Clinton Wright to Hamilton Fish, July 10, 1871

Mr. Wright to Mr. Fish

Sir: Asking your reference to my dispatch No. 174, of the 22d ultimo, and to the copy of a note accompanying it, which I had addressed to the minister of foreign affairs, concerning the alleged invasion of the legation of the United States at Asuncion, by soldiers in the service of the empire of Brazil, I have now the honor to transmit herewith, No. 1, a translation of the minister’s reply to my note above cited, and, No. 2, a copy of my answer to the ministers note.

From the former you will observe that the minister proposed to deliver to such person as I might indicate all the property taken possession of at the legation at Asuncion, without distinction, in accordance with the schedules prepared at the time by a commission of officers appointed for the purpose; and, from the latter, that I have accepted the ministers proposition, and have requested that the delivery may made to the Hon. John L. Stevens, our minister at Paraguay, or to his representative.

I am awaiting a copy of the schedules referred to by the minister, and for which I have asked, that I may send it to Mr. Stevens, and inform him of the arrangement which has been made.

I have asked for two copies of the schedules, that I might send one to you.

You will please observe that, while accepting the minister’s proposition, I have still reserved the right to our Government to take such further action as it may deem proper. * * * * *

Trusting that my action in this matter may meet your approval, I have &c.,