If to the territory thus acquired that of Florida should be added by cession from Spain, which could hardly refuse any compensation asked of her by Great Britain in return for the liberation of the Peninsula, a second British dominion would be set up on the American continent.

These views Gallatin communicated to Monroe in a private dispatch of August 20, 1814, by the hands of Mr.Dallas.To the _sine qua non_ of the British commissioners no answer was made by the Americans.

The negotiation was abruptly suspended, and only by informal conversation was Mr.Goulburn given to understand that reference had been had to America for instructions.

Mr.
Gallatin was of opinion that the negotiations were at an end, and in his despair of peace took consolation in the belief that the insolence of the demand would unite America from Maine to Georgia in defense of her rights, of her territory, and indeed of her independence.

The American commissioners made no secret of their belief that their mission was closed.