Mr. Hovey to Mr. Seward.
Sir: The details received respecting the terrible earthquake in Peru, concerning which I informed you in my dispatch No. 144, have convinced me that the first estimate made of the loss of life and property was greatly under the truth. From what I have been able to learn, I believe that fully two thousand persons have perished, and upwards of three hundred million dollars’ worth of property destroyed from the effects of the shock.
Government and private corporations and individuals are still actively engaged in forwarding all kinds of supplies for the sufferers, and large subscriptions on their behalf are being raised in Lima.
The United States steamer Kearsarge hearing, in Coquimbo, Chili, of the disaster, immediately proceeded with provisions to Arica, and was the bearer of the first assistance received by the starving people.
I have the honor to be your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.