DENIS, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to Bassett, December 4, 1871

Mr. Denis to Mr. Bassett.

Mr. Minister: I have the honor to transmit to you, under this cover, a copy of a dispatch received by me from the consul of Spain, bearing date November 29th, ultimo, relating to the steamer Hornet.

The day after the receipt of this dispatch I had an interview with the Spanish consul, who was accompanied by an officer of the frigate Zaragoza.

After having concurred in our view of the strict neutrality that we ought to observe in this question, these gentlemen declared that they desired the Haytian government to assume the responsibility of the safe-keeping of the Hornet until the difference existing in relation to this vessel shall have been settled at Washington between the American Cabinet and the Spanish minister.

In response, they were told that the Hornet being American property, as you have written to us, and as Mr. Fish has repeated the same thing at Washington to our minister resident, we could only consent to accept her safe-keeping on condition that you would give your entire approbation to the same.

I shall be very happy to have your opinion on the question in order to communicate that opinion to the Spanish representative, Señor Oliveira.

Be pleased to accept, Mr. Minister, my very high consideration.