The Rhode Island Republican

From the National Intelligencer, Dec. 13.

DIPLOMATIC POWERS.

Whilst directing the attention of our readers to the Spanish Treaty, we cannot forbear noticing one fact connected with its negociation, and non-ratification. If, say some commentators, the Spanish Minister had full power and authority for what he did, his sovereign is bound to ratify the Treaty.—We now have a copy of this power, granted by the King of Spain to Don Luis de Onis; and to shew how conclusive that document is on this point, we subjoin a quotation from it:

"I (the King) have granted, and by these presents do grant to you full power, in the most ample form, to treat, of yourself, and without other intermediate authority, with such person or persons as may be authorised by the President of the United States, and on the principles of the most perfect equality and fitness, to conclude and sign a Treaty of Amity, whereby past differences may be adjusted, and a firm and lasting peace established between the two governments. Obliging ourselves, as we do hereby oblige ourselves, and promise on the faith and word of a king, to approve, ratify, and fulfil, and to cause to be inviolably observed and fulfilled, whatsoever may be stipulated and signed by you; to which intent and purpose I grant you all authority and full power, in the most ample form, thereby and of right required."
After this, it is presumed we shall hear no more surmises of a defect of power in Don Luis de Onis to conclude a Treaty which his Sovereign was bound, by the most sacred ties, to ratify.