Mr. Hill to Mr. Powell.

No. 452.]

Sir: Referring to your No. 822, of October 10, last, relative to the alleged right of the Haitian Government to impose higher duties on United States vessels carrying French goods than on French vessels, I have to say that you may advise the Government of Haiti that this Government is of opinion that Article X of the convention of 1864 between the United States and Haiti is quite independent of Article XI and creates absolute rights, which this Government can not fail to insist upon. Should, therefore, any higher charges be collected on American tonnage than that of any other country they will be reclaimed.

I am, etc.,

David J. Hill,
Acting Secretary.