Part of a two-volume set of autographs of Signers of the Declaration of Independence; see main record for MA 552-553 for more information.
Commenting on the situation in France and with the Estates-General; saying "They continue inactive, and many despair of their ever getting under way. The truth is that this revolution has gone on so happily till now & met with so few obstacles, that your countrymen are frightened at seeing that the machine is stopped and that no way yet presents itself of getting over the difficulty. I see nothing to fear as yet. The nation is in a movement which cannot be stopped. Their representatives, if they cannot get on one way, will try another. The mind of man is full of expedients, and this is the case where all will be tried. i think that in the end the Nobles will be obliged to yeild to the vote by persons, because the Tiers are more unanimous, more inflexible, and more formidable;" commenting on the role of the clergy; commenting on the King of England who "promises a long & wholsome inactivity in that kingdom, and may perhaps bridle the king of Prussia from making any effort to change the succession of the empire, which he would be disposed to attempt. - I should have observed to you that your parliaments have been for some time past as quiet as if they were already entombed;" concluding that he is "in hourly expectation of receiving my leave of absence, & shall leave Paris the instant I receive it."