Mr. Fish, Secretary of State, to Mr. Pierrepont, district attorney.
Sir: In answer to your letter of the 23d, I sent you this morning a telegram, as follows:
The course you have adopted, as mentioned in your letter of the 23d, is that which was directed by the President. There has been no change, and none is contemplated.
In further reply I have to say, that in the absence of any recognition by this Government of belligerent rights to the insurgents of Cuba, the only ground on which the judicial proceedings against the vessels being built by Mr. Delamater can be conducted or prosecuted by the Government, is that decided by the President, viz, the relation between Spain and Peru. It is not deemed consistent with the character or dignity of the Government to interpose any unnecessary delays to the judicial proceedings, but to take the judgment of the courts on the case as it stands and abide by it.
Should circumstances make necessary any departure from the line of conduct indicated, you will be advised thereof.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, yours,
- HAMILTON FISH.
-
Edwards Pierrepont,
United States District Attorney, New York.