Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Annual Message of the President Transmitted to Congress December 3, 1907, (In two parts), Part II

File No. 4880/2.

Minister Furniss to the Secretary of State.

[Telegram.—Paraphrase.]

American Legation,
Port an Prince, March 6, 1907.

(States that the law of 1876 permits foreigners to be importing merchants only and as such can not make sale for less than 100 Haitien dollars—to-day worth 20 American dollars. Further states that the law has not been enforced for many years. Says that the first offense is punishable by a fine not less than 100 Haitien dollars, the second offense double and confiscation of goods, and on the third offense license is canceled. Owing to the present financial conditions in Haiti, it is doubtful whether any foreign merchants can comply with the law. Adds that a full report is expected to arrive in Washington on the 10th.)