The New Hampshire Gazette And General Advertiser

DECEMBER 24.

The following are the terms proposed by the Dutch Ministry, appointed to treat with the Russian Ambassador, under the Empress's mediation, for a peace with England, and the English answers.

I. A suspension of hostilities to be immediately declared.

Answer, Agreed.

II. A general restoration, on both sides, of all places taken, or to be taken, to the day of signing the treaty.

Ans. Agreed, with this exception, that the island of St. Eustatius shall remain in the hands of England, till she either subdues her American rebels, or makes peace with them, as a hostage that the Dutch shall not supply them with arms or military stores.

III. In case of Holland being attacked by the House of Bourbon, England to furnish 10,000 troops and 20 sail of the line to assist her.

Ans. Such an article must be exactly mutual: England agrees to such conditions, provided Holland stipulates the same support to England, who being at present attacked, demands her immediate alliance.

IV. A free navigation is demanded, without right of search, on any pretence whatever.

An. The treaties, with the law of nations, on which this point depends, must regulate it.

V. The Dutch barrier, of which England is guarantee, not to be demolished.

An. England will use all good offices with the Emperor, to engage him not to demolish it.

This was the opening of the negotiation; and the Russian Minister declared, that England must unequivocally agree to a positive free trade, and that Holland should not be forced into a war with France. These points were to be discussed before Van Berckel should be named; and, if satisfactorily agreed, an apology to be made to the King of England.