In the ensuing negotiation, Mr. Adams was placed at the head of the American Commissioners.  They were men of unsurpassed talents and skill, in whose hands neither the welfare nor the honor of the United States could suffer.  In conducting this negotiation, they exhibited an ability, a tact, an understanding of international law, and a knowledge of the best interests of their country, which attracted the favorable attention both of Europe and America.  Their “Notes” with the British Commissioners, exhibited a dignified firmness and manly moderation, with a power of argument, and force of reasoning, which highly elevated their reputation, and that of their country, in the estimation of European statesmen.  The Marquis of Wellesley declared in the British House of Lords, that, “in his opinion the American Commissioners had shown the most astonishing superiority over the British, during the whole of the correspondence.”  Their despatches to the Government at home, describing and explaining the progress of the negotiation in its several stages, gave the highest satisfaction to the people of the United States.  It was declared in the public prints, that they sustained the honor of the Union as ably at Ghent as the patriotism and bravery of its defenders had been established by its seamen on the ocean, and its troops in their battles with “Wellington’s Invincibles.”  A good share of these encomiums of right belongs to Mr. Adams, who, from his knowledge of foreign affairs, and experience in diplomacy, as well as acknowledged talents, took a leading part in the negotiations.

The American commissioners were treated with marks of highest respect, by the citizens of Ghent, and the public authorities of that town.  On the anniversary of the Academy of Sciences and Fine Arts, at Ghent, they were unanimously elected members of the institution, and were invited to attend and unite in the exercises of the occasion.  An oration on the objects of the institution was delivered.  In the evening, a sumptuous banquet was served up to a numerous company.  After the removal of the cloth, among the toasts given, was the following, by the Intendant of Ghent:—­

“Our distinguished guests and fellow-members, the American Ministers:  May they succeed in making an honorable peace, to secure the liberty and independence of their country.”

This sentiment was received with immense applause.  The band struck up “Hail Columbia,” and the company was filled with enthusiasm.  It was some minutes before the tumult sufficiently subsided to admit of a response.  Mr. Adams then arose, and, in behalf of the American Legation, returned thanks for the very flattering manner in which they had been treated by the municipality of Ghent, and particularly for the unexpected honor conferred upon them by the Academy.  After making some pertinent remarks on the importance and usefulness of the Fine Arts, he concluded by offering as a toast—­“The Intendant of the city of Ghent.”