About the Letter
In the first part of this August 17, 1795 letter, Monroe reiterates that he has not received correspondence from the Secretary, but has sent numerous letters to him. Secondly, he states that he will continue to do and say nothing in regards to the Jay Treaty, unless he is requested to by his superiors, even though the treaty has been publicized in American newspapers and will soon be made public in Parisian newspapers too. Monroe claims that he cannot speculate the French government's reaction to the treaty since he has not discussed the treaty with them. Monroe details the intelligence gathered by a secret agent for the French government; the intelligence indicates that Britain's policies regarding the treatment of French vessels reflect hostile relations. Monroe states that by treating the knowledge with contempt, he seemed to reassure the government of its falseness. He claims to have only mentioned it because, if ever brought to light, the Secretary will not be caught by surprise. Monroe reports that the new French constitution is expected to be completed within a few days and that he will forward a copy upon its completion. Monroe also updates the Secretary on the movements of Gen. Pichegru and the French army. Lastly, Monroe reiterates the unlikelihood of an upcoming peace between Britain and France.