[2399) (FORSYTH to ELLIS]
Department of State
Washington, March 23, 1836. Sir: I transmit a copy of a letter from Mr. Butler to this Department, dated the 8th ultimo, and translation of the newspaper paragraphs to which it refers. It is desirable to receive, · as soon as may be practicable, accurate information respecting the sentiments of the leading men in the Government of l\'lexico in regard to the United States. You will, therefore, be diligent, but cautious, in making the inquiries and observations necessary to inform yourself on the subject; and in writing to the Department in relation to it, you will use the cipher whenever you think your sentiments and opinions should be carefully kept from the knowledge of the Mexican Government. Information, as exact as may be attainable, concerning the true opinions of the United States entertained by any of the prominent men in Mexico, would also be acceptable. The-accompanying copy of a letter, and of its enclosures, from the consul of the United States at Matamoras, to this Department, presents a case of outrage there upon Messrs. William Hallett and Zalmon Hall, citizens of the United States, and upon the consul himself, of so aggravated a character as to demand the immediate interposition of this Government. If, therefore, you should have no reason to doubt the representations of the consul, the President directs that you will, without delay, apply to the Mexican Government of reparation to the injured, and satisfaction for the insult to this Government. I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, JOHN FORSYTH. Powhatan Ellis, Esq., Charge de' Affires of the Unites States, Mexico.
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