Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero
Sir: I have the honor to communicate to you that information has been received at this department, to the effect that the Austrian war steamer Elizabeth arrived at Havana on the 10th instant from Vera Cruz, and that it is stated she brought orders for the steam frigate No vara, recently arrived at Havana from Europe, to convey thither the remains of the Prince Maximilian, to proceed to Vera Cruz for that purpose.
The Novara, it is understood, had been awaiting these orders from Admiral Tegethoff, before proceeding to Mexico. This vessel is the one in which Maximilian went to Mexico, and upon which he had previously, it is stated, made a voyage around the world, and is said to have been his favorite ship. It is on account of these associations, doubtless, that she has been selected for the duty upon which she is now engaged. It is stated that a chapel has been fitted up on board in which the remains of the prince are to lie in state during the voyage. I am also informed that Admiral Tegethoff had been received in Mexico “with the greatest consideration, and that every attention had been extended to him by the authorities. “The Novara, it was understood, was to leave for Vera Cruz about the 13th of September, and the Elizabeth for New York.
From the foregoing information it would appear probable that the mission of Admiral Tegethoff has met with no obstructions, and that the remains of Maximilian will soon have left Mexico on their way to Europe.
I avail myself of the occasion to renew to you, sir, the assurances of my very distinguished consideration.
Señor Don Matias Romero, &c., &c., &c.,