No. 668.
Mr. Fish to General Sickles.
The two days agreed upon in the protocol signed with Spanish minister for arranging details have passed, and minister has not full instructions, and has asked a short extension. It is hoped the delay is accidental [Page 971] and has been unavoidable, but it gives rise to grave apprehension of the failure of the friendly accommodation to which this Government acceded on the request of Spain. You will see minister at once, and assure him of the President’s disappointment at this delay, and that if he assent to any extension, it is in the interest of a continuance of friendly relations with the republic of Spain, but can be only for the most limited period. That he relies upon the immediate execution of the engagement to forthwith surrender the vessel and the survivors of her passengers and crew, and that delay cannot be regarded otherwise than as inconsistent with the engagement.