[3] The sense is broken here, owing to the omission of three lines in cypher, the key to which could not be found. * * * * * RICHARD OSWALD TO B. FRANKLIN. Paris, September 5th, 1782. Sir, In consequence of the notice I have just now had from Mr Jay of your desire of an extract from my last letter from the Secretary of State, regarding the proposed treaty on the subject of American affairs, and my authority in relation thereto, I take the liberty to send the same enclosed, which, together with the powers contained in the commission, which I had the honor of laying before you and Mr Jay, I am hopeful will satisfy you of the willingness and sincere desire of his Majesty to give you entire content on that important subject. This extract I would have sent before now, if I had thought you wished to have it before I had the honor of waiting on you myself; which was only delayed until I should be informed by Mr Jay, that you were well enough to see me upon business. I heartily wish you a recovery of your health, and am, with sincere esteem and regard, Sir, your most obedient humble servant, RICHARD OSWALD. * * * * * TO RICHARD OSWALD. Passy, September 8th, 1782. Sir, I have received the honor of yours, dated the 5th instant, enclosing an extract of a letter to your Excellency, from the right honorable Thomas Townshend, one of his Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, wherein your conduct in communicating to us the fourth article of your instructions appears to have been approved by his Majesty. I suppose, therefore, that there is no impropriety in my requesting a copy of that instruction; and if you see none, I wish to receive it from you, hoping it may be of use in removing some of the difficulties that obstruct our proceeding.[4] With great and sincere esteem, I am, Sir, your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant, B. FRANKLIN. FOOTNOTE: [4] Copy of the Fourth Article of his Majesty's instructions to Richard Oswald, for his government in treating with the Commissioners of the Thirteen United Colonies of America for a truce or peace, the said instructions being dated the 31st day of July, 1782, viz.