Letter, 1786 May 06, Paris, [France], to Henry Skipwith, n.p.

Abstract

Asks him to research the existence of descendents in America of a "dancing master"; the British court is refusing to enter any negotiations with U.S. diplomats, either because of past animosities or for the purpose of "regulating our future conduct"; Jefferson proposes settling arguments over debts between parties in both countries by having the indebted pay only the interest that accrued before the war; arrangements between the U.S. and the "Pyratical states" of the Barbary Coast are uncertain, despite the former's attempts at diplomacy; Jefferson speculates that an expensive tribute will be demanded; Europe is temporarily at peace, but the expected death of the King of Prussia may change that; expresses reservations over Americans sending their sons to Europe for an education; "there is a great deal of ill to be learnt here by young people."