Rufino de Elizalde to Charles Ames Washburn, October 23, 1866

Señor Elizalde to Mr. Washburn.

Sir: In answer to your excellency’s note of the 13th of August ultimo, I have the satisfaction to say that the allied governments of his Majesty the Emperor of Brazil and the Argentine Republic, engaged in war against the Paraguayan government, wishing to give a proof of friendship to the government of the United States of America, and in view that the war may continue some time longer, have agreed to offer your excellency the means to convey you to your post of duty.

In accordance, I offer means which will transport you as far as the Paso de la Patria, from whence you will be provided, by his excellency the general-in-chief, Bartolome Mitre, with conveyance to pass the military lines of the allied armies to the army of Paraguay.

I have not yet received the answer of the government of the republic of Uruguay, but expect it momentarily, when I will communicate its contents to your excellency.

I have the honor to reiterate to your excellency the assurances of my most distinguished consideration.