E. D. Bassett to Monsieur Excellent, May 12, 1875

Mr. Bassett to Mr. Excellent.

Monsieur: I have had the honor to receive your dispatch of the 8th instant acknowledging receipt of mine of the 4th instant relative to persons who may have taken refuge under my flag. I regret that the pressure of work on hand for the packet which has only left this noon, and my poor health, have prevented me from giving you a more prompt response.

I do not propose to follow you in your discussion of the points of public law which you raise in your dispatch. I beg leave to differ with you as to the application, under existing circumstances, of the view which you express, and to maintain the tenor Of my previous dispatches on the subject.

I take due note of the intention of your government, in this circumstance, to refer the case to the Government at Washington. This procedure will, necessarily, suspend further official communication on the subject between the legation and your government until some result of your appeal to Washington can be heard from.

I have the honor to be, Monsieur, your obedient servant,