Office of the Historian

Mr. Moonlight to Mr. Gresham.

Legation of the United States,
La Paz, Bolivia, July 19, 1894. (Received August 24.)
No 36.]

Sir: Replying to No. 12, of June 4, received yesterday, disapproving of my action in asking the Bolivian Government for the promotion of Maj. Romulo Fortún, of the army, for courtesies and kindnesses received during my reception, and requesting that proper explanation be made to the minister of foreign affairs, I have the honor to transmit herewith my No. 13 to the minister of foreign relations, making the proper explanation, which I trust will receive the approval of the Department. I acknowledge frankly that it was with great reluctance note 6 of April 25 was written, and was careful to say “if consistent with the views of the Government and custom in like cases;” but had overlooked that it was in violation of section 1751 of the Revised Statutes, and which I very much regret.

I have, etc.,

Thos. Moonlight.
[Inclosure 1 in No. 36.]

Mr. Moonlight to Dr. Emeterio Cano.

Legation of the United States,
La Paz, Bolivia, July 19, 1894.

Sir: Referring to my note 6, of April 25, I find that it was in violation of the Revised Statutes of the United States to ask for the promotion of Maj. Romulo Fortún, of the Bolivian army; but was led to believe that it was customary to make such request, and, in fact, expected of the envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary for courtesies and kindnesses received from the officer designated to escort him from the Bolivian port of entry to La Paz and render him assistance during the ceremony of reception.

With this explanation, I sincerely trust your excellency will deem it proper to consider No. 6 as a nullity.

I avail, etc.,

Thomas Moonlight.