In congress the question went over to the next session,
but in the house much had already been said on the sub-
ject. Several attempts had been made to secure vigorous
action. A member ivom Virginia, impressed with the idea



1. Vol. VI, Foreifirn Relations, Vives to Adams, May 6 and 9. 1820.
2. Ibid., Vivos to Adams. May 28. 1820.
3. Vol. IX, Instructions, p. 7, Adams to Forsyth, May 25. 1820.
The Treaty of iSlQ 319

that De Onis had been authorized to cede more territory
than provided in the treaty, moved that the president be
asked to inform the house how much the Spanish minister
had been empowered to cede. At one time the committee on
foreign affairs reported a bill authorizing the president to
take possession of both East and West Florida, and if nec-
essary to use the army, navy, and militia. The motion and
bill were both ignored and, as the house showed a strong
disposition to do nothing, Clay made a vigorous attack on
the treaty.
