To John Jay from Oliver Pollock, 10 February 1785
From Oliver Pollock1
[Havana 10th. Febry. 1785.]
Sir
Genl. Galvez2 and Don Diego Gardoqui Envoy for the United States, arrived here a few days ago. The latter is impowered by the Court of Spain to make A Treaty with the United States.
I have had the Oppty. to have some Conversation with Genl. Galvez and Mr. Gardoqui on the subject they seem much inclined to form the Treaty, but the Mississippi I am afraid will be A bone of Contentions.3
I find that if Mr. Gardoqui meets with any difficulties at Congress, he is to Correspond and advise with Genl. Galvez here upon the business. Respecting all which I hope to be able to inform you more particularly by Mr. Gardoqui, whom will Sail for your place some time next month. I have the honor to be with all Respect, Sir Your Most Obedient & Most humble. Servant
Olr. Pollock
The Honble. The Secretary of the United States for foreign Affairs—
ALS, DNA: PCC, item 50, 441–42; C, , 1: 198.
1. Oliver Pollock had been named the United States’ commercial agent at Havana in May 1783. Spanish officials did not accord him official status. See 8: 62–70.
2. Bernardo de Gálvez, newly appointed governor and captain general of Cuba, and nephew to José de Gálvez, on whose opposition to concessions with regard to navigation of the Mississippi, see JJ’s report to Congress of 15 Feb. 1785, below.
3. Pollock again indicated that the Mississippi would be a source of difficulty in his letter to JJ of 3 June, below.