TO MESSRS. CARMICHAEL AND SHORT.[23]
Philadelphia, March 23, 1793.
Gentlemen,—It is intimated to us in such a way as to attract our attention, that France means to send a strong force early this spring to offer independence to the Spanish American colonies, beginning with those on the Mississippi; and that she will not object to the receiving those on the east side into our confederation. Interesting considerations require, that we should keep ourselves free to act in this case according to circumstances, and consequently, that you should not, by any clause of treaty, bind us to guarantee any of the Spanish colonies against their own independence, nor indeed against any other nation. For when we thought we might guarantee Louisiana, on their ceding the Floridas to us, we apprehended it would be seized by Great Britain, who would thus completely encircle us with her colonies and fleets. This danger is now removed by the concert between Great Britain and Spain; and the times will soon enough give independence, and consequently free commerce to our neighbors, without our risking the involving ourselves in a war for them.
I am, with great respect and esteem, your most obedient humble servant.
[24]The above meets the approbation of
George Washington.
FOOTNOTES
[23] [This letter was in cypher, but a literal copy of it preserved.]
[24] [This is in the handwriting of General Washington.]