No. 61.
Mr. Fish to Mr. Partridge.
Washington, April 20, 1872.
Sir: Your dispatch No. 38, of the 22d of February last, has been received.
The treaty between Brazil and Paraguay, to which it refers, is a subject of much interest. You say that it was still under consideration in the council of state. A copy would be acceptable whenever you can conveniently obtain one. Undoubtedly Brazil made great sacrifices to obtain her triumph over Lopez, and a conqueror has, in the abstract, a right to dictate his own terms. It is much to be regretted, however, that Brazil has thought proper, contrary to what is understood to have been her agreement with her allies, to conclude a separate peace with Paraguay. It is hoped that the terms which she has thought proper to exact will not be so onerous as to prevent the restoration of prosperity in that republic, or materially to diminish its territory.
You will informally give the Brazilian minister for foreign affairs to understand that we take a lively interest in the welfare of Paraguay, and of the other republics of South America, and presume that her powerful neighbor will respect the independence of these republics.
I am, &c,