We begin to expect to hear of the Proceedings of the Congress soon. I hope it is composed not of headstrong violent and unreasonable Men, but of plain, honest, cool, dispassionate, and impartial Representatives of the People; more ready to heal than to spread Misunderstandings, and perfectly disposed to promote a Reconciliation with the Mother Country by every Means in their Power, consistent with the Happiness and Liberty of their Constituents. If this should luckily happen to be the Case, I expect to see You quickly return to us with the Olive Branch in Your Hand, invested with full Powers to terminate all Differences upon reasonable and solid Terms. Believe me, I think so well of this Office that I hope it is actually reserved for You, and that the successful Conclusion of so important a Treaty will crown the Operations of a Life spent in the Investigation of every useful Branch of Knowledge, and in the Service of his Country in particular. This is truly worthy of your highest Ambition, and I still hope to see it gratified in this Respect, however Appearances seem at present to be against it.