Baron Fava to Mr. Blaine.
Washington, March 26, 1891.
My Dear Mr. Blaine: In our conversation of yesterday at noon I had the honor of handing you a copy of the cablegram dated March 24, in which Marquis Rudini insisted on the necessity that the Federal Government should formally assure him that the murderers of the [Page 675] Italian subjects in New Orleans be brought to justice without further delay, and that an indemnity be granted to the families of the victims. I furthermore requested you to enable me to answer satisfactorily that cablegram.
While you expressed the desire of consulting the President, urging me in the same time not to cable yet to the marquis, you also promised me repeatedly to furnish me the same evening, before dinner time, with a formal answer.
Not having received said answer until 9 o’clock last night, I called in person on you also to communicate another cablegram just then received, in which Marquis Rudini stated that he could not admit any further delay concerning the answer expected from the Federal Government, in view of our mild and legitimate demands.
Not having received up to to-day, 26th (6 p.m.), the answer you promised me, I am now compelled to request you to let me know how I must interpret your silence.
The first secretary of the Italian legation, bearer of the present, is instructed to await your answer to the requests formulated by the Royal Government.
I am, etc.,