United States Statutes at Large/Volume 2/11th Congress/3rd Session/Resolution 1
Resolution relative to the occupation of the Floridas by the United States of America.
Taking into view the peculiar situation of Spain, and of her American provinces; and considering the influence which the destiny of the territory adjoining the southern border of the United States may have upon their security, tranquility, and commerce: Therefore,
The United States cannot, without inquitude, see the Floridas pass into the hands of a foreign power, &c.Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the United States, under the peculiar circumstances of the existing crisis, cannot, without serious inquietude, see any part of the said territory pass into the hands of any foreign power; and that a due regard to their own safety compels them to provide, under certain contingencies, for the temporary occupation of the said territory; they, at the same time, declare that the said territory shall, in their hands, remain subject to future negotiation.
Approved, January 15, 1811.