J. Kilpatrick to the Chargé d ’AFFAIRES of her Britannic Majesty. The same, mutatis mutandis, was addressed to the, March 27, 1866

Mr. Kilpatrick to the Diplomatic Corps.

Sir: The unfortunate differences between Chili and Spain, which have brought about a state of hostilities, seem about to culminate in events still more serious. Aware of this, I approached the government of Chili some ten days since, unofficially, and sought to know whether there were not some terms upon which peace would be possible. That government expressed a desire for peace, but could suggest no practical mode of obtaining it. I then called upon the Spanish admiral and ascertained his views. He stated to me that, were the government of Chili to address a note to him stating that there was no intention of offending Spain in the action complained of by her, he was willing to reply in the same spirit; that an exchange of prizes and prisoners might then take place, and a simultaneous salute be fired by the two belligerents, Chili firing the first gun, upon which he, as minister of Spain, would deem himself satisfied, and, as admiral, would withdraw his forces.

Chili has declined this proposal, and considers it inadmissible. I have to-day informed Admiral Nunez of his refusal, whereupon he has issued a manifesto, a copy of which I have the honor to transmit herewith. This manifesto informs the diplomatic corps resident in Santiago of his intention to bombard and destroy all the public property of Chili in Valparaiso, giving a term of four days for the escape of non-combatants.

To prevent the consummation of an act so cruel and inhuman; to prevent the total destruction of a city composed almost entirely of Europeans and Americans, a city which is to-day totally defenceless, and that through the advice of foreign representatives, I feel it my duty to call upon you, sir, to assist me.

Of the present difficulties between Chili and Spain, we of course have nothing to say; but, as the representatives of enlightened nationalities, we have much to say why a helpless city, not the property of either of the belligerents, should not be laid in ashes, thousands of helpless women and children driven from their homes to die amid the desert hills, and why civilization upon this coast should not be set back to an indefinite period. I therefore cordially invite you to meet with such members of the diplomatic corps as are at present in Valparaiso, at my rooms at 2 p. m. to-day, to take into consideration the extraordinary manifesto of the Spanish admiral and the numerous petitions of the former residents of this port, and to take immediate action in the premises.

I have the honor to be your obedient servant,