Mr. Corwin to Mr. Seward, May 29, 1861
Mr. Corwin to Mr.
Seward.
States,
City of
Mexico,
May 29, 1861.
Sir: * * * * * * * *
I deem it of the very first importance that our consuls at every port on
the Gulf of Mexico should be at their respective posts, with careful and
specific instructions as to their treatment of vessels sailing under the
flag of the Confederate States, or having papers from ports within those
States, made out by officers under their authority.
Should the relations now existing, or which may hereafter exist, between
the United States and the seceding States be such as to require of me
any specific act in relation to such state of things, I beg to be
advised of it by the department as early as possible.
The present government of Mexico is well affected towards us in our
present difficulties, but, for obvious reasons, will be unwilling to
enter into any engagement which might produce war with the south, unless
protected by promise of aid from the United States.
* * * * * * * *
I am, &c.,
Hon. W. H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.