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

JAY TO JOHN ADAMS. 1 - John Jay, The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, vol. 3 (1782-1793) [1891]

Edition used:

The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, ed. Henry P. Johnston, A.M. (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1890-93). Vol. 3 (1782-1793).

Part of: The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, 4 vols.

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JAY TO JOHN ADAMS.1

Office for Foreign Affairs,
31st March, 1785.

Dear Sir:

I have the honour of transmitting to you herewith enclosed a certified copy of an act of Congress of the 21st instant, instructing you to communicate to Mr. St. Saphorin the high sense the United States, in Congress assembled, entertain of the liberal decision made by his Danish Majesty, on the question proposed to his minister by you, respecting the ordination of American candidates for holy orders in the Episcopal Church, commonly called the Church of England.2

Congress has been pleased to order me to transmit copies of your letter, and the other papers on this subject, to the executives of the different States; and I am persuaded they will receive with pleasure this mark of your attention, and of his Danish Majesty’s friendly disposition.

I have the honour to be, with great respect and esteem, dear sir, your most obedient and very humble servant,

John Jay.

[1 ]Now American Minister to Great Britain.

[2 ]In a circular letter of the same date, March 31st, to the Governors of the States, Jay informs them that “the Bishops of Denmark will confer holy orders on American Candidates without any tests which (like those insisted on in England) would be improper for Americans to comply with.”