Hamilton Fish to Nelson, January 16, 1873

No. 277. Mr. Fish to Mr. Nelson.

Sir: I transmit for your information a copy of a dispatch of the 26th of December last, addressed to this Department by Mr. Schuchardt, the commercial agent at Piedras Negras, relative to predatory incursions of Indians from Mexico into this country.

The federal government of that republic appears to be so apathetic on this subject, or so powerless to prevent such raids, that sooner or later this Government will have no other alternative than to endeavor to secure quiet on the frontier by seeking the marauders and punishing them in their haunts, wherever these may be. Of course we should prefer that this should be done with the consent, if not with the co-operation, of Mexico. It is certain, however, that if the grievance shall be persisted in the remedy adverted to will not remain untried. It is not, however, expected that for the present, at least, you will make a formal representation to that government to this effect.

I am, &c.,