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128

WILLIAM, EARL OF SHELBURNE

CH. IV

Make early and strict conditions, not only to secure all debts whatever due to British subjects, but likewise to restore the Loyalists to a full enjoyment of their rights and privileges. And their indemnification to be considered. Lord Shelburne will never give up the Loyalists. The Penn family have been sadly used, and Lord Shelburne is personally interested for them, and thinks it his duty to be so for all.

The private paper desires Canada for three reasons:—

1st. By way of reparation.—Answer. No reparation can be heard of.

2nd. To prevent future wars.—Answer. It is to be hoped that some more friendly method will be found.

3rd. Loyalists, as a fund of indemnification to them.—Answer. No independence to be acknowledged without their being taken care of. A compensation expected for New York, Charlestown, and Savannah. Penobscot to be always kept.[1]

Such were the instructions with which Oswald left England. He was also the bearer of a letter from Shelburne to Franklin which ran as follows:

"I have received much satisfaction in being assured by you, that the qualifications of wisdom and integrity, which induced me to make choice of Mr. Oswald, as the fittest instrument for the renewal of our friendly intercourse, have also recommended him so effectually to your approbation and esteem. I most heartily wish that the influence of this first communication of our mutual sentiments may be extended to a happy conclusion of all our public differences.

"The candour with which M. le Comte de Vergennes expresses his most Christian Majesty's sentiments and wishes on the subject of a speedy pacification, is a pleasing omen of its accomplishment. His Majesty is not less decided in the same sentiments and wishes, and it confirms his Majesty's Ministers in their intention to act in like manner, as most consonant to the true dignity of a great nation.

"In consequence of these reciprocal advantages, Mr. Oswald is sent back to Paris, for the purpose of arranging and settling with you the preliminaries of time and place:

  1. ↑ Lansdowne House MSS.
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