Mr. Hurlbut to Mr. Fish
Sir: I received by last mail your dispatch No. 43, of date 21st June, in relation to seizure of steamer Montijo.
I have presented your views, as indicated in the same, to Señor Zapata, secretary for foreign affairs, together with copies of the affidavits accompanying your dispatch.
I believe, however, that it will be found that the national government is powerless to punish the piratical acts of Herrera and his crew through any judicial tribunals known in this country, and that the outrage committed and unredressed will require other action than can be obtained through the courts of Colombia.
As soon as I receive the reply of Señor Zapata I will at once forward it to the Department.
I am, &c.,