The British Government, however, refused to treat under the mediation of Russia; but proposed at the same time to meet American Commissioners either at London or Gottenburg.

Messrs.
Gallatin and Bayard withdrew from St.Petersburg in January, 1814, leaving Mr.Adams in the discharge of his duties as resident Minister.
The proposition of the British Ministry to negotiate for peace, at London or Gottenburg was accepted by the United States.

Mr.Adams and Messrs.
Bayard, Clay, Russell, and Gallatin, were appointed Commissioners, and directed to proceed to Gottenburg for that purpose.

Mr.Adams received his instructions in April, 1814; and as soon as preparations for departure could be made, took passage for Stockholm.

After repeated delays, on account of the difficulties of navigation at that early season in the northern seas, he arrived at that city on the 25th of May.