No. 119.
Mr. Logan
to Mr. Fish.
Santiago de Chile, February 12, 1875. (Received March 11.)
Sir: Referring to the reception of the President’s message, I have the pleasure to inform you that it gives universal satisfaction among the American residents of Chili, so far as I have been enabled to learn their sentiments.
The financial policy therein recommended, which in my own judgment is the only correct one, is particularly commended.
In a long conversation upon the subject with the minister of foreign relations, during which I explained such matters in connection with the message as were not clear to him, he expressed himself in terms of warm admiration, and dwelt upon the breadth of view displayed in all its parts.
The determination to meet the Government obligations in good faith and the recommendations in reference to a speedy return to a specie basis met his special indorsement, as also the remarks relative to the Cuban question, in which the South American republics evince particular interest; and the recommendation looking to the establishment of an American line of mail-steamers upon the southwest coast. The latter measure, if carried out, will meet a hearty support from the governments of the coast, some, if not all, of which would be willing to subsidize the company. My dispatch No. 68 makes a fuller reference to the same subject. I have transmitted the copy of the message sent for the use of the Chilian government.
I have, &c.,