Manuel Maria Gautier to To the, April 7, 1866

Circular to the consuls.

Sir: The undersigned, secretary of state for the office of foreign relations of the republic of Dominica, is charged by Ms government to inform you and your worthy colleague (the British or French consul) residing in this city, as former mediatorial agents between the republics of Dominica and Hayti, of the following:

Ever since the inauguration of the government of which General Baez is President, his whole attention has been directed to the perfect pacification of the country. The mere defensive attitude of the Dominican republic, confined to the preservation of its territory, besides justifying its sincerity, excuses it from overtures of peace negotiations. In the opinion of the government of the undersigned, the first steps towards reconciliation ought to be taken by the government guilty of the first hostilily; and this is more reasonably expected, as in driving the foreign invader from the soil the Dominicans have served the interests of Hayti, politically speaking, as much as their own. Yet, as peace, reciprocal convenience, the cause of humanity, and civilization are concerned, the Domincan government does not derogate from its honorable character in making advances in a way that may tend to strengthen interests of so much importance. In virtue whereof the cabinet of which the undersigned is a member does not hesitate to instruct him to say to you that it is favorably disposed to conclude a definitive treaty of peace with the republic of Hayti, provided, as a preliminary to further negotiation, it will acknowledge the unconditional independence and autonomy of the Dominican republic.

He respectfully requests you to transmit this declaration to the representative of your government in Port-au-Prince, authorizing him to make it known to the government of Hayti, and leave a copy if desired.

The government of the undersigned desires to have the official acknowledgment of this act and its justification recorded in the most authentic manner. As it is not in the power of the human mind to predict the evolutions of future policy, it is but just that events should always find nations, both great and small, in the position they may have chosen.

The undersigned embraces the occasion to renew to your excellency the sentiments of his distinguished consideration.