Mr. Wilson to Mr. Seward
Sir: I beg leave to inform you that the Venezuelan congress closed its sessions on the 25th of May last. Nothing of any importance to our government has taken place with the exception of the new tariff, which has, to a certain [Page 814] extent, reduced the import duties, which are enormous in this country, and very considerably the export duties. The duties on flour from eight pesos have been put down to four pesos. Wheat is free, and also most of the articles necessary for general consumption and use. The government published a decree some ten days ago ordering the new tariff to go into operation. This is much sooner than was expected, and I can hardly tell what influence the measure may have on the mercantile community, at least for some months. I shall send by the first vessel a copy of the new tariff, not being able to do it at present on account of its not having as yet been circulated.
A new civil code will also be enforced on the 1st July next. It is planned on the one formed by the eminent Spanish lawyer, Goyena, and reduces all the conflicting laws which exist in this country to one complete system. This is considered to be a very important measure.
The mines of Guayana I understand become richer and richer every day, and I have no doubt that in the course of time they will be a source of immense wealth and aid to Venezuela. Many of our southern citizens have arrived at Ciudad Bolivar, under the contract entered into by a Mr. Price with this government. They are to devote themselves to agricultural purposes in the State of Guayana.
The contracts heretofore granted by this government to different parties for the working of the mines have, by an act of this congress, been extended to all others who desire to form companies for that purpose.
President Falcon, by the power vested in him by a resolution of this congress, has entered into a contract with Edward Burnett, agent of the Western Union Telegraph Company, by which said company has obtained the right of way in Venezuela for thirty-three years, to construct and operate their telegraph line. The government of Venezuela pays said company thirty thousand dollars a year for the use of said line. This unites Venezuela with the United States.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.