Mr. Perez to Mr. Fish
Mr. Secretary: As I have had the honor to state to you, my government desires commercial relations between our countries to be increased as far as is suitable to both, and to this end I have solicited the co-operation of the United States, in accordance with the treaty, with regard to which I have not received a definitive reply.
Meanwhile, in obedience to special instructions, I beg you to be pleased to inform me whether the American Government is disposed to aid with a subsidy a line of steam-vessels which it is proposed to establish between the ports of Columbia and those of the United States. As the government of Colombia is disposed to grant a subsidy to said steamers, and to grant them such other advantages as are in its power, the establishment of the line, if aid can be obtained from the United States, will be much more probable.
[Page 249]If your reply is favorable, I shall take much pleasure in communicating it, together with the circumstances and conditions which shall be required by the United States. The two governments may thus act in harmony, and with the promptness which the matter demands.
I avail, &c.,