Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero
Sir: The government of the United States contemplates the concentration of a body of troops from its Pacific possessions in the Territory of Arizona. This purpose can be most expeditiously accomplished if the government of Mexico will consent to their being landed at Guaymas, and marched by the most direct route to their destination. In this exigency I have the honor to request you to [Page 539] submit to the friendly consideration of the Mexican government the desire I have expressed, with a view to obtain the necessary permission; and I presume that in submitting the proposition there is scarcely any need that it should be accompanied with the assurance that in making the transit over Mexican territory the strictest regard shall be paid to the rights and authority of the government, and the persons, property, and interests of the citizens of the republic.
I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you, sir, the assurance of my high consideration.
Señor Matias Romero, &c., &c., &c.