File No. 711.21/142.

The Secretary of State to the Minister of Colombia.

No. 5.]

Sir: I regret to inform you that your note dated February 28, 1913, in regard to the solution of the difficulties unhappily existing between the United States and the Republic of Colombia, has, owing to the pressure of business incident to the change of administration, but recently come to my notice.

In reply I have the honor to inform you that pending a full study of this matter, which will be made at the earliest available moment, it will not be possible for me to enter into a discussion in regard thereto.

Accept, Sir, the renewed assurances of my highest consideration.

W. J. Bryan.