Briefwisseling en aantekeningen. Deel 1

CCXIII.
Graaf Sandwich aan Willem Bentinck.

[B.M., Addenda 32.808]

Den Haag, 22 Mei (1747).

The Express that brings this letter, brings an account to the Prince of Orange of the resolution of Mon^r. du Theil³⁾ and Mon^r. Macanaz to leave Breda, and of their proposal to renew the Conferences in some of the towns of Germany. I have been with the Pensionary, who

3) De Fransche gevolmachtigde op de Bredasche conferentie.

[p. 264]

seems very reasonable upon the subject, and inclined to give the proper answer, that the Republick will take no measure in this affair without the approbation of her Allies; however, not even that answer will be given till His Highness's sentiments are known, tho' at the same-time it is very possible his opinion may be likewise asked upon the measures that ought to be taken with regard to this proposition of France for the continuation of the negociation.

I own for my own part I think it so delicate a point, that I cannot take upon myself to give any opinion in it, but I think, if we are not hasty in sending an answer - - which at no rate need be done this month, as we have the excuse of waiting for the opinion of the Court of Vienna - -, it will give us time to consult seriously together, whether it will be adviseable to put an end to the negotiation, or to prepare among ourselves a proper plan to be proposed in concert upon the renewal of the Conferences. I have wrote to England upon this subject, and as the Prince of Orange has expressed his intention to me of consulting with the King before he takes any step in this important affair, His Highness may be assured I shall not lose a moment in imparting to him the orders I receive; and I a satisfied that on my side I shall have directions to go on in the way I have allready sett out of engaging in nothing here without first knowing his Highness's opinion.

Lord Drumlaurig's affair is in great forwardness¹⁾, and he has received letters from England that give him reason to think the raising of the Regiment will be attended with very little delay, and that besides, if the Republick should judge it necessary, he could as easily raise two Battalions as one; I wish you would mention that proposition to the Prince of Orange, but not as a thing that Mylord Drumlaurig lays any stress upon on his own account, but entirely with a design to shew his readyness to do the utmost in his power for the service of the Republick; he will mention it to no one 'till he knows whether it has his Highness's approbation, and will think no more of it unless you are of opinion it is for the publick service.

1) De lichting van een regiment Schotten voor Staatsche dienst.