Mr. Hall to Mr. Seward.
Sir: Since the date of my last despatch, No. 49, (24th September,) the half of the provisional President’s military force that was stationed here, in pursuance of orders received from him, has gone to Sucre, whither he and the other half had gone, after he defeated the constitutionalists at Potosi. The movement is significant. It indicates that, despairing of being able to subject the powerful department of La Paz to his rule, his purpose is to extend his power over the southern departments of the republic, or as many of them as he can. His inability to reduce La Paz will compel him, sooner or later, to provide for an election of members of Congress, upon which body will devolve the important duty of adopting the necessary measures for the pacification of the country. A proclamation directing such election may, I am inclined to think, be expected at an early day.
There has been no renewal of postal communications between this part of the country and the coast. I send this despatch to Zacua by an arriero.
The latest despatch I have received from your department is dated June 13, and numbered 31.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.