Osborn , Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States in Chili to Thomas O. Osborn, December 19, 1877

Mr. Alfonso to Mr. Osborn.

Sir: The governor of Magellan has informed my government of the important and disinterested services which the United States Steamer Adams rendered our colony of Sandy Point (Punta Arenas) on the occasion of the deplorable occurrences which took place there during the middle part of November last. Mr. Rodgers, commander of that vessel, not only attended with benevolent solicitude the inhabitants of the colony who sought his protection, but, yielding to his humanitary sentiments, sent from his vessel all those articles which in the distressing circumstances could contribute to relieve in some degree the abandoned condition in which numerous families had been left.

My government has not informed itself of these facts without experiencing a strong sentiment of sympathy and acknowledgment toward the commander of the United States Steamer Adams, whose noble conduct has entitled him to the gratitude of the people of Chili.

I request that your excellency will please make known to Commander Rodgers the expression of these sentiments, and that your excellency accept once more the considerations of the high esteem with which I am

Your excellency’s obedient servant,