Mr Seward to Mr. Perry
Sir: The Europa’s mails arrived this morning, and our out-going mails must be closed to-morrow morning.
Your despatch of February 4, No. 162, is received. Collating its statements with telegraphic despatches which speak of a piratical vessel having entered Ferrol for repairs, and with despatches from Nantes and Paris in regard to one or more pirates having been clandestinely fitted out at Houat island, I find it impossible as yet to determine what has happened and what has not happened anywhere; nevertheless, I am able to approve of all your proceedings as they are represented to me. It will be your duty, as you find yourself justified by further developments, to represent to the Spanish government that the United States cannot consent to endure piratical warfare from Europe under the care of an insurrection that is without ports or courts. We ask from the governments of maritime states the enforcement upon their subjects of peace towards us, justas we enforce it upon citizens of the United States towards them. I am glad to learn that the secretary of state for foreign affairs has indicated to you a disposition to maintain these obligations. Now is a propitious time by wise administration to establish the relations between Spain and the United States upon the basis of peace and lasting friendship. Expecting, with much solicitude, the reply of her Catholic Majesty’s government to your judicious representations.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Horatio J. Perry, Esq., &c., &c., &c., Madrid.