[Circular to consuls.], June 18, 1862

[Circular to consuls.]

Sir: On the 22d of May last I informed you that the republics of Bremen, Hamburg, and Lubeck had placed their citizens of Mexico under the protection of the United States, and requesting-you to extend such protection, “should they need it.” Some doubts have arisen as to the extent of your powers under this order. I have to inform you that in all cases where a consul of either of these powers resides in the same place with yourself, you are in no case to act as to the persons under his protection unless he shall request you. Where there is no such consul, you will of course extend such protection as may be proper to the citizens of either of said republics, in the absence of their proper consuls.

Very respectfully,