File No. 822.00/346.

Minister Hartman to the Secretary of State.

[Telegram.]

Government officers report bombardment and burning of Esmeraldas on February 11th. American Minister at Lima inquires by cable whether the Department will send cruiser to Esmeraldas and if so, when. He expresses anxiety for cable operatives. Matters are evidently in bad condition there. My inability to hear from our Consul makes me fear for his safety. I think cruiser should be sent there immediately.

Hartman
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