To Thomas Jefferson from Carlos IV, King of Spain, 9 September 1802
From Carlos IV, King of Spain
Igualada, Spain, 9 Sep. 1802. Having received the news that the betrothal of his son Fernando, the prince of Asturias, and Maria Antonietta of the Two Sicilies was celebrated at Naples on 25 Aug., and knowing from experience how much interest the United States takes in the affairs of his family, he is confident that the United States will share his satisfaction on this pleasing occasion.
RC (DNA: RG 59, Ceremonial Letters); 1 p.; in Spanish, in a clerk’s hand, signed by Carlos and countersigned by Pedro Cevallos; addressed: “A mis grandes y buenos amigos los Estados Unidos de America”; sealed; endorsed for the State Department as received 28 Jan. 1803.
TJ answered this communication in a brief, formal letter dated 29 Jan. 1803. Acknowledging the receipt of the king’s news “with the greatest satisfaction,” TJ stated: “As the United States cherish a sincere and cordial friendship for your Majesty, an event like the present, which adds so much to your happinesss, has not failed to inspire us with sentiments corresponding with the occasion. Accept our congratulations and our wishes, that your Majesty may be blessed in the virtues of your Royal family and the prosperity of the Nation under your charge.” TJ’s letter to Carlos of 29 Jan. was similar in structure and presentation to the one of 15 Oct. printed in this volume (FC in Lb in DNA: RG 59, Credences; in a clerk’s hand; not recorded in SJL).