Without it he could not well leave St.Petersburg.Meanwhile a diplomatic imbroglio, caused by the failure of the emperor to inform Romanzoff of Castlereagh's second refusal to accept the offer of mediation, embarrassed the commission all winter.

Nor yet were they aware that the British minister, driven to the wall by the second offer of the emperor, had made proposals to Monroe to treat directly with the United States government.

The British note with this offer was written on November 4.

Mr.Gallatin was apprised of it by Mr.Dallas in January, 1814.

Mr.Baring urged him, if he should return to America during the winter, to take his way through England, as good effects might result from even a passing visit.