File No. 15778/31.
Minister Squiers to the Secretary of State.
Panama, December 12, 1908.
Mr. Squiers says he is personally assured by the President of Panama, the minister for foreign affairs, and cabinet members that immediate action will be taken to punish the police officers as well as private persons, and that further disorders and abuses similar to the occurrence of September 28 will be prevented; that if the police officers are found guilty full and prompt compensation for the death of Rand and injuries of Cieslik will be paid and appropriate apology made to the United States Government for insult offered to the uniform of its naval representatives by the police officers of the Republic of Panama. Mr. Squiers says that the Government of Panama further promises to collect immediately proof against the police officers and give a definite reply within 10 days; that three policemen are now under arrest, and that Panama desires copies of all reports made by naval officers of the occurrences. Mr. Squiers adds that the Government and private individuals are doing everything possible to insure a warm welcome to the fleet which is expected on Sunday. The Yorktown has already arrived.