Rufino de Elizalde to To Dr. Manuel R. Garcia, October 20, 1877

The minister of foreign affairs to Mr. Garcia.

Mr. Minister: Internal order being secured by the aid of the whole people, it only remains to settle the Chilian question, which is the only one that disturbs the peace of the republic with other nations.

I entertain the hope of continuing the negotiation which was left open and pending, and which was conducted by my predecessor with a zeal and tact that entitle him to the gratitude of the country. I entertain this hope, I say, because the Chilian minister is expected every moment from Rio de Janeiro, and I have satisfactory evidence that he has received orders from his government.

I have prepared all the drafts for the conclusion of the necessary conventions according to the agreements made by the Argentine and Chilian ministers. These drafts have been approved by the government and by competent persons.

There is every reason to hope that the new negotiations will be successful, provided Chili will agree to reasonable conditions.

God guard your excellency many years.