Messrs. W. M. Crossman & Bro. to Mr. Hay.
Sir: We acknowledge with gratitude your valued telegraphic message of 11th instant (received 12th) respecting our shipments to Delagoa [Page 557] Bay per the seized steamers Maria, Mashona, and Beatrice. We attach press copy of our telegraphic reply.
In the list of our shipments handed you December 26, 1899, no flour appeared—we shipped none. It was with the hope of getting information we supposed might be in your possession that would enable us to determine what our status was that we took the liberty of addressing you on that date.
All our shipments were drawn for when made, either upon the South African buyers direct, or upon their financial agents in London and Amsterdam.
It now appears to us quite probable that all our drafts will be paid at maturity, in which event we shall have no claim; but if any of these various drafts should be dishonored, ownership of the goods would revert to us. We can not know yet where we stand; consequently all we seek at present is to preserve our contingent rights.
Thanking you sincerely for your message, with respect, we are, dear sir,
Yours, faithfully,