Horatio J. Perry to William H. Seward , & c ., & c ., & c, September 18, 1864

Mr. Perry to Mr. Seward.

Sir:The change of ministry you were led to expect has occurred as anticipated. I enclose a translation of the note of Señor Llorente received yesterday, announcing the new cabinet.

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So far as our interests are concerned it would be premature to specify in what manner they have been affected by this change. The journals say that Narvaez will immediately abandon Santa Domingo, and withdraw the Spanish flag from that island. He has energy enough for that step, but whether he will think proper to take it or not, the journals are probably ignorant.

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The members of the new cabinet have all been ministers before, and four of them prime ministers. They are able men, and if they continue united under the impulse of the rigorous will of Narvaez, may yet give a strong government to Spain.

Your despatches Nos. 21 and 22 have reached me, and I take special notice of your interview with Mr. Tassara, in which the neutrality of the Isthmus of Panama, under certain circumstances, was the subject of conversation.

I hope soon to have an interview with Marshal Narvaez, which I have no doubt will be interesting, upon the subject of the questions pending with Peru.

With the highest respect, sir, your obedient servant,