Although the services of GENERAL LAFAYETTE to the United States were rendered chiefly in the military line, yet he contributed very essentially by his efforts, and the weight of his personal character, to promote the interests of our foreign relations. When he left the United States at the close of the year 1781, Congress instructed the American Ministers abroad to consult him on the public affairs of the United States. His correspondence with Congress, now to be published, will show how effectually he executed his trust in this respect, and how deeply and constantly he watched over the interests of his adopted country, long after his return to Europe. These letters are a testimony not more of his patriotism, love of liberty, the warmth of his affections, and the fulness of his gratitude, than of his close observation, correct opinions, and enlarged views on political affairs. THE CORRESPONDENCE OF GENERAL LAFAYETTE. * * * * * RESOLVE OF CONGRESS RESPECTING GENERAL LAFAYETTE. In Congress, November 23d, 1781. On the report of a Committee, consisting of Mr Carroll, Mr Madison, and Mr Cornell, to whom was referred a letter of the 22d, from Major-General the Marquis de Lafayette, _Resolved_, That Major-General the Marquis de Lafayette, have permission to go to France; and that he return at such time as shall be most convenient to him. That he be informed, that on a review of his conduct throughout the past campaign, and particularly during the period in which he had the chief command in Virginia, the many new proofs, which present themselves of his zealous attachment to the cause he has espoused, and of his judgment, vigilance, gallantry, and address in its defence, have greatly added to the high opinion entertained by Congress of his merits and military talents. That he make known to the officers and troops whom he commanded during that period, that the brave and enterprising services with which they seconded his zeal and efforts, and which enabled him to defeat the attempts of an enemy far superior in numbers, have been beheld by Congress with particular satisfaction and approbation. That the Secretary of Foreign Affairs acquaint the Ministers Plenipotentiary of the United States, that it is the desire of Congress that they should confer with the Marquis de Lafayette, and avail themselves of his information relative to the situation of public affairs in the United States. That the Secretary of Foreign Affairs further acquaint the Minister Plenipotentiary at the Court of Versailles, that he will conform to the intention of Congress by consulting with, and employing the assistance of the Marquis de Lafayette, in accelerating the supplies, which may be afforded by his Most Christian Majesty for the use of the United States.