Mr. Plumb to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have the honor to report my arrival at this capital on the 6th instant.
On the 7th instant I addressed a communication to the minister for foreign affairs, Mr. Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, advising him of my arrival, and requesting the honor of an interview for the purpose of presenting my letter of credence.
A copy of this communication is herewith annexed, marked No. 1.
Mr. Lerdo de Tejada replied to my communication on the same day and appointed an interview for the following day, the 8th, at five o’clock in the afternoon.
A copy of his reply, with translation, is annexed hereto, marked No. 2.
At the time indicated the interview took place, and I delivered my letter of credence, and was received in the most cordial manner.
In the somewhat lengthy and general conversation that then ensued, the expressions of Mr. Lerdo de Tejada were so strong and so repeated, of the deep sensibility and satisfaction with which the government of Mexico regards the course of the government and people of the United States towards Mexico during the late long and severe struggle through which this country has passed, that I feel I should fail in my duty did I not make at least this allusion to [Page 461] expressions on his part which seemed to be peculiarly marked and emphatic, and in which there seemed to be especially recognized the judiciousness and the value to Mexico of the policy that has been maintained by the government of the United States.
The general situation of affairs here, so far as I have yet been able to inform myself, appears to be favorable to the continuance of tranquillity, although some time, and the proof that it may afford, will be necessary to restore general confidence.
It may be proper for me to remark, that, from what I learn from general sources since my arrival here, a policy of greater leniency appears to have been adopted by the government.
The number of political prisoners has been greatly reduced, and in many-instances where capital punishment was expected, the sentence has been commuted to banishment, and the parties have been allowed a term of 30 days in which to arrange their affairs before leaving the country.
The presidential and congressional election took place on the 7th instant.
The returns so far as yet heard from indicate the almost unanimous re-election of President Juarez.
Mr. Lerdo de Tejada is probably elected chief justice, which corresponds to the position of vice-president.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.