Page:Confederate Military History - 1899 - Volume 1.djvu/173

Rh ingly of the newly awakened interest of the leaders of the Federal party in behalf of the West, as follows:

&quot;Why, this is very generous of them, and is more remarkable because it is an uncommon thing with them. But it is very certain we do not stand in need of their pledges nor of their assistance. On former occasions they did not display any of this liberality, and he could not help suspecting their sincerity now.&quot;

Mr. Breckinridge, of Kentucky, said: The time was, indeed, when great dissatisfaction prevailed in that country as to the measures of the general government.&quot; * * * &quot;Distrust and dissatisfaction have given place to confidence in and attachment to those in whom the concerns of the nation are confided. &quot;

Previous to these proceedings in the Senate, a resolution in the House providing for the appointment of a committee to inquire what legislation is necessary with reference to the navigation of the Mississippi river, had been voted down. January yth, by a vote of 50 to 25, a resolution was adopted that, &quot;relying with perfect confidence on the vigilance and wisdom of the Executive, they will wait the issue of such measures as that department of the government shall have pursued. &quot; (Ibid, pp. 117, 342, 368.)

A resolution offered by Mr. Griswold, of Connecticut, January 4th, calling on the Executive for information with reference to the negotiations concerning Louisiana, was defeated January nth by a vote of 51 to 35. An act was passed by both houses and approved February 26th, appropriating $2,000,000 to provide for foreign negotiations.

Meanwhile Jefferson had been in negotiation with Spain and France. These negotiations were actively pressed. Spain, France and Great Britain were approached through the American ministers resident at the respective courts, through the foreign ministers at Washington, and through unofficial channels. Mr. Monroe,