§ From Sylvanus Bourne. 28 October 1806, Amsterdam. “The Campaign between the French & Prussian Armies opened on the 8th. Instant & it appears that Success remains faithful to the french Standard & that the Prussians have been beaten in every conflict & particularly on the 14t1 in a most decisive manner. The Policy of Prussia in having (for successive years) remained neutral a silent Witness of the subjugation of the rest of Europe by the arms of France & that She now comes forth to combat with her alone under such unequal chances is truly incomprehensible nor will She in her disasters find the consolation which misfortune meets in the sympathy of others as her fate is regarded as well merited by all the Surrounding Powers.

“Great Britain flushed with the prospect of a new Coalition which shoud relieve her from her present embrassment no sooner saw the Signal of war erected between France & Prussia than Lord Lauderdale was recalled & the great work of peace postponed to a more auspicious2 but when this will arrive is indeed uncertain as her most Sanguine hopes on this Score are repeatedly followed up by mortification & dissappointment.

“I have sent by this vessell a letter from the King of Holland to the President of the U States announcing the event of his Coming to the throne & which I hope may arrive in safety.”3