XXVI
TO COUNT DE VERGENNES
Passy, 13 February, 1781.
SIR: —I have just received from Congress their
letter for the king, which I have the honor of putting
herewith into the hands of your Excellency. I am
charged, at the same time, to represent, in the
strongest terms, the unalterable resolution of the
United States to maintain their liberties and independence;
 and inviolably to adhere to the alliance at
every hazard and in every event; and that the misfortunes
 of the last campaign, instead of repressing,
have redoubled their ardor; that Congress are resolved
 to employ every resource in their power to
expel the enemy from every part of the United States,
by the most vigorous and decisive co-operation with
marine and other forces of their illustrious ally; that
they have accordingly called on the several States
for a powerful army and ample supplies of provisions:
and that the States are disposed effectually to comply
 with their requisitions. That if, in aid of their
Own exertions, the court of France can be prevailed
on to assume a naval superiority in the American

223