Evarts to Antonio Mantilla, September 13, 1877

No. 308. Mr. Evarts to Mr. Mantilla.

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 6th instant, in regard to the alleged attack made upon the American vessel Edward Lee, of Newburyport, Mass., by a Spanish war vessel in Cuban waters, and informing me that you are authorized by your government to assure that of the United States that a thorough investigation will be made into the facts of the case.

The Department shares in the hope expressed by you that the reported occurrence may not have taken place. Such an occurrence would necessarily be regarded with grave solicitude and regret. It is a source of gratification, however, to receive the assurance that the Government of Spain proposes to make a thorough inquiry into the facts of the case. Similar inquiry will be made by the Government of the United States, with a view to ascertain what course of action it is proper to adopt.

Accept, sir, a renewed assurance of my high consideration.