Mr. Seward to Señor Asia Buruaga.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of yesterday’s date, informing me of the arrival at New York of two Spanish ships of war, and of their intention to refit and obtain supplies at that port.
In view of this fact, you are pleased to ask the intervention of this government to prevent their availing themselves of such resources as may facilitate the hostile purposes of the Spanish government against Chili, and likewise to observe towards them the vigilance proper to strict neutrality.
In answer, I have the honor to inform you that a copy of your note will be transmitted to the United States district attorney for the southern district of New York, whose attention will, at the same time, be invited to the subject.
I avail myself of this opportunity to repeat the assurances of my most distinguished consideration.
Señor F. S. Asta Buruaga, &c., &c., &c.