I received your Proposition for removing the stumbling Block. Your constant Desires of Peace ought to endear you to both sides; but this Proposition seems to be naturally impracticable. We can never think of quitting a solid Alliance made and ratified, in order to be in a State for receiving unknown Proposals of Peace which may vanish in the Discussion. The Truth is we have no kind of Faith in your Government, which appears to us as insidious and deceitful as it is unjust & cruel. Its Character is that of the Spider, in Thomson,

Besides we cannot see the Necessity of our relinquishing our Alliance with France in order to a Treaty, any more than of your relinquishing yours with Holland. I am ever Affectionately Yours