When our instructions were made out, they were conceived on a general scale, and supposed that all the European nations would be disposed to form commercial connections with us.  It is evident, however, that a very different degree of importance was annexed to these different states.  Spain, Portugal, England, and France, were most important.  Holland, Sweden, Denmark, in a middling degree.  The others, still less so.  Spain treats in another line.  Portugal is disposed to do the same.  England will not treat at all; nor will France, probably, add to her former treaty.  Failing in the execution of these our capital objects, it has appeared to me, that the pushing the treaties with the lesser powers, might do us more harm than good, by hampering the measures the States may find it necessary to take, for securing those commercial interests, by separate measures, which is refused to be done here, in concert.  I have understood through various channels, that the members of Congress wished a change in our instructions.  I have, in my letter to Mr. Jay, of this date, mentioned the present situation and aspect of these treaties, for their information.

My letter of the 6th instant to Mr. Jay, having communicated what little there is new here, I have only to add assurances of the sincere esteem, with which I have the honor to be, Dear Sir,

your friend and servant,

Th:  Jefferson.

LETTER CXXIII.—­TO THE COUNT DE VERGENNES, October 11, 1785

TO THE COUNT DE VERGENNES.

Paris, October 11, 1785.

Sir,

I have the honor of enclosing to your Excellency, a report of the voyage of an American ship, the first which has gone to China.  The circumstance which induces Congress to direct this communication, is the very friendly conduct of the consul of his Majesty at Macao, and of the commanders and other officers of the French vessels in those seas.  It has been with singular satisfaction, that Congress have seen these added to the many other proofs of the cordiality of this nation towards our citizens.  It is the more pleasing, when it appears in the officers of government, because it is then viewed as an emanation of the spirit of the government.  It would be an additional gratification to Congress, in this particular instance, should any occasion arise of notifying those officers, that their conduct has been justly represented to your Excellency, on the part of the United States, and has met your approbation.  Nothing will be wanting, on our part, to foster corresponding dispositions in our citizens, and we hope that proofs of their actual existence have appeared, and will appear, whenever, occasion shall offer.  A sincere affection between the two people, is the broadest basis on which their peace can be built.

It will always be among the most pleasing functions of my office, to be made the channel of communicating the friendly sentiments of the two governments.  It is additionally so, as it gives me an opportunity of assuring your Excellency of the high respect and esteem, with which I have the honor to be,