Mr. Geofroy to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have received the note you did me the honor to write to me on the 12th of the month, with the various documents which accompanied it.
It seems, by these papers, that on the 12th of January last, a battle having [Page 209] been commenced in the city of Matamoras between the two Mexican chiefs, Ruiz and Cortinas, on the application of Mr. Pierce, consul of the United States there resident, who feared for his safety, Major General Herron, commanding the federal troops cantoned at Brownsville, Texas, sent across the frontier four companies of infantry, who came and took up a position in the vicinity of the consulate, and there remained until next day, the 13th; that they took back with them to the other side of the river Mr. Pierce, his family, and the valuables deposited at the consulate.
I remark that this temporary occupation had also been solicited by Ruiz, chief of the Juarists, who wrote at the same time as Mr. Pierce to General Herron, to declare to him that he was not in a condition to protect the United States consulate and the property of American citizens settled in the city, and who, under the pretence of providing for the safety of foreigners, wished probably to get for himself the support, at least apparent, of the federal troops.
On the morning of the 13th, when these were withdrawn, the Juarists disbanded, and Ruiz, with his principal officers, also crossed the river and took refuge at Brownsville.
In fine, it is evident it is General Banks whose charge it is to point it out, that in taking possession of his command General Herron received a communication of the instructions prepared the 23d of November, 1863, by the Department of State, and that in consequence he acted, as also did Consul Pierce, in full knowledge of the subject.
Such are the facts established by the reports of the military commanders of the United States. It would be difficult not to recognize therein a violation of neutrality, and a positive breach of orders, although so clear, which had been given by the Department of State, precisely for the accordance of such eventualities.
I shall carry your excellency’s note to the knowledge of the Emperor’s government, and be prepared to transmit to it also the report of Major General Banks, which you are pleased to announce to me, as well as all other documents you may deem proper to complete the elucidation of the affair.
Please accept, sir, the assurances of my high consideration.
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.