Oliveira to Certified copy: DENIS, November 29, 1871

Mr. Oliveira to Denis.

Mr. Minister: I have the honor to transmit a literal copy of a dispatch of yesterday’s date, that was addressed to me by the general (commodore) of the sqadron of my nation, stationed in this port, which dispatch is couched in these precise terms:

“Iron-clad frigate Zarogaza. I hope that you will, with all possible diligence, transmit to the government of the republic of Hayti the following demand, which conforms in every point to the tenor of my instructions. It is that the steamer Hornet shall be effectively detained here, her detention being secured in such a manner that the said steamer, guarded by the Haytian government, shall not be able in anywise to deceive the vigilance of which she shall be the object.

“To attain this end, I think it indispensable that the rudder, safety-valves, and running-gear of the steamer should be dismounted and deposited in the arsenal, or some other establishment. These precautions will not only guarantee our country, but also that which by such preventive means shall have concurred in thus securing this arrangement.”

In now having the honor to bring these instructions to your attention, I await your response to this demand.

I am led to hope, Mr. Minister, from your known amiability of character, that you will be pleased to answer me as soon as possible, in order that I may report to the general (commodore) the accomplishment of his desires. May God grant you a long life.

Saluting you most respectfully, I am your obedient servant,