REYNOLDS, United States Minister-Resident to Bolivia to Dr. Corral, January 12, 1875

Mr. Reynolds to Dr. Corral.

Dr. Casimiro Corral, La Paz:

Sir: It becomes my painful duty to inform you that this legation has been invaded and wantonly insulted by the re-arrest of my messenger in violation of the laws of nations, in violation of general order dated December 31, 1874, to which my attention was called by General Lanza in a letter of the same date; and notwithstanding your assurances to the contrary, my messenger, Leandro Ordoñes, has this day been assaulted and forcibly taken to the palace building by persons claiming to be soldiers under your command, and all in the face of the fact that he has in his possession a certificate showing that he is in the employment of the legation, duly signed and under the seal of the United States.

I most solemnly protest against such unwarranted and outrageous treatment shown to this legation, and I ask and demand that the soldiers and officers engaged in the assault be punished under the severest penalties of the law; and I also demand that Leandro Ordoñes be at once released, so that he may return to duty.

I further respectfully ask that safe-conduct be guaranteed to ail attaches and employés of this legation, by day or by night, in the discharge of duty, by those in authority in this city. If this cannot be done, I would ask that due notification be given to me as minister-resident from the United States, stating fully the reasons why this legation shall not receive that immunity from invasion and that protection which is promptly granted by all civilized and enlightened nations.

Awaiting your reply, I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient servant,