Mr. Evarts to Mr. Sherman.

Sir: I have the honor to inform you that the British Government has received information that the Government of Bolivia has decreed the issue of letters of marque, with authority to privateers to seize Chilian property in neutral vessels, and that agents of Bolivia have departed for the United States.

With a view to causing due observance of the neutrality laws of this country, I will thank you to direct the attention of such of the collectors of customs of the United States to the matter as you in your judgment shall deem proper.

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,

WM. M. EVARTS.