Letterbook copy of document 8237. Prepared sometime in the second week of September 1781 and never sent. Jay recites the reasons he was sent to Spain. Reminds Floridablanca that whatever the issue of the American Revolution, the good will of the United States cannot be overlooked by her neighbors. Congress was led to believe Spain and America could form a friendly attachment and sent Jay for this p urpose. The first letter Jay received from Floridablanca made him think that his mission was not unwelcome. Long delay over rights on the Mississippi can now be easily settled as Congress has made a concession on this point that should remove the obstacle. Yet delay has continued, and Spain showed no desire even to discuss a treaty even knowing that Major Franks was waiting to take some positive information back to America. All that Jay wants is a candid answer to his questions. Feels that he has not been shown proper respect. America's friendship will be important to other nations in the future, and if Spain would acknowledge her independence, the Dutch would follow, and there could be a permanent alliance among Spain, France, Holland, and the United States, resulting in Britain's certain defeat.
Subjects
United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829