File No. 838.00/737.

Minister Smith to the Secretary of State.

[Telegram—Extract.]

President Oreste to-day at an interview at his request informed me of the capture yesterday at Thomazeau of one Celestin, Haitian exile and the promoter of the disturbance on the frontier.* * * Oreste attributes Thomazeau troubles to the Dominican military authorities, and requested that the Department be informed as to his belief.* * * Threats have been made against the property of foreigners, according to the best obtainable information.* * * Situation throughout the Republic regarded as exceedingly grave. I would respectfully suggest and urge that a naval vessel be sent here at the earliest possible moment.

Smith
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