File No. 5025/85–88.
Minister Squiers to the Secretary of State.
Panama, March 25, 1909.
Sir: Referring to department’s cipher cable of March 21 [19] last respecting the movements of certain alleged revolutionists against Venezuela and Colombia, I have the honor to advise the department that on receipt of cable I immediately called at the palace and laid before the President your views and apprehensions. The President replied that he already knew of the propaganda through his police authorities, but did not believe the situation was dangerous; that the revolutionists were without influence, standing, or funds. One of them, --- he thought, was the only man of position. He is reported to have $30,000 for revolutionary purposes.
I pointed out to the President the dangers to his country and their present interests if these men are permitted to remain here, plotting against the Government of friendly, neighboring States.
I advised that those who threatened the peace of one country and the interests of the other merited expulsion, and that that solution would probably be considered by Colombia a very friendly act on the [Page 469] part of Panama. The President thought well of the suggestion, but feared there was no law that would warrant or justify such action. Since then he has informed me that the question of expulsion will be considered at the next cabinet meeting. He further desired me to assure you that he fully appreciates the situation, and being in close touch, through the police authorities, with the revolutionists, will frustrate any efforts on their part to recruit, to fit out an expedition, or to export arms to Colombia; and also expressed for President Reyes and the Colombian Government the warmest sentiments of friendship and good will.
I have, etc.,