William H. Seward to E. D. Culver, April 16, 1866

Mr. Seward to Mr. Culver

Sir: I have received your despatches of the 27th of February, No. 145, and of the 10th of March, No. 146, the latter of which is accompanied by a copy of the annual message of the President to the congress of Venezuela, for the year 1866.

I notice the comments which you have made upon so much of that paper as relates to the claims of citizens of the United States upon the republic of Venezuela, and to the negotiations of a claims’ convention. I approve of the positions taken in those comments. You say, with apparent reason, that you have doubts whether you will be able to conclude such a convention within the line of the instructions conveyed in my No. 113.

You ask further instructions as to the course to be pursued in the event of such a failure. I have the honor to say in reply, that trusting to the justice and friendship of the republic of Venezuela, this government proposes to await its final answer, reserving itself for the present as to future proceedings.

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I am, sir, your obedient servant,