But, agitated as they were by the various causes which were perpetually acting on their passions, it is not wonderful that an increased influence was given to this measure; that it should be considered as conclusive testimony of British hostility, and should add to the bitterness with which the government was reproached for attempting a system "alike friendly and impartial to the belligerent powers." The causes of discontent which were furnished by Spain, though less the theme of public declamation, continued to be considerable.
The American ministers at Madrid could make no progress in their negotiation.

The question of limits remained unsettled, and the Mississippi was still closed against the Americans.

In addition to these subjects of disquiet, the southern states were threatened with war from the Creeks and Cherokees, who were, with good reason, believed to be excited to hostility by the Spanish government.

Of these irritating differences, that which related to the Mississippi was far the most operative, and embarrassing.

The imagination, especially when warmed by discontent, bestows on a good which is withheld, advantages much greater than the reality will justify; and the people of the western country were easily persuaded to believe that the navigation of the Mississippi was a mine of wealth which would at once enrich them.