Mr. Becerra to Mr. Bayard.
Washington, June 18, 1885. (Received June 19.)
Sir: I have read, with the deepest regret, your polite note of the 16th instant, whereby I am informed that the consul of Colombia at New York has delayed replying to an important communication that was addressed to him by the representative in that city of the Department of Justice in relation to the case of the brig Ambrose Light.
I have already addressed the aforesaid consul, not only for the purpose of asking an explanation of this singular delay, but also for that of urging him to display in future the utmost activity and zeal in everything whereby he can second the upright and diligent action of the American authorities in behalf of neutrality, and can frustrate the designs of those who, to the prejudice of both Republics, endeavor to violate the laws which establish and guarantee that neutrality.
I beg you, Mr. Secretary of State, to accept and transmit to the officers of the Department of Justice my special apologiesfor the failure in question, which I trust will not be repeated, and I reiterate to you, &c.,