Mr. Schurz to Mr. Seward.
Madrid, October 20, 1861.
Sir: Last night I called upon Mr. Calderon, for the purpose of reading to him the memorandum of our conversation of the 16th instant. After having suggested some additions, which were forthwith incorporated into the report, [Page 288] he approved it as correct. He informed me that he had meanwhile received an official communication from the captain general of Cuba on the occurrences which had occasioned your despatch No. 30, and that he would read it to me at our next interview. He wanted to prove to me that the Spanish government had acted with entire fairness and loyalty in this transaction. I informed him that the London “Times,” of October 16, contained the following telegraphic despatch:
“There are several vessels loading ammunition at Havana for the confederates.”
And asked him whether he knew anything of this.
Mr. Calderon exclaimed at once, with great warmth: “That is impossible; it cannot be true. This would be a violation of the royal decree of the 17th of June, and will never be tolerated. General Serrano cannot have permitted this.”
I replied that I was happy to hear him express his opinion so unequivocally and emphatically; for it would be impossible for the government of the United States to look on quietly while the Cuban ports were used as war depots for the rebels.
Mr. Calderon assured me repeatedly that this telegraphic despatch would most certainly turn out to be unfounded, and reiterated in very strong language the assurance of the loyal and friendly feelings of the Spanish government towards the United States, and of its firm determination to adhere faithfully to the principles laid down in the royal decree.
I am, sir, with high respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward,
Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.