Macdonell to Augusto Ulloa, August 5, 1874

Mr. Macdonell to Mr. Ulloa.

M. le Ministre: Having reported to the Earl of Derby your excellency’s desire that Her Majesty’s government might defer for the present pressing for a settlement of the Virginius claims, I am instructed by his lordship to remind your excellency that many months have now elapsed since the execution of the British subjects taken on board the Virginius, and that in several instances the families of the persons executed are in distress. The latter consideration will, I am convinced, have full weight with your excellency, as well as with the Spanish government.

Her Majesty’s government have desired me to add that, though they are most unwilling to add to the difficulties of the Spanish government, yet they cannot allow these claims to be postponed indefinitely, and I trust, therefore, that your excellency will be able to give me a decided promise that the matter shall be settled by a fixed and not too distant date.

I avail, &c.