L30/14/306/62

From 2nd Baron Grantham to 2nd Earl Shelburne:

27 Dec 1782

From: 1782 To: 1782

Rayneval has told Grantham that he had informed Shelburne of his messenger having returned, and that Grantham may expect one hourly from Fitzherbert. Also informed Grantham that:- The French persist in never having had for an instant a thought of giving up Dominica, and that if on account of the value the English set upon it, which they still pretend to be ill founded, they persist in expecting it, some other Island must be given for it. Rayneval is not authorized to name or suggest an equivalent, but will speak to any proposal. Grantham thinks St Vincent's would be given if insisted upon. On the article of the East Indies, Rayneval is very strenuous for a district, for which the East Indies Company have certainly given Grantham sufficient powers of which Rayneval has no idea. The French are very sore on Trincomali [Ceylon]. It looks as if they would not sign until all parties were satisfied. The Peace however depends on Dominica, and if the King and Cabinet determine either to do without it, or to purchase it, the rest may be done in the time proposed, as besides the articles already considered, Vergennes has sent over a project similar to them. Asks Shelburne to settle the time and place for a meeting, and invite Pitt and Townshend. The Duke of Richmond went out of town today, but expects to hear. When they meet, they will settle the day for a Cabinet. Supposes the Spanish answer will come by Wednesday or Thursday. Heredia thinks they will agree to Grantham's proposition of keeping the rights of an establishment and of cutting the wood.

item

Rayneval,
Fitzherbert,
East India Company,
Vergennes, de,
Pitt,
Townshend,
Richmond, Charles Lennox, 3rd Duke of

Dominica, East Indies, Ceylon