Minister Hicks to the Secretary of State.

[Telegram.]

Deaths Valparaiso now estimated 2,000, financial losses in all Chile very large, absolute paralization of business, great destitution among people. I would suggest American subscriptions for sufferers. Arrangements can be made Canadian Bank of Commerce, New York, and Bank of Tarapaca in Santiago for immediate transfer of funds. Mr. Root expected Valparaiso about September 2; visit will be informal and short.

Hicks.