No. 7.
Mr. Hinds to Mr. Evarts.
Rio de Janeiro , October 6, 1877. (Received November 2.)
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a copy of your separate instructions to the diplomatic and consular officers of the United States, under date of 18th July, inviting ray attention to the fact that it is believed that the period has arrived when it would be wise for all the nations of this continent to consider more carefully than here-toforehow they may best enlarge their trade with each other, and instructing them to devote their attention to such methods by which trade with the United States can be most judiciously fostered. In reply, I beg to most respectfully state that, after a residence of almost six years at this capital, during which time I have carefully studied the commercial relations between the United States and this empire, I have become thoroughly satisfied that with more extended facilities in the way of transportation, and with a careful and systematic dissemination of knowledge as to the commercial demands of this country, our commerce with it ought to, and would, in my opinion, be largely increased. At an early future, I hope (in pursuance of my instructions) to be able to lay before your Department a more extensive report upon this subject than I have hitherto been able to give, which, if it should result in directing our factors, merchants, and producers to a more careful consideration of the inducements offered in this vast empire, will have accomplished its end.
I am, &c.,
Consul-General.