ourselves exposed to dangers from the new power
which we have just recognized in a country where there is no
other in condition to arrest its progress. _This Federal
Republic is born a pygmy_, so to speak. It required the
support and the forces of two powers as great as Spain and
France in order to attain independence. _A day will come
when it will be a giant, even a colossus formidable in these
countries._ It will then forget the benefits which it has
received from the two powers, and will dream of nothing but
to organize itself. _Liberty of conscience, the facility for
establishing a new population on immense lands, as well as
the advantages of the new government, will draw thither
agriculturists and artisans from all the nations; for men
always run after fortune. And in a few years we shall see
with true grief the tyrannical existence of this same
colossus of which I speak._

"The first movement of this power, when it has arrived at
its aggrandizement, will be to obtain possession of the
Floridas, in order to dominate the Gulf of Mexico. After
having rendered commerce with New Spain difficult for us, it
will aspire to the conquest of this vast empire, which it
will not be possible for us to defend against a formidable
power established on the same continent, and in its
neighborhood. These fears are well founded, Sire; they will
be changed into reality in a few years, if, indeed, there
are not other disorders in our Americas still more fatal.
This observation is justified by what has happened in all
ages, and with all nations which have begun to rise. Man is
the same everywhere; the difference of climate does not
change the nature of our sentiments; he who finds the
opportunity of acquiring power and of aggrandizing himself,
profits by it always. How then can we expect the Americans
to respect the kingdom of New Spain, when they shall have
the facility of possessing themselves of this rich and
beautiful country? A wise policy counsels us to take
precautions against evils which may happen. This thought has
occupied my whole mind, since, as Minister Plenipotentiary
of your Majesty, and conformably to your royal will and
instructions, I signed the Peace of Paris. I have considered
this important affair with all the attention o