The Secretary of State to Minister Dawson.
Washington, November 4, 1905.
There appears to be conflict of procedure between American naval officers boarding vessels for the purpose of ascertaining whether they are importing arms and ammunition in violation of President’s proclamation of October 14 and customs authorities at Monte Christi, who insist upon their right to board first under regulations. Request decision of question by Dominican Government. If they wish effective prevention of importation arms and ammunition, port regulations should be modified to make boarding and search of American ships by naval officers acting in behalf of Dominican Government unquestionably lawful. If they wish naval officers to desist from such boarding and search, this government will instruct accordingly. Confer with Dominican Government as to moral effect of discontinuing present practice. We have some apprehension that it would encourage would-be revolutionists.