How we cite our quotes: (Article.Sentence)
Quote #1
No disposition made by this Treaty as to such possession of the Islands and territories claimed by both parties shall in any manner whatever be construed to affect the right of either. (I.5)
This part of the treaty frames the negotiations as a matter of each country's "right," rather than focusing on who gained what during the war. It's a major concession of power by both parties.
Quote #2
All Prisoners of war taken on either side as well by land as by sea shall be restored as soon as practicable after the Ratifications of this Treaty as hereinafter mentioned on their paying the debts which they may have contracted during their captivity. (2) The two Contracting Parties respectively engage to discharge in specie the advances which may have been made by the other for the sustenance and maintenance of such prisoners.
Money is power in wartime and peacetime, and both sides were financially strapped by the conflict. The balance of power was even maintained in splitting the check fairly for the care and feeding of prisoners of war.
Quote #3
One Commissioner shall be appointed by His Britannic Majesty and one by the President of the United States, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate thereof, and the said two Commissioners so appointed shall be sworn impartially to examine and decide upon the said claims. (IV.3)
Using the Commissioners as their sole representatives in postwar matters, America and Britain agree on a total balance of power in the coming negotiations.