CLOUE, Commanding the Naval Division of the Mexican Gulf to The General, November 9, 1865

Second letter.

General: I have the honor to inform you that some shot were fired from the American side at a detachment of French marines going up the river on the steamboat Antonio.

According to my positive orders, the officer commanding the detachment recommended to his men not to answer any act of hostility whatever coming from the American side. This order was executed, and will continue to be, whatever happens, because we understand our duty as belligerents, and are determined not to swerve from it. According to international laws, the armed Mexicans who cross your frontier should be arrested and disarmed. With stronger reason do these laws require that you should not tolerate any acts of hostility coming from your side. It is failing in respect to the United States to come upon their territory and from there fire upon our troops without danger.

I am confident, general, that the acts of hostility committed against the Antonio were committed without your knowledge, and I am certain that it is sufficient for me to have called your attention to such deplorable occurrences in order that they be not renewed.

You are probably unaware that the assailants of the Antonio communicated with your troops descending the river on the steamboat Tampico, and, besides, that these same assailants crossed over to Texas in sight of the Antonio, and were seen fraternizing with the United States soldiers.

I had the honor to write to you upon my arrival in regard to the grave occurrences which are taking place on the frontier, and would be happy to learn that you have received my letter.

Accept, general, the assurance of the sentiments of high esteem and consideration with which I have the honor to be your most obedient servant,