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Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

RUFUS KING TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE. - John Adams, The Works of John Adams, vol. 8 (Letters and State Papers 1782-1799) [1853]

Edition used:

The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, Notes and Illustrations, by his Grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1856). 10 volumes. Vol. 8.

Part of: The Works of John Adams, 10 vols.

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RUFUS KING TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE.

26 February, 1798.

(Extract.)

“Two points have, within a fortnight, been settled in the English cabinet respecting South America. If Spain is able to prevent the overthrow of her present government and to escape being brought under the entire control of France, England, between whom and Spain, notwithstanding the war, a certain understanding appears to exist, will at present engage in no scheme to deprive Spain of her possessions in South America. But if, as appears probable, the army destined against Portugal, and which will march through Spain, or any other means which may be employed by France, shall overthrow the Spanish government, and thereby place the resources of Spain and of her colonies at the disposal of France, England will immediately commence the execution of a plan, long since digested and prepared, for the complete independence of South America. If England engages in this plan, she will propose to the United States to coöperate in its execution. Miranda will be detained here under one pretence or another, until events shall decide the conduct of England. The revolution of Spain is decreed. The attempt will be made, and its success is scarcely doubtful. The President may, therefore, expect the overture of England, and will, I am persuaded, act upon it under the influence of that wise and comprehensive policy which, looking forward to the destinies of the new world, shall, in the beginning, by great and generous deeds, lay deep and firm the foundations of lasting concord between its rising empires. If possible, I will bring together, and seasonably arrange and send to you, such information as I have been able to procure upon this interesting and very consequential subject, having found out and acquired the confidence of certain Jesuits, natives of South America, who, with a view to its independence, are, and for several years have been, in the service and pay of England. I have often conversed with them, and seen the reports which they have prepared for their employers. These communications throw much light upon the population, the revenues, the oppression, and the temper and character of the Spanish Americans.”