File No. 819.55/40.
The American Chargé d’Affaires to the Secretary of State.
Panama, November 20, 1913.
The Department’s November 12 and November 18. Minister for Foreign Affairs says no objection on the part of the Panaman Government to receive new Chinese Consul General, adding his hope to arrive at some comprehensive solution of difficulty before his arrival. Courtesies, exact nature as yet undefined, will be extended Chinese Consul General Ow Yang. Minister for Foreign Affairs has requested me to communicate to the Chinese promises of his intention to effect modifications, and particularly certain more favorable interpretations of the law, in the near future if the Chinese will commence registering now with the Panaman Government, but that he is unable to state these promises in writing. I have communicated these proposals to their leaders. Chinese at meeting last night considered and finally rejected these proposals, regarding registration of even a few as recognizing the loss of acquired rights of all who possess cédula, and decided to await word from Peking.
Chinese shops universally closed and some distress poorer classes.
I am taking greatest care in following instructions, distinguishing my position in charge of the interests of China in Panama from that of the Secretary of the American Legation, so as not to involve the United States interests. Chinese taking inventories of their goods are depositing these with me for safekeeping in the event of their being deported.
Please communicate American Legation, Peking.