Mr. Sherman to Baron von Thielmann.
Washington, May 21, 1897.
Excellency: Referring to your note of the 10th of March last, in which you requested the Department to instruct the consul of the United States at Martinique to extend his protection and render assistance to the master of the German bark Elisabeth Ahrens, I have the honor to inclose herewith a certificate covering the transportation of four prisoners from Martinique to New York; also two letters from Messrs. Outerbridge & Co., of New York, in reference to their account.
Inasmuch as the Department’s action was taken at your request, and in view of your oral statement to Mr. Rockhill that you would assume the expense incident to the matter, it is suggested that you settle the account with the owners of the vessel directly.
Accept, etc.,