Mr. Otterbourg to Mr. F. W. Seward
Sir: For the past week Puebla has been closely besieged by the liberal forces under command of General Porfirio Diaz. But until the arrival of his artillery which was expected on the field yesterday from Jalapa, active operations against the place have been limited on the part of the besiegers to working their way by the pick through the buildings of the suburbs. As from invariable experience hitherto, the decision of such struggles in Mexico depends upon conditions remote from the actual issues, it would be presumption to venture an opinion as to the results in favor of either of the combatants.
A courier was reported to have brought to the palace news of a victory obtained not far from Queretaro by the imperial army, with the entire rout of the liberals. Three days, however, having passed without customary rejoicings or official confirmation of the report, public opinion of the critical situation of Maximilian and his troops is rather strengthened than changed by this attempt to animate the partisans of the empire in the capital. All communication between this city and the port of Vera Cruz has been closed by order from the liberal headquarters.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Hon. F. W. Seward, Assistant Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.