Mr. Egan to Mr. Blaine.
Santiago, October 28, 1891.
Mr. Egan reports that he has written a note dated October 26 following closely the instructions sent him in regard to the assault upon the Baltimore’s men and that, in Ms reply thereto, the minister of foreign affairs says that the Government of the United States formulates demands and advances threats that, without being cast back with acrimony, are not acceptable, nor could they be accepted in the present case or in any other of like nature. He does not doubt the sincerity, rectitude, or expertness of investigation on board the Baltimore, but will recognize only the jurisdiction and authority of his own country to judge and punish the guilty in Chilean territory. He says the administrative and judicial authorities have been investigating affair; that judicial investigation under Chilean law is secret and the time is not yet arrived, to make known results; when that time does arrive will communicate result, although he does not recognize any other authority competent to judge criminal cases than that established by the Chilean people. Until the time arrives to disclose the result of investigation he can not admit that the disorders in Valparaiso or the silence of his department should appear as an expression of unfriendliness toward the Government of the United States which might put in peril the friendly relations between the two countries. Mr. Egan adds that Capt. Schley reports that the officers of the Baltimore were refused permission to be present at investigation and that the American sailors were obliged to sign a paper in Spanish which they did not understand. He will not answer the foreign office note until he receives instructions.