XII.

_See Page 231._ A letter addressed to his government in October, 1794, by the minister of the French republic was intercepted by the captain of a British frigate and forwarded to Mr.Hammond, by whom it was delivered about the last of July to the secretary of the treasury, who, on the arrival of the President in Philadelphia, placed it in his hands.

This letter alluded to communications from Mr.Randolph which, in the opinion of the President, were excessively improper.

The ecclaircissements which the occasion required were followed by the resignation of the secretary.

For the purpose, he alleged, of vindicating his conduct, he demanded a sight of a confidential letter which had been addressed to him by the President, and which was left in the office.