Mr. Choate to Mr. Hay.
[Mr. Choate reports that he is informed by Lord Salisbury that all the information he has regarding the Beatrice’s cargo is that it was discharged at East London; that he has heard no allegation against it, and that he will furnish information in regard to it as fast as received; that the Maria’s cargo is at Durban, free for its owners to take; that he does not know where the Mashona’s cargo is, but that the vessel is at Cape Town; that according to advices received by cable from Sir A. Milner, on January 10, the Mashona had no bills of lading, and there was much difficulty in dealing with her cargo; that the United States consul at Cape Town would be informed that application made to him for the release of any bona fide American citizen’s goods would receive immediate attention.
[Page 562]Mr. Choate also reports that at his request Mr. Chamberlain telegraphed to Sir A. Milner the assurances given by Lord Salisbury to Mr. Choate that American owners of any part of the Mashona’s cargo may have it on proof of ownership, and that there is no allegation that the cargo is contraband. Sir A. Milner was directed to so inform the colonial attorney-general.]