Page:Memoir upon the negotiations between Spain and the United States of America which led to the treaty of 1819.djvu/21

 MEMOIR, &c.

Having been appointed, towards the end of June, 1809, by the Supreme Central Junta, which at that time governed the monarchy in the name of his majesty, Envoy extraordinary and minister Plenipotentiary to the United States of America, I embarked on board the Cornelia, of the royal fleet, and arrived at the port of New York, on the 4th October, of the same year, after a most unpleasant passage of forty four days. The situation of the peninsula at that period is but too well known. The whole nation had been roused to enthusiasm against the French armies, and against the cruel and ignominious yoke, which the frenzied Napoleon had attempted to impose upon them; and although oppressed and surrounded on all sides by an immense multitude of enemies' troops, she appeared boldly and firmly resolved to pursue the struggle to death or victory. All Europe saw with amazement her enterprize and her efforts; but all, with the exception of England, either groaned under the arrogant despotism of Napoleon, or were subject to his overruling influence. The United