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Front Page arrow Titles (by Subject) arrow RUFUS KING TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE. (Extract. ) - The Works of John Adams, vol. 8 (Letters and State Papers 1782-1799)

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

RUFUS KING TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE. (Extract. ) - 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.

(Extract.)

“South America must soon pass through a revolution. We have an immense interest in the event, as well as in the manner in which it shall be effected. In a former letter I have communicated to you the views and intentions of England, who will not promote the revolt, in case Spain shall be able to save herself from a revolution and keep the French out of Portugal. And though there seems little probability that this will be the case, England, since the arrival of Miranda here, but without his knowledge, has informed Spain, not only that she will not countenance or assist the Spanish colonies in becoming independent, but that she will join her in resisting the endeavors of others to accomplish it, provided that Spain will oppose the views of France against her own dominions, and those of Portugal. At the same time that this communication has been made to Spain, an expedition has been prepared, and the correspondent arrangements at Trinidad have been ordered, for the purpose of beginning the revolution of South America. In this event, as I have before intimated to you, England will, at Philadelphia, open herself to, and ask the coöperation of, the United States. Miranda, who is impatient with the delays that he experiences, as well as ignorant of the provisional decisions of this cabinet, has concluded to send his friend and associate, Mr. Caro, to Philadelphia, with a letter for the President, and I have given him a letter to identify and introduce him to you. Conjecturing the intentions of France and knowing with precision those of England, we shall be the better able in season to consider and regulate the conduct that it shall be proper for us to pursue.”