No. 387.
Mr. Evarts
to Mr. Christiancy.
Washington, April 9, 1879.
Sir: Mr. Gibbs’s dispatch No. 317, in relation to the approaching conflict between Chili and Bolivia and the attitude of Peru with respect thereto, has been read with interest. * * * *
The position of Peru in relation to the struggle now reported as having been inaugurated is one of considerable interest. The latest news represents that the Peruvian Government has decided to maintain an attitude of strict neutrality. It is sincerely hoped that this decision will be successfully observed, for, besides restricting the arena of the deplorable strife between peoples of one blood, the pacific course of Peru makes her a notable example, and it may be a directly potential agent in the interest of the speedy restoration of peace, so earnestly to be hoped for.
I am, &c.,