Our agent here is in high estimation. I really believe, from everything I hear, that he has done his duty faithfully, and that he well deserves the notice and approbation of Congress. This leads me to take the liberty of remarking, that it would, probably, be much for the public interest, if Congress were to pay off all private debts due from them to subjects of France, and have none but national engagements with that kingdom. The debts unavoidably contracted here, for the outfit of the Deane, &c. ought certainly to be paid. Our credit and reputation suffer from such delay. We sail tomorrow morning, at six o'clock. I have the honor to be, &c. JOHN JAY. * * * * * TO ARTHUR LEE. Cadiz, January 26th, 1780. Sir, As a knowledge of the measures you may have taken and the information you may have acquired, relative to the objects of your commission from the United States of America to conclude treaties with his Catholic Majesty, would probably enable me with greater facility and advantage to execute the duties of my appointment, permit me, Sir, to request the favor of you to communicate the same to me in such manner as you may judge most prudent. I have in my possession some letters directed to you; they are voluminous, and probably contain printed papers. They may also be confidential and important to you. Under these circumstances I can only judge of your inclination by what would be my own in a similar situation. I should wish that they might be detained till I could have an opportunity of directing the manner of their conveyance. Upon this principle they shall remain among my papers till I receive your orders what to do with them.[15] I am, Sir, &c. JOHN JAY. FOOTNOTE: [15] See the answer to this letter in Arthur Lee's Correspondence, Vol. II, p. 276. * * * * * TO THE COUNT DE VERGENNES. Cadiz, January 27th, 1780. Sir, It is with very sensible pleasure that I commence a correspondence with a Minister, of whose disposition and abilities to promote the happiness of my country we have received repeated proofs, and on a subject that affords His Most Christian Majesty an opportunity of perceiving the desire and endeavors of the United States to become cordial and steadfast friends and allies to an illustrious branch of his royal house.