Page:Kentucky Resolutions of 1798.djvu/29

Rh had not reached this country when Adams was inaugurated. The country generally was exasperated by the rejection of Pinckney, and the circumstances of that rejection made the course of France, which for a long time had been directed towards a separation between the executive and a large body of the people, more patent than at any previous time. But Adams declared it to be his desire to heal the differences if possible, and to do all in his power to prevent the breach from widening. In order to accomplish this he summoned Congress to a special session in May and expressed his intention of nominating a commission to be sent to France to endeavor to bring about an accommodation. This commission as first drawn was to consist of Pinckney, Dana, and Marshall, but Dana declined, and Gerry was substituted for him. Gerry and Marshall set out promptly and joined Pinckney in Holland. Their credentials and instructions were adequate to the broadest scope of negotiation and there was great hope that they would be able to effect an accommodation. But at the same time there was a growing distrust of French attitudes, and particularly of the increasing power of Buonaparte. Even Mr. Jefferson was doubtful what the times would bring forth. Time slipped away. Negotiation was slow and communication between the countries imperfect. Public interest was fairly on tip-toe.

The envoys had reached Paris early in October, and six months had now elapsed. Just at this moment the weight was lifted from the President's heart which had been so sorely stung by insult and