The acquisition of Spanish territory by Great Britain would be against the best interests of the United States. Washington's first question raises two more questions: whether the belligerent is entitled by the law of nations to march troops through neutral territory; of if the right to such a passage is not a perfect one, whether, under the circumstances a compliance or a refusal would be more desi rable. Most recent European interpretation of the first question is comprised in two classes: cases of urgent necessity and cases of convenience. In John Jay's opinion, the present case belongs in the latter category. Washington's answer to Dorchester will have to depend on the nature of the propositions he makes in his application. If he should proceed without asking permission, or after having received a refusal, his action would be a flagrant violation of civilized usage. Such an action should be prevented at any price, no matter what the risk and hazard. The United States must be prepared for either peace or war as outcome of Anglo-Spanish negotiations. Against United States interest to have Spanish territory reduced in size. Considers problems which would face the United States if two powers come to war - passage of belligerent troops through neutral's territory, and "innocent passage" allowed to all nations with which United States at peace. Thinks that any United States position on allowing passage of British troops from Detroit to the Mississippi must depend on the terms in which the request (should it be made) is couched. Queries whether British occupation of Floridas would be so dangerous to United States that United States ought to undertake hostile action; but concludes that, in present state of American defenses, such queries premature.
Subjects
United States--History--Constitutional period, 1789-1809; Jay, John, 1745-1829