M. Goñi to Mr. Seward.
The undersigned, envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of her Catholic Majesty, has the honor to make known to the honorable Secretary of State of the United States that the Spanish legation having withdrawn from Mexico, and as the consular agents must have done the same, Spanish subjects who are now residing in that country are in want of their natural protection. For this reason the government of her Catholic Majesty, holding in consideration the sentiments of mutual esteem which unite Spain and the United States, and the friendly relations which exist between their respective governments, would desire that the Spaniards established in Mexico might count, in case of need, on the protection of the agents of the United States. Therefore the under-signed, in the name and by order of his government, addresses himself to the honorable Mr. Seward, Secretary of State, making known to him that it will be gratifying, if there be nothing unsuitable in it, that he would please to issue proper instructions to the official agents of the united States in Mexico, in order [Page 547] that while existing circumstances continue they may give their protection and aid to Spanish subjects resident in the territory of that state.
The undersigned renews on this occasion to the honorable Secretary of State the assurance of his highest consideration.
The Hon. Secretary of State of the United States, &c., &c., &c.