The Acting Secretary of State to Minister Hicks.
Washington , January 24, 1909 .
Department’s No. 139 of November 30. On July 31, 1908, Minister of Chile affirmed authority to furnish department antecedents Alsop claim when he transmitted a copy of Mr. Puga Borne’s note of April 9. On August 29 the minister was requested by department to furnish antecedents justifying Chile’s reduction of the Alsop claim. A reply not having been received department renewed its request on November 24. On the 26th of November minister of Chile stated that he had informed his Government of this request. Nothing further has been heard. Inform Government of Chile of this and say that the department is most desirous of reaching a fair and equitable determination upon this matter and awaits the antecedents mentioned by Government of Chile and requested by department. Further delay deprecated.