Since the departure of my express I find myself obliged, in conformity to Colonel Laurens's instructions (from which as his Agent I cannot recede unless compelled thereto by forcible means, and which, unless such are practised against me, I must carry into execution) to retain the money which he has confided to my care, and which the Minister of Finance's order makes de-liverable to me specially,— and to arrest it in the hands of Mr. Fiseaux should he continue to refuse the delivery of it but by Your Excellency's orders— I rely upon your Excellency's attachment to the welfare of America to prevent this painful operation, which must inevitably take place should your determination decide otherwise—for, as this money is subject to no other controul in Europe but the immediate order of the Court of France—I cannot relinquish my charge of it but by their special Order.

I have the honor to be, Sir, Your Excellency's most obedient, very humble Servant.