Mr. Seward to Mr. Burton
Sir: Your despatch No. 271, of September last, upon the subject of the landing of a body of marines at Panama from a United States vessel of war, has been received. The course which you took upon that Occasion is approved. It is preferred, however, that in such cases you should report to the department all the facts in regard to them which may be known to you, and all the conclusions which you may have formed. The proper instruction for your future course will then be given by the department.
You will also inform the Colombian minister for foreign affairs that you await the instructions referred to.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Allan A. Burton, Esq., &c., & c., & c.