Mr. Woodford to the President.
My No. 45. Unless report on the steamer Maine requires immediate action, I suggest that nothing be decided or done until after the receipt of my personal letters 43, 44, and 46, which my second secretary of legation will carry from Gibraltar Monday, March 21. I also suggest that you authorize me to tell the Queen informally, or any minister indicated by her, that you wish final agreement before April 15. If you will acquaint me fully with general settlement desired I believe Spanish Government will offer without compulsion and upon its own motion such terms of settlement as may be satisfactory to both nations. Large liberty as to details should be conceded to Spain, but your friendship is recognized and appreciated, and I now believe it will be a pleasure to Spanish Government to propose what will probably be satisfactory to you.