The British commissioners have made some propositions to ours about a convention for permitting the army to depart in peace; but as nothing was concluded, some doubts may still remain on this head; though you will find in Lord North's speech, in the enclosed paper, a passage that seems to take the evacuation for granted. As, however, I have reason to suppose, that they do not mean to rest contented with the loss of West Florida, and are apparently collecting a force for its reduction at Augustine, I should think it prudent to maintain so respectable a force in Georgia and South Carolina, as would discourage any attempts upon them in case the negotiations should prove abortive. A treaty is now on foot between Sweden and us. The commission to his Swedish Majesty's Minister, contains an ample and an honorable recognition of our independence. The committee charged with the arrangements for the establishment of a Minister from the United Provinces at this place, have reported to the States of Holland on his salary and appointments, so that the Diplomatic Corps here will shortly be increased. The general news of this place, as well as what relates particularly to the arrangements made and now making for the army, you will learn from Major Burnet, who does me the favor to be the bearer of this. It will not be necessary, therefore, to lengthen this further than to declare the sincere esteem and respect, with which I have the honor to be, Sir, &c. ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON. * * * * * TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Office of Foreign Affairs, March 13th, 1783. Sir, I have the honor to lay before Congress the enclosed letter from Mr Jefferson, who is waiting at this place their determination. As Major Burnet is now in town, and will be the bearer of despatches to General Greene, I take the liberty to request the earliest attention of Congress to those parts of the despatches submitted to them, that induce a belief that the enemy will turn their arms against West Florida, which the force they now have at Augustine renders probable. Congress may, perhaps, think it advisable to order that the force in the Southern States should be so respectable as to discourage a second attempt upon them in case the failure of the negotiation should occasion any change in the British Cabinet. I have the honor to be, &c. ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON. * * * * * TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Office of Foreign Affairs, March 18th, 1783. Sir,