Mr. Seward to Mr, Otterbourg
Sir: It has been intimated to this government by the representatives of France and Prussia residing here, that, owing to peculiar circumstances, the governments of those countries are left for the present without diplomatic or consular representation to the republican government of Mexico, and that occasions may arise in which subjects of those governments may have need of some facilities of communication with the republic.
Under these circumstances the United States, in conformity with a political custom which has long obtained and is sanctioned by and has regard to the general interests of civilization, have consented to allow its diplomatic and consular representatives in Mexico to take charge of the interests of subjects of those states in Mexico, and of any other states whose governments are found in the same condition of non-representation in that republic. This can only be done, however, with the consent and acquiescence of the government of Mexico; and no proceedings will be taken by United States representatives in behalf of subjects of such foreign states different from the course prescribed by this government, for its representatives, for the protection of the interests of citizens of the United States.
You will seek an opportunity to communicate the contents of this instruction to the government of the republic and ask an expression of its views thereupon.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Marcus Otterbourg, Esq., &c., &c., &c.