French agents
French agent X: "Gentlemen, you do not speak to the point; you are expected to offer money."
French agent Y: "Nothing can be done without money."
French agent Z: "It is customary to begin with the money, then discuss the other matters."
American diplomats
Charles Cotesworth Pinckney: "Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute."
John Marshall: "France is playing a deep game...Her views are vast and important, and the means she employs to obtain them are immense."
Elbridge Gerry: "I believe, if we could have seen Talleyrand, much would have been gained."