Alexander S. Asboth to Commander W. A. Kirkland, March 8, 1867

Mr. Asboth to Commander Kirkland

Sir: In answer to an official application made by me, under date 16th ultimo, to Rear-Admiral Godon, commanding South Atlantic squadron, I have received through your kindness, on the 2d instant, an official communication from him, dated Montevideo, 1st instant informing me that he has ordered the United States steamer Wasp, under your command, to this port with instructions to receive my despatches for the honorable Mr. Washburn, United States minister in Paraguay, and then proceed up the river to the headquarters of the allied army in Paraguay for the object of delivering said despatches to Mr. Washburn, and waiting a reasonable time to receive from him any return communications he may have either for our government or for myself.

I had made at once on the 2d instant the proper application to the minister for foreign affairs for the required orders to the commander-in-chief in the field, and these orders I have received to-day; but as it was my original intention, besides the exchange of official despatches with the honorable Mr. Washburn, to have a personal conference with him, I have the honor to request hereby that you will be pleased to inform me whether your special instructions from the admiral contain anything conflicting with this my intention.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,