Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Annual Message of the President Transmitted to Congress December 5, 1905

Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State.

American Legation,
Caracas, March 4, 1905.

No. 388, Confidential.]

Sir: I have the honor to inclose herewith a copy of my last note about arbitration to the minister of foreign affairs, and copies of the cablegrams that have passed between Washington and this legation since the 5th of February last.

The fact that the correspondence about arbitration ended by the sending of President Castro’s “most cordial thanks” to me for my good offices (see foreign office note of February 2) is very significant. It proves that he did not take the correspondence seriously and attached but little importance to it. It seemed to me, however, very necessary to have our record in good shape, so that if we use force we may easily prove that we are justified in so doing.

The rumor that President Castro was fortifying the mountain passes and preparing to fight the United States is now known to be untrue. At no time has the President believed that trouble was imminent with the United States. * * *

In case action is taken here I respectfully request that a naval officer be attached to this legation. Captain Parker, the military attaché, is doing excellent work here, and I beg that he be allowed as long as you continue me at this post to remain with me.

I am, etc.,

Herbert W. Bowen.

[Inclosure.]

Minister Bowen to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

American Legation,
Caracas, February 6, 1905.

Mr. Minister: In answer to your note of the 2d instant I have the honor to inform you that the Government of the United States declines to make any settlement which does not provide for the prompt arbitration of pending questions, and deems the request of the Government of Venezuela for a general treaty of arbitration unacceptable at this juncture.

I gladly avail, etc.,

Herbert W. Bowen.