William H. Seward to Erastus D. Culver, November 30, 1865

Mr. Seward to Mr. Culver

Sir: * * * * * *

In answer to your No. 136, which treats of the convention proposed between Venezuela and the United States for the adjustment and settlement of the claims of citizens of the United States, and the objection of the government of Venezuela to a provision for the payment of interest upon the amounts which may be awarded to the claimants by the commission, you are instructed to insist upon its insertion in the convention, inasmuch as a precedent contrary thereto, for the benefit of Venezuela, would equally be a precedent against this government in its future conventions with other powers.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,