Hall to Señor Castro, July 25, 1884

Mr. Hall to Señor Castro.

Sir: My attention has been invited to the act of the Costa Rican Congress of the 19th ultimo, repealing the decree of the 22d of May, 1883, by which Limon was made a free port for the period often years. I have been informed also that the new act was immediately carried into effect, without any consideration whatever for the foreign interests created under the guarantees of the former law.

While awaiting the definite instructions of my Government, to which I have communicated the facts above mentioned, I am constrained to protest most respectfully, in behalf of American citizens whose interests are affected, against the act of the 19th of June, 1884, and especially against its immediate enforcement, as also against the collection of duties upon merchandise imported under the guarantee and faith of the act of the same Congress which declared Limon to be a free port from the 10th of August, 1883. At the same time I venture to assure your excellency, in advance of definite instructions, that my Government will expect for their citizens full indemnity for all losses and injuries they may sustain in consequence of the action referred to of the Costa Rican Congress.

I have, &c.,