William H. Seward to Charles F. Adams, December 8, 1865

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams.

Sir: I transmit a copy of an instruction of the 5th instant, addressed by this department to Mr. Nelson, the minister of the United States at Santiago de Chili. This paper will acquaint you with our views of the controversy between that republic and Spain, which has already resulted in an attempted blockade of Chilian ports by Spanish vessels of war, and which may be followed by other hostilities. These proceedings, so embarrassing to that commerce with Chili of which the United States has had a considerable share, are to be deplored on account of the interruption to business which they will occasion, and also for other obvious reasons. We have endeavored to prevent them by moral means, which if not hitherto entirely effective, may, it is hoped, if properly followed up, ultimately mitigate their effects and lead to the restoration of peace between those powers.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,