Floridablanca has impressed him with his (Floridablanca's) probity and candor, but he cannot understand the slow steps of Spain in regard to recognizing American independence. America is and shall continue to be independent in fact, and she does not worry about independence in name. Yet the delays of Spain give encouragement to the hopes of Britain. [He adds, in a subsequently deleted passage, "Ame rica will never purchase it of any nation by Terms she would not otherwise accede to."] Spain can certainly see that the power of the United States, added to that of Britain would enable Britain to dominate Europe, and would threaten Spain's American possessions. France has acted wisely in encouraging America, and it would be regrettable if Spain would lose this opportunity to build close ties with America. It is even possible that Britain will recognize United States before Spain does!
Subjects
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829