Mr. Bridgman to Mr. Hay.

No. 73.]

Sir: I have the honor to state that on November 6 the Government officials of the city of La Paz, with apparently the almost unanimous concurrence of the inhabitants, issued a proclamation announcing “The regeneration of Bolivia under the rule of Federal Government,” and appointed a list of officials to act under the new Government. This is an actual secession from the Government at Sucre and the rule of President Alonzo on the part of the La Paz district. The reason for this action is, as stated in the dispatch No. 72, of December 10, and in the cablegram sent the Department yesterday, a copy of which is herewith inclosed, the urgent desire on the part of all citizens of La Paz, official and private, that the seat of government remove from Sucre to this city. La Pasians have been given distinct reasons to think this removal would take place in December, if not earlier, and the decision of Congress to the contrary, on the date of November 15, has brought about the present crisis. Armed resistance is decided upon and active preparations to that end are being made as rapidly as possible. Up to date they have secured 400 rifles and 2,500 rounds of ammunition only. They expect to have 5,000 men at their command, 300 of these being native Indians. President Alonzo left Sucre December 6 with 2,000 men armed with Mauser rifles. On December 16 he reached Oruro, three days’ march from this place. A telegram sent by him to the insurgents urging cessation of hostile action was disregarded, and active resistance by the people here is planned as soon as President Alonzo reaches La Paz with his troops. It is not yet fully decided whether to meet the troops on the “Alto” or within city limits. Several proclamations and announcements have been issued by the leaders of the revolution. * * * Note to the legation, a * * * translation is herewith inclosed. * * * Circular to the legation, of which a * * * translation is also herewith inclosed. * * *

* * * We (the United States, Brazilian, and French ministers) have also met and agreed upon inflexible rules to govern us in the reception of refugees who may later apply to the different legations for “asylum.” This is quite certain to take place and we shall try to be governed exactly by the rules established under international law and laid down in our books of instructions.

* * * * * * *

I have, etc.,

George H. Bridgman.
[Page 104]
[Inclosure 1.]

Most Excellent Sir: Yesterday the people of La Paz, united with the troops residing in this city, proclaimed the Federal Government of the Republic, and established an assembly composed of the undersigned and Col. Jose Manuel Pando.

In placing within, the knowledge of your excellency this event we have the pleasure to salute the Republic of the United States of North America, expressing to your excellency our sentiments of cordial esteem, with which we subscribe ourselves attentive servants of your excellency.

  • Serapio Reyes Ortiz.
  • Macario Pinilla.

The Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of North America,
Present.

[Inclosure 2.]

Most Excellent Sir: The undersigned has the honor to announce to your excellency that the most excellent Government assembly, appointed by the direct and unanimous vote of the people, of which your excellency is already informed, has decided to appoint him general secretary of state, in which connection it is pleasing to communicate to your excellency that the Government, again established, desires most sincerely to strengthen by all means in their power the ties which unite Bolivia with the Republic of the United States of North America, of which your excellency is its most worthy representative.

This first opportunity is taken by the undersigned to offer to your excellency the assurances of his high and distinguished consideration.

Fernando E. Guachalla.

The Most Excellent Mr. George H. Bridgman,
Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Bolivia, Present.