Mr. Clayton to Mr. Hay.

No. 2142.]

Sir: I have the honor to inclose copy and translation of a note from Mr. Mariscal stating that my note, reiterating my request for prompt action in the case of H. C. Harding and H. E. Dugat, imprisoned at Matamoros, was referred to the treasury department with the renewed request that prompt investigation be made.

I have etc.,

Powell Clayton.
[Inclosure.—Translation.]

Mr. Mariscal to Mr. Clayton.

Mr. Ambassador: I have received the note, dated yesterday, in which your excellency was pleased to inform me that, according to a telegram from the consul of the United States at Matamoros, Messrs. H. C. Harding and H. E. Dugat, accused in the said city of infraction of the fiscal laws, are still in prison.

In reply, I have the honor to say to your excellency that I have sent a copy of the said note to the department of the treasury repeating the request which I had made before and of which I informed the embassy in my note of the 14th instant.

I renew, etc.,

Igno Mariscal.