1216. CHERBOURG, Harbor of.—
The King's visit to Cherbourg has made a great sensation
in England and here [France]. It proves
to the world, that it is a serious object to this
country, and that the King commits himself for
the accomplishment of it. Indeed, so many
cones have been sunk, that no doubt remains of
the practicability of it. It will contain, as is
said, eighty ships of the line, be one of the best
harbors in the world, and by means of two entrances,
on different sides, will admit vessels to
come in and go out with every wind. The effect
of this, in another war with England, defies
calculation.—
To James Monroe. Washington ed. i, 587.
Ford ed., iv, 245.
(P.
1786)
