We beg leave to assure Congress that we shall apply our best endeavors to execute this new commission to their satisfaction, and shall punctually obey such instructions as they may be pleased to give us relative to it. Unless Congress have nominated a Secretary to that commission, we shall consider ourselves at liberty to appoint one; and as we are satisfied with the conduct of Mr Franklin, the Secretary to our late commission, we propose to appoint him, leaving it to Congress to make such compensation for his services as they may judge proper. Count de Vergennes communicated to us a proposition, viz. herewith enclosed,[22] for explaining the 2d and 3d Articles of our treaty with France in a manner different from the sense in which we understand them. This being a matter in which we have no right to interfere, we have not expressed any opinion about it to the Court. With great respect, we have the honor to be, Sir, your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servants, JOHN ADAMS, B. FRANKLIN, JOHN JAY. FOOTNOTES: [18] See Mr Adams's proposed agreement, above, p. 151. [19] See Mr Hartley's proposed agreement, p. 154. [20] Above, p. 182. [21] See above, p. 195. [22] See above, p. 146. * * * * * FROM CONGRESS TO THE COMMISSIONERS. October 29th, 1783. By the United States in Congress assembled. To the Commissioners of the United States of America at the Court of Versailles, empowered to negotiate a peace, or to any one or more of them; 1st. You are instructed and authorised to announce to his Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Germany, or to his Ministers, the high sense which the United States in Congress assembled entertain of his exalted character and eminent virtues, and their earnest desire to cultivate his friendship, and to enter into a treaty of amity and commerce for the mutual advantage of the subjects of his Imperial Majesty, and the citizens of these United States.