ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON. * * * * * ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO B. FRANKLIN. Philadelphia, September 12th, 1782. Sir, Since writing the above, I have received the enclosed resolutions of Congress. I have already anticipated all that can be said upon the subject of the last; the melancholy tale of our necessities is sufficiently known to you, it has been too often repeated to need recitation. Mr Morris, who writes from an empty Treasury amidst perpetual duns, will speak more feelingly. In short, money must be obtained for us at any rate, whether we have peace or war. France having already done much for us, and it not being probable that we shall extend our demands beyond the present, she may think it wise not to let us open accounts with a new banker, since the debtor is always more or less under obligations to the creditor. I have the honor to be, Sir, with respect and esteem, ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON. * * * * * TO DAVID HARTLEY. Passy, September 17th, 1782. My dear Friend, Since those acknowledged in my last, I have received your several favors of August the 16th, 20th, and 26th. I have been a long time afflicted with the gravel and gout, which have much indisposed me for writing. I am even now in pain, but will no longer delay some answer. I did not perfectly comprehend the nature of your appointment respecting the refugees, and I supposed you would in a subsequent letter explain it. But, as I now find you have declined the service, such explanation is become unnecessary. I did receive the paper you inquire about, entitled _Preliminaries_, and dated May, 1782, but it was from you, and I know nothing of their having been communicated to this Court. The third proposition, "that in case the negotiation between Great Britain and the allies of America should not succeed, but the war continue between them, America should act and be treated as a neutral nation," appeared at first sight inadmissible, being contrary to our treaty. The truce too seems not to have been desired by any of the parties. With unalterable esteem and affection, I am, my dear Friend, ever yours, &c. B. FRANKLIN. * * * * * ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO B. FRANKLIN. Philadelphia, September 18th, 1782. Sir,