No. 341.
Mr. Cadwalader to Mr. Preston.
Washington, August 6, 1875.
Sir: You are aware that Mr. Bassett, the minister resident of the United States at Port au Prince, has thought proper to receive into hia official residence certain political refugees. This act on his part has not been approved by this Department, as it is not sanctioned by public law, though it is in conformity with precedents in that quarter. The fact, however, that Mr. Bassett should have thought proper to take the responsibility of harboring the persons referred to, contrary to the wishes not only of his own Government, but to those also of that to which he is accredited, is not conceived to forfeit his right, not only to protection from violence, but also to a continuance of those observances which are due to the diplomatic representative of a friendly nation. I regret to state, however, that, according to Mr. Bassett’s reports to this Department, those observances have, in respect to him and to his legation, been signally disregarded. He states that his abode is encompassed by an armed force, and that during the night, especially, persons in his neighborhood keep shouting, apparently on purpose, to a degree which makes it impossible for him or his family to obtain necessary rest. It cannot be believed that these annoyances are instigated by the Haytian government, and perhaps it may not be aware that they are practiced. However this may be, it is expected that they will at once be discontinued. If this expectation should be disappointed, it will be regarded as an unfriendly proceeding on the part of the Haytian government. Indeed, the demonstrations adverted to and all the circumstances make it advisable, in the opinion of the President, that a United States man-of-war should visit Port au Prince. The Secretary of the Navy will consequently be requested to order one thither.
I avail, &c.,
Acting Secretary.