Mr. Beaupré to Mr. Hay.
Bogotá, August 5. (Received 16.)
August 5, 10 a.m. I have addressed a note minister for foreign affairs concerning the report of the committee appointed to consider the treaty, to the effect that the proposed modification article 1 is tantamount rejection the treaty. My opinion is that my Government would not consider or discuss the amendment; that the committee has been insufficiently acquainted with my notes, April 24, June 10, or have failed to give them importance they demand as definite expression of opinion and intention of the Government of the United States. The amendment, article 13, suppressing tribunals, will not be accepted in any event, and the other modifications, not so serious in principle, are too little value to Colombia to submit for the discussion of the Senate of the United States. They could be adjusted by assurances or by special legislation when the commission required by the treaty has been appointed. Closing with strong reminder of the dangerous consequences of further unnecessary delay, urging that if Colombia really desires to preserve friendly relations and to secure the advantages of canal, backed by so close an alliance of national interests, the treaty should be ratified without modification.