I do not believe that Spain will ever again obtain similar terms, and there is but one voice respecting the ignorance and folly which have dictated their late determination. Many persons charge Great Britain with it. She has had, heretofore, no influence over the councils of Spain, and Lord Castlereagh has expressly declared to Mr. Rush, that although England should have preferred that Florida should have remained in the hands of Spain, they not only had no interfered, but foreseeing the consequences of rejection of a treaty actually signed, had advised its ratification.
You may have already received all this information from our government, Mr. Forsyth and Mr. Rush, but reflecting on your remote situation, and thinking that a correct knowledge of the facts might enable you to make a proper impression on the Russian government, that that government is not less friendly to Spain that to us, and that it may be important that they should know beforehand the probable consequences of the conduct of Spain, I have thought that this hasty summary might be acceptable. I must add, and you may rely on the fact, that Onis had acted not only in conformity with his instructions, but had yielded less than they authorized his to do; so that there is a positive breach of good faith on the part of Spain, a circumstance which renders a renewal of negotiations still more difficult.
I remain, with great respect and sincere attachment, dear sir,
Your most obedient servant,
Albert Gallatin.
Excuse my scrawl, I have not time to transcribe.
His Excellency Geo. W. Campbell, St. Petersburg.
From Commodore McDonough
United States Ship Guerriere,
Cromstadt, September 27th, 1818.
Sir,—This day being the coronation of the Emperor Alexander, it may be thought that this ship might have paid a compliment to it by salute, but I find the Russian vessels which are draped on the occasion, and which will, in all probability, salute also, have not displayed the flag of the United States among others which they have hoisted; this has determined me not to salute, and I hope my determination in this instance to remain silent is correct.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, sir,
Your obedient servant,
T. McDonough.
Honorable G. W. Campbell, St. Petersburgh.
