University of Virginia Library

TO MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE.[6]

It is a real mortification to me that another favorable
opportunity has occurred without my being able
to add a word to what you know on the state of your
land affairs in the hands of Mr. Duplantier. I have
not recd. a line from him, since He stated the difficulty
which had presented itself in the completion of a
part of his locations, and the advice of Mr. Gallatin
relating to it was transmitted to him. I wish he

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56

I inclose a paper containing the arrangement
concluded with G. Britain on the subject of her
orders in council. Genl. Armstrong is supplied with
a copy of them, and will expect from France a revocation
of her decrees, in conformity with the recitals
on which they are founded, as well as with the considerations
of justice, of friendship, and as we conceive
of her true interest. It will be a source of
deep regret if our dispositions to restore commercial
intercourse and maintain in every respect the most
fair, and friendly relations consistent with our neutral
character, should be met by perseverance in a
system, which must necessarily place the U. S. in a
very obvious & painful dilemma. I indulge a hope
that more favorable councils will prevail.

This will be handed to you by Mr. Gelston a worthy
& respectable young man, son of the collector at the
Port of New York, also of respectability & worth.
Mr. G. was formerly in Mr. Monroe's family at Paris.
He is now charged with despatches from the Dept.
of State to Genl. Armstrong.

Accept my dear Sir assurances of my sincerest
friendship and best wishes.