E. D. Bassett to Monsieur Excellent, May 25, 1875

Mr. Bassett to Mr. Excellent.

Mr. Minister: I have the honor to state that on the afternoon of Saturday, the 22d instant, I received your dispatch of the 20th instant, in which you ask my attention to an allegation that a certain person or persons may have entered my official residence with arms and ammunition. I am glad to notice that you yourself do not place confidence in this allegation, and I take pleasure in confirming you in your statement that, for myself, I “would never tolerate in the circumstances any act of a nature to lead to unfortunate and unhappy results for the security of the country.” As you well indicate, it is absurd to suppose that the official residence of the minister of a friendly foreign power is to be made an arsenal for the storing of arms and ammunition. I hardly need say to you, Mr. Minister, that no one would discountenance and deprecate such an act more than myself. And certainly you may be assured that I could never for one moment permit it.

Fully reciprocating all the friendly sentiments which you express to me in your note, I am, Mr. Minister, your obedient servant,