The Providence Journal, And Town And Country Advertiser

FROM FRANCE—DIRECT

There are several letters in town dated from Paris, in which the subject of the existing difficulties between the two countries, is freely discussed. All we have seen concur in applauding the manly and dignified opposition made in the United States to French hostility; and that the spirited and patriotic measures adopted by Congress, and seconded by the people's voice and offerings, have had the most penetrating effect in Europe.—That they had inspired the neutral nations with confidence; and that the language of complaint, which before had been heard only in whispers, had assumed the style of injured virtue. At the same time that it had effected an entire change in the language of the French Directory. Instead of that contumely and hauteur which have unceasingly been exhibited for years, nothing was to be heard from the Directory Agents but the accents of peace, mildness and friendship. As if waking from a trance, the Directory appeared to be convinced that its rigorous conduct to neutrals had not only been hurtful to France, but had been beneficial to its enemies; and that it ought to be renounced, even at the expense of its pride, provided a similar disposition should be manifested by its opponents:—that in consequence, it apparently meditated to repeal all the acts of France, authorizing the capture of neutral property against the law of nations, as impolitic and unjust:—That the Directory is aware its apparent mildness will be ascribed to fear; but it seems willing to have it appear as a return of justice:—That it knows America to be united to resist all depredations from any power whatever; and that the writers think the present the most favourable period for a reconciliation that could have happened; provided the United States do not in the least degree relax the efficient measures which have produced the change.

The above are the opinions of well informed men. If, however, the Directory of France is sincere in its friendly and mild desire to do justice, and effect a reconciliation—let it give evidence in deeds—let it repeal its laws—restore the plundered American property—call in its privateers, and release the American vessels in its ports from durance. Let it do these, and the President of the United States has declared the door of reconciliation to be open, and until it does these, the United States will not relax a fibre in her preparations for war.