Mr. Koerner to Mr. Seward
Sir: Despatch 42, of May 5, in which you are pleased to say that the views which I presented to the Marquis of Miraflores, in the conversation reported in my despatch of April 11, No. 35, are approved and confirmed, has been duly received.
As the various facts concerning the events about which I was instructed to make complaint, such for instance, as to whether the Wm. B. Reaney was within Spanish jurisdiction when she was fired at and visited by the Princesa de Asturias, have undoubtedly been now fully ascertained, I expect to receive further and definite instructions as to my action in the premises.
The government here are undoubtedly in possession of all the circumstances, but they are not very likely to meet the questions in our complaint without being urged to it by a positive and well-defined demand on our part.
By the next Spanish courier I will forward to London, to be transmitted to the President, a beautiful volume, containing an address of many citizens, congratulating the President on his proclamation of the 1st of January, 1863, relating to the abolition of slavery in the revolted States. It was in the first place delivered by a committee to our consul at Barcelona, who has sent it to me, with a request to forward it. Enclosed I send you a copy of my letter to Mr. Little, in reply to his.
Barcelona, second only to Madrid in population, is the industrial and commercial capital of Spain. Its population, from time immemorial, has been known for its sturdy spirit of independence and its love of liberty. An acknowledgment, on the part of the President, of the sentiments of the citizens who signed the address would be highly valued by them, and would make a very favorable impression with all the liberals in the country at large.
I have the honor to be your most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington.