Mr. Seward to Mr. Plumb.
Sir: I have just received directly from the United States consul at Monterey, in the State of New Leon, a copy of the deposition of the United States citizens who were the subjects of the late indignity at that place. They make a case in which the police of the city, acting under the direction of the secretary of the State government, committed great indignity and inexcusable outrage against the persons, rights, and sensibilities of the complainants.
While it is very manifest that the federal government of Mexico could neither have authorized nor contemplated the possibility of such an outrage, it is, at the same time, equally manifest that the authorities of the State were unrestrained by any consideration of prudence or of respect for the United States. The government and people of the United States cannot but feel deeply grieved by the outrage, unless it shall be explained in a satisfactory manner; and if not so explained, shall be promptly rebuked by the government of Mexico. You will lose no time or occasion in soliciting such redress.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
Edward L. Plumb, Esq., &c., &c., &c.