George N. Leavitt to Hall, March 15, 1885
Mr. Leavitt to Mr. Hall.
Sir: * * * I have forwarded copies of all telegrams sent by me, except the last, which was sent by President Cardenas and placed by me in cipher. It was as follows:
“We expect rifles from Punta Arenas. Can you authorize the captain of the Honduras to take them to Corinto?
“CARDENAS.”
The President desired me to telegraph to the captain of the Honduras to take the rifles. I declined to so telegraph unless authorized by you. Whereupon the President desired me to send the above telegram. At the same time I told the President that I saw no reason why the Honduras should decline to carry articles, even though contraband of war, between two countries at peace with each other, although a state of war exists between them and a third, and I did not think the captain of the Honduras would object to take them.
I am in receipt to-day of a telegram from the captain of the U. S. S. Ranger that she will be in Corinto in a few days.
* * * * * * *
The Government seem to insist on invading Guatemala, and do not desire peace. It is rumored that they fear the good offices of the United States; that nothing will satisfy them unless Barrios is overthrown. Recruitings are going rapidly forward and new troops are being constantly hurried to the frontier; but the greatest number that Nicaragua can place in the field is 8,000, as there are no more arms.
The Government are issuing more paper money. Coin has disappeared, and already some of the people object to accepting paper, but are forced to under the decree.
President Cardenas postponed joining the army at Leon, but proceeds there to-day.
I am, &c.,