Several States, perceiving the inconveniences of the present uncertainty, seemed disposed to provide a remedy for it by domestic laws; but the undersigned has not been willing to urge them, without being previously informed of the sentiments of Congress on this subject. He consequently requests that body to be pleased to inform him of them, and if they think proper that the daily complaints should be redressed by provisional regulations, while waiting till the subject shall be acted upon by a convention, to recommend this matter itself to the Legislatures of the several States. The regulations which they may make will show by experience, whether they are calculated to effect this object. They will throw light upon the rules observed among all commercial nations, and will give to the United States in general an opportunity of becoming acquainted with the manner in which the commerce between the two nations can be regulated, according to the principles of justice and equality, which should form the foundation of all the connexions that shall subsist between them, and according to the principles and forms which vary in different States.
The Minister Plenipotentiary of France, has already had the honor to recommend to Congress the request made by the King's navy agent in relation to the expedition of the ship Defence, loaded with provisions for Cape François. He renews his entreaties by the present Memorial. The quantity of provisions on board this vessel is so inconsiderable, particularly considering the abundance of old grain which we see now, that the undersigned hopes that Congress will think that the exportation of them may be allowed, without injury to the service of the army or of the public. The undersigned, however, offers to have these same provisions received, so as to be deducted from the quantity promised for his Majesty's squadron, and particularly the flour, on account of the thousand barrels, to which the eighteen thousand, promised for the same service, have been reduced. The want of provisions is so great at Cape François, particularly in the vessels of Count d'Estaing's squadron, which are stationed there to protect the reciprocal commerce, that the said Minister is ready to subscribe to whatever conditions Congress shall think proper to impose with regard to this expedition. But he requests with the greatest earnestness, that they would be pleased not to defer giving a positive answer, in order not to increase, if its decision is in the negative, the costs and expenses which the King will be obliged to pay to the proprietors and fitters out of the said vessel.