No. 254.

Mr. Baxter to Mr. Fish

No. 22.]

Sir: Many rumors of the probability of war between the republics of Honduras and Salvador have been circulated for some time past, although I have thought with little foundation; but now, from movements that are transpiring in the two republics, such a result would seem quite probable. The government of Honduras is taking active measures to fill its ranks and put itself in complete readiness, and, if report be true, expect to be in the field within a very short time. Hopes are still entertained by many, however, that the differences, whatever they may be, may yet be susceptible of an amicable settlement. One of the causes of difference is said to be that the government of Honduras takes exception to the course pursued by the government of Salvador in harboring and keeping in government employ and position persons who have been banished from Honduras for political misdemeanors, and stationing such on the frontier, where they gather about them the disaffected of this republic and others, and continually threaten an attack, causing the government of Honduras much trouble, anxiety, and expense. In case of war, the unprotected condition of a large amount of movable property, merchandise, &c., that is usually found at Amapala, Honduras, and La Union, Salvador, is a matter of great anxiety with those interested, as being particularly liable to plunder by one or the other [Page 573] party; and as many of the citizens of the United States have commercial transactions at these points, they would be severe sufferers in such case. It is most earnestly desired, by those interested, that the United States Government should station a vessel of war in the Bay of Fonseca, the bare presence of which would give them that protection so much needed. I inclose herewith a communication received a few days since from Messrs. Morris & Co., of Amapala, with extracts from letters received by them from San Francisco, presenting this matter, and the growing importance and interest taken in the trade of Central America.

I am, &c.,

HENRY BAXTER.

Morris & Co. to Mr. Baxter

Dear Sir: As you are undoubtedly aware, there are political movements going on, both in this and the neighboring republic of Salvador. From a continuation of circumstances one can easily judge that there is imminent danger of an outbreak, and, even if experience did not show that the period of peace has comparatively been a long one, that one of the customary periodical revolutions is approaching. Under such circumstances, it is convenient to look out after the safety of such places where considerable property of an easy-movable nature is deposited—for instance, in this port—because these places attract generally much attention of either one or the other party; and all precedents have shown that, whenever these depots have been attacked, the heaviest losses have always been suffered by foreigners, generally creditors of natives, &c. During the revolutions of 1863 and 1865 we found that the presence of one or the other vessel of war protected only the custom-house at La Union from being robbed; and the massacre and robbery at this place would not have occurred in September, 1863, if a vessel of war had been in port. In view, then, of the approaching crisis and of the unprotected state in which this port finds itself, we beg to call your attention to the great convenience which may result from the presence of a vessel of war in this port, not alone on account of the approaching danger, but also on account of the increasing importance of this bay, which already commences to awaken considerable interest in California, and the East also as you will see from the inclosed extracts from letters from California.

There is comparatively little known about this section of this continent, and navigators coming to these waters have to content themselves with sailing directions, and charts partially antiquated, partially incorrect; and a United States vessel coming to this bay and remaining here some time may eventually grant not alone protection to foreign and native property, but collect and bring before the public much useful knowledge and information, tending in a great manner to forward the American commercial and political interests in these republics.

If you will consider our above statements, and deem it convenient to make the necessary representations to the admiral of the Pacific squadron or at the Department at Washington, we think you will be entitled to the thanks of both nations, and foreigners interested in this country, and not less of the government of Honduras.

We remain, &c.,

MORRIS & CO.

Mr. Wells to Mr. Morris

Geo. K. Morris, Amapala:

It is the intention of persons interested in Central American matters to hold an important meeting on the 10th November, in connection with the chamber of commerce of this city, for the purpose of adopting measures for the encouragement of trade and commerce between here and Honduras. The importance of this is now beginning to excite general attention, and there is no reason why a lucrative business should not soon be established. Whatever may be the results of that meeting shall be duly forwarded to you. The idea of establishing Tinge Island a free port and placing it under the protection of the United States, must be pressed at Washington. Senators Cole and Cassidy, of California, are now in San Francisco, and the subject shall be properly placed before them.

WM. V. WELLS.
[Page 574]

San Francisco ,October 30.

This morning I had a long talk with Mr. Webb, the great ship-owner, of New York, who arrived here last night, and I shall do my best to excite his interest and his all-powerful aid in getting up a steam-line between this and the different Central American ports.

G. HOLLAND