William H. Seward to Alexander S. Asboth, April 1, 1867

Mr. Seward to Mr. Ashoth

Sir: Your despatch of the 8th of February last has been received. All your proceedings as related therein in regard to the tender of the good offices of the United States to the belligerents in the war among the Pacific States are not only approved, but commended.

Your suggestion that the United States ought, especially in this juncture, to be represented in the Oriental Republic, has been considered, and the same is also approved.

Under the new act of Congress regulating the tenure of civil officers, it may be doubted whether the President has the power, without the advice and consent of the Senate, to charge a minister in one of these republics with special diplomatic functions in another of the republics.

In view of these circumstances the President has submitted to the Senate a nomination of yourself for the office of minister resident in the Oriental Republic, in conformity with section 9 of the “Act to regulate the diplomatic and consular systems of the United States,” approved August 18, 1856.

If the nomination shall be confirmed, you will immediately receive a commission, with special instructions.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,