8555. TREATIES, Power to make.—[further continued]
When the British treaty
of 18—arrived, without any provision against
the impressment of our seamen, I determined
not to ratify it. The Senate thought I should
ask their advice. I thought that would be a
mockery of them, when I was predetermined
against following it, should they advise its
ratification. The Constitution had made
their advice necessary to confirm a treaty, but
not to reject it. This has been blamed by
some; but I have never doubted its soundness.—
To Spencer Roane. Washington ed. vii, 135.
Ford ed., x, 142.
(P.F.,,
18191819)gt;
