In answer to the letter you did us the honor to write on the 4th instant, we beg leave to repeat what we often said in conversation, viz; that the restoration of such of the estates of refugees as have been confiscated is impracticable, because they were confiscated by laws of particular States, and in many instances have passed by legal titles through several hands. Besides, Sir, as this is a matter evidently appertaining to the internal polity of the separate States, the Congress, by the nature of our constitution, have no authority to interfere with it. As to your demand of compensation to those persons, we forbear enumerating our reasons for thinking it ill founded. In the moment of conciliatory overtures, it would not be proper to call certain scenes into view, over which a variety of considerations should induce both parties at present to draw a veil. Permit us therefore only to repeat, that we cannot stipulate for such compensation, unless on your part it be agreed, to make retribution to our citizens for the heavy losses they have sustained by the unnecessary destruction of private property. We have already agreed to an amnesty more extensive than justice required, and full as extensive as humanity could demand. We can therefore only repeat that it cannot be extended farther. We should be sorry, if the absolute impossibility of our complying further with your propositions, should induce Great Britain to continue the war for the sake of those who caused and prolonged it. But if that should be the case, we hope that the utmost latitude will not be again given to its rigors. Whatever may be the issue of this negotiation, be assured, Sir, that we shall always acknowledge the liberal, manly, and candid manner in which you have conducted it, and that we shall remain, with the warmest sentiments of esteem and regard, Sir, your most obedient and very humble servants, JOHN ADAMS, B. FRANKLIN, JOHN JAY. * * * * * TO H. STRACHEY. Paris, November 6th, 1782. Sir, We have been honored with your favor of the 5th inst., and as our answer to a letter we received from Mr Oswald on the same subject contains our unanimous sentiments respecting it, we take the liberty of referring you to the enclosed copy of that answer. We have the honor to be, &c. JOHN ADAMS, B. FRANKLIN, JOHN JAY. * * * * * _Third Set of Articles._