Mr. Hovey to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that there is no change in political affairs in Peru since my last despatch.
The government, in its present form, seems firmly established. General Prado has made a good impression with all, and will probably hold his position until the close of the war with Spain. Since my last the iron-clad Loa, and [Page 629] the 34-gun frigate Amazonas, have been wrecked; the former in the bay of Callao, and the latter upon the Chilian coast. The loss of these vessels will be severely felt by Peru, and I understand that the Peruvian government will now adopt a system of defence by torpedoes and torpedo boats.
As usual, I send herewith files of Peruvian papers.
As yet, I have not had the honor of receiving any instructions from the department in regard to the policy I should adopt towards the government in power. I earnestly recommend that power be given me to present my credentials to the “Jefe supremo provisario de la republica,” (supreme provisional chief of the republic.)
I believe that the best interests of our country and countrymen demand that this step should be immediately taken.
There are great irregularities with our mails on the isthmus, and numerous complaints are made in consequence of delays.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.