passed through this country, and conversed freely with all
+sorts of people here, will allow, that they have never seen
+so much knowledge and civility among the common people
+in any part or the world.&mdash;It is true there has been
+among us a party for some years, consisting chiefly, not of
+the descendants of the first settlers of this country, but of
+high churchmen and high statesmen, imported since, who
+affect to censure this provision for the education of our
+youth as a needless expence, and an imposition upon the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span>
+rich in favour of the poor;&mdash;and as an institution productive
+of idleness and vain speculation among the people,
+whose time and attention, it is said, ought to be devoted to
+labour, and not to public affairs, or to examination into
+the conduct of their superiors. And certain officers of
+the crown, and certain other missionaries of ignorance,
+foppery, servility, and slavery, have been most inclined to
+countenance and encrease the same party.&mdash;Be it remembered,
+however, that liberty must at all hazards be supported.
+<i>We have a right to it, derived from our</i> <span class="smcap">Maker</span>!
+But if we had not, our fathers have earned and bought
+it for us at the expence of their ease, their estates, their
+pleasure, and their blood.&mdash;And Liberty cannot be preserved
+without a general knowledge among the people,
+who have a right, from the frame of their nature, to
+knowledge, as their great <span class="smcap">Creator</span>, who does nothing in
+vain, has given them understandings and a desire to know;
+but besides this they have a right, an indisputable, unalienable,
+indefeasible, divine right, to that most dreaded and
+envied kind of knowledge, I mean of the characters and
+conduct of their rulers. <i>Rulers are no more than attornies,
+agents, and trustees for the people</i>: and if the
+cause, the interest, and trust are insidiously betrayed, or
+wantonly trifled away, the people have a right to revoke
+the authority that they themselves have deputed, and to
+constitute abler and better agents, attornies, and trustees.
+And the preservation of the means of knowledge, among
+the lowest rank, is of more importance to the public, than
+all the property of all the rich men in the country. It is
+even of more consequence to the rich themselves, and to
+their posterity.&mdash;The only question is, whether it is a public
+emolument? and if it is, the rich ought undoubtedly
+to contribute in the same proportion as to all other public
+burdens, i. e. in proportion to their wealth, which is secured
+by public expences.&mdash;But none of the means of information
+are more sacred, or have been cherished with
+more tenderness and care by the settlers of America, than
+the press. Care has been taken that the art of printing
+should be encouraged, and that it should be easy and
+cheap, and safe for any person to communicate his
+thoughts to the Public.&mdash;And you, Messieurs Printers,
+whatever the tyrants of the earth may say of your Paper,
+have done important service to your country, by your<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span>
+readiness and freedom in publishing the speculations of the
+curious. The stale, impudent insinuations of slander and
+sedition, with which the gormandizers of power have endeavoured
+to discredit your Paper, are so much the more
+to your honour; for the jaws of power are always opened
+to devour, and her arm is always stretched out, if possible
+to destroy, the freedom of thinking, speaking, and writing.&mdash;And
+if the public interest, liberty and happiness
+have been in danger, from the ambition or avarice of any
+great man, or number of great men, whatever may be
+their politeness, address, learning, ingenuity, and in other
+respects integrity and humanity, you have done yourselves
+honour, and your country service, by publishing and
+pointing out that avarice and ambition.&mdash;These views are
+so much the more dangerous and pernicious, for the virtues
+with which they may be accompanied in the same
+character, and with so much the more watchful jealousy to
+be guarded against.</p>
+
+<p>
+"Curse on such virtues, they've undone their country."<br />
+</p>
+
+<p><i>Be not intimidated, therefore, by any terrors, from
+publishing, with the utmost freedom whatever can be warranted
+by the laws of your country; nor suffer yourselves
+to be wheedled out of your liberty by any pretences of politeness,
+delicacy, or decency.</i> These, as they are often
+used, are but three different names for hypocrisy, chicanery,
+and cowardice. Much less, I presume, will you be
+discouraged by any pretences, that malignants on this side
+the water<a name="FNanchor_A_1" id="FNanchor_A_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_A_1" class="fnanchor">[A]</a> will represent your Paper as facetious and seditious,
+or that the Great on the other side the water will
+take offence at them. This dread of representation has
+had for a long time in this province effects very similar to
+what the physicians call an <i>hydrophobia</i>, or dread of water.&mdash;It
+has made us delirious&mdash;and we have rushed headlong
+into the water, till we are almost drowned, out of simple
+or phrensical fear of it. Believe me, the character of this
+country has suffered more in Britain, by the pusillanimity
+with which we have borne many insults and indignities
+from the creatures of power at home, and the creatures of
+those creatures here, than it ever did, or ever will by the
+freedom and spirit that has been or will be discovered in
+writing or action. Believe me, my countrymen, they<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span>
+have imbibed an opinion on the other side the water, that
+we are an ignorant, a timid, and a stupid people; nay, their
+tools on this side have often the impudence to dispute your
+bravery.&mdash;But I hope in God the time is near at hand,
+when they will be fully convinced of your understanding,
+integrity, and courage. But can any thing be more ridiculous,
+were it not too provoking to be laughed at, than
+to pretend that offence should be taken at home for writings
+here?&mdash;Pray let them look at home. Is not the human
+understanding exhausted there? Are not reason,
+imaginations, wit, passion, senses and all, tortured to find
+out satire and invective against the characters of the vile
+and futile fellows who sometimes get into place and
+power?&mdash;The most exceptionable paper that ever I saw
+here is perfect prudence and modesty, in comparison of
+multitudes of their applauded writings. Yet the high
+regard they have for the freedom of the Press, indulges
+all.&mdash;I must and will repeat it, Newspapers deserve the patronage
+of every friend to his country. And whether the
+defamers of them are arrayed in robes of scarlet or sable,
+whether they lurk and skulk in an insurance office, whether
+they assume the venerable character of a priest, the sly one
+of a scrivener, or the dirty, infamous, abandoned one of
+an informer, they are all the creatures and tools of the
+lust of domination.&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>The true source of our sufferings, has been our timidity.</p>
+
+<p>We have been afraid to think.&mdash;We have felt a reluctance
+to examining into the grounds of our privileges,
+and the extent in which we have an indisputable right to
+demand them, against all the power and authority on
+earth.&mdash;And many who have not scrupled to examine for
+themselves, have yet, for certain prudent reasons, been cautious,
+and diffident of declaring the result of their enquiries.</p>
+
+<p>The cause of this timidity is perhaps hereditary, and to
+be traced back in history, as far as the cruel treatment the
+first settlers of this country received, before their embarkation
+for America, from the government at home.&mdash;Every
+body knows how dangerous it was, to speak or
+write in favour of any thing, in those days, but the triumphant
+system of religion and politicks. And our
+fathers were, particularly, the objects of the persecutions<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span>
+and proscriptions of the times.&mdash;It is not unlikely therefore,
+that, although they were inflexibly steady in refusing
+their positive assent to any thing against their principles,
+they might have contracted habits of reserve, and a cautious
+diffidence of asserting their opinions publicly.&mdash;These
+habits they probably brought with them to America,
+and have transmitted down to us.&mdash;Or, we may possibly
+account for this appearance, by the great affection
+and veneration, Americans have always entertained for
+the country from whence they sprang&mdash;or by the quiet
+temper for which they have been remarkable, no country
+having been less disposed to discontent than this&mdash;or by a
+sense they have that it is their duty to acquiesce under the
+administration of government, even when in many smaller
+matters grievous to them, and until the essentials of the
+great compact are destroyed or invaded. These peculiar
+causes might operate upon them; but without these, we
+all know, that human nature itself, from indolence, modesty,
+humanity or fear, has always too much reluctance
+to a manly assertion of its rights. Hence perhaps it has
+happened, that nine-tenths of the species, are groaning
+and gasping in misery and servitude.</p>
+
+<p>But whatever the cause has been, the fact is certain,
+we have been excessively cautious of giving offence by
+complaining of grievances.&mdash;&mdash;And it is as certain, that
+American governors, and their friends, and all the crown
+officers, have availed themselves of this disposition in the
+people.&mdash;They have prevailed on us to consent to many
+things, which were grossly injurious to us, and to surrender
+many others with voluntary tameness, to which we
+had the clearest right. Have we not been treated formerly,
+with abominable insolence, by officers of the
+navy?&mdash;&mdash;I mean no insinuation against any gentleman
+now on this station, having heard no complaint of any one
+of them to his dishonour.&mdash;Have not some generals, from
+England, treated us like servants, nay, more like slaves
+than like Britons?&mdash;Have we not been under the most
+ignominious contribution, the most abject submission, the
+most supercilious insults of some custom-house officers?
+Have we not been trifled with, browbeaten, and trampled
+on, by former governors, in a manner which no King of
+England since James the Second has dared to indulge towards
+his subjects? Have we not raised up one family,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span>
+placed in them an unlimited confidence, and been soothed,
+and flattered, and intimidated by their influence, into a
+great part of this infamous tameness and submission?&mdash;&mdash;"These
+are serious and alarming questions, and deserve a
+dispassionate consideration."&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>This disposition has been the great wheel and the main
+spring in the American machine of court politics.&mdash;We
+have been told, that "the word <i>Rights</i> is an offensive
+expression." That "the King, his Ministry, and Parliament,
+will not endure to hear Americans talk of their
+<i>Rights</i>." That "Britain is the mother and we the children,
+that a filial duty and submission is due from us to
+her," and that "we ought to doubt our own judgment,
+and presume that she is right, even when she seems to us
+to shake the foundations of government." That "Britain
+is immensely rich, and great, and powerful, has fleets
+and armies at her command, which have been the dread
+and terror of the universe, and that the will force her own
+judgment into execution, right or wrong." But let me
+intreat you, Sir, to pause&mdash;Do you consider yourself as a
+missionary of loyalty or of rebellion? Are you not representing
+your K&mdash;, his Ministry and Parliament, as tyrants,
+imperious, unrelenting tyrants, by such reasoning as this?&mdash;Is
+not this representing your most gracious Sovereign,
+as endeavouring to destroy the foundations of his own
+throne?&mdash;Are you not representing every Member of
+Parliament as renouncing the transactions at <i>Runyn Mead</i>;
+[the meadow, near Windsor, where <i>Magna Charta</i> was
+signed,] and as repealing in effect the bill of rights, when
+the Lords and Commons asserted and vindicated the rights
+of the people and their own rights, and insisted on the
+King's assent to that assertion and vindication? Do you
+not represent them, as forgetting that the Prince of
+Orange was created King William by the People, on purpose
+that their rights might be eternal and inviolable?&mdash;Is
+there not something extremely fallacious, in the common
+place images of mother country and children colonies?
+Are we the children of Great Britain, any more
+than the cities of London, Exeter and Bath? Are we not
+brethren and fellow-subjects, with those in Britain, only
+under a somewhat different method of legislation, and a
+totally different method of taxation? But admitting we
+are children, have not children a right to complain when<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span>
+their parents are attempting to break their limbs, to administer
+poison, or to sell them to enemies for slaves? Let
+me intreat you to consider, will the mother be pleased,
+when you represent her as deaf to the cries of her children?
+When you compare her to the infamous miscreant,
+who lately stood on the gallows for starving her
+child? When you resemble her to Lady Macbeth in
+Shakespear, (I cannot think of it without horror)</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Who "had given suck, and knew<br /></span>
+<span class="i2">"How tender 'twas to love the babe that milk'd her."<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">But yet, who could<br /></span>
+<span class="i2">"Even while 'twas smiling in her face,<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">"Have pluck'd her nipple from the boneless gums,<br /></span>
+<span class="i2">"And dash'd the brains out."<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>Let us banish for ever from our minds, my countrymen,
+all such unworthy ideas of the K&mdash;g, his Ministry, and
+Parliament. Let us not suppose, that all are become
+luxurious, effeminate and unreasonable, on the other side
+the water, as many designing persons would insinuate.
+Let us presume, what is in fact true, that the spirit of
+liberty is as ardent as ever among the body of the nation,
+though a few individuals may be corrupted.&mdash;Let us take
+it for granted, that the same great spirit, which once gave
+Cæsar so warm a reception; which denounced hostilities
+against John, 'till Magna Charta was signed; which
+severed the head of Charles the First from his body, and
+drove James the Second from his kingdom; the same
+great spirit (<span class="smcap">MAY HEAVEN PRESERVE IT TILL THE
+EARTH SHALL BE NO MORE!</span>) which first seated the
+great grandfather of his present most gracious Majesty
+on the throne of Britain, is still alive and active, and
+warm in England; and that the same spirit in America,
+instead of provoking the inhabitants of that country, will
+endear us to them for ever, and secure their good-will.</p>
+
+<p>This spirit, however, without knowledge, would be
+little better than a brutal rage.&mdash;&mdash;Let us tenderly and
+kindly cherish therefore the means of knowledge. Let us
+dare to read, think, speak and write.&mdash;&mdash;Let every order
+and degree among the people rouse their attention and
+animate their resolution.&mdash;Let them all become attentive
+to the grounds and principles of government, ecclesiasti<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span>cal
+and civil.&mdash;Let us study the law of nature; search
+into the spirit of the British constitution; read the histories
+of ancient ages; contemplate the great examples of
+Greece and Rome; set before us the conduct of our own
+British ancestors, who have defended, for <i>us</i>, the inherent
+rights of mankind against foreign and domestic tyrants
+and usurpers, against arbitrary kings and cruel priests, in
+short against the gates of earth and hell.&mdash;Let us read
+and recollect, and impress upon our souls the views and
+ends of our own more immediate forefathers, in exchanging
+their native country for a dreary, inhospitable wilderness.
+Let us examine into the nature of that power,
+and the cruelty of that oppression which drove them from
+their homes. Recollect their amazing fortitude, their
+bitter sufferings! The hunger, the nakedness, the cold,
+which they patiently endured! The severe labours of
+clearing their grounds, building their houses, raising their
+provisions, amidst dangers from wild beasts and savage
+men, before they had time or money, or materials for
+commerce! Recollect the civil and religious principles,
+and hopes, and expectations, which constantly supported
+and carried them through all hardships, with patience and
+resignation! Let us recollect it was liberty! The hope
+of liberty for themselves and us and ours, which conquered
+all discouragements, dangers and trials!&mdash;&mdash;In such
+researches as these, let us all in our several departments
+chearfully engage! But especially the proper patrons and
+supporters of law, learning and religion.</p>
+
+<p>Let the pulpit resound with the doctrines and sentiments
+of religious liberty.&mdash;&mdash;Let us hear the danger of
+thraldom to our consciences, from ignorance, extream
+poverty and dependance, in short from civil and political
+slavery.&mdash;Let us see delineated before us, the true map
+of man. Let us hear the dignity of his nature, and the
+noble rank he holds among the works of <span class="smcap">God</span>! that consenting
+to slavery is a sacrilegious breach of trust, as offensive
+in the sight of <span class="smcap">God</span>, as it is derogatory from our
+own honour, or interest or happiness; and that <span class="smcap">God Almighty</span>
+has promulgated from heaven, liberty, peace, and
+good-will to man!&mdash;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>Let the Bar proclaim, "the laws, the rights, the generous
+plan of power," delivered down from remote antiquity;
+inform the world of the mighty struggles, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span>
+numberless sacrifices, made by our ancestors, in the defence
+of freedom.&mdash;Let it be known, that British liberties
+are not the grants of princes or parliaments, but original
+rights, conditions of original contracts, co-equal
+with prerogative, and co-eval with government.&mdash;That
+many of our rights are inherent and essential, agreed on
+as maxims and established as preliminaries, even before a
+parliament existed.&mdash;Let them search for the foundation
+of British laws and government in the frame of human
+nature, in the constitution of the intellectual and moral
+world.&mdash;There let us see, that truth, liberty, justice, and
+benevolence, are its everlasting basis; and if these could
+be removed, the superstructure is overthrown of course.&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>Let the colleges join their harmony, in the same delightful
+concert.&mdash;Let every declamation turn upon the
+beauty of liberty and virtue, and the deformity, turpitude
+and malignity of slavery and vice.&mdash;Let the public disputations
+become researches into the grounds and nature
+and ends of government, and the means of preserving
+the good and demolishing the evil.&mdash;Let the dialogues
+and all the exercises become the instruments of impressing
+on the tender mind, and of spreading and distributing,
+far and wide, the ideas of right and the sensations
+of freedom.</p>
+
+<p>In a word, let every sluice of knowledge be opened
+and set a flowing. The encroachments upon liberty, in
+the reigns of the first James and the first Charles, by
+turning the general attention of learned men to government,
+are said to have produced the greatest number of
+consummate statesmen, which has ever been seen in any
+age, or nation. The Brooke's, Hamden's, Falkland's,
+Vane's, Milton's, Nedham's, Harrington's, Neville's,
+Sydney's, Locke's, are all said to have owed their eminence
+in political knowledge, to the tyrannies of those
+reigns. The prospect, now before us, in America, ought,
+in the same manner, to engage the attention of every
+man of learning to matters of power and of right, that
+we may be neither led nor driven blindfolded to irretrievable
+destruction.&mdash;&mdash;<i>Nothing less than this seems to have
+been meditated for us, by somebody or other in Great
+Britain.</i> There seems to be a direct and formal design
+on foot, to enslave all America.&mdash;This however must be<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span>
+done by degrees.&mdash;&mdash;The first step that is intended seems
+to be an entire subversion of the whole system of our Fathers,
+by the introduction of the canon and feudal law,
+into America.&mdash;&mdash;The canon and feudal systems though
+greatly mutilated in England, are not yet destroyed.
+Like the temples and palaces, in which the great contrivers
+of them were once worshiped and inhabited, they exist
+in ruins; and much of the domineering spirit of them still
+remains.&mdash;The designs and labours of a certain society,
+to introduce the former of them into America, have been
+well exposed to the public by a writer of great abilities;
+and the further attempts to the same purpose that may be
+made by that society, or by the ministry or parliament, I
+leave to the conjectures of the thoughtful.&mdash;But it seems
+very manifest from the Stamp Act itself, that a design is
+formed to strip us in a great measure of the means of
+knowledge, by loading the Press, the Colleges, and even
+an Almanack and a News-Paper, with restraints and
+duties; and to introduce the inequalities and dependencies
+of the feudal system, by taking from the poorer sort of
+people all their little subsistence, and conferring it on a
+set of stamp officers, distributors and their deputies.&mdash;But
+I must proceed no farther at present.&mdash;The sequel,
+whenever I shall find health and leisure to pursue it, will
+be a "disquisition of the policy of the stamp act."&mdash;&mdash;In
+the mean time, however, let me add, These are not
+the vapours of a melancholy mind, nor the effusions of
+envy, disappointed ambition, nor of a spirit of opposition
+to government: but the emanations of an heart that
+burns for its country's welfare. No one of any feeling,
+born and educated in this once happy country, can consider
+the numerous distresses, the gross indignities, the
+barbarous ignorance, the haughty usurpations, that we
+have reason to fear are meditating for ourselves, our children,
+our neighbours, in short for all our countrymen,
+and all their posterity, without the utmost agonies of
+heart, and many tears.</p>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+   <p>
+      <a name="Footnote_A_1" id="Footnote_A_1"></a>
+      <a href="#FNanchor_A_1">
+         <span class="label">[A]</span></a>
+          Boston in America.
+   </p>
+</div>
+
+<h2>FINIS.</h2>
+
+<hr />
+
+<div class="notes">
+
+<p class="center">Transcriber's Notes</p>
+
+<ol>
+
+<li>18th Century English typography has been modernized for ease of reading, for example: "him&#383;elf" has
+been changed to "himself." Spelling conventions of the times have been maintained.</li>
+<li>Several misprints and punctuation errors corrected. Hover over
+underlined <ins title="Like this">word</ins> in the text to see the corrections made.</li>
+
+</ol>
+
+<p class="center">Corrections</p>
+
+<ul>
+
+<li><a href="#Page_7">Page 7</a>, Added close quotes to end of quotation.</li>
+<li><a href="#Page_13">Page 13</a>, "achievements" spelled "atchievements" Left as is.</li>
+<li><a href="#Page_26">Page 26</a>, Added close quotes to end of quotation.</li>
+<li><a href="#Page_43">Page 43</a>, "necessay" changed to "necessary".</li>
+<li><a href="#Page_77">Page 77</a>, "extrardinary" changed to "extraordinary".</li>
+<li><a href="#Page_87">Page 87</a>, "achieved" spelled "atchieved" Left as is.</li>
+
+</ul>
+
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of A Collection of State-Papers, Relative
+to the First Acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the United States of America, by John Adams
+
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+</body>
+</html>
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of A Collection of State-Papers, Relative to
+the First Acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the United States of America, by John Adams
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: A Collection of State-Papers, Relative to the First Acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the United States of America
+
+Author: John Adams
+
+Release Date: January 6, 2010 [EBook #30872]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK COLLECTION OF STATE-PAPERS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Bryan Ness, Susan Carr and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This
+book was produced from scanned images of public domain
+material from the Google Print project.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+A
+
+COLLECTION
+
+OF
+
+STATE-PAPERS.
+
+[Price Two Shillings.]
+
+
+
+
+A
+
+COLLECTION
+
+OF
+
+STATE-PAPERS,
+
+Relative to the First Acknowledgment of the
+
+SOVEREIGNTY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
+
+And the Reception of their
+
+Minister Plenipotentiary, by their High Mightinesses the
+
+STATES GENERAL OF THE UNITED NETHERLANDS
+
+To which is prefixed, the Political Character of
+
+JOHN ADAMS,
+
+Ambassador Plenipotentiary from the States of North America, to their
+High Mightinesses the States General of the United Provinces of the
+Netherlands.
+
+BY AN AMERICAN.
+
+LIKEWISE,
+
+AN ESSAY ON CANON AND FEUDAL LAW,
+
+BY JOHN ADAMS, ESQ;
+
+LONDON:
+
+Printed for JOHN FIELDING, No. 23, Pater-noster-row; JOHN DEBRETT,
+opposite Burlington-House, Piccadilly; and JOHN SEWELL, No. 32,
+Cornhill. 1782.
+
+[Entered at Stationers-Hall.]
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+As the States General of the United Provinces have acknowledged the
+independency of the United States of North America, and made a treaty of
+commerce with them, it may not be improper to prefix a short account of
+John Adams, Esq; who, pursuing the interests of his country, hath
+brought about these important events.
+
+Mr. Adams is descended from one of the first families which founded the
+colony of the Massachusets Bay in 1630. He applied himself early to the
+study of the laws of his country; and no sooner entered upon the
+practice thereof, but he drew the attention, admiration, and esteem of
+his countrymen, on account of his eminent abilities and probity of
+character. Not satisfied with barely maintaining the rights of
+individuals, he soon signalized himself in the defence of his country,
+and mankind at large, by writing his admirable Dissertation on the Canon
+and Feudal Laws; a work so well worth the attention of every man who is
+an enemy to ecclesiastical and civil tyranny, that it is here subjoined.
+It showed the author at an early period capable of seconding
+efficaciously the formation of republics on the principles of justice
+and virtue. Such a man became most naturally an object of Governor
+Barnard's seduction. The perversion of his abilities might be of use in
+a bad cause; the corruption of his principles might tarnish the best.
+But the arts of the Governor, which had succeeded with so many, were
+ineffectual with Mr. Adams, who openly declared he would not accept a
+favour, however flatteringly offered, which might in any manner connect
+him with the enemy of the rights of his country, or tend to embarrass
+him, as it had happened with too many others, in the discharge of his
+duty to the public. Seduction thus failing of its ends, calumny,
+menaces, and the height of power were made use of against him. They lost
+the effect proposed, but had that, which the show of baseness and
+violence ever produce on a mind truly virtuous. They increased his
+honest firmness, because they manifested, that the times required more
+than ordinary exertions of manliness. In consequence of this conduct,
+Mr. Adams obtained the highest honours which a virtuous man can receive
+from the good and the bad. He was honoured with the disapprobation of
+the Governor, who refused his admission into the council of the
+province; and he met with the applause of his countrymen in general, who
+sent him to assist at the Congress in 1774, in which he was most active,
+being one of the principal promoters of the famous resolution of the 4th
+of July, when the colonies declared themselves FREE AND INDEPENDENT
+STATES.
+
+This step being taken, Mr. Adams saw the inefficacy of meeting the
+English Commissioners, and voted against the proposition; Congress,
+however, having determined to pursue this measure, sent him, together
+with Dr. Franklin and Mr. Rutledge, to General Howe's head quarters.
+These Deputies, leading with them, in a manly way, the hostages which
+the general had given for their security, marched to the place of
+conference, in the midst of twenty thousand men ranged under arms.
+Whether this military shew was meant to do honour to the Americans, or
+to give them an high idea of the English force, is not worth enquiry. If
+its object was to terrify the Deputies of Congress, it failed; making no
+more impression on them, than the sudden discovery of elephants did upon
+certain embassadors of old. The utmost politeness having passed on both
+sides, the conference ended, as had been foreseen, without any effect.
+
+Mr. Adams having been fifteen months one of the Commissioners of the War
+department, and a principal suggestor of the terms to be offered to
+France, for forming treaties of alliance and commerce, he was sent to
+the court of Versailles, as one of the Ministers Plenipotentiary of the
+United States. After continuing some time invested with this important
+trust, he returned to America; where he no sooner appeared, than he was
+called upon by the State of Massachusets Bay, to assist in forming a
+system of government, that might establish the rights of all on clear,
+just, and permanent grounds. He was never employed in a business more
+agreeable to himself; for, the happiness of his Fellow-Citizens is his
+great object. He sought not honour in this arduous undertaking, but it
+fell ultimately upon _Him_. He has gained it all over Europe. If he
+endeavoured to obtain by it the esteem and love of his countrymen, he
+has succeeded; for they know they are chiefly indebted to him for the
+constitution of the State of Massachusets Bay, as it stands at this day.
+
+This important business being completed to the satisfaction of all, he
+came back to Europe, with full powers from Congress to assist at any
+conferences which might be opened for the establishment of peace; and
+had sent him, soon after, other powers to negociate a loan of money for
+the use of the United States; and to represent them, as their Minister
+Plenipotentiary, to their High Mightinesses the States General of the
+United Provinces. Such important trusts shew, in what estimation he is
+held by his country; and his manner of executing them, that confidence
+is well placed.
+
+On his arrival in Holland, nothing could have been more unpromising to
+the happy execution of his mission, than were the affairs of that
+country. The influence of the Court of St. James's over a certain set of
+men, the interest that many had in the funds and commerce of England,
+and the dread of her power, which generally prevailed throughout the
+Provinces, obliged him to act with the utmost circumspection. Unknown,
+and at first unnoticed, (at least but by a few) he had nothing to do but
+to examine into the state of things, and characters of the leading men.
+This necessary knowledge was scarcely acquired, when the conduct of the
+British Ministry afforded him an opportunity of shewing himself more
+openly. The contempt, insult and violence, with which the whole Belgic
+nation was treated, gave him great advantages over the English
+Embassador at the Hague. He served himself of his rivals rashness and
+folly with great coolness and ability; and, by consequence, became so
+particularly obnoxious to the prevailing party, that he did not dare to
+go to a village scarcely a day's journey from his residence, but with
+the utmost secrecy: the fate of Dorislaus was before his eyes. Having
+been therefore under the necessity of making himself a Burgher of
+Amsterdam, for protection against the malice of the times, he soon
+gained the good opinion of the Magistrates by his prudent conduct as a
+private Citizen. The bad policy of England, enabled him to step forward
+as a public character. As such he presented to the States General his
+famous Memorial, dated the 19th of April, 1781, wherein the declaration
+of the independency of America on the 4th of July, 1776, was justified;
+the unalterable resolution of the United States to abide thereby
+asserted; the interest that all the powers of Europe, and particularly
+the States General, have in maintaining it, proved; the political and
+natural grounds of a commercial connection between the two Republics
+pointed out; and information given that the Memorialist was invested
+with full powers from Congress to treat with their High Mightinesses for
+the good of both countries.
+
+The presenting this Memorial was a delicate step; Mr. Adams was
+sensible, that he alone was answerable for its consequences, it being
+taken not merely from his own single suggestion, but contrary to the
+opinion and advice of some of great weight and authority. However,
+maturely considering the measure, he saw it in all its lights, and
+boldly ventured on the undertaking. The full and immediate effect of it
+was not expected at once. The first object was, that the nation should
+consider the matter thoroughly; it being evident, that the more it was
+ruminated on, the more obvious would be the advantages and necessity of
+a connection between the two countries. When, therefore, the Memorial
+was taken by the States General _ad referendum_, the first point was
+gained; the people thought of, and reasoned on the matter set before
+them; many excellent writings appeared, and they made the greatest
+impression; a weekly paper in particular, entitled Le Politique
+Hollandois, drew the attention of all, on account of its information,
+the soundness of its argument, and its political judgment and
+patriotism. At length the time came when the work was to be compleated:
+the generality of the people of Holland, seeing the necessity of opening
+a new course to their trade, which the violent aggression of England,
+and the commercial spirit of other nations tended to diminish, demanded
+an immediate connection with the United States of America, as a means of
+indemnifying themselves for the loss which a declared enemy had brought
+on them, and the rivalship of neighbouring nations might produce.
+
+Mr. Adams seized the occasion which the public disposition afforded him,
+and presented his Ulteriour Address of the 9th of January, 1782;
+referring therein to his Memorial of the 19th of April, 1781, and
+demanding a categorical answer thereto. The Towns, Cities, Quarters, and
+States of the several Provinces took the whole matter into immediate
+deliberation, and instructed their several Deputies, in the States
+General, to concur in the admission of Mr. Adams in quality of Minister
+Plenipotentiary of the United States of North America. This was done by
+a resolution, passed by their High Mightinesses the 19th of April, 1782;
+and on the 22d of the same month, Mr. Adams was admitted accordingly,
+with all the usual ceremonies.
+
+This event seems to have been as great a blow as any that has been given
+to the pride and interests of England during the war. It shewed the
+Dutch were no longer over-awed by the power of their enemy, for they
+dared to brave him to his teeth. It set an example to other nations, to
+partake of the commerce of those countries, which England had lost by
+her inconsiderate conduct. It confounded at once the English partisans
+in Holland, and proved that Sir Joseph Yorke was not the great minister
+he had hitherto been supposed to be. It gave occasion to an ambassador
+of one of the greatest monarchs of Europe to say to Mr. Adams: _Vous
+avez frappe, Monsieur, le plus grand coup de tout l' Europe. C'est le
+plus grand coup, qui a ete frappe dans le cause Americain. C'est vous
+qui a effraye et terrasse les Anglomannes. C'est vous qui a rempli
+cette nation d'enthousiasme._ And then turning to another gentleman, he
+said, _Ce n'est pas pour faire compliment a Monsieur Adams, que je dis
+cela: c'est parcequ'en verite, je crois que c'est sa due._
+
+This diplomatic compliment has been followed by others. I transcribe
+with pleasure a convivial one contained in the following lines, which an
+ingenious and patriotic Dutchman addressed to his excellency Mr. Adams,
+on drinking to him out of a large beautiful glass, which is called a
+_baccale_, and had inscribed round its brim, _Aurea Libertas_:
+
+  AUREA LIBERTAS! _gaude! pars altera mundi
+      Vindice te renuit subdere colla jugo.
+  Haec tibi legatum quem consors Belga recepit
+      Pectore sincero pocula plena fero.
+  Utraque gens nectet, mox suspicienda tyrannis,
+      Quae libertati vincula sacra precor!_
+
+They who have an opportunity of knowing his Excellency Mr. Adams trace
+in his features the most unequivocal marks of probity and candour. He
+unites to that gravity, suitable to the character with which he is
+invested, an affability, which prejudices you in his favour. Although of
+a silent turn, as William the Prince of Orange was, and most great men
+are, who engage in important affairs, he has nevertheless a natural
+eloquence for the discussion of matters which are the objects of his
+mission, and for the recommending and enforcing the truths, measures,
+and systems, which are dictated by sound policy. He has neither the
+corrupted nor corrupting principles of Lord Chesterfield, nor the
+qualities of Sir Joseph Yorke, but the plain and virtuous demeanor of
+Sir William Temple. Like him too he is simple in negociation, where he
+finds candour in those who treat with him. Otherwise he has the severity
+of a true republican, his high idea of virtue giving him a rigidness,
+which makes it difficult for him to accommodate himself to those
+intrigues which European politics have introduced into negociation. "_Il
+sait que l'art de negocier n'est pas l'art d'intriguer et de tromper;
+quil ne consiste pas a corrompre; a se jouer des sermens et a semer les
+alarmes et les divisions; qu'un negociateur habile peut parvenir a son
+but sans ces expediens, qui sont la triste ressource des intriguans,
+sans avoir recours a des manoeuvres detournes et extraordinaires. Il
+trouve dans la nature meme des affaires quil negocie des incidens
+propres a faire reussir tous ses projets._"
+
+
+
+
+MEMORIAL
+
+TO THEIR
+
+HIGH MIGHTINESSES
+
+THE
+
+STATES GENERAL
+
+OF THE
+
+United Provinces of the Low Countries.
+
+
+_High and Mighty Lords_;
+
+The Subscriber has the honour to propose to your High Mightinesses, that
+the United States of America, in Congress assembled, have lately thought
+fit to send him a commission (with full powers and instructions) to
+confer with your High Mightinesses concerning a treaty of amity and
+commerce, an authentic copy of which he has the honour to annex to this
+memorial.
+
+At the times when the treaties between this Republic and the Crown of
+Great Britain were made, the people, who now compose the United States
+of America, were a part of the English nation; as such, allies of the
+Republic, and parties to those treaties; entitled to all their benefits,
+and submitting chearfully to all their obligations.
+
+It is true, that when the British Administration, renouncing the ancient
+character of Englishmen for generosity, justice, and humanity, conceived
+the design of subverting the political systems of the Colonies;
+depriving them of the rights and liberties of Englishmen, and reducing
+them to the worst of all forms of government; starving the people by
+blockading the ports, and cutting off their fisheries and commerce;
+sending fleets and armies to destroy every principle and sentiment of
+liberty, and to consume their habitations and their lives; making
+contracts for foreign troops, and alliances with savage nations to
+assist them in their enterprise; casting formally, by act of parliament,
+three millions of people at once out of the protection of the Crown:
+Then, and not till then, did the United States of America, in Congress
+assembled, pass that memorable act, by which they assumed an equal
+station among the nations.
+
+This immortal declaration, of the 4th of July, 1776, when America was
+invaded by an hundred vessels of war, and, according to estimates laid
+before parliament, by 55,000 of veteran troops, was not the effect of
+any sudden passion or enthusiasm; but a measure which had been long in
+deliberation among the people, maturely discussed in some hundreds of
+popular assemblies, and by public writings in all the states. It was a
+measure which Congress did not adopt, until they had received the
+positive instructions of their constituents in all the States: It was
+then unanimously adopted by Congress, subscribed by all its members,
+transmitted to the assemblies of the several States, and by them
+respectively accepted, ratified, and recorded among their archives; so
+that no decree, edict, statute, placart, or fundamental law of any
+nation was ever made with more solemnity, or with more unanimity or
+cordiality adopted, as the act and consent of the whole people, than
+this: And it has been held sacred to this day by every state, with such
+unshaken firmness, that not even the smallest has ever been induced to
+depart from it; although the English have wasted many millions, and vast
+fleets and armies, in the vain attempt to invalidate it. On the
+contrary, each of the Thirteen States has instituted a form of
+government for itself, under the AUTHORITY OF THE PEOPLE; has erected
+its legislature in the several branches; its executive authority with
+all its offices; its judiciary departments and judges; its army,
+militia, revenue, and some of them their navy: And all those departments
+of government have been regularly and constitutionally organized under
+the associated superintendency of Congress, now these five years, and
+have acquired a consistency, solidity, and activity equal to the oldest
+and most established governments. It is true, that in some speeches and
+writings of the English it is still contended that the people of America
+are still in principle and affection with them: But these assertions are
+made against such evident truth and demonstration, that it is surprising
+they should find at this day one believer in the world. One may appeal
+to the writings and recorded speeches of the English for the last
+seventeen years, to shew that similar misrepresentations have been
+incessantly repeated through that whole period; and that the conclusion
+of every year has in fact confuted the confident assertions and
+predictions of the beginning of it. The subscriber begs leave to say
+from his own knowledge of the people of America, (and he has a better
+right to obtain credit, because he has better opportunities to know,
+than any Briton whatsoever) that _they are unalterably determined to
+maintain their Independence_. He confesses, that, notwithstanding his
+confidence through his whole life in the virtuous sentiments and
+uniformity of character among his countrymen, their unanimity has
+surprised him. That all the power, arts, intrigues, and bribes which
+have been employed in the several States, should have seduced from the
+standard of virtue so contemptible a few, is more fortunate than could
+have been expected. This independence stands upon so broad and firm a
+bottom of the people's interests, honour, consciences, and affections,
+that it will not be affected by any successes the English may obtain
+either in America, or against the European powers at war, nor by any
+alliances they can possibly form; if indeed, in so unjust and desperate
+a cause they can obtain any. Nevertheless, although compelled by
+necessity, and warranted by the fundamental laws of the colonies, and of
+the British constitution, by principles avowed in the English laws, and
+confirmed by many examples in the English history; by principles
+interwoven into the history and public right of Europe, in the great
+examples of the Helvetic and Belgic confederacies, and many others; and
+frequently acknowledged and ratified by the diplomatic body; principles
+founded in eternal justice, and the laws of God and nature, to cut
+asunder for ever all the ties which had connected them with Great
+Britain: Yet the people of America did not consider themselves as
+separating from their allies, especially the Republic of the United
+Provinces, or departing from their connections with any of the people
+under their government; but, on the contrary, they preserved the same
+affection, esteem and respect, for the Dutch nation, in every part of
+the world, which they and their ancestors had ever entertained.
+
+When sound policy dictated to Congress the precaution of sending persons
+to negotiate natural alliances in Europe, it was not from a failure in
+respect that they did not send a minister to your High Mightinesses,
+with the first whom they sent abroad: but, instructed in the nature of
+the connections between Great Britain and the Republic, and in the
+system of peace and neutrality, which she had so long pursued, they
+thought proper to respect both so far, as not to seek to embroil her
+with her allies, to excite divisions in the nation, or lay
+embarrassments before it. But, since the British administration, uniform
+and persevering in injustice, despising their allies, as much as their
+colonists and fellow-subjects; disregarding the faith of treaties, as
+much as that of royal charters; violating the law of nations, as they
+had before done the fundamental laws of the Colonies and the inherent
+rights of British subjects, have arbitrarily set aside all the treaties
+between the Crown and the Republic, declared war and commenced
+hostilities, the settled intentions of which they had manifested long
+before; all those motives, which before restrained the Congress, cease:
+and an opportunity presents itself of proposing such connections, as the
+United States of America have a right to form, consistent with the
+treaties already formed with France and Spain, which they are under
+every obligation of duty, interest and inclination, to observe sacred
+and inviolate; and consistent with such other treaties, as it is their
+intention to propose to other sovereigns.
+
+If there was ever among nations a natural alliance, one may be formed
+between the two Republics. The first planters of the four northern
+States found in this country an asylum from persecution, and resided
+here from the year 1608 to the year 1620, twelve years preceding their
+migration. They ever entertained and have transmitted to posterity, a
+grateful remembrance of that protection and hospitality, and especially
+of that religious liberty they found here, having sought it in vain in
+England.
+
+The first inhabitants of two other States, New-York and New-Jersey, were
+immediate emigrants from this nation, and have transmitted their
+religion, language, customs, manners and character: And America in
+general, until her connections with the House of Bourbon, has ever
+considered this nation as her first friend in Europe, whose history, and
+the great characters it exhibits, in the various arts of peace, as well
+as atchievements of war by sea and land, have been particularly
+studied, admired and imitated in every State.
+
+A similitude of religion, although it is not deemed so essential in this
+as in former ages to the alliance of nations, is still, as it ever will
+be thought, a desirable circumstance. Now it may be said with truth,
+that there are no two nations, whose worship, doctrine and discipline,
+are more alike than those of the two Republics. In this particular
+therefore, as far as it is of weight, an alliance would be perfectly
+natural.
+
+A similarity in the forms of government, is usually considered as
+another circumstance, which renders alliances natural: And although the
+constitutions of the two Republics are not perfectly alike, there is yet
+analogy enough between them, to make a connection easy in this respect.
+
+In general usages, and in the liberality of sentiments in those
+momentous points, the freedom of enquiry, the right of private judgment
+and the liberty of conscience, of so much importance to be supported in
+the world, and imparted to all mankind, and which at this hour are in
+more danger from Great Britain and that intolerant spirit which is
+secretly fomenting there, than from any other quarter, the two nations
+resemble each other more than any others.
+
+The originals of the two Republics are so much alike, that the history
+of one seems but a transcript from that of the other: so that every
+Dutchman instructed in the subject, must pronounce the American
+revolution just and necessary, or pass a censure upon the greatest
+actions of his immortal ancestors: actions which have been approved and
+applauded by mankind, and justified by the decision of Heaven.
+
+But the circumstance, which perhaps in this age has stronger influence
+than any other in the formation of friendships between nations, is the
+great and growing interest of commerce; of the whole system of which
+through the globe, your High Mightinesses are too perfect masters for me
+to say any thing that is not familiarly known. It may not, however, be
+amiss to hint, that the central situation of this country, her extensive
+navigation, her possessions in the East and West Indies, the
+intelligence of her merchants, the number of her capitalists, and the
+riches of her funds, render a connection with her very desirable to
+America: and, on the other hand, the abundance and variety of the
+productions of America, the materials of manufactures, navigation and
+commerce; the vast demand and consumption in America of the manufactures
+of Europe, of merchandises from the Baltic, and from the East Indies,
+and the situation of the Dutch possessions in the West Indies, cannot
+admit of a doubt, that a connection with the United States would be
+useful to this Republic. The English are so sensible of this, that
+notwithstanding all their professions of friendship, they have ever
+considered this nation as their rival in the American trade; a sentiment
+which dictated and maintained their severe act of navigation, as
+injurious to the commerce and naval power of this country, as it was
+both to the trade and the rights of the Colonists. There is now an
+opportunity offered to both, to shake off this shackle for ever. If any
+consideration whatever could have induced them to have avoided a war
+with your High Mightinesses, it would have been the apprehension of an
+alliance between the two Republics: and it is easy to foresee, that
+nothing will contribute more to oblige them to a peace, than such a
+connection once completely formed. It is needless to point out,
+particularly, what advantages might be derived to the possessions of the
+Republic in the West Indies from a trade opened, protected and
+encouraged, between them and the Continent of America; or what profits
+might be made by the Dutch East India Company, by carrying their effects
+directly to the American market; or how much even the trade of the
+Baltic might be secured and extended by a free intercourse with America;
+which has ever had so large a demand, and will have more for hemp,
+cordage, sail-cloth, and other articles of that commerce: how much the
+national navigation would be benefited by building and purchasing ships
+there: how much the number of seamen might be increased, or how much
+more advantageous it would prove to both countries, to have their ports
+mutually opened to their men of war and privateers, and to their prizes.
+
+If, therefore, an analogy of religion, government, origin, manners, and
+the most extensive and lasting commercial interests, can form a ground
+and an invitation to political connections, the subscriber flatters
+himself that, in all these particulars, the union is so obviously
+natural, that there has seldom been a more distinct designation of
+Providence to any two distant nations to unite themselves together.
+
+It is further submitted to the wisdom and humanity of your High
+Mightinesses, whether it is not visibly for the good of mankind, that
+the powers of Europe, who are convinced of the justice of the American
+cause, (and where is one to be found that is not?) should make haste to
+acknowledge the independence of the United States, and form equitable
+treaties with them, as the surest means of convincing Great Britain of
+the impracticability of her pursuits? Whether the late marine treaty
+concerning the rights of neutral vessels, noble and useful as it is, can
+be established against Great Britain, who will never adopt it, nor
+submit to it, but from necessity, without the independence of America?
+Whether the return of America, with her nurseries of seamen and
+magazines of materials for navigation and commerce, to the domination
+and monopoly of Great Britain, if that were practicable, would not put
+the possessions of other nations beyond seas wholly in the power of that
+enormous empire, which has been long governed wholly by the feeling of
+its own power, at least without a proportional attention to justice,
+humanity, or decency. When it is obvious and certain that the Americans
+are not inclined to submit again to the British government, on the one
+hand, and that the powers of Europe ought not and could not with safety
+consent to it, if they were so inclined, on the other; why should a
+source of contention be left open, for future contingencies to involve
+the nations of Europe in still more bloodshed, when, by one decisive
+step of the maritime powers, in making treaties with a nation long in
+possession of sovereignty by right and in fact, it might be closed?
+
+The example of your High Mightinesses would, it is, hoped, be followed
+by all the maritime powers, especially those which are parties to the
+late marine treaty: nor can the apprehension that the independence of
+America would be injurious to the trade of the Baltic, be any objection.
+This jealousy is so groundless that the reverse would happen. The
+freight and insurance in voyages across the Atlantic are so high, and
+the price of labour in America so dear, that tar, pitch, turpentine, and
+ship-timber never can be transported to Europe at so cheap a rate, as it
+has been and will be afforded by countries round the Baltic. This
+commerce was supported by the English before the revolution with
+difficulty, and not without large parliamentary bounties. Of hemp,
+cordage, and sail-cloth there will not probably be a sufficiency raised
+in America for her own consumption in many centuries, for the plainest
+of all reasons, because these articles may be imported from Amsterdam,
+or even from Petersburg and Archangel, cheaper than they can be raised
+at home. America will therefore be for ages a market for these articles
+of the Baltic trade.
+
+Nor is there more solidity in another supposition, propagated by the
+English to prevent other nations from pursuing their true interests,
+that the colonies of other nations will follow the example of the United
+States. Those powers, who have as large possessions as any beyond seas,
+have already declared against England, apprehending no such
+consequences. Indeed there is no probability of any other power of
+Europe following the example of England, in attempting to change the
+whole system of the government of colonies, and reducing them by
+oppression to the necessity of governing themselves: and, without such
+manifest injustice and cruelty on the part of the metropolis, there is
+no danger of colonies attempting innovations. Established governments
+are founded deep in the hearts, the passions, the imaginations and
+understandings of the people; and without some violent change from
+without, to alter the temper and character of the whole people, it is
+not in human nature to exchange safety for danger, and certain happiness
+for very precarious benefits.
+
+It is submitted to the consideration of your High Mightinesses, whether
+the system of the United States, which was minutely considered and
+discussed, and unanimously agreed on in Congress in the year 1776, in
+planning the treaty they proposed to France, to form equitable
+commercial treaties with all the maritime powers of Europe, without
+being governed or monopolized by any: a system which was afterwards
+approved by the king, and made the foundation of the treaties with his
+majesty: a system to which the United States have hitherto constantly
+adhered, and from which they never will depart, unless compelled by some
+powers declaring against them, which is not expected, is not the only
+means of preventing this growing country from being an object of
+everlasting jealousies, rivalries, and wars among the nations. If this
+idea be just, it follows, that _it is the interest of every state in
+Europe to acknowledge American independency immediately_. If such
+benevolent policy should be adopted, the new world will be a
+proportional blessing to every part of the old.
+
+The subscriber has the farther honour of informing your High
+Mightinesses, that the United States of America, in Congress assembled,
+impressed with an high sense of the wisdom and magnanimity of your High
+Mightinesses, and of your inviolable attachment to the rights and
+liberties of mankind, and being desirous of cultivating the friendship
+of a nation, eminent for its wisdom, justice, and moderation, have
+appointed the subscriber to be their minister plenipotentiary to reside
+near you, that he may give you more particular assurances of the great
+respect they entertain for your High Mightinesses; beseeching your High
+Mightinesses to give entire credit to every thing, which their said
+minister shall deliver on their part, especially when he shall assure
+you of the sincerity of their friendship and regard. The original letter
+of credence, under the seal of Congress, the subscriber is ready to
+deliver to your High Mightinesses, or to such persons as you shall
+direct to receive it. He has also a similar letter of credence to his
+most Serene Highness the Prince Stadtholder.
+
+All which is respectfully submitted to the consideration of your High
+Mightinesses, together with the propriety of appointing some person, or
+persons, to treat on the subject of his mission, by
+
+LEYDEN 19 April 1781.
+
+J. ADAMS
+
+
+
+
+GUELDERLAND.
+
+
+In the assembly of the States of Guelderland, holden in October 1781, to
+consider of the requisition of the king of France, of a negotiation of
+five millions of florins, under the warranty of the Republic, some were
+for an alliance with France. The Baron Nagel, Seneschal of Zutphen,
+avoided putting of the question, and said among other things, "That he
+had rather acknowledge the independence of the Americans, than contract
+an alliance with France."
+
+The Baron van der Capellen de Marsch was for an alliance with France and
+America too. He observed, "That nothing being more natural than to act
+in concert with the enemies of our enemy, it was an object of serious
+deliberation, to see, if the interest of the Republic did not require to
+accept, without farther tergiversations, the invitations and offers of
+the Americans: that no condescension for England could hinder us, at
+present, from uniting ourselves against a common enemy, with a nation so
+brave and so virtuous: a nation, which, after our example, owes its
+liberty to its valour, and even at this moment is employed in defending
+itself from the tyranny of the enemy of the two nations: that,
+consequently, nothing could restrain us from acknowledging the
+independence of this new Republic: that our conduct differed very much
+from that holden by our ancestors, who allied themselves with the
+Portuguese, as soon as they shook off the yoke of the Spaniards: that
+there was no doubt, that the said alliances with the enemies of our
+enemy would soon restrain his fury, and operate a general peace
+advantageous for us."
+
+
+
+
+The QUARTER
+
+of
+
+OOSTERGO.
+
+_The Quarter of Oostergo, in the Province of Friesland, in December,
+1781, was the first public Body which proposed a Connection with the
+United States of America in these Words._
+
+
+Every impartial Patriot has a long time perceived that, in the direction
+of affairs relative to this war with England, there have been manifested
+an inconceivable lukewarmness and sloth; but they discover themselves
+still more, at this moment, by the little inclination which, in general,
+the Regencies of the Belgic Provinces testify to commence a treaty of
+commerce and friendship with the new Republic of the Thirteen United
+States of North America; and to contract engagements, at least during
+the continuance of this common war with the Crowns of France and Spain.
+Nevertheless, the necessity of these measures appears clearly, since,
+according to our judgments, nothing was more natural, nor more
+conformable to sound policy, founded upon the laws of the nature the
+most precise, than that this Republic, immediately after the formal
+declaration of war by the English (not being yet able to do any thing by
+military exploits, not being in a state of defence sufficiently
+respectable to dare, at sea, to oppose one fleet or squadron, to our
+perfidious enemy) should have commenced by acknowledging, by a public
+declaration, the Independence of North America. This would have been
+from that time the greatest step to the humiliation of England, and our
+own re-establishment; and by this measure, the Republic would have
+proved her firm resolution to act with vigour. Every one of our
+inhabitants, all Europe, who have their eyes fixed upon us, the whole
+World expected, with just reason, this measure from the Republic. It is
+true, that before the formal declaration of war by England, one might
+perhaps have alleged some plausible reason, to justify, in some degree,
+the backwardness in this great and interesting affair. But, as at
+present Great Britain is no longer our secret, but declared enemy, which
+dissolves all the connections between the two nations; and as it is the
+duty, not only of all the Regencies, but also of all the Citizens of
+this Republic, to reduce, by all imaginable annoyances, this enemy so
+unjust to reason, and to force him, if possible, to conclude an
+honourable peace; why should we hesitate any longer, to strike, by this
+measure so reasonable, the most sensible blow to the common enemy? Will
+not this delay occasion a suspicion that we prefer the interest of our
+enemy to that of our country? North America, so sensibly offended by the
+refusal of her offer; France and Spain, in the midst of a war supported
+with activity, must they not regard us as the secret friends, and
+favourers of their and our common enemy? Have they not reason to
+conclude from it, that our inaction ought to be less attributed to our
+weakness, than to our affection for England? Will not this opinion
+destroy all confidence in our nation heretofore so renowned in this
+respect? And our allies, at this time natural, must they not imagine,
+that it is better to have in us declared enemies than pretended friends?
+And shall we not be involved in a ruinous war, which we might have
+rendered advantageous, if it had been well directed? While on the other
+hand it is evident, that by a new connection with the States of North
+America, by engagements at least during this war with France and Spain,
+we shall obtain, not only the confidence of these formidable powers,
+instead of their distrust, but by this means we shall moreover place our
+colonies in safety against any insult; we shall have a well grounded
+hope, of recovering, with the aid of the allied powers, our lost
+possessions, if the English should make themselves masters of them; and
+our commerce at present neglected, and so shamefully pillaged, would
+reassume a new vigour; considering that in such case, as it is
+manifestly proved by solid reasons, this Republic would derive from this
+commerce the most signal advantages. But, since our interest excites us
+forcibly to act in concert with the enemies of our enemy; since the
+United States of America invited us to it long ago; since France
+appears inclined to concert her military operations with ours (although
+this power has infinitely less interest to ally itself with us, whose
+weakness manifests itself in so palpable a manner, than we have to form
+an alliance, the most respectable in the universe) it is indubitably the
+duty of every Regency, to promote it with all their forces, and with all
+the celerity imaginable. To this end, we have thought it our duty, to
+lay it before your noble Mightinesses, in the firm persuasion that the
+zeal of your noble Mightinesses will be as earnest as ours, to concur to
+the accomplishment of this point, which is for us of the greatest
+importance; that, consequently, your noble Mightinesses will not delay
+to co-operate with us, that, upon this important subject, there may be
+made to their High Mightinesses, a proposition so vigorous, that it may
+have the desired success: and that this affair, of an importance beyond
+all expression for our common country, may be resolved and decided by
+unanimous suffrages, and in preference to every particular interest.
+
+
+
+
+ULTERIOUR ADDRESS.
+
+_On the 9th January, 1782, Mr. ADAMS waited on the President VAN DEN
+SANDHEUVEL, and addressed him as follows._
+
+
+On the fourth of May, I had the honour of a conference with the
+President of their High Mightinesses, in which I informed him, that I
+had received from the United States of America a commission, with full
+powers and instructions to propose and conclude a treaty of amity and
+commerce, between the said United States of America and the United
+Provinces of the Netherlands.
+
+At the same conference, I had the honour to demand an audience of their
+High Mightinesses, in order to present to them my letters of credence
+and full powers.
+
+The President assured me, that he would make report of all that I had
+said to him to their High Mightinesses, in order that it might be
+transmitted to the several members of the sovereignty of this country,
+for their deliberations and decisions.--I have not yet been honoured
+with an answer. I now do myself the honour to wait on you, Sir, to
+demand, as I do, a categorical answer, that I may be able to transmit it
+to the United States of America.
+
+
+
+
+GUELDERLAND.
+
+
+In an extraordinary assembly of the county of Zutphen, held at Nimeguen
+the 23d of February, 1782, the following measures were taken.
+
+After the report of the Committee of this Province to the Generality,
+laid this day upon the table, relative to what passed in the precedent
+assembly, and after the examination of an extract of the register of the
+resolutions of their High Mightinesses the States General of the Low
+Countries, of the ninth of last month, in relation to the Ulteriour
+Address of Mr. Adams to the President of their High Mightinesses,
+concerning the presentation of his letters of credence to their High
+Mightinesses, in behalf of the United States of America, demanding a
+categorical answer, whereof the Lords the Deputies of the respective
+Provinces have taken copies; the Baron Robert Jasper van der Capellen de
+Marsch, first by word of mouth, and afterwards in writing, proposed, and
+insisted, at the assembly of this Quarter, that, at present, and without
+delay, we should make a point of deliberation, and that we should make
+upon the table the necessary overture, conceived more at length, in the
+advice of this nobleman, inserted in these terms:
+
+NOBLE AND MIGHTY LORDS!
+
+The subscriber judges, upon good grounds, and with out fear of being
+contradicted, that he is able to affirm, that it is more than time that
+we should give a serious attention to the offer and the invitation, in
+every sense honourable and advantageous for this Republic, of
+friendship, and reciprocal connections with the Thirteen American
+Provinces, now become free _at the point of the sword_, in such sort,
+that the categorical answer demanded by their Minister Mr. Adams, may
+become a subject of the deliberations of your Grand Mightinesses, and
+that you may decide as soon as possible, concerning their respective
+interests. He judges, that he ought not to have any farther scruple in
+this regard; and that the uncertain consequences of the mediation
+offered by Russia cannot, when certain advantages for this Republic are
+in question, hinder that, out of regard for an enemy, with whom we
+(however salutary the views of her Imperial Majesty are represented)
+cannot make any Peace, at the expence of a negligence so irreparable:
+that a longer delay, to unite ourselves to a nation already so powerful,
+will have for its consequence, that our inhabitants will lose the means
+of extending, in a manner the most advantageous, their commerce and
+their prosperity: That by the vigorous prohibition to import English
+manufactures into America, our manufactures, by means of precautions
+taken in time, will rise out of their state of languor: and that, by
+delaying longer to satisfy the wishes of the nation, her leaders will
+draw upon them the reproach of having neglected and rejected the
+favourable offers of Providence: that, on the contrary, by adopting
+these measures, the essential interests of this unfortunate people will
+be taken to heart.
+
+The subscriber declaring, moreover, that he will abandon this
+unpardonable negligence of an opportunity favourable for the Republic,
+to the account of those whom it may concern; protesting against all the
+fatal consequences that a longer refusal of these necessary measures
+will certainly occasion: whereupon he demanded, that for his discharge,
+this note should be inserted in the registers of the Quarter.
+
+_Signed_
+
+R. J. VAN DER CAPELLEN.
+
+
+This advice having been read, Mr. Jacob Adolf de Heekeren d'Enghuisen,
+Counsellor and first Master of Accounts in Guelderland, President at
+this time of the Assembly of the Quarter, represented to the said Robert
+Jasper van der Capellen de Marsch, that "Although he must agree to the
+justice of all that he had laid down, besides several other reasons,
+equally strong, which occurred to his mind, the deliberation upon the
+point in question appeared to him premature, considering that the Lords
+the States of Holland and West Friesland, and of Zealand, as the
+principal commercial Provinces, who are directly interested, had not
+nevertheless as yet explained themselves in this regard; consequently
+that it would not be so convenient for the States of this Duchy and
+County, who are not interested in it, but in a consequential and
+indirect manner, to form the first their resolutions in this respect:
+for this reason he proposed to consideration, whether it would not be
+more proper to postpone the deliberations upon this matter to a future
+opportunity."
+
+Nevertheless, the before-mentioned Robert Jasper van der Capellan de
+Marsch insisting, that the voices should be collected upon the
+proposition and advice in question, and thereupon having deliberated,
+their noble Mightinesses have thought fit to resolve, that although the
+motives alledged by this Nobleman in his advice, appear to merit a
+serious consideration, nevertheless, for the reasons before alleged,
+they judge, that they ought to suspend the decision of it, until the
+commercial Provinces have formed their resolutions concerning it: and
+that, upon the requisition of Robert Jasper van der Capellan de Marsch,
+there be delivered to him an extract of the present, upon one as well
+the other.
+
+_Signed_
+
+HERM. SCHOMAKER.
+
+
+
+
+PETITION OF LEYDEN.
+
+
+To the noble, great, and venerable Lords of the Grand Council of the
+city of Leyden.
+
+The undersigned, all manufacturers, merchants, and other traders of this
+city, most respectfully give to understand, that it is a truth, as
+melancholy, as it is universally known, that the declension of
+manufactures, which all the well-disposed citizens have remarked with
+the most lively grief, from the beginning of this century, has increased
+more and more for several years; and that this principal branch of the
+subsistence of the good citizens, has fallen into such a state of
+languor, that our city, once so flourishing, so populous, so celebrated,
+on account of its commerce and of its trades, appears to be threatened
+with total ruin; that the diminution of its merchants houses, on the one
+hand, and on the other, a total loss, or the sensible decrease of
+several branches of commerce, furnish an evident proof of it; which the
+petitioners could demonstrate by several examples, if there were need of
+them to convince. Your noble and grand Lordships, to whom the increase
+of the multitude of the poor, the deplorable situation of several
+families, heretofore in easy circumstances, the depopulation of the
+city, which one cannot observe without emotion in the ruins of several
+streets, once neat and well inhabited, are fully known, will recollect
+no doubt upon this occasion, with grief, that this state of languor must
+appear so much the more desperate, if your noble and grand lordships
+will take into consideration, that in this decay of trades and
+manufactures, we find a new reason of their farther fall, considering,
+that from the time there is not continual employment, and an
+uninterrupted sale, the workmen desert in such manner, that when
+considerable commissions arrive, we cannot find capable hands, and we
+see ourselves entirely out of a condition to execute these orders.
+
+That the petitioners, with all the true friends of their country,
+extremely affected with this alarming situation of so rich a source of
+the public prosperity, have indeed sought the means of a remedy, in
+amending some defects, from which it seemed to arise, at least in part;
+but that the measures taken in this view, as is well know to your noble
+and grand Lordships, have not had the desired effect; at least, that
+they have not produced a re-establishment so effectual, that we have
+been able to observe a sensible influence in the increase of the sales
+of the manufactures of Leyden, as appears most evidently, by a
+comparison of the pieces fabricated here, which have been heretofore
+carried to the divers markets of this city, with those which are carried
+there at this day; a comparison which a true citizen cannot of consider
+without regret.
+
+That experience has also taught the petitioners, that the principal
+cause of the decay of the manufactures of Holland, particularly those of
+Leyden, is not to be found in any internal vice, either in the capacity,
+or the oeconomy of the inhabitants, but in circumstances which have
+happened abroad; and to which it is, consequently, beyond the power of
+the petitioners, or of any citizen whatsoever, to provide a remedy. That
+we might cite, for example, the commerce of our manufactures with
+Dantzic; and, through that commercial city, with all Poland; a commerce
+which was carried on with success and advantage heretofore in our city,
+but is absolutely interrupted at this day, and vanished, by the
+revolution which has happened in that kingdom, and by the burthensome
+duties to which the navigation of the Vistula has been subjected. But
+that, without entering into a detail of similar particular shackles, of
+which we might reckon a great number; the principal cause of the
+languishing state of our manufactures consists in the jealous emulation
+of the neighbouring nations, or rather of all the people of Europe;
+considering that, in this age, the several princes and governments,
+enlightened in the real sources of the public prosperity, and the true
+interests of their subjects, attach themselves with emulation to revive
+in their kingdoms and states the national industry, commerce, and
+navigation; to encourage them, and promote them even by exclusive
+privileges, or by heavy impositions upon foreign merchandizes;
+privileges and impositions, which tend equally to the prejudice of the
+commerce and the manufactures of our country, as your noble and grand
+Lordships will easily recollect the examples in the Austrian states and
+elsewhere.
+
+That in the midst of these powers and nations, emulous or jealous, it is
+impossible for the citizens of our Republic, however superior their
+manufactures may be in quality and fineness, to resist a rivalry so
+universal; especially considering the dearness of labour, caused by that
+of the means of subsistence; which, in its turn, is a necessary
+consequence of the taxes and imposts which the inhabitants of this State
+pay in a greater number, and a higher rate, than in any other country,
+by reason of her natural situation, and of its means to support itself;
+so that by the continual operation of this principal, but irreparable
+cause of decline, it is to be feared, that the impoverishment and the
+diminution of the good citizens increasing with the want of employment,
+the Dutch nation, heretofore the purveyor of all Europe, will be obliged
+to content itself with the sale of its own productions in the interior
+of the country; (and how much does not even this resource suffer by the
+importation of foreign manufactures?) and that Leyden, lately so rich
+and flourishing, will exhibit desolated quarters in its declining
+streets; and its multitude, disgraced with want and misery; an affecting
+proof of the sudden fall of countries formerly overflowing with
+prosperity.
+
+That, if we duly consider these motives, no citizen, whose heart is
+upright, (as the petitioners assure themselves) much less your noble and
+grand Lordships, whose good dispositions they acknowledge with
+gratitude, will take it amiss, that we have fixed our eyes on the
+present conjuncture of affairs, to enquire whether these times might not
+furnish them some means of reviving the languishing manufactures of
+Leyden; and that after a consideration well matured, they flatter
+themselves with the hope (a hope which unprejudiced men will not regard
+as a vain chimera) that in fact, by the present circumstances, there
+opens in their favour an issue for arriving at the re-establishment
+desired.
+
+That from the time when the rupture between Great Britain and the
+Colonies upon the continent of North America appeared to be irreparable,
+every attentive spectator of this event perceived, or at least was
+convinced, that this rupture, by which there was born a republic, as
+powerful as industrious, in the new world, would have the most important
+consequences for commerce and navigation; and that the other commercial
+nations of Europe would soon share in a very considerable commerce,
+whereof the kingdom of Great Britain had reserved to itself, until that
+time, the exclusive possession by its Act of Navigation, and by the
+other acts of parliament prescribed to the Colonies; that in the time of
+it, this reflection did not escape your petitioners; and they foresaw,
+from that time, the advantage which might arise, in the sequel, from a
+revolution so important for the United Provinces in general, and for
+their native city in particular. But that they should have been afraid
+to have placed this favourable occasion before the eyes of your noble
+and grand Lordships, at an epoch when the relations which connected our
+Republic with Great Britain, her neighbour, seemed to forbid all
+measures of this nature, or at least ought to make them be considered as
+out of season.
+
+That, in the mean time, this reason of silence has entirely ceased, by
+the hostilities which the said kingdom has commenced against our
+Republic, under pretences, and in a manner the injustice of which has
+been demonstrated by the supreme government of the State, with an
+irrefragable evidence, in the eyes of impartial Europe; whilst the
+petitioners themselves, by the illegal capture of so large a number of
+Dutch ships, and afterwards by the absolute stagnation of navigation,
+and of voyages to foreign countries, have experienced in the most
+grievous manner, the consequences of this hostile and unforeseen attack,
+and feel them still every day, as is abundantly known to your noble and
+grand Lordships. That since that epoch, a still more considerable number
+of workmen must have remained without employment, and several fathers of
+families have quitted the city, abandoning, to the farther expense of
+the treasury of the poor, their wives and their children plunged in
+misery.
+
+That during this rupture, which has subsisted now for fifteen months,
+there has occurred another circumstance, which has encouraged the
+petitioners still more, and which to them appears to be of such a
+nature, that they would be guilty of an excessive indifference, and an
+unpardonable negligence towards the city, towards the lower class of
+inhabitants, towards their own families, and towards themselves, if
+they should delay any longer to lay open their interests to your noble
+and grand Lordships, in a manner the most respectful, but the most
+energetic; to wit, that the United States of America have very
+rigorously forbidden, by a resolution of Congress, agreed to in all the
+Thirteen States, the importation of all English manufactures, and in
+general, all the merchandizes fabricated in the dominions which yet
+remain to Great Britain. That the effect of this prohibition must
+necessarily be a spirit of emulation between all the commercial nations
+to take place of the British merchants and manufacturers in this
+important branch of exportation, which is entirely cut off from them at
+this day. That nevertheless, among all the nations there is none which
+can entertain a hope, better founded, and more sure, in this respect,
+than the citizens of this free Republic, whether on account of the
+identity of religion, the fashion of living, and the manners, whether
+because of the extent of its commerce, and the convenience of its
+navigation, but above all, by reason of the activity and good faith,
+which still distinguishes (without boasting too much) the Dutch nation
+above all other people; qualities in consideration of which, the
+citizens of United America are inclined even at present, to prefer, in
+equal circumstances, the citizens of our free States, to every other
+nation.
+
+That, nevertheless, all relations and connections of commerce between
+the two people, cannot but be uncertain and fluctuating, as long as
+their offers and reciprocal engagements are not fixed and regulated by a
+treaty of commerce. That at this day, if ever, (according to the
+respectful opinion of the petitioners) there exists a necessity the most
+absolute for the conclusion of a similar treaty of commerce, there,
+where we may say with truth, that there arises for the Republic, for our
+Leyden especially, a moment, which once escaped, perhaps never will
+return; since the national assembly of Great Britain, convinced, by a
+terrible and fatal experience, of the absolute impossibility of
+re-attaching united America to the British crown, has laid before the
+throne its desire to conclude a necessary peace with a people, free as
+this day at the price of their blood: So that if this peace should be
+once concluded, the Dutch nation would see itself perhaps excluded from
+all advantages of commerce with this new Republic, or at least would be
+treated by her with an indifference, which the small value which we
+should have put upon its friendship in former times, would seem to
+merit.
+
+That, supposing, for a moment, that a peace between England and United
+America were not so near as we have reason to presume, not without
+probability, there would be found in that case nations enough who will
+be jealous of acquiring, after the example of France, the earliest right
+to commerce with a country, which already peopled by several millions of
+inhabitants, augments every day in population, in a manner incredible;
+but, as a new people, unprovided as yet with several necessary articles,
+will procure a rich, even an immense outlet, for the fabricks and
+manufactures of Europe.
+
+That, however manifest the interest which the petitioners and all the
+citizens of Leyden would have in the conclusion of such a treaty of
+commerce, they would however have made a scruple to lay before the
+paternal eyes of your noble and grand Lordships the utility, or rather
+the necessity of such a measure, in respect to them, if they could
+believe, that their particular advantage would be, in any wise, contrary
+to the more universal interests of all the Republic. But, as far as the
+petitioners may judge, as citizens, of the situation, and the political
+existence of their country, they are ignorant of any reasons of this
+kind: but, on the contrary, they dare appeal to the unanimous voice of
+their fellow-citizens, well intentioned, in the other cities and
+provinces, even of the Regents the most distinguished; since it is
+universally known that the Province of Friesland has already preceded
+the other confederates, by a resolution for opening negotiations with
+America; and that in other Provinces, which have an interest less direct
+in commerce and manufactures, celebrated Regents appear to wait merely
+for the example of the commercial Provinces, for taking a similar
+resolution.
+
+That the petitioners will not detain the attention of your noble and
+grand Mightinesses by a more ample detail of their reasons and motives,
+since, on one hand, they assure themselves, that these reasons and
+motives will not escape the enlightened and attentive judgment of your
+grand and noble Lordships; and on the other, they know by experience,
+that your grand and noble Lordships are disposed not to suffer any
+occasion to pass for promoting the well-being of their city, for
+advancing the prosperity of the citizens, to render their names dear to
+their contemporaries, and make them blessed by posterity.
+
+In which firm expectation, the petitioners address themselves to this
+grand Council with the respectful but serious request, that it may
+please your noble and great Lordships, to direct, by their powerful
+influence, thing in such sort, that, in the Assembly highly respected of
+their noble and grand Mightinesses the Lords the States of Holland and
+West Friesland, there be opened deliberations, or if already opened,
+carried as speedily as possible to an effectual conclusion, such as they
+shall find the most proper for obtaining the lawful end, and fulfilling
+the desires of the petitioners, or as they shall judge conformable to
+the general interest.
+
+So doing, &c.
+
+
+
+
+LEYDEN.
+
+_AN ADDRESS of Thanks, with a farther Petition_.
+
+
+To the noble, great, and venerable lords, the great council of the city
+of Leyden,
+
+The undersigned manufacturers, merchants, and other traders, interested
+in the manufactures and fabrics of this city, give respectfully to
+understand,
+
+That a number of the undersigned, having taken, the 18th of March, the
+liberty to present to your noble and great Lordships, a respectful
+request to obtain the conclusion of connections of commerce with United
+America, "the petitioners judge that they ought to hold it for a duty,
+as agreeable as indispensible, to testify their sincere gratitude, not
+only for the gracious manner in which your noble and great Lordships
+have been pleased to accept that request, but also for the patriotic
+resolution that your noble and great Lordships have taken upon its
+object; a resolution, in virtue of which the city of Leyden (as the
+petitioners have the best reasons to suppose) hath been one of the first
+cities of this province, from whose unanimous co-operation has
+originated the resolution of their noble and grand Mightinesses, of the
+date of the 28th of March last, to direct things on the part of their
+noble and grand Mightinesses, in the assembly of the States General, and
+to make there the strongest instances, to the end that Mr. Adams may be
+admitted and acknowledged as Minister of the United States of America."
+
+That the petitioners regard, with all honest-hearted citizens, the
+present epoch as one of the most glorious in the annals of our dear
+country, seeing that there has been manifested, in a most signal manner,
+on the one hand, a confidence the most cordial of the good citizens
+towards their regents, and on the other hand a paternal attention and
+deference of the regents to the respectful but well-founded prayers of
+their faithful citizens; and, in general, the most exemplary unanimity
+throughout the whole nation, to the confusion of those who, having
+endeavoured to sow the seeds of discord, would have rejoiced if they
+could say, with truth, that a dissention so fatal had rooted itself to
+the ruin of the country and of the people.
+
+That the petitioners, feeling themselves penetrated with the most
+pleasing emotions, by an harmony so universal, cannot pass over in
+silence the reflection that your noble and great Lordships, taking a
+resolution the most favourable upon the said request, have discovered
+thereby, that they would not abandon the footsteps of their ancestors,
+who found, in the united sentiments of magistrates and citizens, the
+resources necessary to resist a powerful oppressor, who even would not
+have undertaken that difficult, but glorious task, if they had not been
+supported by the voice of the most respectable part of the nation.
+
+That encouraged by this reflection, the petitioners assure themselves,
+that your noble and great Lordships will honour, with the same
+approbation, the step which they take to day, to recommend to your noble
+and great Lordships, in a manner the most respectful, but at the same
+time the most pressing, the prompt and efficacious execution of the
+aforesaid resolution of their noble and grand Mightinesses of the 28th
+of March last, with every thing which depends thereon; a proceeding
+which does not spring from a desire, on the part of the petitioners, to
+raise themselves above the sphere of their duties and vocations, or to
+interfere, indiscreetly, in the affairs of government, but only from a
+conviction that it cannot but be agreeable to well intentioned regents
+(such as your noble and great Lordships have shewn yourselves by deeds
+to your good citizens) to see themselves applauded in their salutary
+efforts and patriotic designs, and supported against the perverse views,
+and secret machinations of the ill-disposed, who, however small their
+number, are always found in a nation.
+
+That although the petitioners may be convinced that their noble and
+grand Mightinesses, having taken a resolution so agreeable to all true
+patriots, will not neglect to employ means to carry it to an efficacious
+conclusion among the other confederates, and to procure to the good
+citizens the real enjoyment of the commerce with United America, they
+cannot, nevertheless, dissemble that, lately, some new reasons have
+arisen, which make them conceive some fears respecting the prompt
+consummation of this desirable affair.
+
+That the probability of an offer of peace, on the part of Great-Britain,
+to United America, whereof the petitioners made mention in their former
+request, having at present become a full certainty by the revolution
+arrived since in the British ministry, they have not learned without
+uneasiness the attempt made, at the same time, by the new ministers of
+the court of London, to involve this state in a negociation for a
+separate peace, the immediate consequence of which would be (as the
+petitioners fear) a cessation of all connections with the American
+Republic, whilst that in the mean time our Republic, deprived on the one
+hand of the advantages which it reasonably promises itself from these
+connections, might, on the other hand, be detained by negociations, spun
+out to a great length, and not effect till late, perhaps after the other
+belligerent powers, a separate peace with England.
+
+That, in effect, the difficulties which oppose themselves to a like
+partial pacification are too multiplied for one to promise himself to
+see them suddenly removed, such as the restitution of the possessions
+taken from the state, and retaken from the English by France, a
+restitution which is become thereby impracticable, the indemnification
+of the immense losses that the unexpected and perfidious attack of
+England hath caused to the Dutch nation in general, to the petitioners
+in particular; the assurance of a free navigation for the future, upon
+the principles of the armed neutrality, and conformably to the law of
+nations; the dissolution of the bonds which, without being productive of
+any utility to the two nations, have been a source of contestations,
+always springing up, and which, in every war between Great-Britain and
+any other power, have threatened to involve our Republic in it, or have
+in effect done it; the annihilation, if possible, of the act of
+navigation, an act which carries too evident marks of the supremacy
+affected by England over all other maritime people, not to attract
+attention at the approaching negociation of peace; finally, the
+necessity of breaking the yoke that Great-Britain would impose on our
+flag, to make her's respected in the Northern Ocean, as the seat of her
+maritime empire; and other objects of this nature, which, as the
+petulant proceedings of the court of London have given rise to them,
+will certainly furnish matter for claims and negociations.
+
+That as, by these considerations, a speedy consummation of a separate
+peace with England is out of all probability, especially when one
+compares with them the dubious and limited manner in which it is
+offered; on the other hand, a general peace appears not to be so far
+distant, as that to obtain a more prompt reconciliation with England,
+the Republic hath occasion to abandon its interests relative to North
+America, seeing that the British government hath resolved, upon the
+request of the national assembly, even to discontinue offensive
+hostilities against the new Republic; and that, even under the present
+administration of the new ministers, it appears ready to acknowledge
+positively its independence; an acknowledgment which, in removing the
+principal stumbling block of a negociation of a general peace, will pave
+the way to a prompt explication of all the difficulties between the
+belligerent powers.
+
+That the petitioners should exceed much the bounds of their plan, if
+they entered into a more ample detail of the reasons which might be
+alleged upon this subject, and which certainly will not escape the
+political penetration of your noble and great Lordships; among others,
+the engagements recently entered into with the Court of France, and
+which will not be violated by our Republic, which acknowledges the
+sanctity of its engagements, and respects them: but which will serve
+much rather to convince the Empress of Russia of the impossibility of
+entering, in the present juncture of affairs, into such a negociation as
+the court of London proposes, when even it will not be permitted to
+presume but that Sovereign will feel herself the change of circumstances
+which have happened with regard to America since the offer of her
+mediation, by the revolution in the British ministry, and that she ought
+even to regard a separate peace between our State and England, as the
+most proper mean to retard the general tranquillity, that she hath
+endeavoured to procure to all the commercial nations now in war.
+
+That from these motives the petitioners respectfully hope that the
+aforesaid offer of England will occasion no obstacle which may prevent
+that the resolution of their noble and grand Mightinesses to acknowledge
+the independence of North America, and to conclude with that power a
+treaty of commerce, may not have a prompt execution, nor that even one
+only of the other confederates will suffer itself to be diverted thereby
+from the design of opening unanimously with this Province, and the
+others which have declared themselves conformably with Holland,
+negociations with the United States, and of terminating them as soon as
+possible.
+
+That the favourable resolutions already taken for this effect in
+Zealand, Utrecht, Overyssel, and at present (as the petitioners learn)
+in the Province of Groningen after the examples of Holland and
+Friesland, confirm them in that hope, and seem to render entirely
+superfluous, a request that, in every other case, the petitioners would
+have found themselves obliged to make with the commercial Citizens of
+the other Cities, to the end that, by the resistance of one Province,
+not immediately interested in commerce and navigation, they might not be
+deprived of the advantages and of the protection, that the sovereign
+Assembly of their proper Provinces had been disposed to procure them,
+without it; but that, to the end to provide for it, their noble and
+grand Mightinesses, and the States of the other Provinces in this
+respect, unanimous with them, should make use of the power which belongs
+to each free State of our federative Republic; at least in regard to
+treaties of commerce, of which there exists an example in 1649, not only
+in a treaty of redemption of the toll of the Sound, but also in a
+defensive treaty concluded with the Crown of Denmark, by the three
+Provinces of Guelderland, Holland, and Friesland.
+
+But as every apprehension of a similar dissension, among the members of
+the confederation, appears at present absolutely unseasonable, the
+petitioners will confine themselves rather to another request, to wit,
+that after the formation of connections of commerce with North America,
+the effectual enjoyment of it may be assured to the commercial Citizens
+of this country, by a sufficient protection of their navigation; without
+which the conclusion even of such a treaty of commerce would be
+absolutely illusory. That, for a long time, especially the last year,
+the petitioners have tasted the bitter fruits of the defenceless state
+in which the Dutch flag has been incessantly found; as they have already
+said, conformably to the truth, in their first request, "that by the
+total stagnation of the navigation, and of expeditions, they have felt,
+in the most painful manner, the effects of the hostile and unexpected
+attack of Great Britain, and that they feel them still every day." That,
+in the mean time, this stagnation of commerce, absolutely abandoned to
+the rapacity of an enemy greedy of pillage, and destitute of all
+protection whatever, hath appeared to the petitioners, as well as to all
+the other commercial inhabitants; yes! even to all true Citizens, so
+much the more hard and afflicting, as they not only have constantly
+contributed, with a good heart, to all the public imports, but that, at
+the time even that the commerce was absolutely abandoned to itself, and
+deprived of all safeguard, it supported a double charge to obtain that
+protection which it hath never enjoyed; seeing that the hope of such a
+protection (the Republic not being entirely without maritime force) hath
+appeared indeed more than once, but always vanished in the most
+unexpected manner, by accidents and impediments, which, if they have
+given rise, perhaps wrongfully, to discontent and to distrust among the
+good Citizens, will not nevertheless be read and meditated by posterity
+without surprize.
+
+That, without intention to legitimate, in any manner, the suspicions
+arising from this failure of protection, the petitioners believe
+themselves, nevertheless, with all proper respect, warranted in
+addressing their complaints on this head, to the bosoms of your noble
+and great Lordships, and (seeing that the commerce with North America
+cannot subsist without navigation, no more than navigation without a
+safeguard) in reckoning upon the active direction, the useful
+employment, and prompt augmentation of our naval forces, in proportion
+to the means which shall be the most proper effectually to secure to the
+commerce of this Republic the fruits of its connections with United
+North America.
+
+For which reasons, the petitioners, returning their solemn thanks to
+your noble and great Lordships, for the favourable resolution taken upon
+their request the 18th of March last, address themselves anew to you on
+this occasion, with the respectful prayer, "That it may graciously
+please your noble and great Lordships to be willing to effectuate by
+your powerful influence, whether in the illustrious assembly of their
+noble and grand Mightinesses, whether among the other Confederates, or
+elsewhere, there, and in such manner, as your noble and great Lordships
+shall judge most proper, that the resolution of their noble and grand
+Mightinesses of the date of the 28th of March last, for the admission of
+Mr. Adams, in quality of Minister of the United States of America, be
+promptly executed; and that the petitioners, with the other commercial
+Citizens, obtain the effectual enjoyment of a treaty of commerce with
+the said Republic, as well by the activity of the marine of the State,
+and the protection of commerce and navigation, as by all other measures,
+that your noble and great Lordships with the other members of the
+Sovereign Government of the Republic, shall judge to tend to the public
+good, and to serve to the prosperity of our dear country, as well as to
+the maintenance of its precious liberties."
+
+_So doing, &c._
+
+
+
+
+ROTTERDAM.
+
+_PETITION of the Merchants, Insurers, and Freighters of Rotterdam to the
+Regency of that City_.
+
+
+Give to understand, in the most respectful manner, that it is
+sufficiently notorious that the inhabitants of this Republic have, as
+well as any other nation, an interest, that they give us an opportunity
+to open a free communication and correspondence with the inhabitants of
+America, by making a treaty of commerce, as Mr. Adams has represented in
+his memorial; to which they add, that the advantages which must result
+from it, are absolutely the only means of reviving the fallen commerce
+of this country; for re-establishing the navigation, and for repairing
+the great damages which the perfidious proceedings of the English have,
+for so many years, caused to the commercial part of this country.
+
+That with all due respect, they represent to the venerable Regency the
+danger we run, in prolonging farther the deliberations concerning the
+article of an alliance of commerce with North America; being moreover
+certain that the interposition of this State cannot add any thing more
+to the solidity of its independence, and that the English Ministry has
+even made to the Deputies of the American Congress propositions to what
+point they would establish a correspondence there, to our prejudice, and
+thereby deprive the inhabitants of this country of the certain
+advantages which might result from this reciprocal commerce; and that
+thus we ought not to delay one day, nor even one hour, to try all the
+efforts, that we may pursue the negociation offered by Mr. Adams, and
+that we may decide finally upon it. Whereupon the petitioners represent,
+with all respect possible, but at the same time with the firmest
+confidence, to the venerable Regency of this City, that they would
+authorize and qualify the Lords theirs Deputies at the Assembly of their
+noble and grand Mightinesses, to the end, that they insist in a manner
+the most energetic, at the Assembly of their noble and grand
+Mightinesses, that the resolution demanded may be taken without the
+least delay, to the end that, on the part of this Province, it be
+effected, at the Assembly of the States General, that the American
+Minister, Mr. Adams be as soon as possible admitted to the audience
+which he has demanded, and that they take with him the determinations
+necessary to render free and open to the reciprocal inhabitants, the
+correspondence demanded.
+
+_So doing, &c._
+
+
+
+
+_The PETITIONS of the Merchants, and Manufacturers of HAERLEM, LEIDEN,
+and AMSTERDAM, which have been presented, on the twentieth of March, to
+their HIGH MIGHTINESSES, were accompanied with another to the STATES of
+HOLLAND and WEST FRIESLAND, conceived in these Terms._
+
+
+The subscribers, inhabitants of this country, merchants, manufacturers,
+and others, living by commerce, give with all respect to understand,
+that they have the honour to annex hereto a copy of a petition presented
+by them to their High Mightinesses, the States-General of the United Low
+Countries. The importance of the thing which it contains, the
+considerable commerce which these countries might establish in North
+America, the profits which we might draw from it, and the importance of
+industry and manufactures, by the relation which they have with commerce
+in general, as well as the navigation to that extensive country; all
+these objects have made them take the liberty to represent, in the most
+respectful manner, this great affair for them, and for the connections
+which the petitioners may have, in quality of manufacturers, with the
+merchants, most humbly praying your noble and grand Mightinesses, for
+the acquisition of these important branches of commerce, and for the
+advantage of all the manufactures, and other works of labour and of
+traffic, to be so good as to take this petition, and the reasons which
+it contains, into your high consideration, and to favour it with your
+powerful support and protection, and by a favourable resolution, which
+may be taken at the Assembly of their High Mightinesses, to direct, on
+the part of this Province, things in such a manner, that for obtaining
+this commerce so desired and so necessary for this Republic, that there
+be concerted such efficacious measures, as the high wisdom and patriotic
+sentiments of your noble and grand Mightinesses may find convenient, for
+the well-being of so great a number of inhabitants, and for the
+prejudice of their enemies.
+
+_So doing, &c._
+
+
+
+
+DORDRECHT.
+
+
+At Dordrecht there has not been presented any petition. But on the
+twentieth of March, the merchants, convinced by redoubled proofs of the
+zeal, and of the efforts of their Regency, for the true interests of
+commerce, judged it unnecessary to present a petition after the example
+of the merchants of other cities. They contented themselves with
+testifying verbally their desire that there might be contracted
+connections of commerce with the United States of America: That this
+step had been crowned with such happy success, that the same day 20th of
+March, 1782, it was resolved, by the ancient Council, to authorize their
+deputies, at the Assembly of Holland, to concur in every manner
+possible, that, without delay, Mr. Adams be acknowledged in his quality
+of Minister Plenipotentiary; that his letters of credence be accepted;
+and conferences opened upon this object.
+
+
+
+
+ZWOLL
+
+IN OVERYSSEL.
+
+
+The subscribers, all merchants, manufacturers, and factors of the city
+of Zwoll, give respectfully to understand, that every one of them, in
+his private concerns, finds by experience, as well as the inhabitants of
+the Republic in general, the grievous effects of the decay into which
+commerce, and the manufactures of this country are fallen, little by
+little, and above all, since the hostile attack of the kingdom of
+England against this State; that it being their duty to their country,
+as well as to themselves, to make use of all the circumstances which
+might contribute to their re-establishment, the requisition made not
+long since by Mr. Adams to the Republic, to wit, to conclude a treaty of
+commerce with the United States of North America, could not escape their
+attention; an affair, the utility, advantage, and necessity of which,
+for these Provinces, are so evident, and have been so often proved in an
+incontestible manner, that the petitioners will not fatigue your noble
+Lordships, by placing them before you, nor the general interests of this
+city, nor the particular relations of the petitioners, considering that
+they are convinced, in the first place, that England making against the
+Republic the most ruinous war, and having broken every treaty with her,
+all kind of complaisance for that kingdom is unseasonable.
+
+In the second place, that America, which ought to be regarded as become
+free at the point of the sword, and as willing, by the prohibition of
+all the productions and manufactures of England, to break absolutely
+with that kingdom; it is precisely the time, and perhaps the only time,
+in which we may have a favourable opportunity to enter into connection
+with this new and powerful Republic; a time which we cannot neglect
+without running the greatest risque of being irrevocably prevented by
+the other powers, and even by England. Thus we take the liberty
+respectfully to supplicate your noble Lordships, that, having shewn, for
+a long time, that you set a value upon the formation of alliances with
+powerful states, you may have the goodness, at the approaching assembly
+of the nobility, and of the cities forming the States of this Province,
+to redouble your efforts, to the end that, in the name of this country,
+it may be decided at the Generality, that Mr. Adams be acknowledged, and
+the proposed negotiations opened as soon as possible.
+
+So doing, &c.
+
+
+
+
+PETITION OF AMSTERDAM.
+
+
+To their High Mightinesses, the States General of the United Provinces,
+the undersigned, merchants, manufacturers, and others, inhabitants
+living by commerce in this country, give respectfully to understand:
+
+That, although the petitioners have always relied, with entire
+confidence, upon the administration and the resolutions of your High
+Mightinesses, and it is against their inclinations to interrupt your
+important deliberations, they think, however, that they ought, at this
+time to take the liberty; and believe as well intentioned inhabitants,
+that it is their indispensible duty in the present moment, which is most
+critical for the Republic, to lay humbly before your High Mightinesses
+their interests.
+
+What good citizen in the Republic, having at heart the interest of his
+dear country, can dissemble, or represent to himself without dismay, the
+sad situation to which we are reduced by the attack, equally sudden,
+unjust, and perfidious of the English? Who would have dared two years
+ago to foretell, and, notwithstanding the dark clouds which even then
+began to form themselves, could even have imagined that our commerce and
+our navigation, with the immense affairs which depend upon them, the
+support and the prosperity of this Republic, could have fallen and
+remained in such a terrible decay? that in 1780, more than two thousands
+of Dutch vessels having passed the Sound, not one was found upon the
+list in 1781? That the ocean, heretofore covered with our vessels,
+should see at present scarcely any? and that we may be reduced to see
+our navigation, formerly so much respected and preferred by all the
+nations, pass entirely into the hands of other powers? It would be
+superfluous to endeavour to explain at length the damages, the enormous
+losses, which our inhabitants have sustained by the sudden invasion and
+the pillage of the colonies, and of their ships; disasters, which not
+only fall directly upon the merchant, but which have also a general
+influence, and make themselves felt in the most melancholy manner, even
+by the lowest artisans and labourers, by the languor which they occasion
+in commerce. But, how great soever they may be, it might, perhaps, be
+possible, by the aid of the paternal cares of your High Mightinesses,
+and by opposing a vigorous resistance to the enemy, already enervated,
+to repair in time all these losses, (without mentioning
+indemnifications) if this stagnation of commerce was only momentary, and
+if the industrious merchant did not see beforehand the sources of his
+future felicity dried up. It is this gloomy foresight which, in this
+moment, afflicts, in the highest degree, the petitioners; for, it would
+be the height of folly and inconsideration to desire still to flatter
+ourselves, and to remain quiet, in the expectation that, after the
+conclusion of the peace, the business, at present turned out of its
+direction, should return entirely into this country; for experience
+shews the contrary in a manner the most convincing; and it is most
+probable, that the same nations, who are actually in possession of it,
+will preserve, at that time, the greatest part of it. Your alarmed
+petitioners throw their eyes round every where, to discover new sources,
+capable of procuring them more success, in future. They even flatter
+themselves that they have found them upon the new theatre of commerce
+which the United States of America offer them; a commerce, of which, in
+this moment, but in this moment only, they believe themselves to be in a
+condition to be able to assure to themselves a good share; and the great
+importance of which, joined to the fear of seeing escape from their
+hands this only and last resource, has induced them to take the
+resolution to lay open respectfully their observations concerning this
+important object to your High Mightinesses, with the earnest prayer that
+you would consider them with a serious attention, and not interpret in
+ill part this measure of the petitioners, especially as their future
+well-being, perhaps even that of the whole Republic, depends on the
+decision of this affair.
+
+No man can call in question that England has derived her greatest forces
+from her commerce with America; those immense treasures, which that
+commerce has poured into the coffers of the state; the uncommon
+prosperity of several of her commercial houses, the extreme reputation
+of her manufactures, the consumption of which, in quantities beyond all
+bounds, contributes efficaciously to their perfection, are convincing
+proofs of it. However it may be, and notwithstanding the supposition,
+too lightly adopted, that we cannot imitate the British manufactures,
+the manufacture of painted linens of Rouen; those of wool of Amiens, of
+Germany, of Overyssel; and the Pins of Zwoll prove visibly that all
+things need not be drawn from England; and that, moreover, we are as
+well in a condition, or shall soon be, to equal them in several
+respects.
+
+Permit us, high and mighty Lords, to the end to avoid all further
+digression, to request in this regard the attention of your High
+Mightinesses to the situation of commerce in France at the beginning of
+the war. Continual losses had almost ruined it altogether. Like ours,
+several of her merchants failed of capitals; and others wanted courage
+to continue their commerce; her manufactures languished; the people
+groaned; in one word, every thing there marked out the horrors of war.
+But, at present, her maritime towns, overpeopled, have occasion to be
+enlarged; her manufactures, having arrived at a degree of exportation
+unknown before, begin to perfect themselves more and more, in such a
+degree, that the melancholy consequences of the war are scarcely felt in
+that kingdom. But, since it is incontestible that this favourable
+alteration results almost entirely from its commerce with America, that
+even this has taken place in time of war; which, moreover, is ever
+prejudicial, we leave it to the enlightened judgment of your High
+Mightinesses to decide, what it is that we may expect from a commerce of
+this nature, even at present, but especially in time of peace. In the
+mean time, we have had the happiness to make a trial, of short duration
+it is true, but very strong in proportion to its continuance, in our
+colony of St. Eustatia, of the importance of the commerce, though not
+direct, with North America. The registers of the West India Company may
+furnish proofs of it very convincing to your High Mightinesses; in fact,
+their productions are infinitely suitable to our market; whilst, on our
+side, we have to send them several articles of convenience and of
+necessity from our own country; or from the neighbouring states of
+Germany. Moreover, several of our languishing manufactures, scattered
+in the seven United Provinces, may perhaps be restored to their former
+vigour, by means of bounties, or the diminution of imposts. The
+importance of manufactures for a country is sufficiently proved, by the
+considerable gratifications promised and paid by British policy for
+their encouragement, and by the advantages which that kingdom has
+procured to itself by this means, even beyond what had been expected.
+
+The petitioners know perfectly well the obstacles, almost
+insurmountable, which always oppose themselves to the habitual use of
+new manufactures, although certainly better in quality; and they dare
+advance, without hesitation, that several of our manufactures are
+superior to those of the English. A moment more favourable can never
+offer itself than the present, when, by a resolution of Congress, the
+importation of all the effects of the produce of Great Britain, and of
+her colonies, is forbidden; which reduces the merchant and the purchaser
+to the necessity of recurring to other merchandises, the use of which
+will serve to dissipate the prejudice conceived against them. It is not
+only the manufactures, high and mighty Lords, which promise a permanent
+advantage to our Republic. The navigation will derive also great
+advantages; for it is very far from being true (as several would
+maintain) that the Americans, being once in the tranquil possession of
+their independence, would themselves exercise with vigour these two
+branches; and that in the sequel, we shall be wholly frustrated of them.
+Whoever has the least knowledge of the country of America, and of its
+vast extent, knows that the number of inhabitants is not there in
+proportion. That even the two banks of the Mississippi, the most
+beautiful tract of this country, otherwise so fertile, remain still
+uncultivated; and as there are wanted so many hands, it is not at all
+probable to presume, that they will or can occupy themselves to
+establish new manufactures, both because of the new charges, which they
+would put upon the augmentation and exportation of their productions.
+
+It is then for these same reasons (the want of population) that they
+will scarcely find the hands necessary to take advantage of the
+fisheries, which are the property of their country; which will certainly
+oblige them to abandon to us the navigation of freight. There is not
+therefore any one of our provinces, much less any one of our cities,
+which cannot enjoy the advantage of this commerce: No, high and mighty
+Lords, the petitioners are persuaded that the utility and the benefit of
+it will spread itself over all the provinces and countries of the
+Generality. Guelderland and Overyssel cannot too much extend their
+manufactures of wool, of swanskin, and other things; even the shoemakers
+of the mayoralty, and of Langstret, will find a considerable opening;
+almost all the manufactures of Utrecht and of Leyden will flourish anew.
+Harlem will see revive its manufactures of stuffs, of laces of ribbons,
+of twist, at present in the lowest state of decay. Delft will see vastly
+augmented the sale of its earthen ware, and Gouda that of its
+tobacco-pipes.
+
+However great may be the advantages foreseen by the petitioners, from a
+legal commerce duly protected with America, their fear is not less, lest
+we should suffer to escape the happy moment of assuring to them, and to
+all the Republic, these advantages. The present moment must determine
+the whole. The English nation is weary of the war; and as that people
+runs easily into extremes, the petitioners are afraid, with strong
+probable appearances, that a compleat acknowledgment of American
+independence will soon take place; above all, if the English see an
+opportunity of being able still to draw from America some conditions
+favourable for them, or at least something to our disadvantage. Ah! what
+is it which should instigate the Americans in making peace, and renewing
+friendship with Great Britain, to have any regard for the interests of
+our republic? If England could only obtain for a condition, that we
+should be obliged to pay duties more burthensome for our vessels, this
+would be not only a continual and permanent prejudice; but would be
+sufficient to transmit to posterity, a lamentable proof of our excessive
+deference for unbridled enemies.
+
+The petitioners dare flatter themselves that a measure so frank of this
+Republic, may powerfully serve for the acceleration of a general peace.
+A general ardour to extinguish the flames of war reigns in England; an
+upright and vigorous conduct, on the part of this Republic, will
+contribute to accelerate the accomplishment of the wishes for peace.
+
+We flatter ourselves, high and mighty Lords, that we have in this regard
+alleged sufficient reasons for an immediate decision; and that we have
+so visibly proved the danger of delay, that we dare to hope from the
+paternal equity of your High Mightinesses, a reasonable attention to the
+respectful proposition which we have made. It proceeds from no other
+motive than a sincere affection for the precious interests of our dear
+country; since we consider it as certain, that as soon as the step taken
+by us shall be known by the English, and that they shall have the least
+hope of preventing us, they will not fail, as soon as possible, to
+acknowledge American independence. Supported by all these reasons, the
+petitioners address themselves to your High Mightinesses, humbly
+requesting that it may please your High Mightinesses, after the
+occurrences and affairs above-mentioned, to take, for the greatest
+advantage of this country, as soon as possible, such resolution as your
+High Mightinesses shall judge most convenient.
+
+This doing, &c.
+
+
+
+
+PETITION
+
+To the Burgomasters and Regents of
+
+AMSTERDAM:
+
+
+The subscribers, all merchants and manufacturers of this city, with all
+due respect, give to understand: That the difference arisen between the
+kingdom of Great Britain and the United States of America, has not only
+given occasion for a long and violent war, but that the arms of America
+have covered themselves with a success so happy, that the Congress,
+assisted by the Courts of France and Spain, have so well established
+their liberty and independence, and reduced Great Britain to extremities
+so critical, that the House of Commons in England, notwithstanding all
+the opposition of the British Ministry, have lately formed the important
+resolution to turn the King from an offensive war against America, with
+no other design than to accelerate, if it is possible, a reconciliation
+with America.
+
+That to this happy revolution in the dispositions of the English in
+favour of the liberty and independence of America, according to all
+appearances, the resolution taken by the Congress, towards the end of
+the last year, to wit, to forbid in all America the importation of
+British manufactures and productions, has greatly contributed: a
+resolution, of which they perceive in England, too visibly, the
+consequences ruinous to their manufactures, trade, commerce, and
+navigation, to be able to remain indifferent in this regard. For all
+other commercial nations, who take to heart, ever so little, their own
+prosperity, will apply themselves ardently, to collect from it all the
+fruit possible. To this effect, it would be unpardonable for the
+business and commerce of this Republic in general, and for those of this
+city in particular, to suffer to escape this occasion so favourable for
+the encouragement of our manufactures so declined, and languishing in
+the interior cities, as well as that of the commerce and navigation in
+the maritime cities; or to suffer that other commercial nations, even
+with a total exclusion of the mercantile interests of this Republic,
+should profit of it, and this, upon an occasion, when, by reason of the
+war, equally unjust and ruinous, in which the kingdom of Great Britain
+has involved this Republic, we cannot, and ought not to have the least
+regard or condescension for that jealous State, being able even to
+oblige this arrogant neighbour, in the just fear of the consequences
+which a more intimate connection between this Republic and North America
+would undoubtedly have, to lay down the sooner her arms, and restore
+tranquility to all Europe.
+
+That the petitioners, notwithstanding the inclination they have for it,
+ought not nevertheless to explain themselves farther upon this object,
+nor make a demonstration in detail of the important advantages which
+this Republic may procure itself by a connection and a relation more
+intimate with North America; both, because that no well-informed man can
+easily call the thing in question, or contradict it; but also, because
+the States of Friesland themselves have very lately explained
+themselves, in a manner so remarkable, in this respect; and which is
+still more remarkable, because in very different circumstances, with a
+foresight, which posterity will celebrate by so much the more, as it is
+attacked in our time by ill designing citizens, the Lords your
+predecessors thought, four years ago, upon the means of hindering this
+Republic from being excluded from the business of the new world, and
+from falling into the disagreeable situation in which the kingdom of
+Portugal is at present, considering that according to the informations
+of your petitioners, the Congress has excluded that kingdom from all
+commerce and business with North America, solely, because it had
+perceived that it suffered itself to be too strongly directed by the
+influence of the British Court. This example makes us fear with reason
+that if the propositions made, in the name of America, by Mr. Adams to
+this Republic, should remain, as they still are, without an answer, or
+that, if, contrary to all expectation, they should be rejected, in that
+case the Republic ought not to expect a better treatment.
+
+That, for these reasons and many others, the petitioners had flattered
+themselves that we should long ago have opened negotiations, and a
+closer correspondence, with the United States of America. But this
+important work appeared to meet with difficulties with some, as
+incompatible with the accession of this Republic to the armed
+neutrality, and, in course, with the accepted mediation; whilst that
+others cannot be persuaded to make this so necessary step, in the
+opinion that we cannot draw any advantage, or at least of much
+importance, from a more strict connection with America: Reasons,
+according to the petitioners, the frivolity of which is apparent to
+every one who is not filled with prejudice, without having occasion to
+employ many words to point it out. For, as to the first point,
+supposing, for a moment, that it might be made a question whether the
+Republic, after her accession to the armed neutrality, before the war
+with England, could take a step of this nature, without renouncing at
+the same time the advantages of the armed neutrality which it had
+embraced; it is at least very certain, that every difficulty concerning
+the competency of the Republic to take a similar step vanishes and
+disappears of itself at present, when it finds itself involved in a war
+with Great Britain, since from that moment she could not only demand the
+assistance and succour of all the confederates in the armed neutrality,
+but that thereby the finds herself authorized, for her own defence, to
+employ all sorts of means, violent and others, which she could not
+before adopt nor put in use, while she was really in the position of a
+neutral power which would profit of the advantages of the armed
+neutrality. This reasoning then proves evidently, that, in the present
+situation of affairs, the Republic might acknowledge the independence of
+America; and, notwithstanding this, claim of full right the assistance
+of her neutral allies, at least, if we would not maintain one of the two
+following absurdities: That, notwithstanding the violent aggression of
+England in resentment of our accession to the armed neutrality, we dare
+not defend ourselves, until our confederates shall think proper to come
+to our assistance; or, otherwise, that being attacked by the English, it
+should be permitted us, conformably to the rights of the armed
+neutrality, to resist them in arms, whether on the Doggers-bank or
+elsewhere, but not by contracting alliances, which certainly do no
+injury or harm to the convention of the armed neutrality,
+notwithstanding even the small hope we have of being succored by the
+allies of the armed confederation. The argument of the mediation is
+still more contrary to common sense in this, that it supposes, that the
+Republic, by accepting the mediation, has also renounced the employment
+of all the means, by the way of arms, of alliances, or otherwise, which
+it might judge useful or necessary to annoy her enemy: a supposition,
+which certainly is destitute of all foundation, and which would reduce
+it simply to a real suspension of hostilities on the part of the
+Republic only; to which the Republic can never have consented, neither
+directly nor indirectly.
+
+Besides this last argument, the petitioners ought to observe, in the
+first place, that by means of a good harmony and friendship with the
+United States of America, there will spring up, not only different
+sources of business for this Republic, founded solely on commerce and
+navigation, but in particular the manufactures and trade will assume a
+new activity in the interior cities; for they may consume the amount of
+millions of our manufactures in that new country, of so vast extent: In
+the second place, abstracted from all interests of commerce, the
+friendship or the enmity of a nation, which, after having made prisoners
+of two English armies, has known how to render herself respectable and
+formidable, if it were only in relation to the western possessions of
+this State, is not and cannot be in any manner indifferent for our
+Republic. In the last place, it is necessary that the petitioners remark
+farther in this respect, that several inhabitants of this Republic, in
+the present situation of affairs, suffer very considerable losses and
+damages, which at least hereafter might be wholly prevented, or in part,
+in case we should make with the United States of America, with relation
+to vessels and effects recaptured, a convention similar to that which
+has been made with the Crown of France the last year; for, venerable
+Regents, if a convention of this nature had been contracted in the
+beginning of this war, the inhabitants of the Republic would have
+already derived important advantages from it, considering that several
+ships and cargoes, taken by the English from the inhabitants of this
+State, have fallen into the hands of the Americans; among others, two
+vessels from the West Indies, richly loaded, and making sail for the
+ports of the Republic, and both estimated at more than a million of
+florins of Holland; which, captured by the English at the commencement
+of the year past, were carried into North America, where, after the
+capitulation of General Cornwallis, they passed from the hands of the
+English into others.
+
+That, although the petitioners are fully convinced, that the interests
+of the commerce of this common country, and of this city, have
+constantly, but especially in these last years, attracted, and still
+attract every day, a great part of the cares of the venerable Regency;
+nevertheless, having regard to the importance of the affair, the
+petitioners have thought that they might, and that they ought to take
+the liberty to address themselves with this petition to you, venerable
+Regents, to inform you, according to truth, that the moments are
+precious, that we cannot lose any time, how little soever it may be,
+without running the greatest risque of losing all; since, by hesitating
+longer, the Republic, according to all appearances, would not derive any
+advantage, not even more than it has derived from its accession to the
+armed neutrality; because that in the fear of British menaces, we did
+not determine to accede to it, until the opportunity of improving the
+advantage of it was passed.
+
+For these causes, the petitioners address themselves to you, venerable
+Regents, respectfully soliciting, that your efficacious influence may
+condescend, at the Assembly of their noble and grand Mightinesses the
+States of this Province, to direct affairs in such a manner, that upon
+this important object there may be taken as soon as possible, and, if
+possible, even during the continuance of this Assembly, a final and
+decisive resolution, such as you, venerable Regents, and their noble and
+grand Mightinesses, according to their high wisdom, shall judge the most
+convenient: and if, contrary to all expectation, this important
+operation should meet with any obstacle on the part of one or more of
+the confederates, that in that case you, venerable Regents, in concert
+with the Province of Friesland, and those of the other Provinces who
+make no difficulty to open a negotiation with America, will condescend
+to consider the means, which shall be found proper and convenient to
+effectuate, that the commerce of this Province, as well as that of
+Friesland, and the other members adopting the same opinion, may not be
+prejudiced by any dilatory deliberations, nor too late resolved, for the
+conclusion of a measure as important as necessary.
+
+So doing, &c.
+
+
+
+
+AMSTERDAM
+
+_ADDRESS of the Merchants, &c. to their Regency_.
+
+
+NOBLE, GREAT, AND VENERABLE LORDS!
+
+It is for us a particular satisfaction to be able to offer to your noble
+and great lordships, as heads of the regency of this city, this well
+intentioned address that a multitude of our most respectable
+fellow-citizens have signed. It was already prepared and signed by many,
+when we learned, as well by the public papers as otherwise, the
+propositions of a particular peace, with an offer of an immediate
+suspension of hostilities on the part of Great-Britain, made to this
+state by the mediation of the Russian ambassador. This is the only
+reason why no immediate mention was made of it in the address itself. It
+is by no means the idea, that these offers would have made any
+impression upon the merchants; since we can, on the contrary, in truth
+assure your noble and great Lordships, that the unanimous sentiment
+nearly of the Exchange of Amsterdam, as much as that is interested in
+it, is entirely conformable to that which the merchants of Rotterdam
+have made known in so energetic a manner: that consequently we have the
+greatest aversion to like offers, as artful as dangerous, which, being
+adopted, would very probably throw this Republic into other situations
+very embarrassing, the immediate consequences of which would be, to ruin
+it totally: whereas, on the other hand, these offers shew that we have
+only to deal with an enemy exhausted; whom we could force to a general
+and durable peace in the end, by following only the example of France,
+Spain, and North America; and by using the means which are in our hands.
+
+It is improper for us, however, to enlarge farther upon this project,
+important as it may be, being well assured, that your noble and great
+Lordships see those grievous consequences more clearly than we can trace
+them.
+
+The merchants continue to recommend their commerce and navigation to the
+constant care and protection of your noble and great Lordships, and to
+insist only, that in case these offers of the court of England should
+be, at any time, the cause that the affair of the admission of Mr.
+Adams, in quality of Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of
+America, should meet with any difficulty or delay on the part of the
+other confederates, that your noble and great lordships, conformably to
+the second article of our requisition, inserted in this request, would
+have the goodness to think upon measures which would secure this
+province from the ruinous consequences of such a proceeding.
+
+
+_To the foregoing was joined the Address presented to the Burgomasters
+and the Council, which is of the following tenor._
+
+NOBLE, GREAT, VENERABLE, AND NOBLE AND VENERABLE LORDS!
+
+The undersigned merchants, citizens, and inhabitants of the city of
+Amsterdam, have learned with an inexpressible joy, the news of the
+resolution taken the 28th of March last by their noble and grand
+Mightinesses, the lords the States of Holland and West-Friesland. Their
+noble and grand Mightinesses have thereby not only satisfied the general
+wishes of the greatest and best part of the inhabitants of this
+province, but they have laid the foundations of ulteriour alliances and
+correspondencies of friendship and of good understanding with the United
+States of America, which promise new life to the languishing state of
+our commerce, navigation, and manufactures. The unanimity with which
+that resolution was decided in the assembly of Holland, gives us grounds
+to hope that the States of the other provinces will not delay to take a
+similar resolution; whilst the same unanimity fills with the most lively
+satisfaction the well intentioned inhabitants of this city, and without
+doubt those of the whole country, in convincing them fully that the
+union among the sage and venerable fathers of the country increases
+more and more; whilst that the promptness and activity with which it
+hath been concluded, make us hope, with reason, that we shall reap, in
+time, from a step so important and so necessary for this Republic, the
+desired fruits. Who then can call in question, or disavow that the
+moment seems to approach nearer and nearer, when this Republic shall
+enter into new relations with a people, who find themselves in
+circumstances which differ but little from those in which our ancestors
+found themselves two centuries ago, with a people which conciliates more
+and more the general affection and esteem.
+
+The conformity of religion and government, which is found between us and
+America, joined to the indubitable marks that she hath already long
+since given of the preference that she feels for our friendship, makes
+the undersigned not only suppose, but inspires them with a confidence
+that our connections with her will be equally solid, advantageous, and
+salutary to the interests of the two nations. The well-being and
+prosperity which will very probably result from them; the part which you
+noble, great, venerable, and noble and venerable lords, have had in the
+conclusion of a resolution so remarkable; the conviction that the
+venerable council of this city had of it, upon the proposition of the
+noble, great, and venerable Lords, almost consented to, before the
+request relative to this project presented not long since to you, noble,
+great, and venerable Lords, had come to the knowledge of the council;
+finally the remembrance of that which was done upon this matter in the
+year 1778, with the best intentions and the most laudable views, finding
+itself at present crowned with an approbation as public as it is
+general, indispensibly oblige the undersigned to approach you with this
+address; not only to congratulate you upon so remarkable an event, but
+to thank you at the same time with as much zeal as solemnity, for all
+those well intentioned cares, and those well concerted measures, for
+that inflexible attachment, and that faithful adherence to the true
+interests of the country in general, and of this city in particular,
+which manifest themselves in so striking a manner, in all the
+proceedings and resolutions of your noble, great, and venerable
+Lordships, and of the venerable council of this city, and which
+certainly will attract the esteem and veneration of the latest
+posterity, when comparing the annals and events of the present with
+those of former times, it shall discover that Amsterdam might still
+boast itself of possessing patriots who dared sacrifice generously all
+views of private interests, of grandeur and consideration to the sacred
+obligations that their country requires of them.
+
+We flatter ourselves, noble, great, venerable, noble and venerable
+Lords, that the present public demonstration of our esteem and
+attachment will be so much the more agreeable, as it is more rare in our
+republic, and perhaps even it is without example; and as it is more
+proper to efface all the odious impressions that the calumny and
+malignity of the English ministry, not long ago so servilely adored by
+many, but whose downfal is at present consummated, had endeavoured to
+spread, particularly a little before and at the beginning of this war,
+insinuations, which have since found partisans in the United Provinces,
+among those who have not been ashamed to paint the Exchange of Amsterdam
+(that is to say the most respectable and the most useful part of the
+citizens of this city, and at the same time the principal support of the
+well-being of the United Provinces) as if it consisted in a great part
+of a contemptible herd of vile interested souls, having no other object
+than to give loose to their avidity, and to their desire of amassing
+treasures, in defrauding the public revenues, and in transporting
+articles, against the faith of treaties; calumniators, who have had at
+the same time, and have still the audacity to affront the most upright
+regency of the most considerable city of the Republic, and to expose it
+to public contempt, as if it participated by connivance, and otherwise,
+in so shameful a commerce; insinuations and accusations which have been
+spread with as much falshood as wickedness, and which ought to excite so
+much the more the indignation of every sensible heart, when it is
+considered that not only the merchants of this city, but also those of
+the whole Republic have so inviolably respected the faith of treaties
+that, to the astonishment of every impartial man, one cannot produce any
+proofs, at least no sufficient proofs; that there hath ever been
+transported from this country contraband merchandizes; whilst that the
+conjuncture in which imputations of this kind have been spread rendered
+the proceeding still more odious, seeing it has been done at an epoch
+when the commerce and navigation of Amsterdam, and of the whole
+Republic, would have experienced the first and almost the only attack of
+an unjust and perfidious ally, for want of necessary protection, upon
+which you, noble, great, venerable, and noble and venerable Lords, have
+so often and so seriously insisted, even before the commencement of the
+troubles between Great Britain and the United States of America; at an
+epoch, when the merchant, formed for enterprises, was obliged to see the
+fruit of his labour, and of his cares, the recompence of his
+indefatigable industry, and the patrimony destined to his posterity,
+ravished from his hands by foreign violence and an unbounded rapacity;
+at an epoch finally, when the wise and prudent politicians, who had
+exhausted themselves and spared no pains for the public good, saw their
+patriotic views dissipated, and their projects vanish.
+
+Receive then, noble, great, venerable, and noble and venerable Lords,
+this solemn testimony of our lively gratitude, as graciously as it is
+given sincerely on our part. Receive it as a proof of our attachment to
+your persons; an attachment which is not founded upon fear, nor an
+exteriour representation of authority and grandeur, but which is founded
+on more noble and immoveable principles, those of esteem and respect,
+arising from a sentiment of true greatness and of generosity. Be assured
+that when contemptible discord, with its odious attendants, artifice and
+imposture, could effectuate nothing, absolutely nothing, at the moment
+when the present war broke out, to prejudice in the least the fidelity
+of the Citizens of the Amstel, or to shake them in the observance of
+their duties; the inconveniencies and the evils that a war naturally and
+necessarily draws after it will not produce the effect neither. Yes, we
+will submit more willingly to them, according as we shall perceive that
+the means that GOD and Nature have put into our hands are more and more
+employed to reduce and humble an haughty enemy. Continue then, noble,
+great, venerable, noble and venerable Lords, to proceed with safety in
+the road that you follow, the only one, which in our opinion can, under
+the divine benediction, tend to save the country from its present
+situation. Let nothing divert or intimidate you from it. You have
+already surmounted the greatest difficulties, and the most pointed
+cares. A more pleasing perspective already opens. Great Britain, not
+long since so proud of her forces, that she feared not to declare war
+against an ancient and faithful Ally, already repents of that unjust and
+rash proceeding; and, succumbing under the weight of a war, which
+becomes more and more burthensome, she sighs after peace; whilst that
+the harmony among the members of the supreme Government of this country
+increases with our arms, according as your political system, whose
+necessity and salutary influence were heretofore less acknowledged,
+gains every day more numerous imitators. The resolution lately taken by
+the States of Friesland, and so unanimously adopted by our Province,
+furnishes, among many others, one incontestible proof of it; whilst the
+naval combat fought the last year on Doggersbank, hath shewn to
+astonished Europe, that so long a peace hath not made the Republic
+forget the management of arms, but that, on the contrary, it nourishes
+in its bosom warriors who tread in the footsteps of the _Tromps_ and
+_Ruiters_, from whose prudence and intrepidity, after a beginning so
+glorious, we may promise ourselves the most heroic actions; that their
+invincible courage, little affected with an evident superiority, will
+procure, one day, to our country an honourable and permanent peace,
+which, in eternizing their military glory, will cause the wise policy of
+your noble, great, venerable, and noble and venerable Lordships, to be
+blessed by the latest posterity.
+
+
+
+
+UTRECHT.
+
+_24th April, 1782._
+
+TO THEIR NOBLE MIGHTINESSES, THE LORDS THE STATES OF THE COUNTRY OF
+UTRECHT.
+
+
+The undersigned manufacturers, merchants, and other traders of this City
+give, with due respect, to understand, that the petitioners, placing
+their confidence in the interest that your noble Mightinesses have
+always appeared to take in the advancement of manufactures and commerce,
+have not been at all scrupulous to recommend to the vigilant attention
+of your noble Mightinessess, the favourable occasion that offers itself
+in this moment, to revive the manufactures, commerce, and trades fallen
+into decay in this City and Province, in case that your noble
+Mightinesses acknowledged, in the name of this City, Mr. Adams as
+Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America, to the end
+that there might be formed with them a treaty of commerce for this
+Republic. As the petitioners founded themselves thus upon the intimate
+sentiment of the execution of that which your noble Mightinesses judge
+proper to the advancement of the well-being of the petitioners and of
+their interests, the petitioners have further the satisfaction of seeing
+the most agreeable proofs of it, when your noble Mightinesses, in your
+last Assembly, resolved unanimously to consent, not only to the
+admission of Mr. Adams in quality of Minister of the Congress of North
+America, but to authorise the Lords the Deputies of this Province at the
+Generality, to conform themselves in the name of this Province, to the
+resolutions of the Lords the States of Holland and West Friesland, and
+of Friesland; and, doing this, to consent to the acknowledgment and
+admission of Mr. Adams, as Minister of the United States of America. As
+that resolution furnishes the proofs the best intentioned, the most
+patriotic, for the advancement of that which may serve to the well-being
+and to the encouragement of manufactures, of commerce, and of decayed
+trades, as well in general, as of this City and Province in particular,
+and which had been so ardently desired; the petitioners think themselves
+indispensibly obliged to testify, in the most respectful manner, their
+gratitude for it to your noble Mightinesses. The petitioners find
+themselves absolutely unable to express, in words, the general
+satisfaction that this event hath caused; not only to them; but also to
+the great and small of this Province; joined to the confirmation of the
+perfect conviction in which they repose themselves, also, for the
+future, upon the paternal care of your noble Mightinesses, that the
+consummation of the desired treaty of commerce with the Americans may be
+soon effected. The petitioners attest by the present, before your noble
+Mightinesses, their solemn and well-meant gratitude, which they address
+at the same time to your noble Mightinesses, as the most sincere mark of
+veneration and respect for the persons, and the direction of public
+affairs, of your noble Mightinesses; praying that Almighty God may deign
+to bless the efforts and the councils of your noble Mightinesses, as
+well as those of the Confederates; that moreover this Province, and our
+dear country, by the propositions of an Armistice, and that which
+depends thereon, should not be involved in any negotiations for a
+particular peace with our perfidious enemy, but that we obtain no other
+peace than a general peace, which (as your noble Mightinesses express
+yourselves in your resolution) may be compatible with their honour and
+dignity; and serve not only for this generation, but also for the latest
+posterity, as a monument of glory, of eternal gratitude to, and esteem
+for the persons and public administration of the present time.
+
+
+
+
+FRIESLAND.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register-Book of the Lords the States of Friesland_.
+
+
+The requisition of Mr. Adams, for presenting his letters of credence
+from the United States of America to their High Mightinesses, having
+been brought into the assembly, and put into deliberation, as also the
+ulteriour address to the same purpose, with a demand of a categorical
+answer, made by him, as is more amply mentioned in the minutes of their
+High Mightinesses of the 4th of May, 1781, and the 9th of January, 1782;
+whereupon it having been taken into consideration that the said Mr.
+Adams would probably have some propositions to make to their High
+Mightinesses, and to present to them the principle articles and
+foundations upon which the Congress, on their part, would enter into a
+treaty of commerce and friendship, or other affairs to propose, in
+regard to which dispatch would be requisite.
+
+It has been thought fit and resolved to authorize the Lords the Deputies
+of this Province at the Generality, and to instruct them to direct
+things, at the table of their High Mightinesses, in such a manner that
+the said Mr. Adams be admitted forthwith as Minister of the Congress of
+North America; with further order to the said Deputies that if there
+should be made moreover any similar propositions by the same, to inform
+immediately their noble Mightinesses of them. And an extract of the
+present resolution shall be sent them for their information, that they
+may conduct themselves conformably.
+
+Thus resolved at the Province House the 26th February, 1782.
+
+Compared with the aforesaid book to my knowledge.
+
+_Signed_
+
+A. J. V. SMINIA.
+
+
+
+
+HOLLAND
+
+AND
+
+WESTFRIESLAND.
+
+_EXTRACT of the Resolutions of the Lords the States of Holland and
+Westfriesland, taken in the Assembly of their Noble and Grand
+Mightinesses, Thursday 28th March, 1782_.
+
+
+Deliberated by resumption upon the address and the ulteriour address of
+Mr. Adams, made the 4th of May, 1781, and the 9th of January, 1782, to
+the President of the States General, communicated to the Assembly the
+9th May, 1781, and the 22d of last month, to present his letters of
+credence, in the name of the United States of America, to their High
+Mightinesses; by which ulteriour address, the said Mr. Adams hath
+demanded a categorical answer, that he may acquaint his constituents
+thereof: deliberated also upon the petitions of a great number of
+merchants, manufacturers and other inhabitants of this Province,
+interested in commerce to support their request presented to the States
+General, the twentieth current, to the end, that efficacious measures
+might be taken to establish a commerce between this country and North
+America, copy of which petitions have been given to the members, the
+twenty-first; it hath been thought fit and resolved that the affair
+shall be directed on the part of their noble and grand Mightinesses, at
+the assembly of the States General, and that there shall be made the
+strongest instances that Mr. Adams be admitted and acknowledged, as soon
+as possible, by their High Mightinesses, in quality of Ambassador of the
+United States of America. And the Counsellor Pensionary hath been
+charged to inform under hand the said Mr. Adams of this resolution of
+their noble and grand Mightinesses.
+
+
+
+
+ZEALAND.
+
+
+_EXTRACT of the Resolutions of their High Mightinesses the States
+General of the United Provinces. Monday 8th April, 1782_.
+
+
+The Deputies of the Province of Zealand have brought to the Assembly,
+and have caused to be read there, the resolution of the States of the
+said Province, their principals, to cause to be admitted, as soon as
+possible, Mr. Adams in quality of Ambassador of the Congress of North
+America, according to the following resolution.
+
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of the Lords the States of
+Zealand, 4th of April, 1782_.
+
+
+It hath been thought fit and ordered, that the Lords, the ordinary
+Deputies of this Province at the Generality, shall be authorised, as it
+is done by the present, to assist, in the direction of affairs at the
+Assembly of their High Mightinesses, in such a manner, that Mr. Adams
+may be acknowledged, as soon as possible, as Ambassador of the Congress
+of North America; that his letters of credence be accepted; and that he
+be admitted in that quality, according to the ordinary form; enjoining
+further upon the said Lords the ordinary Deputies, to take such
+propositions, as should be made to this Republic by the said Mr. Adams,
+for the information and deliberation of their High Mightinesses, to the
+end to transmit them here as soon as possible. And an extract of this
+resolution of their noble Mightinesses shall be sent to the Lords, their
+ordinary Deputies, to serve them as an instruction.
+
+_Signed_
+
+J. M. CHALMERS.
+
+
+Upon which having deliberated, it hath been thought fit and resolved to
+pray, by the present, the Lords the Deputies of the Province of
+Guelderland, Utrecht, and Groningen and Ommelanden, who have not yet
+explained themselves upon the subject, to be pleased to do it as soon as
+possible.
+
+
+
+
+OVERYSSEL.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of the Equestrian Order,
+and of the Cities composing the States of Overyssel. Zwoll, 5th April,
+1782._
+
+
+Mr. the Grand Bailiff of Saalland, and the other Commissioners of their
+noble Mightinesses for the affairs of finance, having examined,
+conformably to their commissorial resolution of the third of this month,
+the addresses of Mr. Adams, communicated to the Assembly the 4th of May,
+1781, and the 22d of February, 1782, to present his letters of credence
+to their High Mightinesses, in the name of the United States of America;
+as well as the resolution of the Lords the States of Holland and
+Westfriesland, dated the 28th of March, 1782, carried the 29th of the
+same month to the Assembly of their High Mightinesses, for the admission
+and acknowledgment of Mr. Adams, have reported to the Assembly, that
+they should be of opinion, that the Lords the Deputies of this Province
+in the States General ought to be authorised and charged to declare in
+the Assembly of their High Mightinesses, that the Equestrian order and
+the Cities judge that it is proper to acknowledge, as soon as possible,
+Mr. Adams in quality of Minister of the United States of North America
+to their High Mightinesses. Upon which, having deliberated, the
+Equestrian order and the Cities have conformed themselves to the said
+report.
+
+Compared with the aforesaid Register.
+
+_Signed_
+
+DERK DUNBAR.
+
+
+
+
+GRONINGEN.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of their noble
+Mightinesses, the States of Groningen and Ommelanden. Tuesday 9th April,
+1782._
+
+
+The Lords the States of Groningen and Ommelanden, having heard the
+report of the Lords the Commissioners for the petitions of the Council
+of State and the Finances of the Province, and having carefully examined
+the demand of Mr. Adams, to present his letters of credence from the
+United States of America to their High Mightinesses, have, after
+deliberation upon the subject, declared themselves of opinion, that in
+the critical circumstances in which the Republic finds itself at
+present, it is proper to take, without loss of time, such efficacious
+measures, as may not only repair the losses and damages that the kingdom
+of Great Britain hath caused in a manner so unjust, and against every
+shadow of right, to the commerce of the Republic, as well before as
+after the war, but particularly such as may establish the free
+navigation and the commerce of the Republic, for the future, upon on the
+most solid foundations, as may confirm and re-assure it, by the
+strongest bonds of reciprocal interest; and that, in consequence, the
+Lords the Deputies at the Assembly of their High Mightinesses ought to
+be authorised, on the part of the Province, as they are by the present,
+to admit Mr. Adams to present his letters of credence from the United
+States of America, and to receive the propositions which he shall make,
+to make report of them to the Lords the States of this Province.
+
+_Signed_
+
+E. LEWE, Secretary.
+
+The States General, having deliberated the same day upon the resolution,
+have resolved, that the Deputies of this Province of Guelderland, which
+has not yet declared itself upon the same subject, should be requested,
+to be pleased to do it as soon as possible.
+
+
+
+
+UTRECHT.
+
+_EXTRACT of the Resolutions of their noble Mightinesses, the States of
+the Province of Utrecht, 10 April 1782_.
+
+
+Heard the report of Mr. De Westerveld and other deputies of their noble
+Mightinesses for the department of war, who, in virtue of the
+commissorial resolutions of the 9th of May 1781, 16th January and 20th
+March of the present year 1782, have examined the resolutions of their
+High Mightinesses of the 4th of May 1781, containing an overture, that
+Mr. the President of the Assembly of their High Mightinesses had made,
+"that a person styling himself J. Adams had been with him, and had given
+him to understand, that he had received letters of credence for their
+High Mightinesses from the United States of America, with a request,
+that he would be pleased to communicate them to their High Mightinesses;
+as well as the resolution of their High Mightinesses of the 9th of
+January, containing an ulteriour overture of Mr. the President, that the
+said Mr. Adams had been with him, and had insisted upon a categorical
+answer, whether his said letters of credence would be accepted or not;
+finally the resolution of their High Mightinesses of the 5th of March
+last, with the insertion of the resolution of Friesland, containing a
+proposition to admit Mr. Adams in quality of Minister of the Congress of
+North America."
+
+Upon which having deliberated, and remarked that the Lords the States of
+Holland and West Friesland, by their resolution carried the 29th of
+March to the States General, have also consented to the admission of the
+said Mr. Adams in quality of minister of the Congress of North America,
+it hath been thought fit and resolved, that the Lords the Deputies of
+this Province in the States General should be authorised, as their noble
+Mightinesses authorise them by the present, to conform themselves, in
+the name of this Province, to the resolution of the Lords the States of
+Holland and Westfriesland, and of Friesland, and to consent by
+consequence, that Mr. Adams be acknowledged and admitted as Minister of
+the United States of America; their noble Mightinesses being, in the
+mean time, of opinion, that it would be necessary to acquaint her
+Majesty the Empress of Russia, and the other Neutral Powers, with the
+resolution to be taken by their High Mightinesses upon this subject, in
+communicating to them, as much as shall be necessary, the reasons which
+have induced their High Mightinesses to it, and giving them the
+strongest assurances that the intention of their High Mightinesses is by
+no means to prolong thereby the war, which they would have willingly
+prevented and terminated long since; but on the contrary, that their
+High Mightinesses with nothing with more ardor, than a prompt
+re-establishment of peace; and that they shall be always ready, on their
+part, to co-operate in it, in all possible ways, and with a suitable
+readiness, so far as that shall be any way compatible with their honour
+and their dignity, and for this end an extract of this shall be carried
+by Missive to the Lords the Deputies at the Generality.
+
+
+
+
+GUELDERLAND.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Reces of the ordinary Diet, holden in the City of
+Nimeguen, in the Month of April 1782. Wednesday, 17 April 1782._
+
+
+The requisition of Mr. Adams, to present his letters of credence to
+their High Mightinesses in the name of the United States of America,
+having been brought to the assembly and read, as well as an ulteriour
+address made upon this subject, with a demand of a categorical answer by
+the said Mr. Adams, more amply mentioned in the registers of their High
+Mightinesses of the date of the 4th of May 1781, and of the 9th of
+January 1782; moreover the resolutions of the Lords the States of the
+five other provinces, carried successively to the assembly of their High
+Mightinesses, and all tending to admit Mr. Adams in quality of
+Ambassador of the United States of America to this Republic; upon which
+their noble Mightinesses, after deliberation, have resolved to authorise
+the deputies of this Province at the States General, as they authorise
+them by the present, to conform themselves in the name of this Province
+to the resolution of the Lords the States of Holland and Westfriesland,
+and to consent, by consequence, that Mr. Adams may be acknowledged and
+admitted in quality of Ambassador of the United States of America to
+this Republic. In consequence, an extract of the present shall be sent
+to the said Deputies, to make as soon as possible the requisite overture
+of it to the assembly of their High Mightinesses.
+
+In fidem extracti.
+
+_Signed_
+
+J. IN DE BETOUW.
+
+
+
+
+THE STATES GENERAL.
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of their High Mightinesses
+the States General of the United Provinces. Friday 19 April, 1782._
+
+
+Deliberated by resumption, upon the address and the ulteriour address,
+made by Mr. Adams the 4th of May 1781, and the 9th of January of the
+current year to Mr. the President of the Assembly of their High
+Mightinesses, to present to their High Mightinesses his letters of
+credence in the name of the United States of North America; and by which
+ulteriour address the said Mr. Adams hath demanded a categorical answer,
+to the end to be able to acquaint his Constituents thereof; it hath been
+thought fit and resolved that Mr. Adams shall be admitted and
+acknowledged in quality of Ambassador of the United States of North
+America to their High Mightinesses, as he is admitted and acknowledged
+by the present.
+
+_Signed_
+
+W. BOREEL, _President_.
+
+
+_Lower down_
+
+Compared with the aforesaid Register.
+
+_Signed_
+
+H. FAGEL.
+
+
+
+
+_EXTRACT from the Register of the Resolutions of their High Mightinesses
+the States General of the United Provinces, Monday, 22d April, 1782_.
+
+
+Mr. Boreel, who presided in the Assembly the last week, hath reported to
+their High Mightinesses, and notified to them, that Mr. John Adams,
+Ambassador of the United States of America, had been with him last
+Saturday, and presented to him a letter from the Assembly of Congress,
+written at Philadelphia, the first of January, 1781, containing a
+credence, for the said Mr. Adams, to the end to reside in quality of its
+Minister Plenipotentiary near their High Mightinesses: Upon which having
+deliberated, it hath been thought fit and resolved, to declare by the
+present: "That the said Mr. Adams is agreeable to their High
+Mightinesses; that he shall be acknowledged in quality of Minister
+Plenipotentiary; and that there shall be granted to him an audience, or
+assigned Commissioners, when he shall demand it." Information of the
+above shall be given to the said Mr. Adams, by the Agent van der Burch
+de Spieringshoek.
+
+_Signed_
+
+W. VAN CITTERS, _President_.
+
+
+_Lower down_
+
+Compared with the aforesaid Register.
+
+_Signed_
+
+H. FAGEL.
+
+
+
+
+MEDAL.
+
+TO THE NOBLE AND MIGHTY LORDS, THE STATES OF FRIESLAND,
+
+
+The Society of Citizens, established at Leeuwarden, under the motto, "By
+Liberty and Zeal," most humbly represents, that it desires to have an
+opportunity of testifying publicly, by facts, to your noble
+Mightinesses, the most lively, but, at the same time, the most
+respectful sentiments of gratitude, which not only animate them, but
+also, as they assure themselves, all the well intentioned Citizens,
+especially, with relation to the resolutions equally important, and full
+of wisdom; which your noble Mightinesses have taken upon all the points,
+in regard to which the critical circumstances, in which our dear country
+finds itself plunged, have furnished to your noble Mightinesses, objects
+equally numerous and disagreeable, particularly, at the ordinary Diet of
+the year 1782, and at the extraordinary Diet holden in the month of
+April last; resolutions which bear not only the characters of wisdom,
+but also those of the best intentioned solicitude, and the purest love
+of our country; and which prove, in the most convincing manner, that
+your noble Mightinesses have no greater ambition than its universal
+prosperity; assiduously proposing to yourselves, as the most important
+object of your attention, of your enterprises, and of your attachment,
+the rule, _Salus Populi suprema Lex esto_; resolutions, in fine, which
+ought perfectly to re-assure the good Citizens of this Province, and
+encourage them to persevere in that full and tranquil confidence which
+has hindered them from representing to your noble Mightinesses the true
+interests of the country, and to exhort them, at the same time, by their
+supplications, to act with courage, and to fulfil their duties;
+considering that the said resolutions have fully assured them, that
+their possessions, with that which is above all things dear to them,
+their Liberty (that right which is more precious to them than their
+lives; to which the smallest injury cannot be done, without doing wrong
+and dishonour to humanity; a right, nevertheless, which, if we consider
+the world in general, has been, alas! almost every where equally
+violated) are deposited in safety, under the vigilant eye of your noble
+Mightinesses.
+
+The Society has thought that it might accomplish its wishes, in the most
+convenient and decent manner, in causing to be stricken, at its expence,
+a Medal of silver, which may remain to posterity a durable monument of
+the perfect harmony which at the present dangerous epoch has reigned
+between the government and the people. It has conceived, for this
+purpose, a sketch or project, as yet incomplete, according to which one
+of the sides of the Medal should bear the Arms of Friesland, held by an
+hand, which descends from the clouds, with an inscription in the
+following terms: _To the States of Friesland, in grateful Memory of the
+Diets of February and of April, 1782, dedicated by the Society_ LIBERTY
+AND ZEAL. An inscription, which would thus contain a general applause of
+all the resolutions taken in these two Diets; whilst upon the reverse,
+one should distinguish, more particularly, the two events which interest
+the most our common country, in regard of which your noble Mightinesses
+have given the example to the States of the other Provinces, and which
+merit, for this reason, as placed in the foremost situation, to shew
+itself the most clearly to the fight: to wit, "The admission of Mr.
+Adams in quality of Minister of the United States of America to this
+Republic; and the refusal of a separate peace with Great Britain."
+Events which should be represented symbolically by a Frisian, dressed
+according to the ancient characteristic custom of the Frisians, holding
+out his right-hand to an inhabitant of North America, in token of
+friendship and brotherly love; whilst with the left-hand he rejects the
+peace which England offers him. The whole with such convenient
+additions, and symbolical ornaments, which the Society, perhaps, would
+do well to leave to the invention of the medalist, &c.
+
+[_The remainder of this request relates to other subjects._]
+
+Done at Leeuwarden the 8th May, 1782.
+
+The Society "BY LIBERTY AND ZEAL."
+
+_Signed at its request_
+
+W. WOPKENS,
+
+_in the absence of the Secretary_.
+
+
+
+
+AN
+
+ESSAY
+
+ON
+
+CANON AND FEUDAL LAW.
+
+BY JOHN ADAMS,
+
+AMBASSADOR PLENIPOTENTIARY
+
+FROM THE
+
+UNITED AND INDEPENDENT STATES OF NORTH AMERICA,
+
+TO THEIR
+
+HIGH MIGHTINESS THE STATES GENERAL OF THE UNITED PROVINCES OF HOLLAND.
+
+
+
+
+AN
+
+ESSAY
+
+ON
+
+CANON AND FEUDAL LAW.
+
+
+"Ignorance and inconsideration, are the two great causes of the ruin of
+mankind."--This is an observation of Dr. _Tillotson_, with relation to
+the interest of his fellow-men, in a future and immortal state: But it
+is of equal truth and importance, if applied to the happiness of men in
+society, on this side the grave.--In the earliest ages of the world,
+_absolute Monarchy_ seems to have been the universal form of
+government.--Kings, and a few of their great counsellors and captains,
+exercised a cruel tyranny over the people who held a rank in the scale
+of intelligence, in those days, but little higher than the camels and
+elephants, that carried them and their engines to war.
+
+By what causes it was brought to pass, that the people in the middle
+ages, became more _intelligent_ in general, would not perhaps be
+possible in these days to discover: But the fact is certain, and
+wherever a general knowledge and sensibility have prevailed among the
+people, arbitrary government and every kind of oppression have lessened
+and disappeared in proportion.--Man has certainly an exalted soul! and
+the same principle in human nature; that aspiring noble principle,
+founded in benevolence and cherished by knowledge; I mean the love of
+power, which has been so often the cause of _slavery_, has, whenever
+freedom has existed, been the cause of freedom. If it is this principle,
+that has always prompted the princes and nobles of the earth, by every
+species of fraud and violence, to shake off all the limitations of their
+power; it is the same that has always stimulated the common people to
+aspire at independency, and to endeavour at confining the power of the
+great, within the limits of equity and reason.
+
+The poor people, it is true, have been much less successful than the
+great--They have seldom found either leisure or opportunity to form an
+union and exert their strength--ignorant as they were of arts and
+letters, they have seldom been able to frame and support a regular
+opposition. This, however, has been known, by the great, to be the
+temper of mankind, and they have accordingly laboured, in all ages, to
+wrest from the populace, as they are contemptuously called, the
+knowledge of their rights and wrongs, and the power to assert the former
+or redress the latter. I say RIGHTS, for such they have, undoubtedly,
+antecedent to all earthly government--_Rights_, that cannot be repealed
+or restrained by human laws--_Rights_, derived from the great Legislator
+of the universe.
+
+Since the promulgation of christianity, the two greatest systems of
+tyranny, that have sprung from this original, are the _cannon_ and the
+_feudal_ law--The desire of dominion, that great principle by which we
+have attempted to account for so much good, and so much evil, is, when
+properly restrained, a very useful and noble movement in the human mind:
+but when such restraints are taken off, it becomes an encroaching,
+grasping, restless and ungovernable power. Numberless have been the
+systems of iniquity, contrived by the great, for the gratification of
+this passion in themselves: but in none of them were they ever more
+successful, than in the invention and establishment of the _canon_ and
+the _feudal_ law.
+
+By the former of these, the most refined, sublime, extensive, and
+astonishing constitution of policy, that ever was conceived by the mind
+of man, was framed by the Romish clergy for the aggrandisement of their
+own order. All the epithets I have here given to the Romish policy are
+just; and will be allowed to be so, when it is considered, that they
+even persuaded mankind to believe, faithfully and undoubtingly, that GOD
+ALMIGHTY had intrusted them with the keys of heaven, whose gates they
+might open and close at pleasure--with a power of dispensation over all
+the rules and obligations of morality--with authority to license all
+sorts of sins and crimes--with a power of deposing princes, and
+absolving subjects from allegiance--with a power of procuring or
+withholding the rain of heaven, and the beams of the sun--with the
+management of earthquakes, pestilence and famine.----Nay, with the
+mysterious, awful, incomprehensible power of creating out of bread and
+wine, the flesh and blood of GOD himself.--All these opinions they were
+enabled to spread and rivet among the people, by reducing their minds to
+a state of sordid ignorance and staring timidity; and by infusing into
+them a _religious_ horror of letters and knowledge. Thus was human
+nature chained fast for ages, in a cruel, shameful, and deplorable
+servitude, to him and his subordinate tyrants; who, it was foretold,
+would exalt himself above all that was called GOD, and that was
+worshipped.----
+
+In the latter we find another system similar in many respects to the
+former; which, although it was originally formed perhaps for the
+necessary defence of a barbarous people, against the inroads and
+invasions of her neighbouring nations; yet, for the same purposes of
+tyranny, cruelty and lust, which had dictated the _canon_ law, it was
+soon adopted by almost all the Princes of Europe, and wrought into the
+constitutions of their government.--It was originally a code of laws,
+for a vast army in a perpetual encampment.--The general was invested
+with the sovereign propriety of all the lands within the territory.--Of
+him, his servants and vassals, the first rank of his great officers held
+the lands; and in the same manner, the other subordinate officers held
+of them; and all ranks and degrees, held their lands, by a variety of
+duties and services, all tending to bind the chains the faster, on every
+order of mankind. In this manner, the common people were holden
+together, in herds and clans, in a state of servile dependance on their
+Lords; bound, even by the tenure of their lands to follow them, whenever
+they commanded, to their wars; and in a state of total ignorance of
+every thing divine and human, excepting the use of arms, and the culture
+of their lands.
+
+But, another event still more calamitous to human liberty, was a wicked
+confederacy, between the two systems of tyranny above described.--It
+seems to have been even stipulated between them, that the temporal
+grandees should contribute every thing in their power to maintain the
+ascendency of the priesthood; and that the spiritual grandees, in, their
+turn, should employ that ascendency over the consciences of the people,
+in impressing on their minds, a blind, implicit obedience to civil
+magistracy.--
+
+Thus, as long as this confederacy lasted, and the people were held in
+ignorance; Liberty, and with her, knowledge, and virtue too, seem to
+have deserted the earth; and one age of darkness succeeded another, till
+GOD, in his benign Providence, raised up the champions, who began and
+conducted the Reformation.--From the time of the Reformation, to the
+first settlement of America, knowledge gradually spread in Europe, but
+especially in England; and in proportion as that increased and spread
+among the people, ecclesiastical and civil tyranny, which I use as
+synonymous expressions, for the _canon_ and _feudal_ laws, seem to have
+lost their strength and weight. The people grew more and more sensible
+of the wrong that was done them, by these systems; more and more
+impatient under it; and determined at all hazards to rid themselves of
+it; till, at last, under the execrable race of the Stuarts, the struggle
+between the people and the confederacy aforesaid of temporal and
+spiritual tyranny, became formidable, violent and bloody.----
+
+It was this great struggle that peopled America.--It was not religion
+alone, as is commonly supposed; but it was a love of _universal_
+liberty, and an hatred, a dread, an horror of the infernal confederacy
+before described, that projected, conducted, and accomplished the
+settlement of America.----
+
+It was a resolution formed by a sensible people, I mean the _Puritans_
+almost in despair. They had become intelligent in general, and many of
+them learned.--For this fact I have the testimony of Archbishop _King_
+himself, who observed of that people, that they were more intelligent,
+and better read than even the members of the church whom he censures
+warmly for that reason.--This people had been so vexed, and tortured by
+the powers of those days, for no other crime than their knowledge, and
+their freedom of enquiry and examination; and they had so much reason to
+despair of deliverance from those miseries on that side the ocean, that
+they at last resolved to fly to the _wilderness_ for refuge, from the
+temporal and spiritual principalities and powers, and plagues, and
+scourges of their native country.
+
+After their arrival here, they began their settlement, and formed their
+plan both of ecclesiastical and civil government, in direst opposition
+to the _canon_ and the _feudal_ systems.----The leading men among them,
+both of the clergy and the laity were men of sense and learning: To many
+of them, the historians, orators, poets and philosophers of Greece and
+Rome were quite familiar: and some of them have left libraries that are
+still in being, consisting chiefly of volumes, in which the wisdom of
+the most enlightened ages and nations is deposited, written however in
+languages, which their great grandsons, _though educated in European
+Universities_, can scarcely read.
+
+Thus accomplished were many of the first planters of these colonies.--It
+may be thought polite and fashionable, by many modern fine gentlemen,
+perhaps, to deride the characters of these persons as enthusiastical,
+superstitious and republican: But such ridicule is founded in nothing
+but foppery and affectation, and is grosly injurious and
+false.----Religious to some degree of enthusiasm, it may be admitted
+they were; but this can be no peculiar derogation from their character,
+because it was at that time almost the universal character, not only of
+England but of Christendom. Had this however been otherwise, their
+enthusiasm, considering the principles in which it was founded, and the
+ends to which it was directed, far from being a reproach to them, was
+greatly to their honour: for I believe it will be found universally
+true, that no great enterprize, for the honour or happiness of mankind,
+was ever atchieved without a large mixture of that noble
+infirmity. Whatever imperfections may be justly ascribed to them, which
+however are as few as any mortals have discovered, their judgment in
+framing their policy was founded in wise, humane and benevolent
+principles. It was founded in revelation and in reason too: It was
+consistent with the principles of the best, and greatest, and wisest
+legeslators of antiquity.----Tyranny in every form, shape and
+appearance, was their disdain and abhorrence; no fear of punishment, nor
+even of death itself, in exquisite tortures, had been sufficient to
+conquer that steady, manly, pertinacious spirit, with which they had
+opposed the tyrants of those days, in church and state. They were very
+far from being enemies to monarchy; and they knew as well as any men,
+the just regard and honour that is due to the character of a dispenser
+of the mysteries of the gospel of grace: But they saw clearly, that
+popular powers must be placed as a guard, a controul, a balance, to the
+powers of the monarch and the priest in every government; or else it
+would soon become the man of sin, the whore of Babylon, the mystery of
+iniquity, a great and detestable system of fraud, violence and
+usurpation. Their greatest concern seems to have been to establish a
+government of the church more consistent with the Scriptures, and a
+government of the state more agreeable to the dignity of human nature,
+than any they had seen in Europe: and to transmit such a government down
+to their posterity, with the means of securing and preserving it for
+ever. To render the popular power in their new government as great and
+wise as their principles of theory, i. e. as human nature and the
+christian religion require it should be, they endeavoured to remove from
+it as many of the feudal inequalities and dependencies as could be
+spared, consistently with the preservation of a mild limited monarchy.
+And in this they discovered the depth of their wisdom, and the warmth of
+their friendship to human nature.--But the first place is due to
+religion.----They saw clearly, that of all the nonsense and delusion
+which had ever passed through the mind of man, none had ever been more
+extravagant than the notions of absolutions, indelible characters,
+uninterrupted successions, and the rest of those fantastical ideas,
+derived from the canon law, which had thrown such a glare of mystery,
+sanctity, reverence and right, reverend eminence, and holiness around
+the idea of a priest, as no mortal could deserve and as always must,
+from the constitution of human nature, be dangerous in society. For this
+reason, they demolished the whole system of Diocesan episcopacy, and
+deriding, as all reasonable and impartial men must do, the ridiculous
+fancies of sanctified effluvia from episcopal fingers, they established
+sacerdotal ordination on the foundation of the Bible and common
+sense.----This conduct at once imposed an obligation on the whole body
+of the clergy, to industry, virtue, piety and learning; and rendered
+that whole body infinitely more independent on the civil powers, in all
+respects, than they could be where they were formed into a scale of
+subordination, from a Pope down to Priests and friars and confessors,
+necessarily and essentially, a sordid, stupid, and wretched herd; or
+than they could be in any other country, where an archbishop held the
+place of an universal bishop, and the vicars and curates that of the
+ignorant, dependent, miserable rabble aforesaid; and infinitely more
+sensible and learned than they could be in either.----This subject has
+been seen in the same light by many illustrious patriots, who have lived
+in America, since the days of our forefathers, and who have adored their
+memory for the same reason.----And methinks there has not appeared in
+New England, a stronger veneration for their memory, a more penetrating
+insight into the grounds and principles and spirit of their policy, nor
+a more earnest desire of perpetuating the blessings of it to posterity,
+than that fine institution of the late Chief Justice Dudley, of a
+lecture against popery, and on the validity of presbyterian ordination.
+This was certainly intended by that wise and excellent man, as an
+eternal memento of the wisdom and goodness of the very principles that
+settled America. But I must again return to the feudal law.----The
+adventurers so often mentioned, had an utter contempt of all that dark
+ribaldry of hereditary indefeasible right,--the Lord's anointed,--and
+the divine miraculous original of government, with which the priesthood
+had inveloped the feudal monarch in clouds and mysteries, and from
+whence they had deduced the most mischievous of all doctrines, that of
+passive obedience and non-resistance. They knew that government was a
+plain, simple, intelligible thing, founded in nature and reason, and
+quite comprehensible by common sense.----They detested all the base
+services, and servile dependencies of the feudal system.----They knew
+that no such unworthy dependencies took place in the ancient seats of
+liberty, the republic of Greece and Rome: and they thought all such
+slavish subordinations were equally inconsistent with the constitution
+of human nature, and that religious liberty with which Jesus had made
+them free. This was certainly the opinion they had formed, and they were
+far from being singular or extravagant in thinking so.----Many
+celebrated modern writers in Europe have espoused the same
+sentiments.--Lord Kaims, a Scottish writer of great reputation, whose
+authority in this case ought to have the more weight, as his countrymen
+have not the most worthy ideas of liberty, speaking of the feudal law,
+says, "A constitution so contradictory to all the principles which
+govern mankind, can never be brought about, one should imagine, but by
+foreign conquest or native usurpations." Brit. Ant. p. 2.--Rousseau
+speaking of the same system, calls it, "That most iniquitous and absurd
+form of government, by which human nature was so shamefully degraded."
+Social compact, Page 164.----It would be easy to multiply authorities;
+but it must be needless, because as the original of this form of
+government was among savages, as the spirit of it is military and
+despotic, every writer, who would allow the people to have any right to
+life or property or freedom, more than the beasts of the field, and who
+was not hired or inlisted under arbitrary lawless power, has been always
+willing to admit the feudal system to be inconsistent with liberty and
+the rights of mankind.
+
+To have holden their lands allodially, or for every man to have been the
+sovereign lord and proprietor of the ground he occupied, would have
+constituted a government, too nearly like a commonwealth.--They were
+contented, therefore, to hold their lands of their King, as their
+sovereign lord, and to him they were willing to render homage: but to no
+mesne and subordinate lords, nor were they willing to submit to any of
+the baser services.--In all this they were so strenuous, that they have
+even transmitted to their posterity, a very general contempt and
+detestation of holdings by quit rents: As they have also an hereditary
+ardour for liberty, and thirst for knowledge.--
+
+They were convinced by their knowledge of human nature derived from
+history and their own experience, that nothing could preserve their
+posterity from the encroachments of the two systems of tyranny, in
+opposition to which, as has been observed already, they erected their
+government in church and state, but knowledge diffused generally through
+the whole body of the people.--Their civil and religious principles,
+therefore, conspired to prompt them to use every measure, and take every
+precaution in their power to propagate and perpetuate knowledge. For
+this purpose they laid very early the foundations of colleges, and
+invested them with ample privileges and emoluments; and it is
+remarkable, that they have left among their posterity, so universal an
+affection and veneration for those seminaries, and for liberal
+education, that the meanest of the people contribute chearfully to the
+support and maintenance of them every year, and that nothing is more
+generally popular than productions for the honour, reputation, and
+advantage of those seats of learning. But the wisdom and benevolence of
+our fathers rested not here. They made an early provision by law, that
+every town, consisting of so many families, should be always furnished
+with a grammar school.--They made it a crime for such a town to be
+destitute of a grammar school-master for a few months, and subjected it
+to an heavy penalty.--So that the education of all ranks of people was
+made the care and expence of the public in a manner, that I believe has
+been unknown to any other people ancient or modern.
+
+The consequences of these establishments we see and feel every day.--A
+native of America who cannot read and write, is as rare an appearance as
+a Jacobite, or a Roman Catholic, i. e. as rare as a comet or an
+earthquake.--It has been observed, that we are all of us lawyers,
+divines, politicians, and philosophers.--And I have good authorities to
+say, that all candid foreigners who have passed through this country,
+and conversed freely with all sorts of people here, will allow, that
+they have never seen so much knowledge and civility among the common
+people in any part or the world.--It is true there has been among us a
+party for some years, consisting chiefly, not of the descendants of the
+first settlers of this country, but of high churchmen and high
+statesmen, imported since, who affect to censure this provision for the
+education of our youth as a needless expence, and an imposition upon
+the rich in favour of the poor;--and as an institution productive of
+idleness and vain speculation among the people, whose time and
+attention, it is said, ought to be devoted to labour, and not to public
+affairs, or to examination into the conduct of their superiors. And
+certain officers of the crown, and certain other missionaries of
+ignorance, foppery, servility, and slavery, have been most inclined to
+countenance and encrease the same party.--Be it remembered, however,
+that liberty must at all hazards be supported. _We have a right to it,
+derived from our_ MAKER! But if we had not, our fathers have earned and
+bought it for us at the expence of their ease, their estates, their
+pleasure, and their blood.--And Liberty cannot be preserved without a
+general knowledge among the people, who have a right, from the frame of
+their nature, to knowledge, as their great CREATOR, who does nothing in
+vain, has given them understandings and a desire to know; but besides
+this they have a right, an indisputable, unalienable, indefeasible,
+divine right, to that most dreaded and envied kind of knowledge, I mean
+of the characters and conduct of their rulers. _Rulers are no more than
+attornies, agents, and trustees for the people_: and if the cause, the
+interest, and trust are insidiously betrayed, or wantonly trifled away,
+the people have a right to revoke the authority that they themselves
+have deputed, and to constitute abler and better agents, attornies, and
+trustees. And the preservation of the means of knowledge, among the
+lowest rank, is of more importance to the public, than all the property
+of all the rich men in the country. It is even of more consequence to
+the rich themselves, and to their posterity.--The only question is,
+whether it is a public emolument? and if it is, the rich ought
+undoubtedly to contribute in the same proportion as to all other public
+burdens, i. e. in proportion to their wealth, which is secured by public
+expences.--But none of the means of information are more sacred, or have
+been cherished with more tenderness and care by the settlers of America,
+than the press. Care has been taken that the art of printing should be
+encouraged, and that it should be easy and cheap, and safe for any
+person to communicate his thoughts to the Public.--And you, Messieurs
+Printers, whatever the tyrants of the earth may say of your Paper, have
+done important service to your country, by your readiness and freedom
+in publishing the speculations of the curious. The stale, impudent
+insinuations of slander and sedition, with which the gormandizers of
+power have endeavoured to discredit your Paper, are so much the more to
+your honour; for the jaws of power are always opened to devour, and her
+arm is always stretched out, if possible to destroy, the freedom of
+thinking, speaking, and writing.--And if the public interest, liberty
+and happiness have been in danger, from the ambition or avarice of any
+great man, or number of great men, whatever may be their politeness,
+address, learning, ingenuity, and in other respects integrity and
+humanity, you have done yourselves honour, and your country service, by
+publishing and pointing out that avarice and ambition.--These views are
+so much the more dangerous and pernicious, for the virtues with which
+they may be accompanied in the same character, and with so much the more
+watchful jealousy to be guarded against.
+
+"Curse on such virtues, they've undone their country."
+
+_Be not intimidated, therefore, by any terrors, from publishing, with
+the utmost freedom whatever can be warranted by the laws of your
+country; nor suffer yourselves to be wheedled out of your liberty by any
+pretences of politeness, delicacy, or decency._ These, as they are often
+used, are but three different names for hypocrisy, chicanery, and
+cowardice. Much less, I presume, will you be discouraged by any
+pretences, that malignants on this side the water[A] will represent your
+Paper as facetious and seditious, or that the Great on the other side
+the water will take offence at them. This dread of representation has
+had for a long time in this province effects very similar to what the
+physicians call an _hydrophobia_, or dread of water.--It has made us
+delirious--and we have rushed headlong into the water, till we are
+almost drowned, out of simple or phrensical fear of it. Believe me, the
+character of this country has suffered more in Britain, by the
+pusillanimity with which we have borne many insults and indignities from
+the creatures of power at home, and the creatures of those creatures
+here, than it ever did, or ever will by the freedom and spirit that has
+been or will be discovered in writing or action. Believe me, my
+countrymen, they have imbibed an opinion on the other side the water,
+that we are an ignorant, a timid, and a stupid people; nay, their tools
+on this side have often the impudence to dispute your bravery.--But I
+hope in God the time is near at hand, when they will be fully convinced
+of your understanding, integrity, and courage. But can any thing be more
+ridiculous, were it not too provoking to be laughed at, than to pretend
+that offence should be taken at home for writings here?--Pray let them
+look at home. Is not the human understanding exhausted there? Are not
+reason, imaginations, wit, passion, senses and all, tortured to find out
+satire and invective against the characters of the vile and futile
+fellows who sometimes get into place and power?--The most exceptionable
+paper that ever I saw here is perfect prudence and modesty, in
+comparison of multitudes of their applauded writings. Yet the high
+regard they have for the freedom of the Press, indulges all.--I must and
+will repeat it, Newspapers deserve the patronage of every friend to his
+country. And whether the defamers of them are arrayed in robes of
+scarlet or sable, whether they lurk and skulk in an insurance office,
+whether they assume the venerable character of a priest, the sly one of
+a scrivener, or the dirty, infamous, abandoned one of an informer, they
+are all the creatures and tools of the lust of domination.----
+
+[Footnote A: Boston in America.]
+
+The true source of our sufferings, has been our timidity.
+
+We have been afraid to think.--We have felt a reluctance to examining
+into the grounds of our privileges, and the extent in which we have an
+indisputable right to demand them, against all the power and authority
+on earth.--And many who have not scrupled to examine for themselves,
+have yet, for certain prudent reasons, been cautious, and diffident of
+declaring the result of their enquiries.
+
+The cause of this timidity is perhaps hereditary, and to be traced back
+in history, as far as the cruel treatment the first settlers of this
+country received, before their embarkation for America, from the
+government at home.--Every body knows how dangerous it was, to speak or
+write in favour of any thing, in those days, but the triumphant system
+of religion and politicks. And our fathers were, particularly, the
+objects of the persecutions and proscriptions of the times.--It is not
+unlikely therefore, that, although they were inflexibly steady in
+refusing their positive assent to any thing against their principles,
+they might have contracted habits of reserve, and a cautious diffidence
+of asserting their opinions publicly.--These habits they probably
+brought with them to America, and have transmitted down to us.--Or, we
+may possibly account for this appearance, by the great affection and
+veneration, Americans have always entertained for the country from
+whence they sprang--or by the quiet temper for which they have been
+remarkable, no country having been less disposed to discontent than
+this--or by a sense they have that it is their duty to acquiesce under
+the administration of government, even when in many smaller matters
+grievous to them, and until the essentials of the great compact are
+destroyed or invaded. These peculiar causes might operate upon them; but
+without these, we all know, that human nature itself, from indolence,
+modesty, humanity or fear, has always too much reluctance to a manly
+assertion of its rights. Hence perhaps it has happened, that nine-tenths
+of the species, are groaning and gasping in misery and servitude.
+
+But whatever the cause has been, the fact is certain, we have been
+excessively cautious of giving offence by complaining of
+grievances.----And it is as certain, that American governors, and their
+friends, and all the crown officers, have availed themselves of this
+disposition in the people.--They have prevailed on us to consent to many
+things, which were grossly injurious to us, and to surrender many others
+with voluntary tameness, to which we had the clearest right. Have we not
+been treated formerly, with abominable insolence, by officers of the
+navy?----I mean no insinuation against any gentleman now on this
+station, having heard no complaint of any one of them to his
+dishonour.--Have not some generals, from England, treated us like
+servants, nay, more like slaves than like Britons?--Have we not been
+under the most ignominious contribution, the most abject submission, the
+most supercilious insults of some custom-house officers? Have we not
+been trifled with, browbeaten, and trampled on, by former governors, in
+a manner which no King of England since James the Second has dared to
+indulge towards his subjects? Have we not raised up one family, placed
+in them an unlimited confidence, and been soothed, and flattered, and
+intimidated by their influence, into a great part of this infamous
+tameness and submission?----"These are serious and alarming questions,
+and deserve a dispassionate consideration."--
+
+This disposition has been the great wheel and the main spring in the
+American machine of court politics.--We have been told, that "the word
+_Rights_ is an offensive expression." That "the King, his Ministry, and
+Parliament, will not endure to hear Americans talk of their _Rights_."
+That "Britain is the mother and we the children, that a filial duty and
+submission is due from us to her," and that "we ought to doubt our own
+judgment, and presume that she is right, even when she seems to us to
+shake the foundations of government." That "Britain is immensely rich,
+and great, and powerful, has fleets and armies at her command, which
+have been the dread and terror of the universe, and that the will force
+her own judgment into execution, right or wrong." But let me intreat
+you, Sir, to pause--Do you consider yourself as a missionary of loyalty
+or of rebellion? Are you not representing your K--, his Ministry and
+Parliament, as tyrants, imperious, unrelenting tyrants, by such
+reasoning as this?--Is not this representing your most gracious
+Sovereign, as endeavouring to destroy the foundations of his own
+throne?--Are you not representing every Member of Parliament as
+renouncing the transactions at _Runyn Mead_; [the meadow, near Windsor,
+where _Magna Charta_ was signed,] and as repealing in effect the bill of
+rights, when the Lords and Commons asserted and vindicated the rights of
+the people and their own rights, and insisted on the King's assent to
+that assertion and vindication? Do you not represent them, as forgetting
+that the Prince of Orange was created King William by the People, on
+purpose that their rights might be eternal and inviolable?--Is there not
+something extremely fallacious, in the common place images of mother
+country and children colonies? Are we the children of Great Britain, any
+more than the cities of London, Exeter and Bath? Are we not brethren and
+fellow-subjects, with those in Britain, only under a somewhat different
+method of legislation, and a totally different method of taxation? But
+admitting we are children, have not children a right to complain when
+their parents are attempting to break their limbs, to administer poison,
+or to sell them to enemies for slaves? Let me intreat you to consider,
+will the mother be pleased, when you represent her as deaf to the cries
+of her children? When you compare her to the infamous miscreant, who
+lately stood on the gallows for starving her child? When you resemble
+her to Lady Macbeth in Shakespear, (I cannot think of it without horror)
+
+  Who "had given suck, and knew
+      "How tender 'twas to love the babe that milk'd her."
+  But yet, who could
+      "Even while 'twas smiling in her face,
+  "Have pluck'd her nipple from the boneless gums,
+      "And dash'd the brains out."
+
+Let us banish for ever from our minds, my countrymen, all such unworthy
+ideas of the K--g, his Ministry, and Parliament. Let us not suppose,
+that all are become luxurious, effeminate and unreasonable, on the other
+side the water, as many designing persons would insinuate. Let us
+presume, what is in fact true, that the spirit of liberty is as ardent
+as ever among the body of the nation, though a few individuals may be
+corrupted.--Let us take it for granted, that the same great spirit,
+which once gave Caesar so warm a reception; which denounced hostilities
+against John, 'till Magna Charta was signed; which severed the head of
+Charles the First from his body, and drove James the Second from his
+kingdom; the same great spirit (MAY HEAVEN PRESERVE IT TILL THE EARTH
+SHALL BE NO MORE!) which first seated the great grandfather of his
+present most gracious Majesty on the throne of Britain, is still alive
+and active, and warm in England; and that the same spirit in America,
+instead of provoking the inhabitants of that country, will endear us to
+them for ever, and secure their good-will.
+
+This spirit, however, without knowledge, would be little better than a
+brutal rage.----Let us tenderly and kindly cherish therefore the means
+of knowledge. Let us dare to read, think, speak and write.----Let every
+order and degree among the people rouse their attention and animate
+their resolution.--Let them all become attentive to the grounds and
+principles of government, ecclesiastical and civil.--Let us study the
+law of nature; search into the spirit of the British constitution; read
+the histories of ancient ages; contemplate the great examples of Greece
+and Rome; set before us the conduct of our own British ancestors, who
+have defended, for _us_, the inherent rights of mankind against foreign
+and domestic tyrants and usurpers, against arbitrary kings and cruel
+priests, in short against the gates of earth and hell.--Let us read and
+recollect, and impress upon our souls the views and ends of our own more
+immediate forefathers, in exchanging their native country for a dreary,
+inhospitable wilderness. Let us examine into the nature of that power,
+and the cruelty of that oppression which drove them from their homes.
+Recollect their amazing fortitude, their bitter sufferings! The hunger,
+the nakedness, the cold, which they patiently endured! The severe
+labours of clearing their grounds, building their houses, raising their
+provisions, amidst dangers from wild beasts and savage men, before they
+had time or money, or materials for commerce! Recollect the civil and
+religious principles, and hopes, and expectations, which constantly
+supported and carried them through all hardships, with patience and
+resignation! Let us recollect it was liberty! The hope of liberty for
+themselves and us and ours, which conquered all discouragements, dangers
+and trials!----In such researches as these, let us all in our several
+departments chearfully engage! But especially the proper patrons and
+supporters of law, learning and religion.
+
+Let the pulpit resound with the doctrines and sentiments of religious
+liberty.----Let us hear the danger of thraldom to our consciences, from
+ignorance, extream poverty and dependance, in short from civil and
+political slavery.--Let us see delineated before us, the true map of
+man. Let us hear the dignity of his nature, and the noble rank he holds
+among the works of GOD! that consenting to slavery is a sacrilegious
+breach of trust, as offensive in the sight of GOD, as it is derogatory
+from our own honour, or interest or happiness; and that GOD ALMIGHTY has
+promulgated from heaven, liberty, peace, and good-will to man!----
+
+Let the Bar proclaim, "the laws, the rights, the generous plan of
+power," delivered down from remote antiquity; inform the world of the
+mighty struggles, and numberless sacrifices, made by our ancestors, in
+the defence of freedom.--Let it be known, that British liberties are not
+the grants of princes or parliaments, but original rights, conditions of
+original contracts, co-equal with prerogative, and co-eval with
+government.--That many of our rights are inherent and essential, agreed
+on as maxims and established as preliminaries, even before a parliament
+existed.--Let them search for the foundation of British laws and
+government in the frame of human nature, in the constitution of the
+intellectual and moral world.--There let us see, that truth, liberty,
+justice, and benevolence, are its everlasting basis; and if these could
+be removed, the superstructure is overthrown of course.--
+
+Let the colleges join their harmony, in the same delightful
+concert.--Let every declamation turn upon the beauty of liberty and
+virtue, and the deformity, turpitude and malignity of slavery and
+vice.--Let the public disputations become researches into the grounds
+and nature and ends of government, and the means of preserving the good
+and demolishing the evil.--Let the dialogues and all the exercises
+become the instruments of impressing on the tender mind, and of
+spreading and distributing, far and wide, the ideas of right and the
+sensations of freedom.
+
+In a word, let every sluice of knowledge be opened and set a flowing.
+The encroachments upon liberty, in the reigns of the first James and the
+first Charles, by turning the general attention of learned men to
+government, are said to have produced the greatest number of consummate
+statesmen, which has ever been seen in any age, or nation. The Brooke's,
+Hamden's, Falkland's, Vane's, Milton's, Nedham's, Harrington's,
+Neville's, Sydney's, Locke's, are all said to have owed their eminence
+in political knowledge, to the tyrannies of those reigns. The prospect,
+now before us, in America, ought, in the same manner, to engage the
+attention of every man of learning to matters of power and of right,
+that we may be neither led nor driven blindfolded to irretrievable
+destruction.----_Nothing less than this seems to have been meditated for
+us, by somebody or other in Great Britain._ There seems to be a direct
+and formal design on foot, to enslave all America.--This however must
+be done by degrees.----The first step that is intended seems to be an
+entire subversion of the whole system of our Fathers, by the
+introduction of the canon and feudal law, into America.----The canon and
+feudal systems though greatly mutilated in England, are not yet
+destroyed. Like the temples and palaces, in which the great contrivers
+of them were once worshiped and inhabited, they exist in ruins; and much
+of the domineering spirit of them still remains.--The designs and
+labours of a certain society, to introduce the former of them into
+America, have been well exposed to the public by a writer of great
+abilities; and the further attempts to the same purpose that may be made
+by that society, or by the ministry or parliament, I leave to the
+conjectures of the thoughtful.--But it seems very manifest from the
+Stamp Act itself, that a design is formed to strip us in a great measure
+of the means of knowledge, by loading the Press, the Colleges, and even
+an Almanack and a News-Paper, with restraints and duties; and to
+introduce the inequalities and dependencies of the feudal system, by
+taking from the poorer sort of people all their little subsistence, and
+conferring it on a set of stamp officers, distributors and their
+deputies.--But I must proceed no farther at present.--The sequel,
+whenever I shall find health and leisure to pursue it, will be a
+"disquisition of the policy of the stamp act."----In the mean time,
+however, let me add, These are not the vapours of a melancholy mind, nor
+the effusions of envy, disappointed ambition, nor of a spirit of
+opposition to government: but the emanations of an heart that burns for
+its country's welfare. No one of any feeling, born and educated in this
+once happy country, can consider the numerous distresses, the gross
+indignities, the barbarous ignorance, the haughty usurpations, that we
+have reason to fear are meditating for ourselves, our children, our
+neighbours, in short for all our countrymen, and all their posterity,
+without the utmost agonies of heart, and many tears.
+
+FINIS.
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's Notes:
+18th Century English typography has been modernized for ease of reading,
+for example, long-s has been rendered using an ordinary s. Spelling
+conventions of the times have been maintained.
+
+Several misprints and punctuation errors corrected.
+
+Page 7, Added close quotes to end of quotation.
+
+Page 13, "achievements" spelled "atchievements" Left as is.
+
+Page 26, Added close quotes to end of quotation.
+
+Page 43, "necessay" changed to "necessary".
+
+Page 77, "extrardinary" changed to "extraordinary".
+
+Page 87, "achieved" spelled "atchieved" Left as is.
+
+Ligatures removed in ASCII Version: man[oe]oeuvres to manoeuvres,
+[oe]conomy to oeconomy.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of A Collection of State-Papers, Relative
+to the First Acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the United States of America, by John Adams
+
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