JOHN MERCER Langston to Mr. St. Victor, July 15, 1884

Mr. Langston to Mr. St. Victor.

Sir: The undersigned has the honor to advise you that in connection with the insurrectionary movement or events occurring in Port au Prince on the 22d and 23d days of September, 1883, besides having all his property destroyed by fire Mr. Eugene V. Garrido, an American citizen at the time referred to, being the clerk of this legation and consulate-general, a person well known in this city, both as regards his character and position, was insulted, abused, assaulted, and otherwise maltreated by officers of your Government upon the streets, even up to the very doors of this legation, when he narrowly escaped the loss of his life. In bringing this matter to the attention of your Government and asking its due investigation and redress, the undersigned cannot doubt that its distinguished lively sense of justice as well as its profound appreciation of the very great wrong done Mr. Garrido, as indicated, will induce its prompt action in the case, leading it to accord in its conclusion, with respect thereto, the amplest redress and compensation in damages.

It would seem in view of all the facts in this case, facts showing so clearly the utter denial of every personal consideration, right, and dignity, even by the officers of the law, as regards Mr. Garrido, that it is within the limits of reasonable equitable demand to name at least $10,000 as the measure of damages.

The undersigned, renewing to you, Mr. Minister, his most distinguished consideration, awaits your early convenient reply in the premises.