Mr. Ransom to Mr. Olney.

No. 69.]

Sir: I have the honor to transmit the inclosed copies of a letter from Secretary Mariscal, requesting me to act as arbitrator in the designated convention between Mexico and Guatemala. Copies of a similar, letter from the Guatemalan minister, Mr. Emilio de Leon, have already been sent to your Department.

I have not felt at liberty to accept this trust without your approbation. I see no chance for any unpleasant complication in anyway with our Government. I should like an answer by telegraph.

I have, etc.,

M. W. Ransom.
[Inclosure in No. 69.—Translation.]

Mr. Mariscal to Mr. Ransom.

Mr. Minister: In compliance with Article II of the convention had on the 1st of April of the current year, between the representatives of the Governments of Mexico and Guatemala, at my proposal your excellency has been designated to act in the arbitration provided for in said article.

I hope that your excellency will be pleased to accept said appointment as a token of friendly deference toward both Governments; and it gratifies me to reiterate the assurance of my highest regard.

Igno. Mariscal.