No. 47.
Mr. Williamson to Mr. Fish.
Guatemala , March 21, 1877. (Received April 27.)
Sir: I have the honor to inclose you herewith copy and translation of a decree, No. 175, of the Government of Guatemala, published in the semi-official paper El Progreso on the 18th instant. No date is found in the copy of the decree, but it purports to have been published on the 8th of this month.
The promulgation of this decree, for some cause unknown to me, and apparently unknown to any of the many persons with whom I have conversed, was made on the 15th instant in a most formal manner; and, under the orders of the government, the day was observed as a holiday and the city was illuminated at night.
The circular note of the government inclosed with my No. 590 informed you that the government had extended invitations to the diplomatic and consular corps in this city to attend the ceremonies of the promulgation on the 15tb instant in the hall of the university. All of us attended. We were politely received and seated by the minister of foreign affairs.
It may seem strange that the codes which purported to have been promulgated on the 15th instant to take effect on the 15th September next, have not been published in any form up to date. Their provisions, whatever they may be, remain known only to the persons that were charged with their preparation, and to the few in authority. I am promised copies by the minister of foreign affairs, whenever they are published. He tells me the laws they contain are “entirely new.”
I have the honor, &c.,