Message of the President of the United States to the Two Houses of Congress, at the Commencement of the Second Session of the Thirty-seventh Congress

Mr. Schurz to Mr. Seward.

[Extracts.]

No. 2.]

Legation of the United States,
Madrid, July 15, 1861.

Sir:

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Señor Calderon Collantes then asked me whether the declaration of neutrality on the part of Spain in regard to our domestic troubles was satisfactory to my government. I replied that the government of the United States asked for and expected from foreign powers nothing but to be left to dispose of our domestic controversy as it deemed best. As to the declaration of neutrality on the part of Spain, I had received no expression of opinion from my government, and that I thought it would be considered satisfactory.

I then asked Señor Calderon Collantes whether any application had been made to her Majesty’s government for the recognition of the so-called Confederate States. He replied that no such application had been made, and that to his knowledge none of the gentlemen said to have come to Europe for that purpose had touched the soil of Spain. He assured me, in addition, that if anything of the kind should occur he would immediately communicate the fact to this legation.

In relation to my presentation to the Queen, Señor Calderon Collantes said that it was uncertain whether her Majesty would be able to receive me previous to her departure for Santander, which was to take place on the 15th instant; but that he would bring the matter before a meeting of the cabinet, to be held the same evening, and advise me in due time of their decision. He requested me, at the same time, to communicate to him the draft of the speech which I intended to deliver at the reception.

In the course of the night Mr. Perry was advised that her Majesty would be pleased to receive me the next day, at 9.30 o’clock p. m.

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At the appointed hour I was received by her Majesty. I have the pleasure to annex a copy of the speech I delivered in presenting my letter of credence, as well as her Majesty’s answer.

Last night there was a general reception by the Queen and the King consort of the diplomatic corps, which I attended, accompanied by Mr. Perry. I may mention that on both occasions I was, contrary to the rules of court etiquette, admitted in a plain citizen’s dress, the shortness of the time not having permitted me to prepare a proper court costume.

I cannot close this despatch without expressing my sincere gratification at the manner in which Mr. Perry had prepared for my reception here, and the many obliging attentions he has shown me since. Although my acquaintance with him is of but three days standing, yet I have no doubt our official and social intercourse will be of the most cordial nature.

I am, sir, your obedient servant, &c., &c.,

C. SCHURZ.

Hon. Wm. H. Seward,
Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.

Copy of the speech of Mr. Schurz.

Madam: In appearing before your Majesty as envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of the United States of America, I regard it as my most agreeable duty to communicate to your Majesty the friendly feelings which the President of the United States and the American nation entertain towards your Majesty and the people of Spain.

I beg leave to assure your Majesty that, for the purpose of maintaining amicable relations with the government of your Majesty, as far as may be consistent with the dignity and legitimate interests of the United States, the President could not have selected a more willing instrument than myself.

I have now the honor to place into your Majesty’s hands the letter of credence confided to me by the President, and of presenting my best wishes for the health of your Majesty and the royal family, and for the prosperity of the Spanish nation.

Reply of the Queen to Mr. Schurz.

[Translation.]

Mr. Minister: With true satisfaction I receive the letter which accredits you as envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of the United States of America in my court, and appreciate most highly the assurances which you give me of the sentiments of friendship which animate the President and those States towards my person and the Spanish people.

I take a lively interest in the prosperity of the nation which you come to represent, and cherish the hope that its relations with Spain will always be maintained in such a way as to satisfy the dignity and interests of both peoples.

I do not doubt that you will contribute with your enlightenment to this object, and that your comportment will make you worthy of the estimation of my government.

I am much gratified, Mr. Minister, with the wishes you express for my felicity, for that of my family, and for the prosperity of the Spanish nation.