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Front Page arrow Titles (by Subject) arrow THE DUKE DE LA VAUGUYON TO JOHN ADAMS. ( Translation. ) - The Works of John Adams, vol. 7 (Letters and State Papers 1777-1782)

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Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

THE DUKE DE LA VAUGUYON TO JOHN ADAMS. ( Translation. ) - John Adams, The Works of John Adams, vol. 7 (Letters and State Papers 1777-1782) [1852]

Edition used:

The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, Notes and Illustrations, by his Grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1856). 10 volumes. Vol. 7.

Part of: The Works of John Adams, 10 vols.

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THE DUKE DE LA VAUGUYON TO JOHN ADAMS.

(Translation.)

Sir,

I have received the letter you did me the honor to address to me from Amsterdam, the 1st instant. I am not in a situation to answer it in the capacity of King’s minister, not having any ulterior instructions on the subject to which it relates; but as you request my private opinion, I will give it to you with the greatest sincerity.

After having seriously reflected on the views which you have communicated to me, whatever inclination I may have to adopt your opinions, I cannot conceal from myself the inconveniences attending the execution of the plan, which you appear disposed to follow. I should apprehend that it might retard rather than accelerate the ultimate success, and I believe I have good reasons for this opinion. I shall have the honor of explaining more fully by word of mouth the motives which decide my conduct, if, as M. Dumas gives me to hope, you should visit the Hague in the course of a few days.

Receive, sir, my renewed assurances of inviolable attachment and profound respect, &c.

De la Vauguyon.