Office of the Historian

701.2123/18: Telegram

The Ambassador in Peru (Dearing) to the Secretary of State

Lima, February 19, 1933—12 midnight.
[Received February 20—1:41 a.m.]

91. Leticia. Sacking of Colombian Legation. My 90, February 19, 11 a.m.

(1)
On account of possible unfortunate effect here if anything happens to retiring Peruvian Minister en route Buenaventura, urgently [Page 551] suggest Colombia take all possible measures safeguard him until he has embarked.
(2)
Minister of Gobernación and Foreign Office give every assurance prompt and adequate protection and promise investigation report and punishment. I have formerly [formally] requested in a communication full protection for Colombian interests and archives and for this Embassy as custodian, stating Embassy confides absolutely in Government’s willingness; and,
(3)
Lozano, wife, daughter, nurse, Colombian Consul, Callão, wife, two children, and Mrs. Teresa Handley, Colombian, born in the United States but naturalized widow former American Consul General here, departing special plane direct Guayaquil 7 morning 20th.
(4)
Foreign representatives thoroughly aroused and fearful for their safety.
(5)
In view Government’s failure or disinclination to give protection last night, the large number of Americans here, the Government’s direct enmity to us, its threat to force foreign companies to contribute to war funds, and the general uncertainties, I feel without wishing to alarm the Department unduly that it is merely foresight to ask Department to consider most seriously whether a war vessel should not be despatched to Callão immediately from the nearest point possible on a declared friendly visit but to remain here during period of uncertainty. Vessel and equipment should be adequate for dealing with hostile mobs of considerable size. Please inform and instruct fully.
Dearing