I wish, however, that a consul general may soon be appointed for this kingdom; it would ease me of abundance of troublesome business to which I am not equal, and which interferes with my own important functions. The King having graciously complied with my request, of replacing the supplies lost in the Marquis de Lafayette, many hands are employed in providing them, who work hard to have them ready and shipped, so that they may arrive before winter. With the highest respect, I have the honor to be, &c. B. FRANKLIN. _P. S._ The copying machine for Mr Secretary Thompson is in hand, and will soon be finished and sent to him. * * * * * JOHN ADAMS TO B. FRANKLIN. Amsterdam, October 4th, 1781. Sir, Your Excellency's letter of June 11th, is yet unanswered. I have the honor to agree with your Excellency in opinion, that it is reasonable that articles of rent of the hotel, payment of couriers, postage of letters, salaries of clerks, stationary for the bureau, and feasts and illuminations made upon public occasions, should be deemed expenses of the States. Indeed, otherwise it will be impossible for American Ministers to live in any such manner as is expected of them, both by Europeans and Americans. I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, Sir, &c. &c. JOHN ADAMS. * * * * * ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO B. FRANKLIN. Philadelphia, October 20th, 1781. Dear Sir, Congress having lately thought it advisable to alter the arrangement of their great executive departments, and to dissolve the Boards and Committees under whose direction they formerly were, I am to inform you, that they have done me the honor to appoint me their Secretary of Foreign Affairs; in which capacity they have made it my duty, as it will always be my inclination, to maintain an intimate and regular correspondence with you. I have this day taken the oaths of office, and as the recital of fortunate events is the most pleasing task annexed to it, I shall give you a short sketch of the state of our military operations.