Re01'ganization and New Policies, I770-I800
II
the attainment of independence by the English colonies presented to the interests of Spain. "It is necessary to keep in mind that a new independent power exists now on this continent," he declared. "It has been founded by an active, industrious, and aggressive people, who, free from the war sustained for many years against their mother country, from which they have at last succeeded in obtaining independ- ence, are already considering the means that will cause it to be respected in the future. These men, freed from the hardships of war that have engaged them so long, will turn their industrious genius to agriculture, the arts, and commerce. Their development," he said, "will constantly menace· the dominion of Spain in America and it would be an unpar- donable error not to take all necessary steps to check their territorial advance by strengthening the outposts of Spain, particularly in Texas Coahuila, and New Mexico. "If we fail to do so, your lordship will see that the citizens of the United States of America, led by the advantages for trade offered by the uncontrolled Indians in the territories lying between their [western] frontiers and our provinces of New Mexico and Texas, will make frequent incursions and establish trade relations with the natives, who will thus become attached to them. They will next establish forts among them and will continue to advance until they reach the limits of our posses- sions where they will have to be checked. By this time, they will have become formidable by their new acquisitions and the winning of numerous allies." To forestall this impending danger Spain had to take immediate steps to win the support of the Indians in the intervening area and enrich her resources with the resultant trade. There was gold in the country of the Taovayas, the Comanches, and the lands beyond, and all the natives had valuable pelts and furs. While peace reigned, this was the time to prepare for the futur.e struggle. Significant, indeed, is the profound observation of Gasiot concerning the fundamental power inherent in a free people. "The character of their republican government," he said, "has great influence over the individual. The voice of public interest binds them and moves them as one, and in this union of action their strength is found. Such a people may be exposed to suffer more internal disturbances than any other, but they are likewise capable of undertaking and accomplishing greater things than any other. ·A Senate, that is ready to meet at any time, that is always ready to deliberate upon anything that may benefit the
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