Count Bismarck to Elihu B. Washburne, October 29, 1870

Count Bismarck to Mr. Washburne.

Sir: Having before them the resolution adopted by the government of national defense, to continue a hopeless struggle and to defend Paris as long as provisions will last, the government of his Majesty have felt obliged to give their attention to the consequences which the carrying out of that resolution will entail upon the inhabitants of Paris, consisting, as they do, for a great part of foreigners. By a memoir communicated to foreign cabinets some weeks since, we have declined any responsibility for the sufferings to which the residents will find themselves exposed when the resources are exhausted and when, owing to the waste laid all around Paris by order of the French government at an extent of three or four days’ marching, it will be impossible to provide the survivors with food or to transport them beyond the zone of destruction.

While sending you a translation of the said memoir, I take the liberty of earnestly calling your attention to the considerations detailed therein and bearing directly upon the interests of those American residents who, either by their condition of life or for want of means, have been obliged to remain at Paris.

I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, your obedient servant,