06/21/1860
https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu...
"The principle of the liability of Paraguay having been established by the highest political acts of the United States and that Republic in their sovereign capacity."
"A demand for these purposes will be made in a firm but conciliatory spirit."
"After due deliberation, Congress, on the 2d of June, 1858, authorized the President 'to adopt such measures and use such force as in his judgment may be necessary and advisable' in the premises."
"It does not appear to me to be competent for commissioners authorized to ascertain the indemnity for the injury to go behind their authority and decide upon the original merits of the claim for which ..."