Mr. Adee to Mr. Storer.
Washington, October 12, 1899.
Sir: Referring to the note of the Spanish Government, inclosed in Mr. Sickles’s No. 58, August 21, ultimo, touching the payment of the interest due on the debt created by the convention of 1834, the Department is pleased to observe the evidence of the good faith of said Government shown by the provision made in its budget for the payment of said interest. Inasmuch as the obligation to pay the same is made perpetual by the provisions of said treaty, the Department is unable to perceive the connection between said obligation to pay and the payment of said debt, on the one hand, and on the other hand the making between the two Governments treaties of commerce and navigation, or for the extradition of criminals, or in relation to consuls. The Government of the United States does not understand the said note of the Spanish Government as repudiating or denying its permanent and continuing obligation to pay said debt as provided in said treaty, and therefore the subject of the payment thereof would seem to have no relevancy to the negotiation of new treaties.
You will communicate these views to the Spanish minister of foreign affairs, and are at liberty, if requested, to furnish him a copy of this instruction.
I am, etc.,
Acting Secretary.