File No. 819.55/43.
[Untitled]
Panama, November 25, 1913.
My November 24. Supreme Court of Panama dismisses writ of habeas corpus, holding that the resolution of the Governor is based on a law the constitutionality or unconstitutionality of which the Court is powerless to determine. Chinese under order of arrest are left in position requiring registration within forty-eight hours or deportation following imprisonment at hard labor. Decision taken by these few will probably determine course followed by entire colony. Large meeting of Chinese called tomorrow night. Instructions from Peking urgently desired.
Personally have advised registration under protest and compliance with the law, calling thereafter upon the Minister for Foreign Affairs to fulfill his verbal promises.