tions, threats, and other artifices of terror or persuasion, contrived to detach the Court of Spain from its alliance with England[1], in consequence of which the situation of the British force employed in that quarter, was suddenly rendered extremely critical. Though the state of the Toulon squadron was insufficient to create any disquiet in Sir John’s mind; yet the Spanish ships at Carthagena alone, were numerically far superior to those under his orders. The political situation of his country, at that time, rendered the greatest exertions necessary. A formidable combination was raised against her; and the fleets of France, Holland[2], and Spain, had they all been permitted to unite, would have composed an immense armament, consisting of nearly one hundred sail of the line. The internal commotions which had for some time pervaded Ireland, appeared to afford these confederated foes the greatest hopes of success, provided it were possible for them to put on shore a body of troops sufficiently numerous to countenance the rebellious insurgents in their open avowal of that treason, which, owing to the insidious representations of those among their own countrymen who possessed most influence, and were considered as the leaders of their party, had long been cherished by them. At this period it had attained a height truly formidable and alarming.
An attempt was made by France, immediately after Spain became an ally to the cause of republicanism, to carry this project into execution; and though it had completely failed, there was little reason to expect that the want of success on that occasion would so far intimidate the enemy, as to prevent a repetition of it. Regarding, therefore, the general posture of public affairs, it must appear evident, that very urgent necessity peremptorily demanded the immediate execution of some grand and decisive measure, which might, by its consequential success, contribute to dispel that tremendous
- ↑ A treaty of peace between France and Spain was signed at Basle, July 22, 1795; and on the 19th Aug. 1796, a treaty of alliance, offensive and defensive, was concluded between these powers. Spain declared war against England Oct. 8th following.
- ↑ Letters of marque and reprisal were formally issued against the Dutch, Sept. 15, 1795. Orders, however, to seize all vessels belonging to the republic, had been given on the 19th Jan. preceding.
