RICARDO BECERRA, Secretary of Public Instruction, and in charge of the Department of Foreign Relations to Ernest Dichman, March 26, 1881

Señor Becerra to Mr. Dichman.

Sir: Your courteous communication of the 18th instant, in which you are pleased to transcribe a paragraph from the honorable Secretary of State of the United States, to the effect that the minister of said nation in Lima had assumed the protection of the Colombian citizens and their interests during the present war in Peru, has been received in this office.

The Colombian Government, by direct official correspondence, had already been informed of such fact as gratifying for it, as it was honorable for Mr. Christiancy and for the nation he so nobly represents, and had hastened through this department to give merited thanks to the worthy agent of the United States.

I have the honor to make known in this note, as you desire that in the proceeding of Mr. Christiancy, and in the approval of his conduct by his government, the Colombian Government and people recognize a manifestation of the spirit of fraternal regard that has existed until now in the relations of the two countries.

Renewing the expression of my distinguished consideration, I subscribe myself your very obedient servant,