Mr. Meyer to Mr. Hay.

No. 217.]

Sir: I have the honor to confirm herewith the telegram sent to you day before yesterday, December 21.

A copy of the official note itself, on which the telegram was based, is inclosed herewith with a translation.

I have, etc.

G. V. L. Meyer.
[Inclosure.—Translation.]

Mr. Prinetti to Mr. Meyer.

Mr. Ambassador: The Republic of Venezuela not having satisfied the Italian claims, His Majesty’s Government has decided to participate with its naval forces in the blockade of Venezuelan ports declared by the British and German Governments.

I have the honor to bring to your excellency’s knowledge all that is mentioned above, and ask you to inform your Government of same. Copy of the notification of the blockade is inclosed herein.

Pray accept, etc.,

Prinetti.
[Page 604]
[Subinclosure.—Translation.]

Notification of participation of Italy in the Anglo-German blockade of Venezuelan ports.

The United States of Venezuela not having satisfied Italian complaints, His Majesty’s Government, with its naval forces, has resolved to participate in the blockade of Venezuelan ports declared by the British and German Governments.

This blockade will take effect on and after December 20, under the following conditions of delay:

  • First. Ten days for steamers and twenty days for vessels starting before December 20 from the ports of the West Indies and ports of the eastern coast of the American continent.
  • Second. Twenty days for steamers and forty days for sailing vessels starting from all other ports.
  • Third. Fifteen days for ships which are in the blockaded ports.

Ships which try to run the blockade render themselves liable for all the measures authorized by the law of nations and by the various treaties between His Majesty the King of Italy and the other neutral powers.