[Untitled]
Most Illustrious Sir: I have the satisfaction of informing you that the commander of the ship Florida (south American corsair) has, according to the communication of the port captain and his own verbal declaration to me, in the presence of two persons, accepted the concession granted him for furnishing himself with provisions and water which he needs, and twenty tons of coals, the latter having been agreed with you, and I having consented thereto, as a sufficient quantity to enable him to leave the port and place himself at such a distance as not to fear his being harmed by the American corvette-of-war now lying in this port, and for purposes of cooking on board; and the said commander has compromised himself to leave this evening, provided that up to the moment of quitting no American war steamer shall heave in sight, in which case he desires and requires to keep himself under the protection of the flag in whose waters he is now riding at anchor. He, however, has asked [Page 310] me that, following the example of what is done in the ports of other nations all means might be employed towards obtaining that the United States war ship now in this port may only leave this port twenty-four hours after his departure; and it being my desire to maintain complete impartiality, thus communicate the same to you, hoping that you will agree with the commander of the American corvette now here, so as to comply with the said request, which I consider reasonable and in harmony with those principles of equity which are due to all.
Be pleased to acknowledge receipt of the present despatch, and to reply thereon as you think fit.
God preserve you.
Most Illustrious Vice-Consul of the United States.