United States Cousul to Lewis D. Campbell, March 3, 1867

Mr. Saulnier to Mr. Campbell

Sir: I have the honor to inform you that the situation of affairs here is in the precise condition as when the siege commenced. The imperial occupants of this city are perfectly satisfied with the position, holding the custom-house and receiving the entire revenue of the city.

The liberal force outside have not the material necessary to breach the walls, or the fighting men of sufficient stamina to take it by assault.

Some $250,000 in the form of orders on this custom-house, given by the imperial authorities at the city of Mexico to the inhabitants of that city, on account of moneys exacted from them by General Marquez, have been received in this city. On presentation to the collector of this custom-house, he cooley tells the holders of them that they are good, but his orders are not to receive them in payment of duties or pay them at present.

The French consul recives a similar answer in relation to the sum of $50,000, payable monthly by this custom-house, as per convention made in the city of Mexico in February last.

With much respect, your obedient servant,