. 49 



" 16. To conclude : You go, Sir, tx) France, to strengthen our friend- 

 ship with that country, and you are well acquainted with the line of 

 freedom and ease to which you may advance, without betraying the 

 dignity of the United States. You will shew our confidence in the 

 French RepubUc, without betraying the most remote mark of undue 

 complaisance. You will let it be seen, that in case of war with any 

 nation on earthy we shall consider France as our first and natural ally. 

 You may dwell upon the sense which we entertain of past services, and 

 for the more recent interposition in our behalf with the Dey of Algiers. 

 Among the great events with which the world is now teeming, there 

 may be an opening for France to become instrumental in securing to us 

 the free navigation of the Mississippi. Spain may perhaps negotiate a 

 peace, separate from Great Britain, with France. If she does, the 

 Mississippi may be acquired through this channel, especially if you con- 

 trive to have our mediation in any manner solicited. 



" With every wish for your welfare, and an honourable issue to your 

 ministry, 



** I am, Sir, 



'* Your most obedient Servant, - 



-EDW: RANDOLPH. 

 " Colo. James Monroe, 



" Minister Plenipy. to the Repub. of France." 



Mr. S. HuGGiNs read the first part of a Paper on " Fine Art : its 

 Nature, Relations, and Tendencies." 



Mr. Thomas Dorning Hibbert read a short biographical sketch of 

 President Bradshaw, from original documents. He also exhibited a 

 genuine autograph. 



