Quijano W to Scruggs, September 25, 1882

Mr. Quijano W. to Mr. Scruggs.

Mr. Minister: The Hon. Mr. Dichman addressed a note to this office, dated the 24th of April, 1881, having in view the same object as that set forth in your excellency’s esteemed communication of the 2d instant, namely, that a local law of the State of Panama, and a decree for its enforcement, had subjected merchant vessels in the free ports of Panama and Colon to certain exactions of an extraordinary character.

The executive power accordingly asked of the State authorities of Panama copies of the law and decree referred to, in order that such steps might be taken in the premises as might he deemed necessary and proper. The reply received was that the State government had not expedited any such acts, nor any others that could affect the entrance and clearance of merchant vessels at the ports named; and that I such vessels were subjected only to the provisions of law 40 of 1879.

With respect to the fees collected by certain officials, in conformity with article 421 of the fiscalcode, for issuing the certificates necessary to the clearance of vessels as prescribed by State regulations, article 15 of the law 109, of the 24th August, 1880, provides that thenceforth no such fees should be demanded; and that law was communicated to the Government of the State of Panama, in a note from this office dated December 7, 1881.

Everything relating to this subject was transmitted to Congress, together with the notes passed, in the annual report from this department for the year referred to.

I am, therefore, induced to believe that perhaps your excellency may not have been duly informed of the facts, since there is neither apprehension nor suspicion that the collection of those duties upon clearance certificates has been persisted in.

I improve, &c.,