Sir Frederick W. A. Bruce to W. Hunter, January 5, 1866

Sir F. Bruce to Mr. Hunter

Sir: On the night of the 10th November last a sentry from the United States gunboat James Adger, Captain John McDeirmid, (which had come alongside one of the wharves at Colon,) was stationed on the wharf, and having entered into an altercation with a native of Jamaica, named George Holmes, shot him dead on the spot.

The authorities of Colon held an inquiry in the case, and having obtained sufficient evidence for instituting criminal proceedings, demanded the surrender of the sentry, in order that he might be placed on his trial; but the United States consul at Colon declined advising the commander of the James Adger to deliver him up, on the ground that the government of the United States enjoys special privileges on the isthmus, and that the local authorities have no right to interfere in the discipline of United States ships of war.

Her Majesty’s consul at Panama, Mr. Henderson, called on the President of the State for an investigation of the case, and the punishment of the offender, should it be proved that a crime had been committed. But, as appears by the enclosed correspondence, the President is unable to bring the offender to trial.

I am instructed to call the serious attention of the government of the United States to this case, as her Majesty’s government do not doubt that a searching and immediate inquiry will be made, and the requirements of justice fully satisfied.

I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,