Mr. Seward to Mr. Hovey.
Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of the 13th of April, No. 13.
I thank you for the information which you give me concerning the condition of political affairs in Peru. I should regret if I were obliged to acquiesce in your conclusion that for many years past that state has been republican only in name; that the elective franchise there is but an ideal privilege, and that nine-tenths of the people neither vote nor take any part in the affairs of the government.
I should regret still more if I were obliged to accept your further conclusion that an absolute permanent dictatorship is preferable to a government which at least has the constitution and forms of a republic.
Before accepting such conclusions in respect to any of the Spanish American states, it is thought here expedient to wait a reasonable time for a manifestation of the popular rejection of or acquiescence in the establishment of a military despotism.
The policy which the United States has pursued in regard to revolutions in South America was adopted upon due consideration. It has been adhered to with fidelity. Its domestic fruits are gathered; its foreign fruits are ripening.
Happily, however, it is unnecessary to dwell on this subject now. In a despatch which was addressed to you from this department on the 21st of April, No. 10, you were instructed to present your credentials to President Prado for special reasons therein named. It is expected that you have already executed that instruction.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Alvin P. Hovey, Esq., &c., &c., &c.