Mr. Hunter to Mr. Hovey.
Sir: * * * * * *
It is probable that when you arrive in Peru you will find that country in a state of revolution. You are only to recognize the constitutional government of that republic, at the head of which President Pezet now stands, with whom we have hitherto been in amicable relations. The United States are slow to recognize revolutionary governments, and should you find the revolutionary party in power at the capital of Peru, on your arrival there, you will report the facts to this department, and await its future instructions, before taking any steps towards its recognition by this government.
The department entertains the confidence that your intelligent and zealous attention to the interests of the United States, now confided to your care, will be eminently conducive to the harmony and friendy relations existing between the governments of the two countries.
* * * * * * *
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Alvin P. Hovey, Esq., &c., &c., &c., Washington, D. C.