Page:Memoir upon the negotiations between Spain and the United States of America which led to the treaty of 1819.djvu/137

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��I respect the policy of Great Britain, lor 1 know that no Cabinet possesses this science in a more eminent degree; but I admire also that of the United States^ who with a population already in- creased to about ten millions of inhabitants, are not intimidated by their colossal enemy, but are i^oins; on to prepare with wise precaution, not only to defend themselves a2;ainst her, but to take ad- vantage of every circumstance that may contribute to humble her. As with this view, and to take from her the sceptre of the ocean to which they aspire, they believe that France, and some other maritime powers, may render them assistance, they omit nothing in their system of policy that can pro- pitiate their favour, gratifying them in every thing that does not directly oppose their general plan, whilst in their character and national pride, they have a sovereign contempt for all; and they regard England only, which is the power they most hate, with some respect, making it all their glory to have descended from her.*

The United States have no direct interests, but with the three powers mentioned, Spain, Eng- land and France; but their general system embraces all, and, however strange it may appear, is direct- ed to the excitement of wars and dissentions be-

��* This paragraph of the author possesses the true diplo- iQatick ambiguitv — meaning any thing or nothing. T.

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