While the debate was proceeding I was called out by the messenger of the Legation, with word that the German Embassador was very anxious to see me. As soon as the proceedings in the Corps Législatif were ended, I went to the German embassy. The embassador told me that he had been instructed by his Government to ask the United States Legation at Paris to assume the protection of the North Germans in France during the coming war. I saw at once the importance of this step, the compliment paid us by a great power like Germany, and the advantages to the country. I replied that I felt confident that my Government would gladly assume the charge; that if there were no cable across the Atlantic, and it were necessary to say "Yes" or "No" at once, I should say "Yes;" but as there was telegraphic communication, and I could receive an answer in forty-eight hours, I must ask instructions from Mr. Fish. He appeared to be disappointed, and inquired when I could give him an answer, as he must leave Paris in two days. He evidently desired the matter to be settled before he left. I told him that I thought I should receive a reply within that time. I went at once to the office, and telegraphed Mr. Fish as follows. This telegram, like the other, was detained for twenty-four hours by the French Government.
"Paris, July 15th, 1870.
"Fish—Washington:—War is certain. Can I take Prussian subjects in France under our protection? Have promised answer to-morrow.
"Hoffman."
On the 17th I received Mr. Fish's answer, as follows:
"Washington, July 16th, 1870.
"Protection of North Germans in French territory by American representative can only be given at request of North Germany, and with assent of France. Examine request of Mr. Moustier of July 16th, 1867, to United States to protect French in Mexico.
"Fish."
On receipt of this instruction, I wrote at once to the Duke de Gramont, to ask for the assent of the French Government. My note was as follows:
"Legation of the United States,
Paris, July 17th, 1870.