in charge of United States Legation to General Leonardo Marquez, February 6, 1867

Mr. Otterbourg to General Marquez

The consul of the United States of America finds himself, in consequence of the proclamation of his excellency General Leonardo Marquez, dated yesterday, 5th instant, under the obligation imposed by his position as guardian of the American flag and the interests which it represents under the guarantees of treaties, to make respectfully the following inquiries of the general-in-chief in command of this capital:

Whether the third article of his excellency’s proclamation includes legations, consulates, and other foreign agents; whether the person in charge of the United States legation and archives should be expected to open the doors of the house where that property is kept to any party, armed or unarmed, who might demand admittance thereto; and whether, in view of the second article of the proclamation already quoted, American citizens, without any interference in the political questions of Mexico, occupied solely with their daily pursuits, shall have free access to the consulate of the United States.

Upon the reply to these inquiries, which only as a duty the undersigned addresses to his excellency the general-in-chief, depends the answer to the many peaceful citizens of the United States, who, under the existing circumstances, have applied at this consulate, soliciting guidance for conduct in which may be involved their dearest interests.

The undersigned has the honor to assure his excellency the general-in-chief of his distinguished consideration.