Steamer Wasp to Marquis de Caxias, Marshal and Commander-in-chief of the Allied Army in operation against the Government of Paraguay, May 22, 1868

Lieutenant Commander Kirkland to the Marquis de Caxias.

Sir: I have this day received a communication from his excellency Charles A. Washburn, minister resident of the United States at Asuncion, Paraguay, in which he says as follows:

“You are probably aware that all land communication between San Fernando (the headquarters of the army of Paraguay) and Curupaiti is very difficult, and that it would be impossible, or nearly so, for my wife, child, and servants, to reach the latter place, except by way of the river. You are also aware that, for military reasons, the Paraguay steamers do not go so far down the river. In order, therefore, that my family may be put on board the Wasp, it is necessary that it should come higher up the river, and his excellency Marshal Lopez advises me that there will be no objection on the part of Paraguay, and that the steamer can come to such point below the mouth of the Tebicuari as may be signalized on her arrival; at such point the transfer from a Paraguayan vessel may be easily made.”

Under the above specified circumstances, therefore, I have the honor to request that your excellency will allow the United States steamer Wasp to pass through the allied fleet anchored below and above Humaita, in order that the said vessel may proceed to Tucuara, below the mouth of the river Tebicuari, for the purpose of embarking his excellency Mr. Washburn, with his family and private effects.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,