Señor Asta Buruaga to Mr. Seward.
Sir: This legation has advices that two Spanish ships of war have made the harbor of New York, and that they are preparing to supply themselves and make repairs during their stay in that port.
With entire urbanity I allow myself to call the attention of your excellency to this fact, not doubting that you will not allow these vessels to profit of any resources at that port for carrying forward the hostile purposes of the Spanish government in respect to my country, nor that there will be any omission to observe towards them the vigilance appropriate to strict neutrality.
It is pleasant on this occasion to reiterate to your excellency the sentiments of the highest consideration with which I have the honor to be your excellency’s most obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, &c., &c., &c.