[dateline] Sunday / Paris 15th. Decr. 1782
[salute] Madam
I intended to have wrote largely by this Opportunity, but have been confined ever
since last Sunday night to my Bed and Chamber, with a most violent Cold, a kind of
Punishment for Pride and Curiosity. I was last Sunday at Versailles, the day was extremely
cold and foggy, much was to be seen, and but little time for the purpose. I drove
about without Hat and with thin Shoes all day long, gave up dinner to 'till 6. o Clock
in the Evening to gratify Curiosity. After seeing the Court and every thing else worthy
Notice, I returned to dinner at the Tavern, and from thence to Paris, sick. I had
taken Cold the Evening before at the Italien Comedy, by waiting a long time in a draft
of Air for the Carriage, but notwithstanding I must needs go to Versailles next day
and increase it. So much for Curiosity and Pride. I hope however to go abroad again
in a day or two, for 8. or 9. days punishment for a slight Sin of a day is proportion
enough. I never knew what a Cold or a Cough was before.
You will hear by this Opportunity, that the Preliminaries of a Peace between America
and England are signed.
1 This is a great Event and an important Step towards Peace. It has been announced
by the King of G. Britain in his Speech to both Houses of Parliament.
2 Thus the Language of “
unlimited Submission, America at my Feet,” is changed into the more manly Phrases of the United States, free, sovereign and
independent.
{ 49 } Your Counterpart (I dont say your better half) has written You several ways,
3 advising You not to venture out in the Spring. He has explained the Reasons, which
induced him to alter his Plan.
Duty and Respects where due. My Love to Miss N[abb]y. I would write to her, if I was able. To Masters Charley and Thommy.
[salute] With an invariable Respect, I have the Honor to be Madam &c.
[signed] JT