Mr. Hay to Mr.
Powell.
Department of State,
Washington, November 5,
1903.
No. 197.]
Sir: I inclose for your information copy of a
correspondence had with the Dominican consul-general in regard to the
treatment of American vessels and their cargoes under the decree of
blockade issued against the ports of Monte Cristi and Puerto Plata.
I am, etc.,
[Inclosure
1.—Translation.]
Mr. Galvan to
Mr. Hay.
Consulate-General of the Dominican
Republic,
New
York, October 31,
1903.
No. 33.]
Most Excellent Sir: I have the honor to
give notice to the American Government, through the worthy organ of
your excellency, that the ports of Monte Cristi and Puerto Plata are
blockaded, by direction of the Dominican Government, on account of
the local authorities there having declared themselves in rebellion
against the constitutional order.
It has come to the knowledge of this consulate-general that one of
the shipping concerns of this country, in trade relations with the
Dominican Republic, intends to accept cargoes on its vessels for the
said blockaded ports, notwithstanding the timely notice of the
decision of the Dominican Government that was given it by this
consulate-general. I bring the matter to your excellency’s knowledge
in order to lodge the due reservation of the right that may
appertain to my Government in the event of a violation of its
decrees by the above referred to shipping firm, which would give
rise to questions apt to disturb the harmonious relations now
existing between the two countries.
With sentiments of distinguished consideration, etc.,
[Inclosure 2.]
Mr. Hay to Mr.
Galvan.
Department of State,
Washington, November 4,
1903.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the
receipt of your note of the 31st ultimo, by which you give notice to
this Government that the ports of Monte Christi and Puerto Plata are
blockaded by direction of the Dominican Government on account of the
local authorities there having declared themselves in rebellion
against the constitutional order, and that it has come to the
knowledge of your consulate-general that one of the shipping firms
of the United States in trade relations with the Dominican Republic
intends to accept cargoes on its vessels for the said blockaded
ports, notwithstanding the timely notice of the decision of the
Dominican Government [Page 404] given
to it by your consulate-general. You state that you bring the matter
to my knowledge in order to lodge the due reservation of the rights
that may appertain to your Government in the event of a violation of
its decrees by the firm referred to, which would give rise to
questions apt to disturb the harmonious relations now existing
between the two countries.
In taking note of the statements contained in your note this
Department reserves, on behalf of United States citizens, vessels,
and property, all rights to which they may be found entitled under
the law and facts in any case that may arise.
Accept, etc.,
