The importance and delicate nature of the negotiations upon which Douglas was about to be employed—and not Douglas only, but D’Eon also, sent with the King’s approval, at the strong recommendation of the Prince de Conti (whose special _protégé_ he was), to accompany Douglas—will best be estimated upon knowledge of the instructions—widely though they differed—supplied for their respective guidance. They show that whilst Douglas was secretly to watch and note events as an apparently indifferent observer, it was intended that D’Eon should pass his time in closest intimacy with such Russian ministers as might be favourably disposed towards France, and reach, were it possible, even the Empress herself. [Sidenote: THE CHEVALIER DOUGLAS’ INSTRUCTIONS.] _Instructions to the Chevalier Douglas on proceeding to Russia._ ‘June 1, 1755. ‘The general situation of Europe, the troubles in Poland during the past year, others apprehended in the same quarter, the part taken in them by the Court of Petersburg, the probability that it is about to conclude, shortly, a treaty of subsidies with England through the Chevalier Williams, appointed Ambassador by his Britannic Majesty to the Emperor of Russia; everything points to the necessity for watching the proceedings and attitude of that Court with the closest attention. ‘His Majesty has not been represented there by any ambassador, minister, or even a consul, for a long time past, so that its condition is almost entirely unknown, especially as the character of the people, and the jealous and suspicious despotism of their ministers, disallows such correspondence as is customary in other countries. ‘It is considered desirable to despatch a competent person, with the view of obtaining reliable information on what is passing at the Court of Russia; he will not let it appear that he is in any public or private capacity, and will return immediately to make his report. A Frenchman would not answer the purpose. Notwithstanding the friendship which the Empress of Russia is supposed to entertain towards his Majesty, and her partiality towards the French nation, a subject of the King would be watched too closely by the ministry in Russia to be of any service, under whatsoever pretext he might cloak the object of his journey. It is on this account that —— has been chosen, who, being a subject of the King of Great Britain, will not excite suspicion. The favourable reports that have been received of his intelligence and zeal give reason to hope that he will execute this commission with success.