Mr. Rodney suggested an alteration in the second member of the resolution, so as to read “instrument,” instead of “deed.”
Mr. Griswold had no objection to the modification.
The second member, so modified, was read as follows:
“Together with a copy of the instrument of cession from Spain, executed in pursuance of the same treaty conveying Louisiana to France, (if any such instrument exists.)”
Mr. Huger confessed his impressions to be favorable to the treaty, though the arguments urged that day, certainly possessed great weight. He was rather of opinion that no such instrument as that referred to in the resolution existed. But if it did exist, its publication would certainly be satisfactory to the people and the House. He declared himself ready to vote for carrying the treaty into effect.
Mr. Nicholson did not know whether his remarks had been correctly understood. He did not know whether the document he alluded to could strictly be called the instrument of cession. He had drawn an amendment to this part of the resolution, which he would propose, if in order, to wit:
“Or other instrument showing that the Spanish Government had ordered the province of Louisiana to be delivered to France.”
The Speaker said, the House having agreed to insert the word “instrument,” it was not in order to receive a substitute.
Mr. Huger moved to reconsider the vote of the House in favor of the insertion of the word “instrument.”
Motion lost—ayes 24.