United States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783; Jay, John, 1745-1829
Summary
Motion of the delegates of Virginia: Not to our advantage to make a
commercial treaty with Spain because her ports are open to all. They recognize the
designation only of contraband or non-contraband. We need laws however to protect our
commerce. We possess the navigation of the Mississippi by right and it is necessary in
order to bind the states together in firm union. Carmichael should agree with Spanish
court on the principles of a treaty to be mediated by France and Jay should form it in
conjunction with two others. The subject of commerce should not be considered since this
power given to our ministers in Europe in 1784. The following principles should be
established: 1) New Orleans made an entrepot for bona fide goods of the U.S. coming down
the river and these same boats can ascend the river empty; 2) a duty shall be paid on
such produce which can only be exported in Spanish, American or French vessels. The U.S.
can appoint a Consul to reside there and American factors can stay there to manage
exportations. The boundaries must be those of the treaty of 1783. These are the only
terms of a treaty. Jefferson to have a copy of these instructions and communicate them
to France. Jay's former instructions to be repealed. A commercial treaty shall be formed
on the basis of most favored nation status but not reciprocity. The question to consider
this motion by Virginia was lost. The first resolution of the Committee of Whole of 28
August was agreed to 7-5.
