Department of State,
Washington
,
August 9,
1902
.
[Inclosure.]
Extract from a letter from the commanding
officer of the Philadelphia, dated June 9, 1902.
1. Since my last report concerning affairs on the Isthmus, dated June
2, I have to report that there has been but little change, with the
exception that on June 6 Mr. [Page 511] Peebles, acting agent for the Pacific Steam Navigation Company,
came on board and told me of a request made by the Government that
he furnish the Chiriqui for carrying of
troops. I told him what action Mr. Peet (who is their regular agent)
had been advised to take. He was also apprehensive of the seizure of
that vessel, and asked if I would act for the English in the absence
of their man-of-war. I told him yes, but only in this manner—it
would be advisable that the English consul laid the matter before
the United States consul-general, and upon his request in writing I
would put a guard on the Chiriqui if
necessary. I arranged for signals by day and by night with the Chiriqui and advised the dismantling of her
machinery.
2. I also wrote to the consul-general as follows:
“Would it not be well to inform the governor that in the absence of
the Amphion (daily expected) I would act in
the interest of the English residents and protect their property
upon their written request. That would prevent any misunderstanding.
I am the more anxious to have my position understood clearly, since
you may remember that the English admiral’s instructions to the
captain of the Amphion was to render all aid
to the United States naval commander, and in his absence to care for
the United States’ interest.’ As we should of course act in accord,
and as Mr. Peebles lacks experience, I suggested that the request
should come through the consuls.
“I repeat that I fully believe that the Government should be fully
informed as to my attitude and readiness to act for the
English.”
* * * * * * *
4. The Amphion arrived on the afternoon of the
7th, and her captain has orders to remain at least two months. Upon
hearing of my action concerning the Chiriqui,
Captain Casement, R. N., thanked me and informed me that he should
at once communicate the fact to his admiral. I believe this action
to be in accord with the Department’s policy.