Mr. Seward to Mr. Hovey.

No. 3.]

Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch No. 1, of the 20th ultimo, in which you announce your arrival in Lima; the flight of President Pezet; the assumption by the second vice-president, General Canseco, of the control of the Peruvian government; the result of the battle of Lima on the 6th [Page 625] of November last; and the recognition of the Peruvian government, under General Canseco’s administration, by the entire diplomatic body in Lima.

From the last paragraph of your despatch it is inferred with some regret that you have not adhered strictly to the instructions given you in my despatch No. 1, of the 10th October, 1865. It is presumed, however, from the fact communicated in your despatch now before me, that, having requested your presentation as the minister of the United States to the republic of Peru, your request has been promptly acceded to by the minister for foreign affairs of that government. Your attention is again asked to the instructions which were given you in my No. 1.

You will be pleased to report your proceedings in this connection, which when received will be submitted to the President for his consideration.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

Alvin P. Hovey, Esq., &c., &c., &c.