We have the highest reason to conclude, that the preliminaries of a peace are signed before this. I have reason to hope that the terms of peace will comprize most of the great objects we have in view, and in some points almost exceed our expectations. The present policy of Britain is to make sacrifices to the Manes of the affection, which once subsisted between her and us. I have just put the last hand to our treaty of amity and commerce with the United Provinces by signing the ratification, which Congress have directed. I congratulate you upon this event, which adds not a little to our political importance. I have the honor to be, &c. ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON. * * * * * TO THOMAS JEFFERSON. Philadelphia, February 14th, 1783. Sir, I have delayed answering your favor of the 7th instant, till I could obtain the sense of Congress on the matter it contains. I conceive it hardly possible, while the British cruisers retain their present station, for you to elude their vigilance, in either of the ships offered to your choice. This, concurring with the late advices, from England, has induced Congress to pass the enclosed resolution. We have reason to conjecture that peace is already concluded, whether it is or not, a few days must determine. I transmit you the speech of His Britannic Majesty, which, with what you already know of the state of our negotiations, will enable you to form your opinion on the same ground that we do. I have the honor to be, &c. ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON. * * * * * TO THOMAS JEFFERSON. Philadelphia, February 18th, 1783. Sir, I was honored yesterday with your favor of the 14th, which I shall lay before Congress this morning. As you have by this time received their resolution, which I had the honor to send you by the last post, and again enclose, you will be relieved in some measure from your embarrassments, though not entirely from your suspense with respect to their final determination. But that cannot be long doubtful, since the negotiations have certainly arrived at such a crisis, as either to terminate soon in a peace, or a total rupture. In the latter case, you will necessarily be obliged to proceed on your voyage, as Congress seem anxious to avail themselves of your abilities and information in the negotiations; unless they are fully assured that a speedy peace will preclude them from that advantage.