WASHINGTON July 26, 1816

SIR, Mr Adams having intimated to His Majesty's Government, that it was the wish of the Government of the United States, that some understanding should be had, or agreement entered into between the two Countries, in regard to their Naval armaments upon the Lakes, which while it tended to diminish the expenses of each country, might diminish also the chances of collision, and prevent any feelings of jeaslousy; I have the honour to acquaint you, that I have received Lord Castlereagh's instructions to assure you, that His Royal Highness the Prince Regent will cheerfully adopt, in the spirit of Mr Adams's suggestion, any reasonable system which may contribute to the attainment of objects so desirable to both States.

Mr Adams not having entered into any detailed explanation of the precise views of his Government for giving effect to the principle which he had offered for consideration, the British Government is unacquainted with the particular arrangements which the Government of the United States would propose to make for this purpose. but I have been instructed to assure you of the general disposition of His Royal Highness the Prince Regent to listen with satisfaction to any proposal which may secure such ends, and of His readiness to act in a spirit of the most entire confidence upon the principle which has been suggested by Me Adams.

I have the honour to be with the highest consideration Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant.

CHAR BAGOT

The Honble JAMES MONROE

&c. &c. &c. &c.