Morris & Co to Henry Baxter, December 24, 1870

Morris & Co. to Mr. Baxter

Dear Sir: As you are undoubtedly aware, there are political movements going on, both in this and the neighboring republic of Salvador. From a continuation of circumstances one can easily judge that there is imminent danger of an outbreak, and, even if experience did not show that the period of peace has comparatively been a long one, that one of the customary periodical revolutions is approaching. Under such circumstances, it is convenient to look out after the safety of such places where considerable property of an easy-movable nature is deposited—for instance, in this port—because these places attract generally much attention of either one or the other party; and all precedents have shown that, whenever these depots have been attacked, the heaviest losses have always been suffered by foreigners, generally creditors of natives, &c. During the revolutions of 1863 and 1865 we found that the presence of one or the other vessel of war protected only the custom-house at La Union from being robbed; and the massacre and robbery at this place would not have occurred in September, 1863, if a vessel of war had been in port. In view, then, of the approaching crisis and of the unprotected state in which this port finds itself, we beg to call your attention to the great convenience which may result from the presence of a vessel of war in this port, not alone on account of the approaching danger, but also on account of the increasing importance of this bay, which already commences to awaken considerable interest in California, and the East also as you will see from the inclosed extracts from letters from California.

There is comparatively little known about this section of this continent, and navigators coming to these waters have to content themselves with sailing directions, and charts partially antiquated, partially incorrect; and a United States vessel coming to this bay and remaining here some time may eventually grant not alone protection to foreign and native property, but collect and bring before the public much useful knowledge and information, tending in a great manner to forward the American commercial and political interests in these republics.

If you will consider our above statements, and deem it convenient to make the necessary representations to the admiral of the Pacific squadron or at the Department at Washington, we think you will be entitled to the thanks of both nations, and foreigners interested in this country, and not less of the government of Honduras.

We remain, &c.,