Titus to National Palace , Guatemala , October 14, 1883 . Let it be fulfilled. J. RUFLNO BARRIOS. Fernando. Cruz, October 25, 1883
No. 31. Mr. Titus to Mr. Frelinghuysen.
No. 19.]
Sir: On the 5th of the present month President Barrios called an extra session of the Assembly for the purpose of considering a proposal for the arrangement of the foreign debt, which had been agreed upon by the Guatemalan minister in London and the English bondholders.
The Assembly refused to approve the plan proposed.
During the session the Government submitted a law authorizing the expulsion by the President, or President and Cabinet, of any foreigner who may be considered “pernicious.”
I inclose a copy of the decree, and a translation of the same.
As you will observe from the wording of the law, the Executive is, in effect, authorized to expel any foreigner he chooses.
This act is creating considerable unfavorable comment on the part of resident foreigners; not that it will be likely to cause any difference in the practice of the authorities, but as an open declaration of their principles and intentions.
I have, &c.,