Lord Hollandwished to ask the noble marquis opposite, whether any progress had been made in the mediation offered between the government of Spain and her colonies in South America; and whether it was the intention of ministers to give any information on such progress? He concurred with the noble lord's views on that subject, as they appeared to him. He only wished, as an individual, to be assured that the real views were what he conceived them to be. A year and a half had elapsed since the Caraccas rose in rebellion, and three months since the mediation was agreed upon. If his view of the proffered mediation was correct, for the sake of humanity, it became necessary to enforce it directly, and yet a year and a half had elapsed without any progress being made, or the policy of ministers being known.
Marquis Wellesleysaid it was a case requiring great care, attention, and circumspection. It was necessary to avoid in-flaming animosities, fomenting jealousies, and exciting passions, that mixed in this business. The difficulties, therefore, which stood in the way, required a cautious procedure. Through the whole of the business, all the ministers were of opinion it was better to preserve the integrity of the Spanish colonies, as a support against the common enemy, than seek any temporary advantage that might be derived from their present state in relation to the mother country. He had every hope, that ultimately his wishes would be crowned with success, but whatever might be the result, he was confident that nothing would be done to excite jealousy or suspicion. At present, be hoped the noble lord would not seek further information.
Lord Hollandsaid this amounted to no information at all. Care had been taken to name a commission; but three months had elapsed, and care had been taken not to send it away. He wished to know what progress had been made in the mediation? 16 It was a curious mediation to let two friends fight first, and after they had given each other black eyes and bloody noses, then to interfere.
Marquis Wellesleydid not mean to say that no steps had been taken. The truth was, there had been an early interference, but it had not led to the removal of the difficulties which prevented the mediation from being proceeded in. It was necessary to ascertain previously, that both parties would agree to the mediation, and be likely to acquiesce in what it might be in contemplation to recommend. Such progress had therefore been made, as the nature of the case would admit; and had he proceeded with more promptitude and expedition, it might have inflamed passions and raised difficulties, that might defeat the object in view.
Lord Hollandprofessed himself not satisfied with this answer, and accordingly gave notice of his intention to move for papers on the subject.