Mr. Loomis to Mr. Combs.
Washington, March 16, 1903.
Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your No. 22 of February 26, 1903, requesting instructions in regard to the legation’s relations toward Chinese subjects in the Republic of Guatemala, and reporting in that connection the case of Ton San Low, a Chinese merchant, whose boy, Low Hip, in charge of Low’s branch store at Jutiapa, had been unrightfully and illegally arrested and imprisoned for refusing or being unable to comply with the demands of an officer in a matter of the exchange of small bills for those of a larger denomination.
Your action in requesting the minister of foreign affairs to investigate this case and in securing the release of Low Hip from prison is approved.
In making representations in behalf of any aggrieved Chinese subjects who may seek the legation’s interposition you should, by way of good offices, endeavor to secure for them the same degree of protection from tort as you could demand of right for an American citizen similarly circumstanced. Your discretion does not extend to the presentation of claims. If any such are preferred by Chinese subjects you will report them to the Department, which will bring them to the knowledge of the Chinese Government.
I am, etc.,
Acting Secretary of State.