Thomas Jefferson actually said...

It is by no means proposed that these works should be conducted on account of the United States.

The instrument is now submitted to the Senate, with a request of their advice and consent as to its ratification.

This having been lately claimed by a private individual, the city opposed the claim on a supposed legal title in itself.

Until this question can be decided under legislative authority, measures have been taken according to law to prevent any change in the state...