Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward
Sir: When thanking M. Drouyn de l’Huys, as directed in your despatch, No. 584, for the conciliating counsel given by this government in the difficulty between Spain and Peru, he took occasion to say that he did not think Spain was disposed to press any unjust claim or demand against Peru; that she asked only a disavowal of one or two acts or wrongs, and she would at once abandon the Chincha islands and enter into friendly negotiations again. M. Drouyn de l’Huys did not clearly explain, or at least I did not clearly understand, the extent and scope of those acts the disavowal of which was demanded. He seemed, however, to be impressed with the idea that the controversy between the two countries was susceptible of settlement without serious difficulty.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.