Semi-annual statements of the public indebtedness were now begun.

The expenses of the government were steadily and inflexibly cut down to meet the diminishing income.

A loan was negotiated in Holland, and, with the aid of Franklin, the amount of indebtedness to France was established.
The public debt on January 1, 1783, was $42,000,375, of which $7,885,088 was foreign, bearing four and five per cent.

interest; and $34,115,290 was held at home at six per cent.

The total amount of interest was $2,415,956.