Mr. Coggeshall to Mr. Seward.
Sir: I have to acknowledge your despatch No. 4, transmitting correspondence with the representative of Chili in the United States, respecting the [Page 480] mediation of the President of the United States for peace between the allied republics of South America and Spain. In accordance with its instructions, I immediately reported the substance of the correspondence to the minister of foreign affairs for Ecuador, who replied that Ecuador regretted that the good offices of the President of the United States for peace could not be rendered effective, expressed strong desire for amicable adjustment between the belligerents, consistent with the dignity and interests of all the allied powers, and renewed to the United States earnest assurances of grateful respect.
On the 10th of this month the representative of Great Britain at this capital, under instructions from his government, addressed a note to the minister of exterior relations, Mr. Bustamente, on behalf of the government of Great Britain and of France, proposing the good offices of those nations for the settlement of questions upon which Spain and the allied republics are at war. I am informed that to this proposition the Ecuadorian minister has responded that he cannot make definite answer without consultation, con republicas aliadas.
I am also informed that England and France have made to Chili and Peru the same proposition that has been received by Ecuador, and I am assured by the Chilian envoy resident here that the response of those republics will be that no steps for amicable relations with Spain can be taken until the basis of the adjustment proposed has been announced to the allied republics.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.