[Translation.], April 29, 1867

[Translation.]

For more than two months the undersigned representatives of the armed powers residing in Mexico have not ceased to protest, verbally or in writing, against the forced loan and various vexations to which the subjects of their respective governments have been subjected by the imperial government. Not only have their representations not been noticed, but a more stringent measure has now been decreed. The greater part of their countrymen are condemned to pay a daily quota, and the circular written on the occasion seems to be intended to implicate all who are interested; for it clearly says that “the quotas thus collected shall be used to pay the expenses of the army and other expenses of the war; that the collection will be continued as long as circumstances require it;” that means as long as the siege of the capital lasts. Again, “those who refuse to pay are liable to be reported to the military authorities, to be treated as these authorities see fit.” Wishing to avoid every cause of dispute, the undersigned called on the minister of foreign affairs yesterday, and he being absent, they stated to Mr. Peredo that the act was contrary to international law and to existing treaties between the governments, and requested the repeal of the law, in so far as their countrymen were concerned. Mr. Peredo told them the question would be submitted to the council of ministers on Wednesday. They repeated their request yesterday, asking that the council meet to-day, and that the execution of the decree be suspended till a decision could be made. Mr. Peredo informed the dean of the diplomatic corps this morning that the lieutenant general of the empire refused to grant their request and did not think proper to suspend the measure, nor convene the council of ministers before the usual time of meeting. The business was so important that it ought not to be delayed. The undersigned see in this refusal an uncivil act to their respective governments as well as to themselves, and they justly complain of it.

The undersigned moreover are aware that the execution of the decree is about to be enforced, for many of their countrymen have been notified to pay their quota to-day. They can do nothing against this.

The undersigned, conscious of having done all they could, regret to be obliged to cease all relations with the imperial Mexican government, till circumstances allow them a further decision.

The undersigned avail themselves of the occasion to offer to his excellency the minister of foreign affairs the assurances of their high consideration.