Mr. Washburn to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I have before, on several occasions, called your attention to the magnitude and strength of the Brazilian squadron in the Parana river. I have also mentioned the fact that it has taken little part in the war. Though ostensibly supporting the land forces in the attack, on Paraguay, it has not yet lost a vessel, and not received a half dozen damaging shots. It seems to be the policy of the admiral to keep it out of danger; and I find, on returning to this place, that the opinion is entertained by many, as I have frequently expressed my suspicions to you before, that the fleet is intended for something else than Paraguay. The war was commenced by President Lopez, in the belief that it was the intention of the imperial government, in assisting General Flores, to overthrow the established government of Uruguay, and afterwards to annex that country to the empire. The opinion is now very often expressed, that if the war should terminate favorably to the allies, Brazil will then ask, as compensation for the expenses it has incurred, not only the Banda Oriental, but the provinces of Entre Rios and Corrientes, now a part of the Argentine Republic. This must of course lead to a furious war between the latter and Brazil, for which Brazil would be so well prepared with its enormous fleet that it can lay every important town of the two republics under tribute.
[Page 596]These suspicions of what may happen in a certain contingency, I give only as the suspicions, fears, and surmises of men better informed of the politics of this country than I am. For these reasons it is believed that this government will deny all responsibility for my detention and put it on the Brazilians, as in such an event it will be very anxious for the friendship and moral support of the United States.
I am, sir, very truly, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington D. C.