1767 France had become the creditor of the Genoese, and not expecting repayment entered for the second time into clandestine negotiations with Paoli, offering to recognise the independence of the island in exchange for the cession of the province of Capo Corso.[1] The Genoese in alarm now fell back on the idea of selling the whole island to France, and after some preliminary negotiations signed a Treaty on May 15th, 1768, which practically carried out that object.[2]
Notwithstanding the most sedulous efforts on the part of the High Contracting Powers to keep the Treaty secret, they were unable to prevent the rumour of its existence reaching England. Choiseul and du Chatelet, the latter of whom was now ambassador in London, made a bold but unsuccessful attempt to stifle discussion by solemnly declaring that they were "entirely ignorant of any such intention,"[3] and that "they did not know what could occasion the rumour, and that no resolution was yet taken."[4] Shelburne, however, knowing with whom he had to deal, refused to be deceived by the smooth assurances of the French Minister, and instructed Rochfort to demand an explanation from Choiseul in the most decided terms. At the same time desiring to have exact information as to the preparations of France and the resources of Corsica, he decided on sending a secret emissary on a tour of inspection through both countries, with instructions to report as soon as possible. With this object Mr. John Stewart an accomplished linguist was selected. He left England early in May, and began by traversing the whole of the north and east of France. He observed a complete absence of all naval preparations in the ports, great material distress in the large towns, and discontent in the German population of Alsace.[5] He then proceeded to Italy.
Meanwhile differences of opinion were making themselves felt in the councils of the Ministry. "The Royal
