"Yes, I know, but your government will back you in whatever you do. That is the point with me.  If you report no cause for interference down in Paraguay, there will be no danger of our getting into trouble.  Your government wouldn't make a demand for Lyman's release, although it was understood he was kept in duress by a high official of the republic.  Still, it sends you out to act unofficially.  Now, this being the case, you are the person I want to talk with."