REYNOLDS, United States Minister Resident to To General Gonzalo Lanza , La Paz, December 31, 1874

Mr. Reynolds to General Lanza.

Sir: I am under the painful necessity of notifying you that a squad of soldiers in the uniform prescribed by Bolivia has invaded the house of this legation, and violently attacked and assaulted my messenger and servant within the last hour, and attempted to take him forcibly from the premises to enlist him as a soldier. This action toward this legation is entirely unexpected, and is of such outrageous character that I hereby protest against it as entirely unwarranted and without authority. It must have been done without your orders, and, doubtless, without your knowledge. I hereby advise you of the fact, and respectfully ask at your hands full information as to what orders (if any) have been issued in relation to the matter herein referred to, so that I may be informed as to the intention of the present authorities in respect to foreign nations as represented by their several legations and consulates in this city, and what measure of protection may be expected.

It is my earnest wish to do my whole duty as minister resident from the United States of America to the republic of Bolivia, acting at all times strictly within the well-defined limits of my authority, and I shall expect to receive that immunity from invasion and that full protection which is promptly granted by all civilized and enlightened nations.

I direct this to you as “General Gonzalo Lanza,” not having been officially informed as to your present official title, and ask at your hands a prompt reply.

“Awaiting your response, I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient servant,