TO JOHN ADAMS.

Paris, May 11, 1786.

Dear Sir,

I do myself the honor of enclosing to you, letters which came to hand
last night, from Mr. Lambe, Mr. Carmichael, and Mr. Barclay. By these
you will perceive, that our peace is not to be purchased at Algiers but
at a price far beyond our powers. What that would be, indeed, Mr. Lambe
does not say, nor probably does he know. But as he knew our ultimatum,
we are to suppose from his letter, that it would be a price infinitely
beyond that. A reference to Congress hereon seems to be necessary. Till
that can be obtained, Mr. Lambe must be idle at Algiers, Carthagena, or
elsewhere. Would he not be better employed in going to Congress?
They would be able to draw from him and Mr. Randall, the information
necessary to determine what they will do. And if they determine to
negotiate, they can re-appoint the same, or appoint a new negotiator,
according to the opinion they shall form on their examination. I suggest
this to you as my first thoughts; an ultimate opinion should not be
formed till we see Mr. Randall, who may be shortly expected. In the mean
time, should an opportunity occur, favor me with your ideas hereon that
we may be maturing our opinions. I shall send copies of these three
letters to Mr. Jay, by the packet which sails from L'Orient the first of
the next month.

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