Mr. Wharton to Mr. Egan.
Washington, July 21, 1891.
Sir: Your No. 172, of the 9th ultimo, in regard to your constant efforts to bring about a cessation of the deplorable conflict in Chile, has been received. Your earnest and impartial endeavors to pave the way for the effective interposition of the good offices of the United States, either alone or in conjunction with those of France and Brazil, are highly appreciated and fully approved. The want of success hitherto should not dishearten you, or cause any relaxation of your friendly offices. It would seem that the near approach of the end of President Balmaceda’s term and the probable installation of a new President against whom personal antagonism may be less sustained, joined to the recent proposals for amendments in the Chilean constitution, may render a solution of the difficulties easier.
Señores Montt and Varas, representing the congressional party as confidential agents, have been in this city for some weeks. The object of their visit is understood to be the presentation of the claims of their party to recognition as a belligerent government. Conspicuously asserting [Page 147] their capacity as authoritative representatives of a de facto combatant, and claiming to be envoys of an organized sovereign government, they have by their own pretensions made it quite impracticable for, this Department to receive them or communicate with them directly, even in an unofficial way. As on frequent occasions in the past, the Executive is not disposed to prejudge the question of recognition of a revolutionary movement, and nothing has yet occurred which would constrain this Government to a decision of the question of the international status of the congressional party in Chile. The nonreception of the congressional agents is in no wise a decision on the merits of the main question. Positive results must be awaited showing the true purpose of the people of Chile, and in the meantime this Government feels bound to maintain its attitude of impartial forbearance.
The President’s entire friendliness to the people of Chile and his earnest desire to do anything that will restore them to peace and promote the welfare of the country have been clearly shown, and your continued coöperation in all proper ways is confidently looked for.
I am, etc.,
Acting Secretary.