Autograph letter signed : Berlin, to Elbridge Gerry, 1797 Nov. 26.

Apologizing for the delay in answering his letter and referring to the "extreme illness of my wife since my arrival here;" saying that he "had indulged some hopes before the Revolution of 4 September that the extreme desire of our Country to be upon terms of Peace and harmony with France would not be disappointed, after the numerous and pointed proofs of that disposition which our Government had given : but since that time, and since the general acquiescence in France in the Events of that day, I have been convinced that we might inevitably come to the crisis which we have taken such pains to avert. - Upon the whole it may and I most cordially hope will be for the general advantage of our Country to undergo this trial, severe as its operation may be;" saying that soon after his arrival the King died and he had no opportunity to present his credentials, but his reception had been "perfectly agreeable and the Ministers in the department of foreign affairs have shewn every attention that I could wish, expressed much regret at the delays occasioned by this demise of the crown, and signified much satisfaction at this mission from the U.S."