I ',■ • ■ 1 .' r. ,,.■•.• :, t -.-v ■ ■ « ,;v. ■ ' ■ .■»•-, f 5; . •;^«J ■•.■-..■-^,•'^,;vr,-^v.■ :•. %-•■ I ,■ " . -^ -. -^- - V.'. ,■',-. ^ .■---■ --: Ufy-i;* :3^- C:\v. . ■';.-:. •:^-^^. <■.;'■: ' I"-, . • ./:•. *'\ ■:^ ^'J:' .■.'Of" ::'; ' ',■ Hi''' '■2.'--,_-^l- ,•',•■ fj;>>. ■•'-■■'.' - , . i" c :',-siii,,.,.'.i,-,-;r:-' ■■ . ■•- '■■■',.■-'?::•;•-:;■;--..■■ ■ •' ' .■ ' , ^ • ' •-, ,^~ -•, j ■ ■■ :* '. I 4 , m ^ • ■ . - ,. C ■^;^'-:^'' ■■N I,-., 'If.; ;■ . , ■ ; ■♦■' i- 238 \1\o Cornell University Law Library THE GIFT OF /^.?^A. 1894 347 Resolution of May 10, 1900, extending concession for six years 350 Translation of Olcott-Quintero contract, May 10, 1900... 351 Decree of October 5, 1900, abrogating the decree of July I. 1893 352 Protest against the abrogation of the Macareo-Pedernales Concession 353 [1903, Exhibit F.] Diplomatic correspondence 154 Index : 354 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. Ill RECORD or CLAIM No. 19, Etc.— Continued. Amended Memorial, Orinoco Steamship Company — Cont'd. [1903, Exhibit G.] Certificates and Affidavits — Secretary-General Ricci as to detention of Sorocco, Jan. page. 21, 1902 448 General Hurtado as to sailing of steamers on government business, October 17, 1901 449 Secretary-General Managas as to necessity of using steamer for public business, Oct. 17, 1901 — - 450 Spanish translation of General Hurtado's certificate of Oct. 17. 1901 - -- 451 Cesar Vicentini, May 20, 1903, as to settlement of May 10, 1900- - - 452 Cesar Vicentini, May 20, 1903, as to bill for $101,163.42.*.. 453 Harbor Master Saunders as to sailings of " Rescue," August to November, 1903 - — .- 454 Harbor Master Saunders as to sailings of "Alianza," 1902-3 455 Clearance of "Daring," Oct. 25, 1902 456 Clearance of "Rescue," Nov. 15, 1902 457 Clearance of "Rescue," Oct. 30, 1902 459 Clearance of "Rescue," Aug. 20, 1902 460 Clearance of "Royal Sovereign," Oct, 25, 1902 — 462 Harbor Master Saunders as to clearances July i, 1902, to Nov. 26, 1902 - 463 Abbreviated statement of capital expenditure of O. S. and T. Co 464 Accountant Eckstein as to capital expenditure 465 R. Morgan Olcott as to net earnings, 1899-1901 466 Brief on Behalf of the United States 469 Motion to Amend Memorial..-- -. 481 Answer of the United States of Venezuela 483 English translation 496 [1903 Exhibit H.] Depositions taken before the Civil Court of First Instance and by the consul of Venezuela at Trinidad — Luis Felipe R6jas Fernandez 511 Juan Manuel Ruiz 512 Alejandro Plaza Ponte -. - -. 512 Timoteo Carvajal -. 514 Alejandro Plaza Ponte - 515 Luis F. Rojas Fernandez.- 516 Agustin Suegart .517 Diego Pesquera Leon 518 Jose Manuel Vargas Millan 518 Antonio Maria Delgado -_ 519 Bias Ignacion Arismendi Bracho 519 IV CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. RECORD OF CLAIM No. 19, etc.— Continued. Answer of the United States of Venezuela — Continued. [1903 Exhibit H.] Depositions taken, etc; — Continued. Englisii translations — Page. Luis Felipe Rojas Fernandez 521 Juan Manuel Ruiz '. - - 522 Alejandro Plaza Ponte - — 522 Timoteo Carvajal 524 Alejandro P.laza Ponte — 525 Luis Felipe Rojas Fernandez 526 Agustin Suegart 528 Diego Pesquera Leon.. . 529 .Jose Manuel Vargas Millan..., 529 Antonio Maria Delgado 530 Bias Ignacio Arismendi Bracho... 531 Replication on behalf of the United States.. 533 [1903 Exhibit L] Opinion of Sir Henry Strong and Don M. Dickinson in the arbitration between the United States and Salvador 579 [1903 Exhibit J.] Re-Macareo concession 595 [1903 Exhibit K.] Protest of Jose Vicente Rodriguez 604 English translation 5o6 [1903 Exhibit L.] Instruction to submanagers, and tariffs, of the Orinoco Steamship Company — Affidavit of Thos. A. Turner as to annexed documents 609 Instructions to submanagers 610 English translation 613 Passage rates between the Bolivar and Vencedor 616 English translation _. 617 Freight rates between La Guaira, Trinidad, Bolivar City, etc.. 618 English translation 619 Freight rates Bolivar City to Trinidad. 620 English translation 624 Freight charges up to San Fernando deApure 628 English translation.... _ ,^ ._.. 634 Orinoco steamer passage rates ., Folder, face 641 English translation Folder, face 641 [1903 Exhibit M.] Internal regulations for the steamers 642 English translation _ 647 Opinion of Commissioner Bainbridge 654 Opinion of Commissioner Grisanti 658 English translation .._ 670 [1903 Exhibit N.] R. M. Olcott to the Minister of the Interior, May 27, 1901 682 English translation 6*3 December 10, 1901. 682 English translation.. 684 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. V RECORD OF CLAIM No. 19, etc.— Continued. . Page. Opinion op Umpire Barge 686 Spanish translation 706 Decision and Award by the Umpire: English text .„_ 727 Spanish text 727 VOLUME II. Diplomatic and other Correspondence Prior to the Meeting op the Mixed Commission of 1903: Diplomatic correspondence — Minister Loomis to the Secretary of State, January 13, 1901.. 731 The Secretary of State to Minister I,oomis, January 26, ■ 1901 732 The Secretary of State to Minister Russell, June 21, 1901.... 732 The Assistant Secretary of State to Minister Russell, July 17, 1901 732 The Secretary of State to Minister Bowen, November 23, 1901-- - - - ---- 732 The Assistant Secretary ol State to Minister Bowen, January 10, 1902 733 The Secretary of State to Minister Bowen, October 10, 1902.. 733 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, March 26, 1903.. 734 The Secretary of State to Minister Russell, April i, 1903.... 734 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, July 5, 1903. 734 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, July 5, 1903 734 Mr. Olcott to Minister Russell, July 3 735 The Secretary of State to Minister Russell, July 16, 1903.... 736 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, July 19, 1903.... 736 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, July 19, 1903.... 737 Correspondence between the Department of State and the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, and the Orinoco Steamship Company — The Assistant Secretary of State to Mr. McKenney, February 5, 1901 738 The Acting Secretary of State to Mr. McKenney, February 12, 1901 738 The Assistant Secretary of State to Mr. McKenney, July 15, 1901- -- - ^ - 739 The Acting Secretary of State to Mr. McKenney, July 30, 1901 --- - ^ — - 739 The Acting Secretary of State to Mr. McKenney, August 3, 1 901 740 The Assistant Secretary of State to Mr. Olcott, November 23, 1901..... 740 The Assistant Secretary of State to Mr. Olcott, January 9, 1902 741 t VI CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. RECORD OF CLAIM No. 19, etc.— Continued. Diplomatic and other Correspondence, etc. — Continued. . Correspondence between the Department of State, etc. — Continued, page. Mr. McKenney to the Secretary of State, March 13, 1902.... 741 The Acting Secretary to Mr. McKenney, September 3, 1902.. 742 Mr. McKenney to the Acting Secretary of State, Septem- ber 18, 1902 743 The Acting Secretary of State to Mr. McKenney, Septem- ber 22, 1902 - 744 The Second Assistant Secretary of State to Mr. McKenney, October lo,' 1902 744 Mr. McKenney to the Secretary of State, February 21,1 903- 745 Mr. Olcott to the Secretary of State, March 12, 1903 745 The Acting Secretary of State to Mr. Olcott, March 14, 1903.. 746 The Second Assistant Secretary of State to Mr. McKenney, April 10, 1903. ..- 747 Diplomatic Correspondence Subsequent to the Meet- ing OF THE Mixed Commission of 1903, leading UP TO THE Protocol of February 13, 1909 — The Acting Secretary of State to Minister Bowen, Jan- uary 16, 1905.- 749 The Secretary of State to Minister Bowen, January 28, 1905.. 749 Minister Bowen to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Janu- ary 30, 1905 749 Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State, January 30, 1905.- 751 The Assistant Secretary of State to Minister Bowen, Jan- uary 31, 1905 751 Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State, February i , 1905.. 751 The Acting Secretary of State to Minister Bowen, Feb- ruary 2, 1905 752 The Minister of Foreign Affairs to Mr. Bowen, February 2, 1905- --- - 752 English translation... 754 Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State, February 2 , 1 905.. 756 Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State, February 3 , 1 905.- 756 The Secretary of State to Minister Bowen, February 3, 1905 - - : -- 756 Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State, February 5, 1905.. 757 Minister Bowen to Secretary of State, February 5, 1905.... 757 The Secretary of State to Minister Bowen, February 6, 1905- - 758 Minister Bowen to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Febru- ary 6, 1905 758 Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State, February 10, 1905 759 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. VII RECORD OF CLAIM No. 19, etc.— Continued. Diplomatic and othbr Correspondence, etc. — Continued. Correspondence between the Department of State, etc. — Continued, page. Secretary of State to Minister Bowen, March lo, 1905 759 Minister Bowen to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, March 19. 1905 761 Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State, March 20, 1905.... 761 Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State, March 23, 1905.... 762 Minister Bowen to the Secretary of State, April 2, 1905 762 The Minister of Foreign Affairs to Minister Bowen, March 23. 190S - - -- - - 763 English translation 764 The Secretary of State to Minister Russell, October i8, 1905 - 765 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, October 20, 1905 - - - 766 The Secretary of State to Minister Russell, February 28, 1907. 766 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, April 7, 1907 797 Minister Russell to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, March 30, 1907 , - - -- 798 The Minister of Foreign Affairs to Minister Russell, April 6, 1907 - - - - -- 798 English translation 800 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, April 28, 1907.... 801 The Minister of Foreign Affairs to Minister Bowen, April 23, 1907 802 English translation 803 The Secretary of State to Minister Russell, June 21, 1907.... 806 Mr. Russell to Mr. Root, July 27, 1907 813 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, August 4, 1907.. 813 Minister Russell to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, July 9, 1907 .- .— 814 The Minister of Foreign Affairs to Minister Russell, July 24, 1907. 818 English translation 827 Mr. Bacon to Mr. Russell, August 6, 1907 836 Mr. Russell to Mr. Root, August 7, 1907... 836 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, August 22, 1907 . 836 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, August 24, 1907.. 837 Minister Russell to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, August 13, 1907 837 The Minister for Foreign Affairs to Minister Russell, August 20, 1907 837 English translation 838 VIII CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. RECORD OF CLAIM No. 19, etc.— Continued. DiPi^OMATic AND OTHER CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. — Continued. CorrespondencehetweentheDepartment of State, etc. — Continued. ^^se. The Acting Secretary of State to Minister Russell, Septem- ber 14, 1907 - - -- -— 838 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, September 27, 1907 - 839 'Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, September 28, 1907 839 Minister Russell to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Septem- ber 20, 1907 - .- - - 841 Minister of Foreign Affairs to Minister Russell, September 21, 1907.. - 841 English translation 845 The Secretary of State to Minister Russell, December 16,^ 1907 849 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, January 4, 1908.. 850 Minister Russell to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Decem- ber 30, 1907 850 The Minister of Foreign Affairs to Minister Russell, January 3, 1908 - - — -- 851 English translation 852 The Secretary of State to Minister Russell, January 21, 1908 - - 853 The Secretary of State to Mr. Russell, February 18, 1908-... 853 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, February 29, 1908 853 Minister Russell to the Secretary of State, February 29, 1908 854 Minister Russell to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, February 22, 1908 854 Minister of Foreign Affairs to Minister Russell, February 29> 1908 854 English translation _ _ 855 The Secretary of State to Mr. Sleeper, June 13, 1908 _ 856 Mr. Sleeper to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, June 20, 1908.. 856 The Minister of Foreign Affairs to Mr. Sleeper, June 20, 1908.- 857 English translation 859 Secretary of State to }ilr. Buchanan, December 21, 1908.... 861 Mr. Buchanan to Mr. Lorena, enclosing Mr. Buchanan's Commission, December 27, 1908 865 Mr. Eorena, Brazilian Alinister, to Mr. Buchanan, Decem- ber 28, 1908 867 English translation 868 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. IX RECORD OF CLAIM No. 19, etc.— Continued, Diplomatic and othbr Correspondence;, etc. — Continued. Correspondencebetween the Department of State, etc. — Continued. page. Mr. Lorena to the Venezuelan Minister of Foreign Affairs, December 27, 1908 869 English translation „ _ 869 The Ministef of Foreign Affairs to Mr. Lorena, Brazilian Minister, December 28, 1908.. _._ 870 English translation ., 871 Mr. Buchanan to the Secretary of State 872 The Secretary of State to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, December 21, 1908 872 Mr. Buchanan to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, enclosing memorandum, January 4, 1909 873 Mr. Buchanan to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, January 18, 1909 878 Minister of Foreign Affairs to Mr. Buchanan, January 19, 1909- - 879 English translation 879 Commission of Dr. Guinan as Special Plenipotentiary for the Signature of the Protocol of February 13, 1909.... 880 English translation 881 MISCELLANEOUS: The Attitude of Venezuela toward the Revision of Ar- bitral Awards. The Attittide of Venezuela with Regard to the Awards of Inter- national Tribunals — Taw approving Protocols of 1909 between Venezuela and the United States.... 885 English translation 888 Extract from the Message of General Cipriano Castro to the Venezuelan Congress, 1904.. 891 English translation ..-.. 895 Extract from the "Exposicion" of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Venezuelan Congress, 1904 899 English translation 899 Protesta del Agente de la Republica ante la Comision Mixta Venezolano-Belga 900 English translation 904 Venezuelan Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Belgian Charge d'Affaires at Caracas, March 22, 1904 907 English translation 916 Venezuelan Minister at The Hague to the Belgium Min- ister for Foreign Affairs, March 7, 1904 926 English translation 942 X CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. MISCELLANEOUS— Continued. The Attitude of Venezuela toward the Revision of Ar- bitral Awards — Continued. The Attitvde of Venezv£la with Regard to the Awards of Inter- national Tribunals — Continued. page. Venezuelan Minister at The Hague to the Belgian Min- ister for Foreign Affairs, April 12, 1904.! — - 958 English translation - - 964 Protest entered by Venezuela against the Decision of the Umpire, R. Gaytan de Ayala, in the Matter of the Claim of Messrs. Martinez del Rio Hermanos 970 English translation - 9/2 Decision of the Federal Court of Cassation in the Suit of Seijas v. Martinez del Rio Hermanos, rendered May 7, 1907 975 English translation 977 The attitude of Venezuela with Regard to the Awards of Munic- ipal Tribunals — Code of Civil Procedure of Venezuela of 1904 980 English translation ■. 980 Laws, Decrees, Diplomatic Correspondence, and Other Documents Relating to the Navigation of the Orinoco River. Period from i86g to 1875 — Law of May 14, 1869, throwing the Orinoco River open to the commerce of the world.- 981 English translation _. 982 Decree of July i, 1869, putting the law of May 14, 1869, into effect 983 English translation 984 Law of May 17, 1873, authorizing the executive to open, transfer, and close ports of entry 986 English translation 987 Law of June 6, 1874, approving the preferential concession of August 25, 1873, and the subsequent final con- cession of January 2 , 1 874, to Juan Francisco P^rez.... 988 English translation 993 Period from 1875 to i8gi — Decree closing the custom-house at Ciudad Bolivar, Feb- ruary 10, 1880 999 English translation 1000 Decree declaring a blockade on the Orinoco River, Feb- ruary 28, 1880 _ _ _ lOOI English translation 1003 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. XI MISCELLANEOUS— Continued . IvAWS, Decrees, Diplomatic Correspondence, etc. — Cont'd. Period from 1875 to 1891 — Continued. Pag^ Decree raising the blockade of the Orinoco River, April 12, 1880 1004 English translation 1005 Decree reopening the custom-house of Ciudad Bolivar, April 13, 1880 1005 English translation .., 1006 Decree of October 21, 1880, granting permission to Jose Bonnet to import merchandise destined for Colom- bia, and to store it in transit at Ciudad Bolivar 1007 English translation 1008 Law of May 20, 1882, approving a six-year contract of the Minister of Fomento with Lino Duarte Level for navigation, including three lines of steamers, one line from Ciudad Bolivar to Guiria 1009 English translation 1012 Law 6 of the Code of Hacienda of 1883, giving the President general authority as regards custom-houses 1015 English translation 1016 Law of July 3, 1883, approving a contract for the navigation of the Orinoco between Ciudad Bolivar and Soledad.. 1017 English translation 1019 Law of July 7, 1883, approving a contract of March 13, 1883, with Luis Vallenilla for five years exclusive navigation-of the Orinoco River by the Macareo and Pedernales channels 1022 English translation 1024 Resolution of February 16, 1886, forbidding the "Bermu- dez" to enter the Macareo channel 1026 English translation 1026 Executive decree of October 25, 1886, opening all the mouths of the Orinoco to foreign and domestic ves- sels 1027 English translation 1028 Period from i8gi to 1904 — r Law of July 9, 1891, approving the contract concluded May I, 1890, between the Minister of Fomento and Mr. Pedro Manuel Olaechea 1028 English translation 1030 Convention between the United States of America and the United States of Venezuela, providing for a refer- ence to arbitration of the claim of the Venezuela Steam Transportation Company against the Gov- ernment of Venezuela — English text - - 1033 Spanish text 1035 XII CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. MISCELLANEOUS— Continued . I/Aws, Decrees, Diplomatic Correspondence, etc. — Cont'd. Period from i8gi to 1904 — Continued. •^^'''^■ Diplomatic correspondence from November i, 1892, to Jan- uary II, 1893, regarding the right of American citi- zens to navigate the various channels of the Orinoco River — J. H. Dialogue and Son to the Secretary of State, November i, 1892 1038 The Secretary of State to Mr. Scruggs, November 4, 1892.. 1039 Mr. Bartleman to the Secretary of State, December 24, 1892 - - 1039 The Minister of Foreign Affairs to Mr. Bai-tleman, December 22, 1892 _ _ _ 1039 English translation 1040 The Secretary of State to J. H. Dialogue and Son, Jan- uary II, 1893 1041 Contract of January 12, 1893, between the Minister of the Interior and Alejandro Mantilla for navigation be- tween Ciudad Bolivar and Maracaibo 1042 English translation 1044 Decree of July i, 1893, closing the Macareo and Pedernales channels to general navigation.... 1045 English translation; 1047 Diplomatic correspondence from July 10, 1893, to Septem- ber 20, 1894, regarding the right of American citi- zens to navigate the various channels of the Orinoco River — Mr. Partridge to Mr. Gresham, July 10, 1893 1048 Mr. Adee to Mr. Partridge, August i, 1893..,. 1049 J. H. Dialogue and Son to Mr. Gresham, July 29, 1893... 1049 Mr. Partridge to Mr. Gresham, October 18, 1893 1050 Mr. Lee to Mr. Partridge, August 30, 1893 1051 Mr. Partridge to Senor Rojas, October 14, 1893. 1054 Mr. Partridge to Mr. Gresham, December 27, 1893... 1055 Mr. Gresham to J. H. Dialogue and Son, September 20, 1894 - - - 1055 Resolution of January 8, 1894, extending the permission granted by article 2, decree of July i, 1893, to navi- gate the Macareo and Pedernales channels until December 31, 1894, granted on petition of the "Red Star of the Orinoco" Company 1056 English translation 1057 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. XIII MISCELLANEOUS-ContJnued . Laws, Decrees, Diplomatic Correspondence, etc. — Cont'd. Period from i8gi to 1904 — Continued. Page, lyaw of May 26, 1894, approving the Grell contract of January 17, 1894. Decree of June 8, 1894, and additional article of June (May) 10, 1894 1057 English translation... 1061 Resolution of February 24, 1894, revoking on petition of Ellis Grell the extension of January 8, 1894.... 1065 English translation 1065 Extracts from the minutes of the Chamber of Deputies of the United States of Venezuela covering a discussion of the Grell contract, 1894 1066 Extracts from the proceedings of the Chamber of Deputies of the United States of Venezuela concerning the rati- fication of the Grell contract, 1894 1079 Extracts from the minutes of the Senate of the United States of Venezuela covering the discussion of the Grell contract, 1894.... 1097 Additional decree of June 6, 1894, regulating the navigation of the Orinoco and its channels iioo English translation i loi Re-Macareo concession. Opinion of the special commission appointed by the High Federal Court, rendered to the court, August 14, 1894; and the judgment of the court thereon 1102 English translation 1 1 10 Decision of arbitrators, March 26, 1895, in the case of the Venezuela Steam Transportation Company against Venezuela 1 11 8 Resolution of June 6, 1895, permitting the steamer "Bo- vaci" to pass once through the Macareo Channel from Trinidad to Ciudad Bolivar 11 19 English translation 1 1 20 Resolution of June 25, 1895, permitting the "Socorro" to pass four times through the Macareo and Pedernales channels 11 20 English translation 1 1 2 1 Resolution of July 14, 1896, refusing to permit Federico Rafael Hart to establish navigation from Trinidad to Guiria, etc., as in conflict with Grell concession 1 121 English translation 11 2 2 Resolution of October 18, 1898, granting the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company one year to estab- lish bi-weekly navigation between La Guaira and Maracaibo... ..— 11 22 English translation 1 1 1 23 XIV CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. MISCELLANEOUS— Continued. IvAws, Decrees, Diplomatic Correspondence, etc. — Cont'd. Period from i8gi to 1904 — Continued. Page. The decree of September 4, 1899, granting six months' extension of the time allowed for the establishment of navigation between La Guaira and Maracaibo under the Grell contract ..— 1123 English translation 1124 Executive decree of April 23, 1900, regarding the presenta- tion of claims... .- 1125 English translation 1126 Petition of Richard Morgan Olcott, of May 9, 1900, for a six-year extension of the Grell concession as a par- tial compensation for services rendered and losses sustained 11 28 English translation 1129 Memorandum of Richard Morgan Olcott, accompanying his petition of May 9, 1900 1130 Spanish translation 1132 Executive decree of May 10, 1900, extending the Grell con- cession for the term of six years.... 1134 English translation... 1 135 Contract of May 10, 1900, signed by Dr. Felix Quintero and Mr. Olcott 1135 English translation.. 1 1 36 Letter of Minister of Interior to the Seci-etary of the Treas- ury covering the contract of May 10, and directing payment of the 100,000 bolivares 1137 English translation 1 139 Decree of October 5, 1900, revoking the law of July i, 1893, throwing open the Macareo and Pedernales channels to general navigation 1140 English translation 1140 Decree of January 24, 1901, creating board to examine and determine claims against the nation 1141 English translation _ 1 142 Extracts from the journal of the National Constituent As- sembly _ ..._ 1 143 Resolution of March 6, 1901, ratifying the acts of General and President Castro 1145 English translation _ _ 1 146 Decree of July 4, 1901, relating to claims arising out of the war begun May 23, 1899 _ 1147 English translation... _ _ 1 148 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. XV MISCELLANEOUS— Continued. Laws, Decrees, Diplomatic Correspondence, etc. — Cont'd. Period from i8gi to igo4 — Continued. Page. Resolution of July i6, 1901, relating to form of claim cer- tificate 1 149 English translation 1150 Decree of December 14, 1901, revoking the extension of May ID, 1900 1 151 English translation 1151 Executive decree of June 28, 1902, declaring a blockade of Ciudad Bolivar nSZ' English translation 1154 Decree of July 19, 1902, blockading Carupano 1155 English translation 1156 Decree of August 23, 1902, raising blockade of Carupano.... 1157 English translation 1158 Decree of March 7, 1903, declaring in full force and effect the decree of June 28, 1902 1158 English translation 1159 Decree of March 11, 1903, revoking decree of March 7, 1903.. 1 160 English translation 1 161 The registration of the Orinoco Steamship Company under Venezuelan law, April 16, 1903 1162 English translation — .. 1 164 Law of April 18, 1904, affirming the contract of March 28, 1904, between the Minister of the Interior and Gen- eral Manuel Corao, for the navigation of the Orinoco.. 1 166 English translation ..- 1 1 69 Proceedings relating to the Buchanan-Gonzales Guinan protocol of February 13, 1909, before the Venezuelan Congress -— 1 1 72 Senate -.. 1172 Chamber of Deputies.. ..- 1178 Law of Venezuela approving protocol of February 13, 1909.. 1 184 English translation -.. 1 185 Decrees Relating to the Port of Cristobal Colon — Executive Decree of December 7, 1903, directing the con- struction of the port of Cristobal Colon 1187 English translation 11 88 Executive decree of January 6, 1904, approving the plans presented by Engineer Manuel Cipriano Perez for the construction of the port of Cristobal Colon 1190 English translation 1 191 1 730 1 — 10 ii XVI CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. MISCELLANEOUS— Continued. DecRSES Relating to the Port of Cristobal Colon — Con. Page! Executive orders of January 9, 1904, appointing an inspector- general and an assistant engineer of the works of construction of the port of Cristobal Colon, and appointing Dr. Luis Daniel Otero medical adviser.... 1191 English translation ii93 Executive order of January 11, 1904, appointing Dr. Eneas Iturbe assistant engineer of the works of construc- tion of the port of Cristobal Colon 1194 English translation 1194 Executive decree of May 23, 1904, declaring the port of Cristobal Colon open June i, 1904 ii94 English translation .., 1195 Physical Geogjiaphy of the Orinoco River — Extract from the Sailing Directions of the British Admiralty for the Orinoco River 1197 Extract from the Revised Supplement of the British Sailing Directions for the Orinoco River, corrected to June, 1909 1207 Extract from Church's "South America: an outline of its physical geography" 121 1 Report of Lieutenant Commander Southerland of U. S. S. "Dolphin" to Secretary of the Navy, January 17, 1900 12 13 JSxtracts from works of travel — Extract from Sachs' " Aus den Llanos" 1215 English translation 1223 Extract from Stark's "Guide and History of Trinidad".. 1231 Decree of October ii, 1872, Establishing the Official GAZETTE (GaCETA OFICIAL) I235 English translation 1236 Law of April 21, 1887, Concerning a Government Printing AND Lithographing Office 1239 English translation 1245 Report op Special Commission upon General Castro's State- ment 1253 English translation 1258 Affidavits — Protest by J. V. Rodriguez, purser of the "Vencedor," Oct. 30, 1899 -- 1265 Affidavit of George Grell, December 6, 1909 1266 Affidavit of John Wharton, December 6, 1909 1267 Affidavit of Eederico Vicentini, December 6, 1909 1267 Affidavit of Robert Henderson, December 27, 1909 1268 CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. XVII MISCELLANEOUS— Continued. Affidavits — Continued. Page. Affidavit of John E. Siegel, bookkeeper and general account- ant, January 15, 1909.. 1269 Affidavit of R. Morgan Olcott, January 17, 1909 1304 Note of the American Minister at Caracas, suggesting settlement of the orinoco steamship company case and response of the venezuelan minister FOR Foreign Affairs — Minister Russell to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Septem- ber 9, 1909 -. 1315 The Minister of Foreign Affairs to Minister Russell, Septem- ber 11, 1909 - - 1315 English translation 13 16 TERMS OF SUBMISSION. PROTOCOL OF FEBRUARY 13, 1909, WITH AMENDATORY NOTES AND SUPPLEMENTARY PROTOCOLS. INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE: THE ORIGINAL PROTOCOL OF SUBMISSION OF FEBRUARY 17, 1903. THE HAGUE CONVENTION FOR THE PACIFIC SETTLEMENT OF INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES, OCTOBER 18, 1907. NOTE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE OF THE UNITED STATES Tb THE INTERNATIONAL BUREAU OF THE PERMANENT COURT OF ARBITRATION AT THE HAGUE, OCTOBER 5, 1909. 17301 — 10 PROTOCOL OF FEBRUARY 13, 1909. Protocol op an Agreement between the United .States op America and the United States of Venezuela for the Decision and Adjustment op Certain Claims. Signed at Caracas on February 13, igog. William I. Buchanan, High Commissioner, representing the President of the United States of America, and Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guindja, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United States of Venezuela, duly authorized by General Juan Vicente Gdmez, Vice President of the United States of Venezuela, in charge of the Presidency of the Republic, having exhibited to each other and found in due form their respective powers, and .animated by the spirit of sincere friendship that has always existed and should exist between the two nations they represent, having conferred during repeated and lengthy conferences concerning the manner of amicably and equitably adjusting the differences existing between their respective Governments with regard to the claims pending between them, since neither the United States of America nor the United States of Venezuela aspires to anything other than sus- taining that to which in justice and equity it. is entitled ; and as a result of these conferences have recognized the great importance of arbitration as a means toward maintaining the good understand- ing which should exist and increase between their respective nations, and to the end of avoiding hereafter, so far as possible, differences between them, they believe it is from every point of view desirable that a treaty of arbitration shall be adjusted between their respective Governments. With respect to the claims that have been the subject of their long and friendly conferences, William I. Buchanan and Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guindn have found that the opinions and views concerning them sustained by their respective Governments have been, and are, so diametrically opposed and so different that they have found it difficult to adjust them by common accord; wherefore it is necessary to resort to the conciliatory means of arbitration, a measure to which the two nations they represent 3 4 APPENDIX. are mutually bound by their signatures to the treaties of the Sec- ond Peace Conference at The Hague in 1907, and one which is recognized by the entire civilized world as the only satisfactory means of terminating international disputes. Being so convinced, and firm in their resolution not to permit, for any reason whatever, the cordiality that has always existed between their respective countries to be disturbed, the said William I. Buchanan and Doctor Francisco Gonzalez Guindn, thereunto fully authorized, have adjusted, agreed to and signed the present Protocol for the settlement of the said claims against the United States of Venezuela, which are as follows : 1. The claim of the United States of America on behalf of the Orinoco Steamship Company; 2. The claim of the United States of America on behalf of the Orinoco Corporation and of its predecessors in interest, The Manoa Company Limited, The Orinoco Company and The Orinoco Com- pany Limited; and, 3. The claim of the United States of America on behalf of the United States and Venezuela Company, also known as the Crich- field claim. ARTlCtrE I. With respect to the first of these claims, that of the Orinoco Steamship Company, the United States of Venezuela has upheld the immutability of the arbitral decision of Umpire Barge, ren- dered in this case, alleging that said decision does not suffer from any of the causes which by universal jurisprudence give rise to its nullity, but rather that it is of an unappealable character, since the compromis of arbitration can not be considered as void, nor has there been an excessive exercise of jurisdiction, nor can the corruption of the judges be alleged, nor an essential error in the judgment; while on the other hand, the United States of America, citing practical cases, among them the case of the revision, with the consent of the United States of America, of the arbitral awards rendered by the American- Venezuelan Mixed Commission created by the Convention of April 25, 1866, and basing itself on the cir- cumstances of the case, considering the principles of international law and of universal jurisprudence, has upheld not only the admis- sibility but the necessity of the revision of said award; in conse- quence of this situation, WiUiam I. Buchanan and Doctor Fran- cisco Gonzdlez Guindn, in the spirit that has marked their con- ferences, have agreed to submit this case to the elevated criterion TERMS OF SUBMISSION. 5 of the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL created by this Proctocol, in the following form : The ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall first decide whether the decision of Umpire Barge, in this case, in view of all the circum- stances and under the principles of international law, is not void, and whether it must be considered so conclusive as to preclude a reexamination of the case on its merits. If the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL decides that said decision must be considered final, the case will be considered by the United States of America as closed; but on the other hand, if the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL decides that .said decision of Umpire Barge should not be con- sidered as final, said ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall then hear, examine and determine the case and render its decision on the merits. ARTICI.E II. During the many conferences regarding the matter of the United States of America on behalf of the Orinoco Corporation and of its predecessors in interest against the United States of Venezuela, held between William I. Buchanan, High Commissioner, repre- senting the President of the United States of America, and Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guind,n, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Vene- zuela, they have found the views and conclusions held and main- tained by their respective Governments with respect to the rights and claims of the claimant company so diametrically opposed to each other, as to make it impossible to reconcile them through the medium of direct negotiations between their Governments. Among these they have encountered the allegation of the United States of America, on behalf of the claimant company, that by the act of the National Congress of Venezuela, and by resolutions and other acts of the Executive Power thereof, the rights and claims insisted upon and claimed by the United States of America on behalf of the claimant company, in and under the Fitzgerald con- cession, the origin of the present case, are firmly recognized and affirmed as subsistent and valid, and that the Government of Venezuela has insisted and insists that the decision of Umpire Barge of April 12, 1904, which Venezuela considers irrevocable, and the decision handed down by the Federal Court and of Cassa- tion of Venezuela on March i8, 1908, furnish of and in themselves conclusive proof against the rights and the pretensions of the claimant company, since said company, even though it be accepted as the assignee of the others, has not established 6 APPENDIX. itself in accordance with the laws of Venezuela, and even though it had so established itself, it was beforehand subjected to Venezuelan laws and it was agreed that these should govern and decide the contentions and differences that might arise; whereas the United States of America, on behalf of the claimant company, has dechned and declines in any manner to admit that said decision of Umpire Barge or that of the Federal Court and of Cassation of Venezuela could terminate or has terminated or extinguished the rights and claims asserted by the claimant company under said Fitzgerald contract, but that on the contrary the rights and claims asserted in connection therewith by the claimant .company are valid and subsisting. In view of these and other equally conflicting conclusions reached and persistently maintained by their respective Governments with regard to this case, the Representatives herein named, animated by a firm resolve to do all in their power to maintain and increase a good understanding between their Governments, and by a fixed desire to provide for the adjustment of the differences existing between them in this case, in justice and equity, can not escape the conclusion that the same cordial spirit which has prevailed in their many conferences already held counsels and points to the expediency and necessity of submitting this case to an impartial International Tribunal in order that the differences arising there- from may be once and for all determined and concluded in a just and equitable manner. To reach this desirable end, and in accordance with the principles set out: It is AGREED between William I. Buchanan, High Commis- sioner, representing the President of the United States of America, and Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guindn, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United States of Venezuela, duly authorized to this end by their respective Governments, that the matter of the United States of America, on behalf of the Orinoco Corporation and of its predecessors in interest. The Manoa Company Limited, The Orinoco Company and The Orinoco Company Limited, shall be submitted to the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL created by this Protocol. Said ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall examine and decide: I. Whether the decision of Umpire Barge of April 12, 1904, under the principles of international law is not void and whether it preserves a conclusive character, in the case of the predecessors in interest of the claimant company against Venezuela; TERMS OP SUBMISSION. 7 2. If the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL decides that said decision shall be considered conclusive, it shall then decide what effect said decision had with respect to the subsistence of the Fitzgerald contract, at that date, and with respect to the rights of the claim- ant company or those of its predecessors in interest in said contract; 3. If it decides that the decision of said Umpire Barge shall not be considered conclusive, said ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall examine on their merits and shall decide the matters submitted to said Umpire by the predecessors in interest of the claimant company ; 4. The ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall examine, consider and- decide whether there has been manifest injustice done the claimant company or its predecessors in interest regarding the Fitzgerald contract through the decision of the Federal Court and of Cassation, rendered March 18, 1908, in the suit maintained by the Govern- ment of Venezuela against the predecessors in interest of the claimant company, or through any of the acts of any of the authorities of the Government of Venezuela. If the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL decides that such injustice has been done, it is empowered to examine the matter of the claimant company and of its predecessors in interest against the Government of. Venezuela on its merits, and to render a final decision with respect to the rights and the obligations of the parties, fixing such damages as in its elevated judgment it believes to be just and equitable. In every event the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall decide: (a) What effect, if any, said decision of the Federal Court and of Cassation produced and has upon everything relating to the rights of the claimant company as assignee of the Fitzgerald contract; (6) Whether said Fitzgerald contract is in force; and, (c) If it determines that said contract is in force, then, what are the rights and the obligations of the claimant company on the one hand, and of the Government of Venezuela on the other. Artici^E III. William I. Buchanan, High Commissioner, representing the President of the United States of America, and Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guindn, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United States of Venezuela, have carefully considered in the conferences they have held, the matter of the United States of America on behalf of the United States and Venezuela Company against the United 8 APPENDIX. States of Venezuela, also known as the Crichfield case, and have found that while the questions involved therein differ in several aspects from those in the other claims they have considered, the same radically different views held by their respective Govern- ments in those cases exist in the case under consideration. To the end therefore, that nothing shall be left pending that will not tend to add to the good understanding and friendship existing between the two Governments, their Representatives above- named, Wilham I. Buchanan and Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guindn hereby agree that the matter of the United Stales of America on behalf of the United States and Venezuela Company against the United States of Venezuela shall be submitted to the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL created by this Protocol, and they further agree that said TRIBUNAL is empowered to examine, consider, hear, determine and make its award in said case on its merits in justice and equity. Article IV. The United States of America and the United States of Venezuela having, at the Second Peace Conference held at The Hague in 1907, accepted and recognized the Permanent Court of The Hague, it is agreed that the cases mentioned in Articles I, II, and III of this Protocol, that is to say, the case of the Orinoco Steamship Com- pany, that of the Orinoco Corporation and of its predecessors in interest and that of the United States and Venezuela Company, shall be submitted to the jurisdiction of an ARBITRAL TRI- BUNAL composed of Three Arbitrators chosen from the above- mentioned Permanent Court of The Hague. No member of said Court who is a citizen of the United States of America or of the United States of Venezuela shall form part of said ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL, and no member of said Court can appear as counsel for either nation before said TRIBUNAL. This ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall sit at The Hague. Article V. The said ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall, in each case sub- mitted to it, determine, decide and make its award, in accordance with justice and equity. Its decisions in each case shall be accepted and upheld by the United States of America and the United States of Venezuela as final and conclusive. TERMS OP SUBMISSION. 9 Article; VI. In the presentation of cases to the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL both parties may use the French, EngUsh or Spanish language. Article VII. Within eight months from the date of this Protocol, each of the parties shall present to the other and to each of the members of the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL, two printed copies of its case, with the documents and evidence on which it relies, together with the testimony of its respective witnesses. Within an additional term of four months, either of the parties may in like manner present a counter case with documents and additional evidence and depositions, in answer to the case, docu- ments, evidence and depositions of the other party. Within sixty days from the expiration of the time designated for the filling of the counter cases, each Government may, through its Representative, make its arguments before the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL, either orally or in writing, and each shall deliver to the other copies of any arguments thus made in writing, and each party shall have a right to reply in writing, provided such reply be submitted within the sixty days last named. Article VIII. All public records and documents under the control or at the disposal of either Government or in its possession, relating to the matters in litigation shall be accessible to the other, and, upon request, certified copies of them shall be furnished. The docu- ments which each party produces in evidence shall be authenti- cated by the respective Minister for Foreign Affairs. Article IX. All pecuniary awards that the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL MAY make in said cases shall be in gold coin of the United States of America, or in its equivalent in Venezuelan money, and the ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall fix the time of payment, after consultation with the Representatives of the two countries. Article X. It is agreed that within six months from the date of this Protocol, the Government of the United States of America and that of the United States of Venezuela shall communicate to each other, and to the Bureau of the Permanent Court at The Hague, the name of lO APPENDIX. the Arbitrator they select from among the members of the Perma- nent Court of Arbitration. Within sixty days thereafter the Arbitrators shall meet at The Hague and proceed to the choice of the Third Arbitrator in ac- cordance with the provisions of Article 45 of The Hague Convention for the peaceful Settlement of International Disputes, referred to herein. Within the same time each of the two Governments shall deposit with the said Bureau the sum of fifteen thousand francs on account of the expenses of the arbitration provided for herein, and from time to time thereafter they shall in like manner deposit such further sums as may be necessary to defray said expenses. The ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL shall meet at The Hague twelve months from the date of this Protocol to begin its deliberations and to hear the arguments submitted to it. Within sixty days after the hearings are closed its decisions shall be rendered. Article XL Except as provided in this Protocol the arbitral procedure shall conform to the provisions of the Convention for the Peaceful Set- tlement of International Disputes, signed at The Hague on October 18, 1907, to which both parties are signatory", and especially to the provisions of Chapter III thereof. Article XII. It is hereby understood and agreed that nothing herein con- tained shall preclude the United States of Venez,uela, during the period of five months from the date of this Protocol, from reaching an amicable adjustment with either or both of the claimant com- panies referred to in Articles II and III herein, provided that in each case wherein a settlement may be reached, the respective company shall first have obtained the consent of the Government of the United States of America. The undersigned, WILLIAM I. BUCHANAN and FRANCISCO GONZALEZ GUINAN, in the capacity which each holds, thus consider their conferences with respect to the differences between the United States of America and the United States of Venezuela as closed, and sign two copies of this Protocol of the same tenor and to one effect, in both the EngUsh and, Spanish languages, at Caracas, on the thirteenth day of February one thousand nine hundred and nine. William I. Buchanan, [seal.] F. GonzAlez GuinAn. [seal.1 TERMS OF SUBMISSION. II PROTOCOI.O DE COMPROMISO ENTRE I.OS ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUEI.A Y Los ESTADOS UnidOS DE AMERICA PaRA IvA Decision y Arreglo de Ciertas Reci^amaciones. Firmado en Caracas el Trece de Febrero de igog. El Doctor Francisco Gonzalez Guindn, Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, debidamente auto- rizado por el General Juan Vicente Gdmez, Vice Presidente de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, Encargado de la Presidencia de la Repliblica, y William I. Buchanan, Alto Comisionado, Represen- tante del Presidente de los Estados Unidos de America, habi^ndose exhibido y encontrado en forma sus respectivos poderes, y animados del espiritu de franca amistad que siempre ha existido y debe existir entre las dos naciones que representan, han tratado en repetidas y prolongadas conferencias de la manera de arreglar amistosa y equitativament^e las diferencias que existen entre sus respectivos Gobiernos con respecto i. las reclamaciones pendientes entre las dos naciones, pues ni los Estados Unidos de Venezuela ni los Estados Unidos de Amdrica aspiran d otra cosa que al sostenimiento de lo que en justicia y equidad les corresponda; y como resultado de estas conferencias, han reconocido la grande importancia del arbi- traje como medio de mantener la buena harmonia que debe existir y desarrollarse entre sus respectivas naciones y d fin de evitar en lo futuro, en todo lo posible, deferencias entre ellas, crden que es de todo punto conveniente que un Tratado de Arbitramento sea ajustado entre sus respectivos Gobiernos. Con respecto d las reclamaciones que han sido el tema de sus largas y amistosas conferencias, el Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guindn y William I. Buchanan han encontrado que las opiniones y puntos de vista sostenidos por sus respectivos Gobiernos han sido y son tan diametralmente opuestos y distintos, que han encontrado dificil resolverlos de comtin acuerdo, por lo cual tienen que apelar d la medida conciUatoria del arbitraje, medida d la cual las dos naciones que representan estdn ligadas entre si por sus firmas d los tratados de la Segunda Conferencia de la Paz de La Haya de 1907, y que estd reconocida por todo el mundo civilizado como el linico modo satisfactorio para solucionar los conflictos inter nacionales. Convencidos asi y firmes en sus prop6sitos de ho permitir que por ningdn motive se perturbe la cordiaUdad que siempre ha existido entre sus respectivos paises, los expresados Senores Doctor Fran- cisco Gonzdlez Guindn y William I. Buchanan, ampliamente auto- rizados al efecto, han ajustado, convenido y firmado el presente 1 2 APPENDIX. Protocolo para el arreglo de dichas relaciones contra los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, que son las siguientes : . I. La reclamaci^n de los Estados Unidos de America en favor de la Orinoco Steamship Company; 2. L-a reclamaci6n de los Estados Unidos de America en favor de la Orinoco Corporation y de sus causantes, The Manoa Company Limited, The Orinoco Company y The Orinoco Company Limited; y 3. La reclamacion de los Estados Unidos de America en favor de la United States and Venezuela Company, (tambien conocida como la reclamacidn Crichfield) . ArTICUIvO I. Con respecto d la primera de esas reclamaciones, la de la Orinoco Steamship Company, los Estados Unidos de Venezuela han soste- nido la inmutabilidad del fallo arbitral del Superdrbitro Barge librado en este caso, alegando que dicho fallo no adolece de ninguna de las causales que por jurisprudencia universal dan lugar d nulidad, sino que antes bien reviste el cardcter de inapelable, pues no puede tenerse por nulo el Compromiso de Arbitraje, ni ha habido exceso de poder, ni puede alegarse corrupcidn de jueces, ni error esencial en el fallo ; y por otra parte, los Estados Unidos de America, alegando casos prdcticos, entre ellos el caso de la revisi6n, por consentimiento de los Estados Unidos de America, de los fallos arbitrales dictados por la Comisi6n Mixta Venezolano-Americana, creada por la Con- vencion del 25 de Abril de 1866, y funddndose en las circunstancias del caso y considerando los preceptos de derecho internacional y de jurisprudencia universal, han sostenido no solo la admisibilidad sino la necesidad de la revisi6n de dicho fallo; en consecuencia de esta situaci6n, el Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guindn y William I. Buchanan con el espiritu que ha distinguido sus conferencias, han convenido en someter este caso al alto criterio del Tribunal Arbitral creado por este Protocolo, en la forma siguiente: El Tribunal Arbitral debe decidir primero si el fallo del Super- drbitro Barge, en este caso, bajo todas las circunstancias y los pre- ceptos de derecho internacional, no estd viciado de nulidad y tiene que considerarse concluyente hasta excluir un nuevo examen del caso en su fondo. Si el Tribunal Arbitral falla que debe conside- rarse dicho fallo concluyente, el caso serd aceptado como concluido por los Estados Unidos de America; pero, si por otra parte, el Tri- bunal Arbitral decide que dicho fallo del Superdrbitro Barge no debe considerarse definitivo, el mismo Tribunal Arbitral debe entonces examinar, oir y determinar el caso y librar su fallo en su fondo. , TERMS OF SUBMISSION. 1 3 Aritculo II. En en [el] curso de las muchas conferencias celebradas con re- specto al asunto de los Estados Unidos de America por parte de la Orinoco Corporation y de sus causantes, contra los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, entre el Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guindn, Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores de Venezuela, y William I. Buchanan, Alto Comisionado, Representante del Presidente de los Estados Unidos de America, han encontrado que las opiniones y consideraciones sostenidas por sus respectivos Gobiemos con respecto d los derechos y reclamaciones de la companla reclamante son tan diametralmente opuestas entre si, que hacen imposible conciliarlas por medio de negociaciones directas entre sus Gobiernos. Entre 6stas han encontrado que los Estados Unidos de America por parte de la compania reclamante sostienen que, tanto por el acto del Congreso Nacional de Venezuela como por resoluciones y otros actos de su Poder Ejecutivo, los derechos y reclamaciones mantenidos y reclamados por los Estados Unidos de America por parte de la companla reclamante en la concesion Fitzgerald, origen del presente caso, y conforme d ella, son firmemente reconocidos y afirmados como subsistentes y vdlidos, y que el Gobierno de Venezuela ha insistido e insiste en que el fallo del Superdrbitro Barge del 12 de Abril de 1904, que Venezuela considera irrevocable, y la sentencia dictada por la Corte Federal y de Casaci6n de Vene- zuela, el 18 de Marzo de 1908, son por si una prueba concluyente de que no existen los derechos ni las pretensiones de la compania reclamante, pues la expresada compania, aun aceptando ser cesionaria de las otras, no lleg6 d, constituirse de conformidad con las leyes de Venezuela, y aun habiendose constituido, de antemano quedaba sometida £ las leyes Venezolanas y aceptado que &tas debian regir y decidir las contensiones y diferencias que pudieran ocurrir; mientras que los Estados Unidos de America por parte de la compania reclamante se han negado y se niegan d aceptar de manera alguna que ni el fallo del Super drbitro Barge ni el de la Corte Federal y de Casacidn de Venezuela puedan terminar 6 hayan terminado 6 eliminado los derechos y reclamaciones alegados por la compaiiia reclamante de acuerdo con dicho contrato Fitz- gerald, sino que por el contrario los derechos y reclamaciones alegados en esta materia por la compania reclamante son vdlidos y subsistentes. En vista de estas y otras conclusiones igualmente contraries , alcanzadas y persistentemente sostenidas por sus respectivos Go- 14 APPENDIX. t biernos con respecto d' este caso, los mencionados Representantes, animados por un firme propdsito de haeer todo lo que est6 A su alcance para conservar y fomentar una buena inteligencia entre sus Gobiernos, y con el deseo expreso de allegar los medios paraun arreglo de las diferencias que entre ellos existen con respecto d este caso, en justicia y equidad, no pueden salirse de la conclusidn de que ese mismo espiritu de cordialidad que ha venido privando en las numerosas conferencias ya efectuadas, recomienda € indica la conveniencia y la necesidad de someter este asunto d, un Tribunal Intemacional imparcial, d fin de que las diferencias que de €\ se derivan sean determinadas una vez por todas y concluyan de manera justa y equitativa. Para Uegar d este deseado fin, y de acuerdo con los principios arriba apuntados: QUEDA CONVENIDO entre el Doctor Francisco Gonzalez Guindn, Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, y William I. Buchanan, Alto Comisionado, Repre- sentante del Presidente de los Estados Unidos de America, debida- mente autorizados d este efecto por sus respectivos Gobiernos, que el asunto de los Estados Unidos de America, por parte de la Ori- noco Corporation y de sus causantes, . The Manoa Company Lim- ited, The Orinoco Company y The Orinoco Company Limited, sea sometido al Tribunal Arbitral creado por este Protocolo. Dicho Tribunal Arbitral examinard y decidird: 1. Si el fallo del Superdrbitro Barge del 12 de Abril de 1904, bajO' los preceptos de derecho intemacional, no estd viciado de nulidad y conserva el cardcter de concluyente en el caso de las causantes de la compania reclamante contra Venezuela. 2. Si el Tribunal Arbitral sentencia que debe considerarse dicho fallo como concluyente, decidird entonces, qud efecto tenia dicho fallo con respecto d la subsistencia del contrato Fitzgerald, en aquella fecha, y con respecto d los derechos de la compania re- clamante 6 los de sus causantes en dicho contrato. 3. Si decide que el fallo de dicho Superdrbitro Barge no debe con- siderarse concluyente, dicho Tribunal Arbitral examinard en su fondo y fallard sobre las cuestiones sometidas d dicho Superdrbitro- por las causantes de la compaiiia reclamante, 4. El Tribunal Arbitral examinard, considerard y decidird si ha. habido injusticia notoria contra la compania reclamante, 6 sus. causantes, respecto del contrato Fitzgerald, por el fallo de la Corte Federal y de Casaci6n, librado el 18 de Marzo 1908 en el juicio- seguido por el Gobiemo de Venezuela contra las causantes de la. TERMS OF SUBMISSION. 1 5 compania reclamante, 6 por alguno de los actos de cualquiera de las autoridades del Gobierno de Venezuela. Si el Tribunal Arbitral decide que ha habido tal injusticia, queda facultado para examinar el asunto de la compania recla- mante y de sus causantes contra el Gobierno de Venezuela en su fondo, y para pron^unciar fallo definitivo respecto de los derechos y las obligaciones de las partes, fijando los danos y perjuicios que en su alto criterio crea justos y equitativos. En todo case el Tribunal Arbitral decidir^ : (a) Qud efecto, si alguno, ha causado y tiene dicho fallo de la Corte Federal y de Casacidn, del i8 de Marzo de 1908, en todo lo referente d los derechos de la compania reclamante como cesionaria del contrato Fitzgerald; (b) Si dicho contrato Fitzgerald estd vigente; y (c) Si declara que dicho contrato estd, yigente, cudles son, entonces, los derechos y las obhgaciones de la compania reclamante por una parte, y del Gobierno de Venezuela por la otra. Articui.0 III. El Doctor Francisco Gonzalez Guinan, Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, y William I. Buchanan, Alto Comisionado, Representante del Presidente de los Estados Unidos de America, han tratado cuidadosamente, en las conferencias que han celebrado, el asunto de los Estados Unidos de America, por parte de la United States and Venezuela Company contra los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, tambien conocido como asunto Crichfield, y observan que aunque los puntos que contiene difieren en muchos respectos de los tratados con re- specto d las reclamaciones que han sido consideradas, las mismas opiniones radicalmente opuestas prevalecen por parte de ambos Gobiernos. A fin, pues, de que ningtin asunto quede pendiente que no tienda d, robustecer la buena inteligencia y amistad que existen entre los dos Gobiernos, sus Representantes, arriba nombrados, el Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guindn y William I. Buchanan, convienen por el presente que dicho asunto de los Estados Unidos de America, por parte de la United States and Venezuela Company contra los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, sea sometido al Tribunal Arbitral creado por este Protocolo, y ademds que dicho Tribunal queda facultado para examinar, oir, considerar, determinar y fallar dicho asunto en su fondo en justicia y equidad. 1 6 APPENDIX. Articui^o IV. lyos Estados Unidos de Venezuela y los Estados Unidos de America habiendo, en la Segunda Conferencia de la Paz efectuada en La Haya en 1907, aceptado y reconocido la Corte Permanente de La Haya, se conviene que todos los casos mencionados en los Articulos I, II, y III de este Protocolo, es deck, el de la Orinoco Steamship Company, el de la Orinoco Corporation y de sus cau- santes, y el de la United States and Venezuela Company, se pongan bajo la jurisdicci6n de un Tribunal Arbitral compuesto de tres Arbitros escogidos de la Corte Permanente de La Haya ya citada. No formard parte de este Tribunal Arbitral ninguno de los miembros de dicha Corte que sea ciudadano de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela 6 de los Estados Unidos de America, y ninglin miembro de dicha Corte podrd ser abogado ante dicho Tribunal por una d otra nacion. Este Tribunal Arbitral tendrd. su asiento en La Haya. ArTICUIvO V. Dicho Tribunal Arbitral en cada caso que se le someta deter- minard, decidird y fallard de acuerdo con la justicia y la equidad. Sus decisiones serdn en cada caso aceptadas y apoyadas por los Estados Unidos de Venezuela y por los Estados Unidos de Am^ica como definitivas y concluyentes. ArticuIvO VI. En la presentacidn de los casos al Tribunal Arbitral pueden am- bas partes hacer uso de los idiomas frances, espanol 6 ingles. Articui.0 VII. Dentro de ocho meses, contados desde la fecha de este Protocolo, cada una de las partes presentard d la otra y d cada uno de los miembros del Tribunal Arbitral dos ejemplares impresos de su alegato con los documentos y pruebas en que se apoye, junto con el testimonio de sus testigos respectivos. Dentro de un plazo adicional de cuatro meses, cualquiera de las partes puede, de la misma manera, presentar contra-alegato con documentos, pruebas y declaraciones adicionales en contestacidn al alegato, documentos, pruebas y declaraciones de la otra parte. Dentro de sesenta dias contados desde la expiracidn del plazo senalado para entregar los contra-alegatos, cada Gobierno puede por medio de su Representante, hacer sus argumentos ante el Tri- TERMS OF SUBMISSION. 1 7 bunal Arbitral, tanto verbalmente como por escrito, y cada uno entregard al otro copias de cualesqiiiera argumentos asl hechos por escrito, y cada parte tendrd derecho d contestar por escrito, siempre que tal contestaci6n sea sometida dentro de los sesenta dias ultimamente citados. Articui.0 VIII. Todos los archives piiblicos y documentos bajo el control 6 direc- cidn de uno -d. otro Gobiemo 6 en su posesi6n, relatives d los asuntos en litigio, serdn accesibles al otro y, previa solicitud, se le dardn las copias autenticadas de ellos. Los documentos que cada parte aduzca en sus pruebas deberdn estar autenticados por el respective Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores. Articulo IX. Todas las adjudicaciones pecuniar ias que haga el Tribunal Arbi- tral en los dichos casos ser^n en moneda de oro de los Estados Uni- dos de America, 6 su equivalente en moneda Venezolana, debiendo , el Tribunal Arbitral fijar el tiempo de los pagos, previa consulta con los Representantes de los dos paises. ArTiculo X. Queda convenido que, dentro de seis meses d. contar desde la fecha de este Protocolo, el Gobierno de los Estados Unidos de Vene- zuela y 41 de los Estados Unidos de America se notificardn mlitua- mente, asl como tambien notificardn d la Oficina de la Corte Per- manente de La Haya, el nombre del Arbitro que escoja de entre los miembros de la Corte Permanente de Arbitraje. Dentro de' los sesenta dias siguientes, los Arbitros, arriba men- cionados se reunirdn en La Haya y procederdn d escoger el Tercer Arbitro de acuerdo con las previsiones del Articulo cuarenta y cinco de la Convenci6n de La Haya para el Arreglo Paclfico de los Con- flictos Internacionales, arriba citada. Dentro del mismo t^rmino cada uno de los dos Gobiemos de- positary en dicha Oficina la suma de quince mil francos por cuenta de los gastos del arbitramento previsto por este Protocolo, y de cuando en cuando y de la misma manera serdn depositadas las demds cantidades necesarias para cubrir dichos gastos. El Tribunal Arbitral se reunird en La Haya doce meses despues de la fecha de este Protocolo para empezar sus deliberaciones y oir los argumentos d ^1 sometidos. Dentro de sesenta dias despu6s de cerradas las audiencias serdn librados sus f alios. 17301 — 10 2 1 8 APPENDIX. Articulo XI. Con excepcidn de lo convenido en este Protocolo, el procedi- miento arbitral se conformar^ d las previsiones de la Convencion para el Arreglo Padfico de los Conflictos Internacionales, de la cual ambas partes son signatarias, firmada en La Haya el i8 de Octubre de 1907, y especialmente £ las previsiones de su capitulo tercero. ArTICUIvO XII. Queda entendido y pactado que nada de lo expuesto en este Protocolo serd impedimento para que dentro del t^miino de cinco meses, a contar de la fecha de este Protocolo, los Estados Unidos de Venezuela puedan Uegar d un arreglo amistoso con las dos 6 cada una de las companlas reclamantes d que se refieren los Articulos II y III, siempre que, en cada caso en que se Uegare d un arreglo la respectiva compania haya obtenido previamente el consentimiento del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos de America. I/OS signatarios, el Doctor Francisco Gonzdlez Guinan y William I. Buchanan, con el caracter que cada uno inviste, de esta manera, dan por terminadas sus conferencias con respecto d las diferencias entre los Estados Unidos de Venezuela y los Estados Unidos de America y firman dos ejemplares de este Protocolo de un mismo tenor y d un solo efecto en cada uno de los idiomas espanol e ingles, en Caracas d los trece dias del mes de Febrero del ano de mil nove- cientos nueve. [sEivLo] F. Gonzalez Guinan. [sEiyLo] William I Buchanan Minister Russell to the Minister for Foreign Affairs. September ij, igog. Mr. Minister: — Referring to a conversation on the subject, I have the honor to inform Your Excellency that the Department of State of the United States of America assents to Venezuela's suggestion to modify Article X of the Protocol signed February 13, 1909, by fixing October 15 as the date on or before which the Arbitrators must be named, and providing for a meeting at The Hague of the Arbitrators so chosen, between January 5 and 15, 1910, to select a third; always provided that Venezuela will also agree to modify TERMS OF SUBMISSION. 1 9 Article VII of the above-mentioned Protocol by fixing January i, 1 9 ID, as the date for the presentation of the case, and April 30, 1910, as the date for the presentation of the counter case; and to modify Article X by fixing May 15, 19 10, as the date for the meet- ing of the Arbitral Tribunal. I am instructed to inform Your Excellency that the Protocol of February 13, 1909, is approved by the Government of the United States of America, and is in effect in the United States, and that the President of the United States of America transmitted said Protocol to the Senate for its information, in a message dated April 20, 1909. I take this occasion to renew to Your Excellency the assurance of my highest and most distinguished consideration. WiLWAM W. RusSEi.iv. To His Excellency General Juan Pietri, Minister for Foreign Affairs. The Minister for Foreign Affairs to Minister Russell. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUEI^A, MiNISTERIO DE REIvACIONES ExTERIORES. D. p. E. No. 1464 — -Caracas: 14 de setbre de 'og. Senor Ministro: — Tengo i, honra acusar AY. E. el recibo de su nota fecha ayer, relativa d la fijacion de ciertos lapsos y fechas conexionados con el Protocolo de 13 de Febrero anterior entre los Estados Unidos de Venezuela y los Estados Unidos de America. En respuesta me es grato informar d V. E- que el Gobierno de Venezuela da su aprobacidn d que el 1 5 de octubre proximo sea la fecha en la cual, 6 antes de la cual, deben nombrarse los drbitros A que se refiere el articulo X del Pacto mencionado. Tarribien con- viene el Gobierno de Venezuela en que la primera reunidn de los drbitros para elegir un tercero se ef ecttie entre el 5 y el 1 5 de enero de 1 910; que el i de enero del mismo ano sea la fecha en la cual se presenten los alegatos de los dos Gobiernos; que el 30 de abril de 1 9 10 sea la fecha para la presentacidndel contra alegato y el 15 de mayo de 19 10 la fecha para la reunidn del Tribunal Arbitral. Se ha tomado nota de que el Protocolo de 13 de febrero de 19 10 ha sido aprobado por el Gobierno de los Estados Unidos y estd en 20 APPENDIX. efecto en dicha Nacidn, cuyo Presidente lo trasmitid al Senado para su informacidn en un mensaje de 20 de abril prdximo pasado. VdlgQme etc., etc., etc. (signed) J. PiETRi. Al Bxcmo. Senor W. W. Russell, etc., etc., etc. [Translation.] United States of Venezuela. Ministry of Foreign Affairs. D. P. E. No. 1464 — Caracas: September 14, igog. Mr. Minister: — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency's note of yesterday's date, in regard to fixing certain extensions and dates in connection with the Protocol of February 13th last, between the United States of Venezuela and the United States of America. In reply I am pleased to inform Your Excellency that the Gov- ernment of Venezuela assents to the 15th of next October as the date on or before which appointment must be made of the arbi- trators referred to in Article X of the above-mentioned Protocol. The Government of Venezuela also agrees that the first meeting of the arbitrators to select a third shall take place between the 5th and 15th of January, 19 10; that January i, 19 10, shall be the date for the presentation of the cases of the two Governments; that April 30, 1 9 10, shall be the date for the presentation of the counter case and May 15, 19 10, the date for the meeting of the Arbitral Tribunal. Note has been taken of the fact that the Protocol of February 13, 1909, has been approved by the Government of the United States, and is in effect in said Nation, whose President transmitted it to the Senate for its information in a message dated April 20 last. I take this occasion etc., etc., etc. J. PlETRl. To His Excellency W. W. Russell, etc., etc., etc. TERMS OF SUBMISSION. 21 Minister Russell to the Minister for Foreign Affairs. [Copy.] American Legation, Caracas, December 20, igog. ' Mr. Minister: My Government instructs me to say that, on account of the untimely death of the Hon. W. I. Buchanan, Agent of the United States in the approaching arbitration with Vene- zuela at the Hague, and of the consequent necessity for the selec- tion of a new Agent, the Government of the United States would like to have the date of the delivery of the cases postponed till February first; all other dates in connection with said arbitration to remain as heretofore agreed upon by exchange of notes between your Ministry and this Legation, as follows: January 5-15. Meeting of arbitrators to select a third. April 30. Presentation of countercase. May 15. Meeting of Arbitral Tribunal. Any date which the Government of Venezuela can conveniently arrange for the meeting of the arbitrators to select a third will be agreeable to the Government of the United States. I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to Your Excellency the assurance of my most distinguished consideration. WiLUAM W. Russell. His Excellency General Juan Pietri. Minister of Foreign Affairs. j The Minister for Foreign Affairs to Minister Russell. [Copia.] . , D. P. E- No. 2090. Caracas, 20 de diciembre de igog. Senor Ministro: Hdnrome en avisar d V. R. el recibo de la nota de esta misma fecha, por medio de la cual se sirva manifestarme que el Gobierno de los Estados Unidos de America desea que en raz6n de la pre- matura muerte del Sefior Buchanan y de la necesidad de elegir el Agente que lo reemplazard, se posponga la fecha de la presentacion de los Alegatos hasta el primero de febrero proximo, quedando las demds fechas conexionadas con el Arbitramento pactado entre Venezuela y los Estados Unidos tal como se ha convenido ante- riormente por medio de las notas canjeadas al efecto. 22 APPENDIX. Cliinpleme decir d V. E. que el Ejecutivo Federal defiere gustoso al deseo del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos respecto al cambio de la fecha para la presentacion de los Alegatos. Con agradecitniento se ha tornado nota de la declaracion tras- mitida por V. E. de que al Gobierno de los Estados Unidos le placer^ cualquiera fecha que el de Venezuela pueda conveniente- mente determinar para la primera reuni6n de los Arbitros con el fin de elegir un tercero. Vdlgome de esta oportunidad para renovar a V. E. las protestas de mi alta consideracidn. J. PiETRi. Al Excelentisimo Senor William W. Russell, Enviado Extraordinario y Ministro Plenipotenciario de los Estados Unidos de America. [Translation.] United States of Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. D. P. E. No. 2090. Caracas: December 2.0, igog. Mr. Minister: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excel- lency's note of even date herewith, in which you state to me that the Government of the United States of America, on account of the premature death of Mr. Buchanan and the necessity of select- ing an Agent in his place, would like to have the date of the presen- tation of the cases postponed until the first of February next, all other dates in connection with the Arbitration agreed upon by Venezuela and the United States to remain as heretofore arranged by means of notes exchanged on the matter. In accordance with instructions I have to state to Your Excel- lency that the Federal Executive is pleased to accede to the request of the Government of the United States as to the change of date for the presentation of the cases. Note is taken with due thanks of the statement of Your Excel- lency that any date which the Government of Venezuela can con- veniently arrange for the first meeting of the arbitrators to select a third will be agreeable to the Government of the United States. I avail myself of this opportunity etc. etc. J. PlETRI. To His Excellency William W. Russell, Envoy Extraordinary etc. etc. etc. PROTOCOL OF AUGUST 21, 1909. Protocol of settlement between the United States op America, on behalf of the United States and Venezuela Company, and the United States of Venezuela. Signed at Caracas, Venezuela, August 21, igog. The United States of America and the United States of Vene- zuela, through their representatives, William W. Russell, Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America, and General Juan Pietri, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United States of Venezuela, duly authorized by their respective Governments, have agreed upon knd signed the fol- lowing Protocol of Settlement: — Whereas, under a certain Protocol between the United States of America and the United States of Venezuela for the decision and adjustment of certain claims, signed at Caracas on the 13th day of February, 1909, it was agreed that the claim of the United States and Venezuela Company against the United States of Venezuela, also known as the "Crichfield Case", should be sub- mitted to the jurisdiction and adjudication of three arbitrators to be chosen from the- Permanent Court at The Hague, created at the Second Peace Conference, held at the Hague in 1907, the Company fixing the value of said claim at one million five hundred thousand dollars ($1,500,000.00); and Whereas, the respective Governments, animated by the spirit of sincere friendship that has always existed and should exist between the two Nations, and actuated by the firmest desire to maintain and continue the good understanding which should exist and increase between them, and to the end of avoiding all possible future differences regarding this matter, and of adjust- ing existing differences concerning said claim by common accord, instead of further proceedings under the said Protocol, and in pursuance of the express provision of Article XII of said Pro- tocol, as heretofore extended by the joint agreement of the said Governments, have now reached an amicable arrangement and adjustment of the said claim and have agreed to and do adjust the same in the manner and form hereinafter stated. 23 24 APPENDIX. First. — The United States of America, on behalf of the United States and Venezuela Company, and on behalf of Ralph T. Rokeby, as Trustee for the mortgage bondholders of the United States and Venezuela Company, hereby releases to the United States of Venezuela forever, all the right, title, and interest of the United States and Venezuela Company, and of said Trustee for the said bondholders, in and to the following described property : — 1. The mining concession to the mine Inciarte, granted on the 1 8th day of June, 1900, by the Government of Venezuela to Doctor Pedro Guzmdn, and thereafter and on the 5th day of February, 1901, assigned and sold from Pedro Guzman to George W. Crichfield, and thereafter and on the 2d day of January, 1902, assigned by George W. Crichfield to the United States and Vene- zuela Company, together with the mine and its appurtenances, subject to the prov^isions stipulating the right of the said Doctor Guzman to collect two (2) bolivars per ton on every ton of asphalt exported. 2. A certain concession, bearing date the 20th day of April, 1 90 1, between the United States of Venezuela and George W. Crichfield, as grantee, for a railroad to develop said mining prop- erty, which railroad starting from the mine Inciarte ends on the banks of the river Limdn, near its confiuence with the river Sucuy, said concession being thereafter assigned by George W. Crichfield to the United States and Venezuela Company, by assignment bearing date the 2d day of January, 1902, which transfer was assented to by the Venezuelan Government on the 30th day of January, 1902; together with the railroad, rolling stock, refinery, wharves and personal property and appurtenances connected therewith, as the same exist at present. Second. In consideration of the premises, and in payment of the above-mentioned release, the United States of Venezuela covenants, promises and agrees to pay to the United States of America therefor the sum of four hundred and seventy-five thou- sand dollars ($475,000.00), in gold coin of the United States of America, of the present standard of weight and fineness, at the office of the Secretary of State, Washington, D. C, in the United States of America, in eight (8) equal installments at the following times, namely. — I. The first payment of fifty-nine thousand three hundred and seventy-five dollars ($59.375-oo) to be made forthwith upon the signing of this agreement. TERMS OP SUBMISSION. 25 2., The second payment of the same amount to be made one year from the date hereof, at the same place, and thereafter the third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth payments to be made annually, of the same amounts, one year apart, at the same place. Third. By virtue of the present agreement the United States of America, in the name of the United States and Venezuela Com- pany, and of Ralph T. Rokeby, Trustee for the mortgage bond- holders of said Company, declare themselves to be fully paid and satisfied for all claims of the United States and Venezuela Com- pany against Venezuela; and the United States of Venezuela declares itself to be fully paid and satisfied for all claims of the United States of Venezuela against the United States and Vene- zuela Company. In witness whereof the lindersigned have hereunto set their hands and seals this twenty first day of August, one thousand nine hundred and nine. [seal.] William W. Russell. [seal.] J. PlETRI. PrOTOCOLO DE ARREGLO ENTRE LOS ESTADOS UnIDOS DE America en representaci6n de la United States and Venezuela Company, y los Estados Unidos de Venezuela. Firmado en Caracas d 21 de agosto de igog. Los Estados Unidos de America y los Estados Unidos de Vene- zuela por medio de sus representantes William W. Russell, Enviado Extraordinario y Ministro Plenipotenciario de los Estados Unidos de America y General Juan Pietri, Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, suficientemente autorizados por sus respectivos Gobiernos, han convenido y firmado el sigu'iente Protocolo de arreglo: Por cuanto, en el Protocolo firmado en Caracas el 13 de febrero del presente ano (1909) entre los Estados Unidos de America y los Estados Unidos de Venezuela para la decisidn y arreglo de ciertas reclamaciones se convino en que la reclamaci6n de la United States and Venezuela Company contra los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, tambi^n conocida bajo el nombre de Reclamacion Crichfield, seria sometida 6. la jurisdiccidn y decisidn de tres drbitros, que serian escojidos de entre los miembros de la Corte Permanente de La Haya, creada en la Segunda Conferencia de la 26 APPENDIX. Paz celebrada en I,a Haya en 1907, la cual Compaiiia fij6 el valor de dicho reclamo en (D' 1.500.000) un mill6n quinientos mil dollars; y por cuanto, los respectivos Gobiernos, animados por el espi- ritu de sincera amistad que ha existido siempre y debe existir entre las dos Naciones, y animados tambien por el mds firme deseo de mantener y continuar la buena inteligencia que debe existir y aumentar entre ellos, y con el fin de evitar toda diferencia posible en lo future respecto d esta materia y de arreglar las dife- rencias existentes concernientes d dicha reclamacion de comdn acuerdo, en lugar de ulteriores procedimientos conforme al Protocolo y en cumplimiento de la expresa disposici6n del arti- culo 12 de dicho Protocolo, prorrogada despu^s por mMuo con- venio, para el arreglo amistoso de dicho reclamo, han convenido en ajustar el expresado arreglo de la manera y forma siguiente: Primero. — Los Bstados Unidos de America, en representaci6n de la United States and Venezuela Company, y en representacidn de Ralph T. Rokeby, como apoderado (Trustee) de los Tenedores de Bonos Hipotecarios de la United States and Venezuela Com- pany, por la presente traspasan d los Estados Unidos de Venezuela para siempre, los derechos, titulos e intereses de la United States and Venezuela Company y del dicho apoderado (Trustee) de los citados Tenedores de Bonos cuyos derechos, titulos i intereses se describen a continuacidn: Uno. — La concesion minera de la Mina Inciarte, otorgada en 18 de junio de 1900 por el Gobierno de Venezuela al Doctor Pedro Guzman, y posteriormente, en 5 de febrero de 1901, traspasaday vendida por Pedro Guzmdn d George W. Crichfield, y luego el 2 de enero de 1902 traspasada por George W. Crichfield a la United States and Venezuela Company, junto con la Mina y sus pertenencias sujetas a las reservas estipuladas en favor del dicho Doctor Guzmdn de percibir este dos bolivares por cada tonelada de asfalto que se exportara. Dos. — La concesi6n de fecha 20 de abril de 1901 otorgada por los Estados Unidos de Venezuela d George W. Crichfield para la construcci6n de un tranvia de vapor para el desarrollo de dicha propiedad minera, que partiendo de la Mina Inciarte terminara d orillas del rio Lim6n, cerca de su confluencia con el no Sucuy, con- cesidn que fue despuds traspasada por George W. Crichfield d la United States and Venezuela Company por escritura fechada el 2 de enero de 1902, cuyo traspaso fue aprobado por el Gobierno de Venezuela el 30 de enera de 1902, y, ademds, el citado ferro- TERMS OP SUBMISSION. 27 carril, material rodante, refineria, muelles y propiedad personal y pertenencias respectivas, tal como existen al presente. Segundo. — En consideracidn d lo que antecede y en pago de la cesidn anterior, el Gobierno de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, conviene y se compromete d pagar d. los Estados Unidos de America la suma de (D^ (475,000) cuatrocientos setenta y cinco mil dollars en moneda de oro del os Estados Unidos de America, conforme al patrdn presente de peso y ley, en la Secretaria de Estado en Washington, D. C, en los Estados Unidos de America, en ocho pagos iguales en las siguientes fechas, a saber: Uno. — El primer pago de (D^ 59-375) cincuenta y nueve mil trescientos setenta y cinco dollars se hard al firmarse el presente arreglo. Dos. — El segundo pago por un montante igual al anterior se hard un ano despu^s d contar de la fecha indicada anteriormente y en el mismo lugar; y luego el tercero, cuarto, quinto, sexto, septimo y octavo pagos, se hardn anualmente por igual montante, de ano en ano, y en el mismo lugar. En virtud del presente arreglo, los Estados Unidos de America, en nombre de la United States and Venezuela Company y de Ralph T. Rokeby, como apoderado (Trustee) de los Tenedores de Bonos Hipotecarios de dicha Compania, se declaran satisfechos de toda reclamacion de la United States and Venezuela Company contra Venezuela, y los Estados Unidos de Venezuela se declaran satisfechos de toda reclamaci6n contra la United States and Venezuela Company. En fe de lo cual los infraescritos han firmado y sellado el pre- sente, el dia veinte y uno de agosto de mil novecientos nueve. [sBLi/O.] W11.UAM W. Russell. [SECLO.] J. PlETRI PROTOCOL OF SEPTEMBER 9, 1909. Protocol of ssrrLEMENT between the United States of America, on behalf op the Orinoco Corporation and of ITS predecessors in interest, the Manoa Company Lim- ited, THE Orinoco Company and the Orinoco Company Limited, and the United States of Venezuela. Signed at Caracas, Venezuela, September g, igog. The United States of America and the United States of Vene- zuela, through their representatives, William W. Russell, Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America, and General Juan Pietri, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United States of Venezuela, duly authorized by their respective Governments, have agreed upon and signed the following Protocol of Settlement : — WHEREAS, under a certain Protocol between the United States of America and the United States of Venezuela for the decision and adjustment of certain claims, signed at Caracas on the 13th day of February, 1909, it was agreed that the claim of THE ORINOCO CORPORATION and of its predecessors in interest,THE MANOA COMPANY LIMITED, THE ORINOCO COMPANY AND THE ORINOCO COMPANY LIMITED, against the United States of Venezuela should be submitted to the jurisdiction of three arbitra- tors to be chosen from the Permanent Court at The Hague, created at the Second Peace Conference, held at The Hague in 1907, the claimant company fixing the value of said claim at one million seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($1,750,000.00); and WHEREAS, the respective Governments, animated by the spirit of sincere friendship that has always existed and should exist between the two Nations, and actuated by the firmest desire to maintain and continue the good understanding which should exist and increase between them, and to the end of avoiding all possible future differences regarding this matter and of adjusting existing differences concerning said claim by common accord, instead of further proceedings under said Protocol, and in pursuance of the express provision of Article XII of said Protocol, as heretofore 28 TBRMS OP SUBMISSION. 29 extended by the joint agreement of the said Governments, have now reached an amicable arrangement and adjustment of the said claim and have agreed to and do adjust the same in the manner and form hereinafter stated. FIRST. The United States of America, on behalf of THE MANOA COMPANY LIMITED, THE ORINOCO COMPANY, THE ORINOCO COMPANY LIMITED and THE ORINOCO CORPORATION, hereby releases to the United States of Vene- zuela forever all the right, title and interest of THE MANOA COMPANY LIMITED, THE ORINOCO COMPANY, THE ORI- NOCO COMPANY LIMITED and THE ORINOCO CORPORA- TION, in and to the following described property : — The concession granted by the Government of the said the United States of Venezuela unto Cyreniug C. Fitzgerald, under date of September 22, 1883, which concession was afterwards trans- ferred and assigned by said Fitzgerald unto the said THE MANOA COMPANY LIMITED, and by that company to the said THE ORINOCO COMPANY, and by that company to the said THE ORINOCO COMPANY LIMITED, and by that company to the said THE ORINOCO CORPORATION, including all the rights, privileges, benefits and immunities which are, or have ever been, claimed by said Fitzgerald and said several companies, or by any, or either of them, in or to the aforesaid premises or concession, or any part or parcel thereof, or to the deposits or mines of iron, asphalt, gold or other minerals or substances of whatever descrip- tion within the limits of said concession, as well as the administra- tion, saw-mill, and other buildings, and all machinery and other personal property now on said concession belonging to said compa- nies, or either or any of them. And the said the United States of America, on behalf of said com- panies, and of each and every of them, respectively, waives in favor of the said the United States of Venezuela, all and singular, the claims and demands of the said companies, and of each and every of them which they, or either, or any of them, or the said the United States of America, on their behalf, have made or might make against the said the United States of Venezuela, originating out of, or in any way connected with, or appertaining to said concession, or to the rights, privileges, benefits and immunities thereby granted or conceded or growing out of the alleged seizure and destruction of the steamer the "PERLA" by the mihtary forces of the said the United States of Venezuela, and from all and sin- 30 APPENDIX. gular the other claims and demands, if any, which might be made in behalf of said companies, or any, or either of them, which they or any, or either of them, or the said the United States of America, in their behalf, have made or might make against the said the United States of Venezuela, on any account whatever. SECOND. In consideration of the premises, and in compensa- tion for the above-mentioned waiver, the United States of Vene- zuela covenants, promises and agrees to pay to the United States of America therefor the sum of three hundred and eighty-five thousand dollars ($385,000.00), in gold coin of the United States of America, of the present standard of weight and fineness, at the office of the Secretary of State, Washington, D. C, in the United States of America, in eight (8) equal installments at the following times, namely: — 1. The first payment of forty-eight thousand one hundred and twenty-five dollars ($48,125.00) to be made the day following that on which this Protocol is approved by the Federal Executive of the United States of Venezuela. 2. The second payment of the same amount to be made one year from the date hereof, at the same place, and thereafter the third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth payments to be made annu- ally, of the same amounts, one year apart, at the same place. THIRD. By virtue of the present agreement the United States of America, in the name of THE ORINOCO CORPORATION and of its predecessors in interest, THE MANOA COMPANY LIM- ITED, THE ORINOCO COMPANY and THE ORINOCO COM- PANY LIMITED, declare themselves to be fully paid and satisfied for all claims of THE ORINOCO CORPORATION and of its predecessors in interest, THE MANOA COMPANY LIMITED, THE ORINOCO COMPANY and THE ORINOCO COMPANY LIMITED, against Venezuela; and the United States of Venezuela declares itself to be fully paid and satisfied for all claims of the United States of Venezuela against THE ORINOCO CORPORA- TION and its predecessors in interest, THE MANOA COMPANY LIMITED, THE ORINOCO COMPANY and THE ORINOCO COMPANY LIMITED. In Witness WherEOP the undersigned have hereunto set their hands and seals this ninth day of September, one thousand nine hundred and nine. WiLUAM W. RussELiv. J. PlETRI [SEAI.] ^ [seal] terms of submission. 31 Protocolo de Arreglo entre i■ Resolution of ratification of the convention for the settlement of international disputes, signed at The Hague, igoj. [In Executive Session, Senate of the United States.] April 2, igo8. Resolved (Two-thirds of the Senators present concurring therein), That the Senate advise and consent to the ratification of a convention signed by the delegates of the .United States to the Second International Peace conference held at The Hague from June 15 to October 18, 1907, for the pacific settlement of international disputes, subject to the declaration made by the delegates of the United States before signing said convention, namely: "Nothing contained in this convention shall be so construed as to require the United States of America to depart from its traditional policy of not intruding upon, interfering with, or entangling itself in the political questions of policy or internal administration of any foreign state; nor shall anything contained in the said con- vention be construed to imply a relinquishment by the United States of its tradi- tional attitude toward purely American questions." Resolved further, as a part of this act of ratification, that the United States approves this convention with the understanding that recourse to the permanent court for the settlement of differences can be had only by agreement thereto through general or special treaties of arbitration heretofore or hereafter concluded between the parties in dispute; and the United States now exercises the option contained in Article 53 of said convention, to exclude the formulation of the "compromis" by the perma- nent court, and hereby excludes from the competence of the permanent court the power to frame the "compromis" required by general or special treaties of arbitra- tion concluded or hereafter to be concluded by the United States, and further expressly declares that the "compromis" required by any treaty of arbitration to which the United States may be a party shall be settled only by agreement between the con- tracting parties, unless such treaty shall expressly provide otherwise. Attest: Charles G. Bennett, Secretary. DEPARTMENT OF STATE TO THE INTERNATIONAL BUREAU. October 5, 1909. To the International Bureau of the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague: Pursuant to the provisions of Article 46 of the Convention signed at The Hague on October 18, 1907, for the Pacific Settlement of International Disputes, the undersigned, Acting Secretary of State of the United States of America, has the honor on behalf of his Government to give notice of the determination of the United , States and Venezuela to have recourse to the Permanent Court of Arbitration for the settlement of their dispute relative to the claim of the Orinoco Steamship Company, as provided in the protocol of agreement between the two Governments signed at Cardcas on February 13, 1909, three copies of which are hereto appended. It is to be remarked in connection with this document that the period reserved by Article 12 of the protocol of February 13, 1909, for the settlement of the case of the Orinoco Corporation and its predecessors and that of the United States and Venezuela Company was, by mutual consent of the two governments, extended for a period of one month, and subsequently for an additional period of thirty days, and that the dates mentioned in Articles 7 and 10 , of the protocol were likewise extended pari passu by mutual con- sent. Later, through an exchange of notes between the American Minister to Venezuela and the Venezuelan Minister for Foreign Affairs, three copies of which are also enclosed, the dates specified in the protocol of February 13, 1909, were further modified and finally fixed as stated in these notes. Three copies of the pro- tocols of settlement in the cases of the Orinoco Corporation and its predecessors and of the United States and Venezuela Company, which cases were originally included for arbitration in the proto- col of February 13, 1909, are also enclosed. The name of the arbitrator who, in accordance with the provisions of Article 10 as modified by the notes subsequently exchanged between the Amer- ican Minister at Caracas and the Venezuelan Minister for Foreign Affairs, is to be selected by the Government of the United States on or before the 15th of October, 1909, is Senor Don Gonzalo de Quesada, Member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration ap- pointed by the Government of Cuba. Alvey a. AdEE, Acting Secretary of State of the United States of America. Enclosures as stated, three copies of each.** "For enclosures see ante, pp. 3, 20, 23, 36. 86 RECORD OF CLAIM No. 19 THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE ORINOCO STEAMSHIP COMPANY vs. THE UNITED STATES OF VENEZUELA AS PRESENTED TO THE UNITED STATES AND VENEZUELA MIXED COMMISSION OF 1903 Note. — Pages 87 to 728 contain an exact reproduction of the record in this case before the Mixed Commission of 1903, together with corrections, explanatory and supplementary enclosed in brackets. 87 [PROTOCOL OF 1903.] Protocol of an Agreement between the Secretary op State OP THE United States op America and the Plenipotenti- ary OP the Republic op Venezuela por submission to arbitration op all unsettled claims op citizens op the United States op America against the Republic op Vene- zuela. [Signed at Washington February ly, 1903.] The United States of America and the RepubHc of Venezuela, through their representatives, John Hay, Secretary of State of the United States of America, and Herbert W. Bowen, the Pleni- potentiary of the Republic of Venezuela, have agreed upon and signed the following protocol. Article I. All claims owned by citizens of the United States of America against the Republic of Venezuela which have not been settled by diplomatic agreement or by arbitration between the two Govern- ments, and which shall have been presented to the commission hereinafter named by the Department of State of the United States or its Legation at Caracas, shall be examined and decided by a mixed commission, which shall sit at Caracas, and which shall consist of two members, one of whom is to be appointed by the President of the United States and the other by the President of Venezuela. It is agreed that an umpire may be named by the Queen of the Netherlands. If either of said commissioners or the umpire should fail or cease to act, his successor shall be appointed forth- with in the same manner as his predecessor. Said commissioners and umpire are to be appointed before the first day of May, 1903. The commissioners and the umpire shall meet in the city of Caracas on the first day of June, 1903. The umpire shall preside over their deliberations, and shall be competent to decide any question on which the commissioners disagree. Before assuming 89 90 APPENDIX. the functions of their office the commissioners and the umpire shall take solemn oath carefully to examine and impartially decide, according to justice and the provisions of this convention, all claims submitted to them, and such oaths shall be entered on the record of their proceedings. The commissioners, or in case of their disagreement, the umpire, shall decide all claims upon a basis of absolute equity, without regard to objections of a tech- nical nature, or of the provisions of local legislation. The decisions of the commission, and in the event of their disa- greement, those of the umpire, shall be final and conclusive. They shall be in writing. All awards shall be made payable in United States gold, or its equivalent in silver. Article II. The commissioners, or umpire, as the case may be, shall inves- tigate and decide said claims upon such evidence or information only as shall be furnished by or on behalf of the respective Gov- ernments. They shall be bound to receive and consider all written documents or statements which may be presented to them by or on behalf of the respective Governments in support of or in answer to any claim, and to hear oral or written arguments made by the Agent of each Government on every claim. In case of their failure to agree in opinion upon any individual claim, the umpire shall decide. Every claim shall be formally presented to the commissioners within thirty days from the day of their first meeting, unless the commissioners or the umpire in any case extend the period for presenting the claim not exceeding three months longer. The commissioners shall be bound to examine and decide upon every claim within six months from the day of its first formal presenta- tion, and in case of their disagreement, the umpire shall examine and decide within a corresponding period from the date of such disagreement. Article III. The commissioners and the umpire shall keep an accurate record of their proceedings. For that purpose, each commissioner shall appoint a secretary versed in the language of both countries, to assist them in the transaction of the business of the commission. Except as herein stipulated, all questions of procedure shall be left to the determination of the commission, or in case of their disagreement, to the umpire. RKCORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 9 1 Article IV. Reasonable compensation to the commissioners and to the umpire for their services and expenses, and the other expenses of said arbitration, are to be paid in equal moieties by the contracting parties. Article V. In order to pay the total amount of the claims to be adjudicated as aforesaid, and other claims of citizens or subjects of other nations, the Government of Venezuela shall set apart for this pur- pose, and alienate to no other purpose, beginning. with the month of March, 1903, thirty per cent, in monthly payments of the cus- toms revenues of La Guaira and Puerto Cabello, and the payments thus set aside shall be divided and distributed in conformity with the decision of the Hague Tribunal. In case of the failure to carry out the above agreement, Belgian officials shall be placed in charge of the customs of the two ports, and shall administer them until the liabilities of the Venezuelan Government in respect to the above claims shall have been dis- charged. The reference of the question above stated to the Hague Tribunal will be the subject of a separate protocol. Article VI. All existing and unsatisfied awards in favor of citizens of the United States shall be promptly paid, according to the terms of the respective awards. Washington, D. C. February 17, 1903. John Hay [seal] Herbert W. Bowen, [seal] Protocolo de UN CoNvENio entre el Secretario de Estado DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA Y EL PlENIPOTENCIARIO DE LA REPUBLICA DE VENEZUELA PARA LA SUMISION A ARBI- TRAJE DE TODOS LAS RECLAMACIONES PENDIENTES DE CIUDA- DANOS DE LOS EsTADOS UnIDOS DE Am]6rICA CONTRA LA RE- ptjBLicA DE Venezuela. [Firmado en Washington, el 17 de febrero, 190J.] Los Estados Unidos de America y la Repfiblica de Venezuela, por medio de sus representantes, John Hay, Secretario de Estado de los Estados Unidos de America, y Herbert W. Bowen, Pleni- potenciario de la Repiiblica de Venezuela, han convenido en el siguiente prot6colo, que han firmado. 92 APPENDIX. Articulo I. Todas las reclamaciones po'seidas por ciudadanos de los Estados Unidos de America contra la Repliblica de Venezuela, que no hayan sido arregladas por la via diplomdtica 6 por arbitraje entre los dos Gobiernos, y que hubieren sido presentadas por el Departa- mento de Estado de los Estados Unidos 6 por su Legacidn en Caracas d la Comisi6n abajo mencionada, serdn examinadas y decididas por una Comisidn Mixta, que celebrard, sus sesiones en Caracas, y que se compondrd de dos miembros, uno de los cuales serd, nombrado por el Presidente de los Estados Unidos, y el otro por el Presidente de Venezuela. Se conviene en que un tercero en discordia podrd. ser nombrado por la Reina de los Paises Bajos. Si uno de dichos comisionados 6 el tercero en discordia dejare de ejercer sus funciones, serd nombrado en el acto su sucesor del mismo modo que el antecesor de este. Dichos comisionados y tercero en discordia deben ser nombrados antes del dia primero de mayo de 1903. Los comisionados y el tercero en discordia se reunirdn en la ciudad de Caracas el dia primero de junio de 1903. El tercero en discordia presidird sus deliberaciones, y tendrd facultad para dirimir cualquier cuestidn sobre la que no puedan avenirse los comisionados. Antes de empezar i. ejercer las funciones de su cargo, los comisionados y el tercero en discordia prestardn solemne juramento de examinar con cuidado, y de decidir imparcialmente, con arreglo d la justicia y d las estipulaciones de esta convenci6n, todas las reclamaciones que se les sometieren, y tales juramentos se asentardn en su libro de actas. Los comisionados, 6 en caso de que estos no puedan avenirse, el tercero en discordia decidird todas las reclamaciones con arreglo absoluto d la equidad, sin reparar en objeciones t^cnicas, ni en las disposiciones de la legis- lacidn local. Las decisiones de la comisidn, y en caso de su desavenencia, las del tercero en discordia, serdn definitivas y concluyentes. Se estenderdn por escrito. Todas las cantidades falladas serdn paga- deras en moneda de oro de'los Estados Unidos 6 en su equivalente en plata. ARTICUI.0 II. Los comisionados 6 el tercero en discordia, seglin el caso, investi- gardn y decidirdn tales reclamaciones con arreglo finicamente d las pruebas 6 informes suministrados por los respectivos Gobier- nos, 6 en nombre de ^stos. Tendrdn obligacion de recibir y consi- RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 19. 93 derar todos los documentos 6 exposiciones escritas que les fueren presentadas por los respectivos Gobiemos, 6 en su nombre, en apoyo 6 en refutacidn de cualquiera reclamacidn, y de oir los argumentos orales 6 escritos que hiciere el agente de cada Go- bierno sobre cada reclamacidn. En caso de que dejen de avenirse sus opiniones sobre cualquiera reclamaci6n, de decidird. el tercero en discordia. Cada reclaniaci6n se presentard formalmente a los comisionados. dentro de treinta dias contados desde la fecha de su primera re- uni6n, d menos que los comisionados 6 el tercero en discordia prorroguen, en algfin caso, por un tdrmino que no exceda de tres meses, el periodo concedido para presentar la reclamacion. Los comisionados tendrdn obligacidn de examinar y decidir todas las reclamaciones dentro de seis meses contados desde el dia en que hubieren sido formalmente presentadas por primera vez, y en caso de su desavenencia, examinard y decidira el tercero en dis- cordia dentro de un periodo correspondiente contado desde la fecha de tal desavenencia. ARTICtJLO III. Los comisionados y el tercero en discordia Uevaran un registro exacto de todas sus deliberaciones y acuerdos. Para ese objeto, cada comisionado nombrard un secretario versado en el idioma de cada pais para que le ayude en el despacho de los negocios que pendieren ante la comisi6n. Salvo las estipulaciones del presente protdcolo, toda cuestion de procedimiento se remitird d la reso- lucion de la comisidn, 6 en caso de su desavenencia, a la del tercero, en discordia. Articui.0 IV. Una retribucion equitativa serd pagada por las partes contra- tantes, en partes iguales, d los comisionados y al tercero en discordia por sus servicios y gastos, y tambien se satisfaran de la misma manera, los demds gastos del arbitraje. Articulo V. Con el fin de pagar el importe total de las reclamaciones que se hayan de decidir de la manera que queda dicha, y otras recla- maciones de ciudadanos 6 stibditos de otros Estados, el Gobiemo de Venezuela reservard, y no enajenard para ningiin otro objeto (empezando desde el mes de marzo de 1903) un treinta por ciento,, en pagos mensuales, de las rentas aduanales de la Guaira y Puerto 94 APPENDIX. Cabello, y el dinero asi reservado serd, distribuido con arreglo al fallo del Tribunal de la Haya. En caso de que no se cumpla el susodicho convenio, empleados belgas quedaran encargados del cobro de los derechos de aduana de ambos puertos, y los administraran hasta que se hayan cumplido las obligaciones del Gobierno de Venezuela respecto de las referidas reclamaciones. La remisi6n al Tribunal de la Haya de la cuestidn arriba expuestaserdobjeto de un protdcolo separado. Articulo VI. Todas las sumas falladas d favor de ciudadanos de los Estados Unidos, que no se hayan satisfecho, serdn pagadas con puntualidad, conforme A las disposiciones de los respectivos f alios. Washington, D. C. February 17, 1903. John Hay [sELto.J Herbert W. Bowen. [seho.] Number RULES OF THE COMMISSION." I. The Secretaries shall keep a docket and enter thereon a list of all claims as soon as they shall be formally filed with the Com- mission. They shall indorse the date of filing upon each paper presented to the Commission and enter a minute thereof in the docket. The claims shall be numbered consecutively beginning with the claim first presented as Number i. The caption of each case shall be: "The United States op America, on behalf ^ of , claimant, Vs. The Republic of Venezuela. The Secretaries shall keep duplicate records of the proceedings had before the Commission and of the docket of claims filed with the Commission, both in English & Spanish, so that one copy of each shall be supplied to each Government. II. All claims must be formally presented to the Commission within thirty days from the first day of June, 1903, unless the Commissioners or the Umpire grant a further extension in accord- ance with the provisions of Paragraph 2 of Article II of the Pro- tocol. III. A claim shall be deemed to be formally filed with the Commis- sion upon the presentation of the written documents or state- ments in connection therewith to the Secretaries of the Commis- sion by the Agent of the United States. IV. The Government of the United States by its Agent shall have the right to file with each claim at the time of presentation a Brief in support thereof. ["Adopted at the third session of the Mixed Commission of 1903, June 9, 1903. See infra, pp. 112-113. — Agent's note.] 95 96 APPENDIX. It shall not be necessary for the Republic of Venezuela in any case to deny the allegations of the claim or the validity thereof; but a general denial shall be entered of record by the Secretaries, as of course, and thereby all the material allegations of the petition shall be considered as put in issue. The Republic of Venezuela, however, by its Agent shall have the right to make specific answer to each claim within fifteen days after the date of filing thereof, and, if it elects to answer, it shall, at or before the time of making said answer by its Agent present to the Commission all evidence which it intends to produce in opposition to the claim. The Government of the United States by its Agent shall have the right to present evidence in rebuttal within the period in this rule provided for the filing of a replication. The filing of a Brief on behalf of the claimant Government and the filing of a Brief on behalf of the respondent Government, or the failure to specifically answer any claim within the time allowed, as above provided, shall be deemed to close the proceedings before the Commission in regard to the claim in question, unless the Agent of the United States within two days from the filing of a Brief by the respondent Government shall formally request of the Commission in writing a further period of five days in which to file a replication ; in which event the Republic of Venezuela shall, upon the like request of its Agent, have a like period within which to put in a rejoinder, which replication and rejoinder shall finally close the proceedings. V. The petition or answer may be amended at any time before the final submission of any claim as provided in the preceding rules upon leave granted by the Commission. ■VI. No documents or statements or written or oral argument will be received except such as shall be furnished by or through the Agents of the respective Governments. VII. The Secretaries shall each keep a record of the proceedings of the Commission for each day of its session in both English and Spanish in books provided for the purpose, which shall be read at its next meeting and if no objection be made, or when corrected, if correction be needed, shall be approved and subscribed by the RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 97 Umpire and Commissioners and countersubscribed by the Sec- retaries. They shall keep a Notice Book in which entries may be made by the Agent for either Government, and when made shall be notice to the opposing Agent and all concerned. They shall provide duplicate books of printed forms under the direction of the Commission in which shall be recorded its several awards or decisions signed by the Commissioners or, in case of their disagreement, by the Umpire, and verified by the Secretaries. They shall be the custodians of the papers, documents and books of the Commission under its direction, and shall keep the satoe safe and in methodical order. While affording every reasonable oppor- tunity and facility to the Agents of the respective Governments to inspect and make extracts from papers and records, they shall permit none to be withdrawn from the files of the Commission, except by its direction duly entered of record. VIII. When an original paper on file in the archives of either Govern- ment can not be conveniently withdrawn, a duly certified copy may be received in evidence in lieu thereof. Reglamento. I. Uos Secretarios Uevaran un registro y asentaran en el una lista de todas las reclamaciones luego que hayan sido formalmente pre- sentadas d la Comisidn. En cada papel presentado 6, la Comisidn anotaran la fecha de su presentacion y asentaran una minuta de el en el registro. Uas reclamaciones se numerardn consecutiva- mente, empezando por la primera que se presente, que ser^ la Nlimero i. El encabezamiento de cada reclamacion serd. UOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA EN FaVOR " DE , RECIvAMANTE, vs. Ua Republica de Venezuela. - Numero — . Los secretarios Uevardn registros duplicados de las actuaciones de la Comision, y de la lista de las reclamaciones presentadas ^ la Comision, en Ingles y Castellano, de modo que d cada Gobierno se le de un ejemplar. 17301— 10 7 98 APPENDIX. II. Todas las reclamaciones deberdn presentarse formalmente i la Comisidn, dentro de treinta dias contados desde el primero de Junio de 1903, d, no ser que los Comisarios 6 el tercer en discordia, concedan una prdroga, con arreglo d lo estipulado en el Pardgrafo 2, Articulo [Ardculo] II del Protocolo. III. Se juzgard formalmente presentada d la Comision una reclama- cion, desde el momento de la presentacidn de los documentos 6 exposiciones por escrito conexionados con ella d los Secretaries de la Comision por el Agente de los Estados Unidos. IV. ' El Gobierno de los Estados Unidos tendrd el derecho de presen- tar por medio de su Agente, con cada reclamacidn, al tiempo de la presentacion, un informe en apoyo de ella. En ningun caso serd necessario [necesdrio] que la Repfiblica de Venezuela, contradiga las alegaciones de la reclamacion [reclama- ci6n], 6 la validez de ellas, sino que los Secretarios registraran de oficio, comoes debido, una contradicci6n en terminos generales, y con esto se considerardn contradichas todas las alegaciones materiales de la petici6n. No obstante, La Reptiblica de Venezuela tendrd el derecho de contestar especificadamente, por medio de su Agente, d, cada reclamaci6n dentro de quince dias despues de la fecha de su presen- tacidn; y, si ella opta por contestar, presentard d la Comisidn, antes 6 al tiempo de dar dicha contestacion, por medio de su Agente,. todas las pruebas que se proponga producir en oposicidn d la reclamacidn. El Gobierno de los Estados Unidos, tendrd el derecho de presentar, por medio de su Agente, pruebas en refu- tacidn, dentro del periodo prevista en esta regla para la presen- tacidn de una replica. La presentacidn de un informe sumario en favor del Gobierno reclamante, y la presentacidn de un informe sumario, en favor del Gobierno demandado, 6 la falta de contestacidn especifica d cual- quier reclamacidn dentro del termino concedido, segtin queda previsto, se reputard como clausura del procedimiento ante la Comisidn, con respecto d la reclamacidn que se trate, d menos que el Agente de los Estados Unidos, dentro dos dias contados desde la presentacidn de un informe sumario por el Gobierno RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 99 demandado, pida formalmente d la Comisidn, por escrito, un nuevo termino de cinco dias, para presentar una replica dentro de ^1, caso en el cual la Reptiblica de Venezuela, tendrd un termino igual, d igual solicitud de su Agente, para presentar una contra rdplica; replica y contra replica que terminardn definitivamente el pro- cedimiento. V. Toda petici6n 6 contestacidn podrd ser modificada en cualquier tiempo antes de ser definitivamente sometido cualquier reclamo, seglin queda dispuesto en los articulos [articulos] anteriores, y previo permiso concedido por la Comisidn. VI. No se recibiran documentos 6 exposiciones 6 argumentos escri- tos ti orales, sino los que se presenten por los Agentes de los respectivos Gobiernos 6 por medio de ellos. VII. Cada Secretario Uevard un registro de las actuaciones de la Comisidn con la minuta de cada Sesidn, en inglfe y en castellano, en libros apropiados para ese fin, los cuales serdn leidos en la prdxima Reunidn, y, si no se hiciera observacidn alguna, d una vez corregidos, cuando fuere necesario, serdn aprobados y firma- dos por el Tercero en discordia y los Comisarios, y refrendados por los Secretarios. I,levardn un libro de notificaciones en el cual podrd hacer asientos el Agente de uno ti otro Gobierno, asientos que, al ser hechos, se considerardn como notificaciones al Agente opositor y demas interesados. Llevardn dos libros de esqueletos impresos, bajo la direccidn de la Comisidn, en los cuales se asentardn los diversos fallos d deci- siones de la Comisidn, firmados por los Gomisarios, d en caso de su desacuerdo, por el Tercero en discordia, y refrendados por los Secretarios. Custodiardn los papeles, documentos y libros de la Comision [Comisidn], bajo la direccidn de ista, y los guardaran en lugar seguro y con orden metddico. Brindardn d los Agentes de los respectivos Gobiernos, todas las oportunidades y facilidades racionales, para examinar los papeles yregistros y hacer extractos de ellos; pero no permitiran que se extraiga nada de los archivos de la Comisidn, sin orden de ^sta debidamente registrada. lOO APPENDIX. VIII. Cuando un documento existente en los archivos de uno li otro Gobierno no pueda obtenerse original convenientemente, podrd aceptarse como prueba en lugar de 61 una copia debidamente certificada. [ADDRESS OF ROBERT C. MORRIS, AGENT OF THE UNITED STATES, BEFORE THE UNITED STATES AND VENEZUELAN MIXED COMMISSION AT THE SESSION OF JUNE 4, 1903." [To the Mixed Commission organized under the protocol of February 17, 1903, between the United States of America and the Republic of Venezuela. [Your Honors: We are met here to-day for the arbitration of certain claims of citizens of the United States against the Republic of Venezuela. The proceeding, therefore, is one of great dignity and importance. It is a transaction eminently American. The South American Republics and the United States have many grounds of mutual affection and esteem, but none more significant than their adhesion to, the principle of arbitration. It is a way that we have always taken to settle any differences which may have temporarily arisen to ruffle our uniformly harmonious and neigh- borly relations. The Republic of Venezuela, especially, has always been a champion of this essentially American way of doing things. And this proceeding is arbitration of a particularly friendly and informal kind. This Commission will not have to decide any new or "grand principle of international law. It will simply endeavor to administer justice. As I see it, this is a meeting of high-minded gentlemen — an international court of honor, if you will — who are more interested in facts than in argument, and who will be guided more by sober convcition than by legal abstractions. The proto- col itself contemplates this. It prescribes, in so many words, that all claims shall be decided "upon a basis of absolute equity, without regard to objections of a technical nature, or of the pro- visions of local legislation." There will, therefore, be no vain quibblings. There will simply be an endeavor to ascertain whether the claims which I shall present have an adequate basis in fact and in justice. I think your honorable body is to be congratulated that its work is thus made simple and informal. I think that the two Governments are to be congratulated in that they are able to come together upon the basis of this most excellent protocol. a [Reprinted from the report of Robert C. Morris, agent of the United States, Wash- ington, Government Printing Office, 1904, pp. 41-42. — Agent's note.] "'■'IIPI'1 102 APPENDIX. [The present Commission is the result of much negotiation which terminated in the protocol signed in Washington the 17th day of February last. Many of the claims which I shall present are of long standing. Indeed, some of the claimants or their representa- tives have been compelled to wait a lifetime for justice. This is not said in any spirit of criticism, or to lay blame for it upon either country. The claimants are rather, as I see it, the victims of un- fortunate circumstances, for which each Government must bear its just share of responsibility. [Prior to 1866 many claims were presented by citizens of the United States to the Government at Washington for prosecution against Venezuela. The United States satisfied itself of the jus- tice of some forty-nine of these claims, aggregating nearly five milHons of dollars. The two countries entered into negotiations which terminated in a convention, signed in 1866, creating a mixed claims commission. This commission was organized similarly to the present Commission. One Commissioner was appointed by the United States, another Commissioner by the Republic of Ven- . ezuela, and the third by the Russian minister at Washington. This commission met here in Caracas in August, 1867, and sat until August, 1868. It made awards aggregating $1,253,310.30. [Following these awards came one of the most unfortunate expe- riences in diplomatic history. The Venezuelan Government, sup- ported by many citizens of the United States, impeached the awards on the ground of fraud. It was asserted that the commis- sion was corrupt; that there had existed a conspiracy to defraud the Venezuelan Government and its creditors, and that therefore, the findings of the commission should be set aside. This formed the basis of a disagreement which lasted for nearly a quarter of a century. It was the subject of frequent debate in the Congress of the United States; it figured in Presidential messages, in public discussions, and in protracted diplomatic correspondence between the two Governments. [After much delicate negotiation, a convention was finally en- tered into between the Venezuelan representative at Washington and the Secretary of State of the United States creating a new claims commission. The ratifications were finally exchanged on the 3d day of June, 1889, and the commission sat at Washington from the following September until September, 1890. It was more fortunate than its predecessor, in that its awards were cheerfully adopted by both countries.] RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. IO3 The commission of 1890, however, was simply a rehearing com- mission. The convention provided that the commissioners should hear and determine all claims which, by the terms of the conven- tion of 1866, were proper to be presented to the mixed commission organized under that convention. This limitation explains to some extent why many of the claims which I shall present antedate the commission of 1890. Moreover, there are some claims to be presented to this commission which arose prior to the commission of 1867-68, but were not presented to it. There is, however, no limitation upon the present Commission. Under the terms of the protocol we are permitted to present all claims owned by citizens of the United States. We shall take full advantage of this, but we shall present no claim of the justice of which we are not thor- oughly convinced. In conclusion, let me say, we feel confident that the result of this proceeding will tend to knit still more closely the bonds of esteem and respect uniting our two countries, and will add still further to the dignity of that great principle of arbitration for which both of our Governments stand. [ADDRESS OF SENOR DR. F. ARROYO PAREJO, THE AGENT OF THE REPUB- LIC OF VENEZUELA, BEFORE THE UNITED STATES AND VENEZUELAN MIXED COMMISSION AT THE SESSION OF JUNE 9, 1903." [Translation.] [Your Honors : I deem it a happy occasion which permits me to reply to the views and sentiments expressed so eloquently by the honorable agent of the United States of North America in the address which he delivered at the last session. [Equally with him, I believe, with all sincerity, that the estab- lishment of this tribunal constitutes, above all, the solemn recogni- tion of a principle in which are linked the dignity, the honor, and the important interests of the several political entities called nations; a principle Venezuela has advocated with continued effort from the moment in which she entered into independent existence and which, dating from the year 1864, is found among her fundamental canons. [The theory of arbitration as a method of settling the differences arising between nations represents without doubt one of the most important advancements of the present age, which with justice prides itself on having uplifted humanity. And it is undeniable, your honors, and I am pleased to freely admit it, that in the labor for its definite recognition — which is in the highest degree a labor of civilization and a fruitful advocacy for better- ment — the noble American nation has always been a most fervent and decided champion. . [The clear demonstration of the resulting benefits which this doctrine should bring to nations, Venezuela hopes for from you. A thousand complex causes, which it would be inconsiderate to enumerate here, might have led her to a state, which, though painful to patriotism, will never affect the dignity of the nation, inasmuch as, if obligations exist which until now she has involuntarily been unable to satisfy, she hereupon accepts and will always accept the consequent responsibilities, whatever they may be. This present Commission, in which we are taking part, is a plain confirmation " [Reprinted from Morris' Report, pp. 42-44. The Spanish text was not received in time for insertion here. — Agent's note.] 105 I06 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. of this assertion. She confides as firmly in the efficacy of the principle enunciated as in your unquestionable probity. [In the present instance the discharge of the trust confided to you is of easier fulfillment than is often the case. Since these com- missions were instituted for an object eminently conciliatory, their respective framers have not desired to impose upon you the vexa- tious and complicated procedure of ordinary judgments, nor to subject your awards to the inflexible rules of determined statutory legislation. A' broad conception of equity ought alone to inspire your decisions. They are, therefore, as the honorable American agent has stated with so much truth, veritable international courts of honor which shall proceed with full liberty as well in the ascer- tainment of facts as in the application of law. [I also share in the opinion which he has already expressed, that the respective Governments will have more than one cause of satisfaction for having arrived at such an agreement. [I would have nothing to take exception to in the brilliant oral exposition to which I have just referred, if it were not that, at its close, there is a contention to which, in the fulfillment of the special instructions which I have received from my Government, I must now make formal protest. After a succinct and exact review of the mixed commissions which have met heretofore for the set- tlement of claims pending between the two countries, the Hon. Mr. Morris announces that he will present claims of American citizens, founded on facts antedating the commission of 1867-68, but which were not submitted to that commission. [The honorable arbitrators will observe that even if the protocol last signed in Washington permits the presentation of and author- izes this commission to take cognizance of and decide every claim owned by American citizens, such stipulation must be limited not only in rigor of law, but also equitably and logically, to those (claims) which are subsequent to the year 1868, since the high contracting parties were not unaware that Article V of the conven- tion of 1866 fixes a fatal delay for the presentation of claims prior to that year. [The article aforesaid states literally : "The decisions of this commission and those of the umpire shall be final and conclusive as to all pending claims at the date of their installation. Claims which shall not be presented within the twelve months herein prescribed will be disregarded by both Governments and considered invalid." APPENDIX. 107 [It would be of no avail to allege that the awards of the commis- sion of 1867-68 were impeached on account of fraud — an accusa- tion which was proved and recognized as true by both parties — ^be- cause only the decisions rendered by that commission were de- clared null, and in no manner the provisions of the convention of 1866. These provisions were revived specifically by Article I of the treaty of 1889, which created the revisory commission of 1890. [If, then, the claims not presented within the period fixed by the convention of 1 866 have been barred by the appHcation of the law cited, with what right could they now be revived and submitted to the examination of this Commission? [I deem the point discussed of such great importance that I ven- ture to respectfully pray the tribunal to settle it as a preliminary question, and I close wishing your honored members the greatest success in your deliberations. [F. Arroyo Parejc] EXTRACTS FROM THE MINUTE BOOK, NOTICE BOOK, AND REGISTER OF THE MIXED COMMISSION OF 1903, DEALING WITH THE CASE OF THE ORINOCO STEAMSHIP COMPANY. Extracts From the Minute Book. Minutes of First Session, June ist., 190 j. The Umpire appointed by H. M. the Queen of Holland, the Hon. Dr. Charles Augustinus Henri Barge; — The Commissioner of the United States of America, the Hon. William E. Bainbridge; — The Commissioner of the Republic of Venezuela, the Hon. Dr. Jose de Jesus Palil; — the said Umpire and Commissioners appointed under the Conven- tion between the United States of America and the Republic of Venezuela, to settle the claims of citizens of the United States against the Republic of Venezuela, signed at Washington, Feb- ruary 17th 1903; — the Agent on the part of the United States of America, the Hon. Robert C. Morris, the Secretary of the Com- mission on the part of the United States, Rudolf Dolge; and the Secretary of the Commission on the part of Venezuela, J. Padr6n Uztariz; met pursuant to arrangements, at the Government Building called the Yellow House, in the city of Caracas, Vene- zuela, June ist 1903, at 3 o'clock P. M., and having exhibited to each other their credentials in their behalf, the three Commissioners did as their first act, take and subscribe respectively, a solemn oath as provided in said convention. The oaths so made were taken in the presence of the Hon. Dr. J. F. Castillo, Judge of the Court of the Department Libertador in the Federal District, as per official document recorded in the archives of the said Court and of this Commission, in the words and figures following to-wit: "We, the undersigned Umpire and Commissioners appointed on the Commission provided for in the protocol of an agreement signed at Washington, February 17, 1903, between the United 109 no APPENDIX. States of America and the Republic of Venezuela, do severally and • solemnly swear that we will carefully examine and impartially decide according to justice and the provisions of said Convention, all claims submitted to us in conformity with the terms of said Convention. Dated at Caracas, this first day of June, 1903. Signed: Harry Barge, Umpire. iCommissioner on the part WiivWAM E. Bainbridge,] of the United States of [ America. iCommissioner on the part \ of Venezuela. J. DE J. Paul. "Subscribed and sworn to before me this first day of June 1903. "Signed: J. Francisco Castillo. Josd Antonio Calcafio." The oaths having been taken, and the Commission thus duly constituted, on motion of the Hon. President, the English lan- guage was adopted as the language to be principally employed for the transaction of the business coming before the Commission, without excluding the use of either Spanish or French in all such cases as might suit the convenience of the Commission. The Hon. Commissioner for Venezuela announced that the Attorney General of Venezuela, or any other party appointed by the Venezuelan Government would act as Agent for Venezuela, representing the Government of Venezuela in such cases where in the Hon. Commissioner's judgment, or in the judgment of the Government of Venezuela, such representation might be considered necessary. On motion of the Hon. Commissioner for Venezuela, the Com- mission decided to hold two meetings per week, on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9 A. M. respectively, with liberty to hold such extraor- dinary sessions as might be deemed necessary and convenient. On motion of the Hon. Commissioner for the United States, the Agent and Secretaries were instructed to submit a set of rules for the consideration of the Commission at its next meeting. The meeting then adjourned until Friday Jime 5th. J. DE J. PatJIv. Harry Barge. J. Padron Uztariz. W. E. Bainbridge. Sec'y. RUDOI.P DoirGE Secretary on the part of the U. S. RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 19. Ill !'■■ Sesion del 1° de Junto de ipoj. El Honorable Dr. Charles Augustinus Henri Barge, Tercero en Discordia, nombrado per S. M. la Reina de Holanda; El Honorable William E. Bainbridge, Comisionado de los Esta- dos Unidos de America ; El Honorable Dr. Jos^ de Jesus Paul, Comisionado de la Repub- lica de Venezuela; nombrados segun lo dispuesto por la convencion suscrita entre los Estados Unidos de America y Venezuela, el 1 7 de Febrero de 1903, en Washington, para arreglar las reclamaciones de los ciu- dadanos de los Estados Unidos contra Venezuela ; y el Agente por parte de los Estados Unidos de America, el Honorable Robert C. Morris ; el Secretario de la Comision [Comisidn] por parte de los Esta- dos Unidos, Senor Rudolf Dolge, y el Secretario de la Comisi6n por parte de la Republica de Venezuela, Sefior T. Padron Uztariz; se reunieron, conforme d arreglo previo, en el edificio del Gobierno, Uamado la Casa Amarilla, en la ciudad de Caracas, hoy i" de Junio de 1903, d, las 3 de la tarde, y despues de haber cada uno produ- cido sus credenciales, los tres Comisionados, como primer paso, tomaron y suscribieron el juramento solemne, segun lo pautado por la Convenci6n. Este juramento fu^ tornado por el Honorable Dr. T. F. Castillo, Juez del Departamento Libertador, Distrito Federal, segun consta de documento oficial, que reposa en los archivos de dicho Juzgado y en los de esta Comisidn, y estd con- cebido en las palabras y en las formas siguiente: "Nosotros, los "abajo firmados, Tercero en Discordia, y Comisionados, segun lo "pautado por el protocolo suscrito en Washington en 1 7 de Febrero "de 1903, entre los Estados Unidos de America, y la Republica de "Venezuela, para someter d arbitramento todas las reclamaciones "pendientes de los ciudadanos de los Estados Unidos de America "contra la Republica de Venezuela, juramos cada uno, solemne- "mente, que examinaremos cuidadosamente y decideremos impar- "cialmente, de acuerdo con la justicia y las prescripciones de la "mencionada convenci6n, todos los reclamos que nos scan some- " tidos, conforme d los terminos de dicha convencidn. ' ' Fechado en " Caracas, el primero de Junio 1903, firmados : Harry Barge, Tercero " en Discordia; William E. Bainbridge, Comisionado de los Estados " Unidos de America; " J. de J. Paiil, Comisionado de la Republica " de Venezuela. Jurado y suscrito ante mi, hoy primero de Junio " de 1903. Firmados: T. Francisco Castillo, Jos6 Antonio Calcano." 112 APPENDIX. Terminado el juramento, debidamente constituida la Comisidn y d propuesta del Tercer Arbitro, Dr. Barge se adopt6 el inglds como el idiom'a que usard principalmente la Comision en sus actua- ciones, sin quedar por ello excluido el uso del espanol y el francos, en tbdos aquellos casos en que fuere de la conveniencia de la Comisi6n. El Honorable Comisionado por Venezuela, manifest6. que el Procurador General de la Nacidn, li otra persona que nombrare el Gobierno de Venezuela, ejerceria las funciones de Agente por Venezuela en todas aquellos casos en que a juicio del Gobierno 6 del Comisionado por Venezuela fuere necesaria la representacidn de la Nacion. A propuesta del Honorable Comisionado por Venezuela, decidid la Comisidn, reunirse dos veces por semana, los Martes y los Jueves, a las 9 de la manana, sin perjuicio de reunirse tambidn extraordinariamente, cuando se juzgare necesario y conveniente. A propuesta del Honorable Comisionado por los Estados Unidos de America, se dieron instrucciones al Agente y a los Secretaries, para que sometieron un reglamento d. la consideracion de la Comision, en su prdxima reunion. Se levanto la sesi6n y se fij6 la pr6xima reunion para el Viernes, 5 de los corrientes. J. DE J. Paui^. Harry Barge. J. Padron Uztariz. W. E. Bainbridge. Secty. Rudolf Dolge. Secretary on the part of the U. S. Minutes of Third Session, June g, 1903. The Commission met for its third Session at the Federal Palace on Tuesday, June 9th at 9 A. M. There were present: the Hon. Dr. Harry Barge, Umpire; the Hon. W. E- Bainbridge, Commissioner on the part of the United States; the Hon. Dr. J. de J. Paul, Commissioner on the part of Venezuela; the Agent for the United States; the Agent for the Republic of Venezuela, and the two secretaries. The Minutes of the preceding Session were then read and unan- imously approved. The Hon. Dr. F. Arroyo Parejo, Agent for Venezuela, responding to the remarks made at the previous session by the Agent for the United States, asked the Commission to define its jurisdiction as to cases to be brought before it for claims antedating the Com- mission of 1868. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. I13 The Hon. Commissioner for Venezuela then observed, that in his judgment it would be more advisable for the Commission not to bind itself by any general interpretation of the Protocol on this point, and On Motion of the Hon. Commissioner for the United States, the Commission decided to determine the question of jurisdiction as it might arise in its relation to individual cases. The Commission then agreed upon the following : Rules." The Agent for the United States then filed with the Secre- taries and presented to the Commission the following claims for ■ its decision : Claim No. I. Claim of Ford Dix for pesos $21,295.50 & Interest. $16,381.15 (from Jan. i, 1900.) $1,474.30 Claim No. II. Claim of Catalina V. Paez and Jose A. Paez, for $2 ,400 Interest $392. 1 5 Claim No. 3. Claim of Corinne B. de Garmendia for $79,167 Interest $32,127.63 Claim No. 4. Claim of the Coro and La Vela Railway Improve- ment Company of Venezuela for $54,000 Interest $8,596.80 Claim No. 5. Claim of the Ames Foundries: for: $1100 Inter- est. $74.01 The Commission agreed that its proceedings shall not be made public until at the conclusion of its labors the Agents shall have submitted their reports to their respective governments. ja Sesion del 9 de Junio de 190J. La Comision se reunid en su Tercera Sesion, en el Palacio Federal, el Martes 9 de Juriio de 1903, d las 9 A. M. Asistieron el Hon. Dr. Harry Barge, Tercero en discordia; el Hon. Dr. J. de J. Pafil, Comisionado por Venezuela; el Hon. W. E. Bainbridge, Comisionado por los Estados Unidos; el Agente por Venezuela; el Agente por los Estados Unidos y los dos Secre- tarios. Seguidamente se leyd el acta de la precedente reunion, que fue aprobada unanimamente. El Hon. Dr. F. Arroyo Parejo, Agente por Venezuela, al con- testar las palabras pronunciadas por el Agente por los Estados » [For rules adopted at this meeting, see ante, pp. 92-97. — Agent's note.] 1 7301 — 10 8 114 APPENDIX. Unidos en la anterior Reunion, pidid d la Comision, que definiese su jurisdiccion con referencid d los casos que se le presentaren, relatives a reclamaciones de fecha anterior d la Comision de 1868. El Hon. Comisionado de Venezuela observo, que, i. su juicio, seria mas conveniente, que la accidn de la Comisidn no fuese entrabada por una interpretacion general del Protocol sobre este punto; y A Propuesta del Hon. Comisionado de los Estados Unidos, se acordd que: La Comision decidird el punto de su jurisdiccion en Gada caso individualmente. La Comisidn aprobd, luego, el siguiente: Reglamento." ******* Seguidamente el Agente de los Estados Unidos, registrd por Secretaria y presentd a la Comision, para su decision, las reclama- ciones siguientes : Reclamacion No. i. Reclamacion de Ford Dix por pesos $21,295.50 y Intereses. Reclamacion No. 2. Reclamacion de Catalina V. Paez y Jose A. Paez. por $2,400 Intereses $392.15 Reclamacion No. 3. Reclamacion de Corinne B. de Garmendia por $79,167. Intereses $32,127.63. Reclamacion No. 4. Reclamacion de The Coro And La Vela Railway Improvement Company of Venezuela por $54,000 Intereses $8,596.80 Reclamacion No. 5. Reclamacion de The Ames Foundries por $1100 Intereses $74.01 La Comision convino, luego que sus actuaciones no serian pub- licas hasta que, terminados sus labores, sometan los Agentes sus informes a los respectivos Gobiernos. Minutes of §th Session, June i6th, 1903. The Agent for the United States then filed with the Secretaries and presented to the Commission for its decision the following claims : ****** * Claim No. 19. Claim of the Orinoco Steamship Company for $1,401,539.05 with Interest, not stated. "[For rules adopted at this meeting, see ante, pp. 92-97. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. II5 5 " Sesion del i6 de Junio de 190J. Luego, el Agente por los Estados Unidos registro por Secre- taria y presento d la Comision para su decision, las siguientes reclamaciones : Reclamacion No. 19. Reclamacion de The Orinoco Steamship Company por $1,401,539.05 con Interes. Minutes of gth Session, July ist, igoj. The Agent for Venezuela addressed the Commission with a request for time extensions on the following claims: Claim No. 19 Orinoco Shipping Co. 10 days, which was granted. 9 " Sesidn del 1° de Julio, de 1903. El Agente por Venezuela pidid 6. la Comisidn, y le fueron con- cedidas, prorogas [prdrogas] para contestar la siguientes reclama- ciones, asi: Reclamacion No. 19 The Orinoco Shipping Co., 10 dias. Minutes of nth Session, July jth, 1903. The Agent for the United States also . . asked leave to amend the memorial submitted in Claim No. 19, Orinoco Shipping Co. which was granted and amendment filed. II ° Sesion, del 7 de Julio de 1903. El Agente de los Estados Unidos . . . . y solicito permisso para enmendar la memoria relativa d, la reclamacion No. 19 Orinoco Shipping Co. locual le fue concedido y la enmienda fue registrada por Secretaria. Minutes of 12th Session, July loth, 190J. The Agent for Venezuela asked for a further extension until July 14th, 1903, for presenting his Answer in Claim No. 19, The Orinoco Shipping Co., for the reason that an action had been instituted by the Govern- ment of Venezuela against the Company in the High Federal Il6 APPENDIX. Court, and he wished his answer to conform to the attitude of the Government of Venezuela in that case, and because of the impor- tance of the claim and the great amount of matter to be trans- lated and studied in order to properly present the said answer. The Agent for the United States objected to the extension being granted, in as much as proceedings before this High Com mission should not be made dependent upon any action before a local court. The Hon. Commissioner for Venezuela, held, that in considera- tion of the motives expressed by the Agent for Venezuela relative to the importance of this case, and the large amount of work involved in the translation of the papers pertaining thereto; in view of Article 3 of the Protocol, which establishes, that except as stipulated in the said Protocol, all questions of procedure shall be left to the determination of the Commission, he is of the opinion to grant the extension asked for filing his Answer. The Hon. Commissioner for the United States agreed with the position taken by the Agent for the United States, that the pro- ceedings before this Commission cannot in any case be made dependent upon action taken before any other tribunal. With this reservation and in the exercise of equitable jurisdiction, within the meaning and intent of the Protocol, he agreed to the further extension for answering this claim, as requested by the Agent for Venezuela. J2" Sesion, del 10 de Julio de 1903. El Agente de Venezuela solicito una nueva pr6roga, hasta Julio 14 de 1903, para presentar su contestacion al Reclamo No. 19. The Orinoco Shipping Co., dando como razon para ella, habiendo sido instaurado una de- manda del Gobierno de Venezuela contra esta compafiia ante la Alta Corte Federal, el deseaba ajustar su contestacion d la actitud asumido por el Gobierno de Venezuela, y ademas por la importancia misma de la reclamacion y el volumen de docu- mentos que habia que traducir y estudiar para contestar de manera adecuada. El Agente de los Estados Unidos se opuso a que se concediese la proroga solicitada, alegando que las actuaciones de esta Alta Comision, no deben estar sometidas i. la accion de ningun tribunal local. i RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. II7 El Hon. Comisionado por Venezuela sostuvo que, en considera- ci6n de los motivos expuestos por el Agente de Venezuela con relaci6n a la importancia de este Reclamo, y el laborioso trabajo que implica la traduccion de los papeles que lo componen; y en vista del Articulo [Articulo] 3° del Protocolo, en el cual se establece, que salvo lo estipulado en el Protocolo, todas las cuestiones de procedimiento seran determinadas por la comisidn, el era de opinion que se debia conceder la proroga [prdroga] pedida para la contestacion. El Hon. Comisionada de los Estados Unidos, concuerda, con el Agente de los Estados Unidos, en opinar que las actuaciones de esta Comision no deben depender en manera alguna de la accion de ningun otro tribunal. Con esta salvedad, y ejerciendo una jurisdicci6n equitativa, dentro de la interpretacion y fines del Protocolo, conviene el, en conceder la nueva proroga pedida para la contestacion de este Reclamo por el Agente de Venezuela. Minutes of jj"» Session, July 14th, 190J. The Agent for Venezuela filed with the Secretaries and pre- sented to the Commission, Answers in the following Claims: Claim No. 19. Orinoco Shipping Co. I J" Sesion, del 14 de Julio de igo^^. El Agente de Venezuela registro por Secretaria y presento a la Comision [Comision], contestaciones en los siguientes reclamos : Reclamacion No. 19, Orinoco Shipping Co. Minutes of 14^^ Session, July 17th, 1903. The Agent for the United States, through Mr. W T. S. Doyle, asked that owing to his illness an extension of 10 days be allowed for Replications in the following claims: Claim No. 19, Orinoco Steamship Company J4" Sesion, del 17 de Julio de 1903. El Agente de los Estados Unidos, por medio del Seiior W. T. S. Doyle, solicit6, por causa de su enfermedad, y le fu^ concedida, una proroga de 10 dias para presentar sus Replicas en los sigui- entes Reclamos: Reclamacion No. 19. Orinoco Steamship Company. Il8 APPENDIX. Minutes of 77"' Session, July 28th, 190 j. The Agent for the United States also filed on July 25th 1903, with the Secretaries, who presented same to the Commission at this Session: Replication in Claim i^ ig, Orinoco Steamship Co. it being agreed that the time for rejoinder should begin as of this date. 27" Sesion, del 28 de Julio de 190J. El Agente de los Estados Unidos, tambien registrd, en Julio 25 de 1903, ante los Secretarios, quienes d su vez la presentan d la Comisi6n, en esta Sesidn: Replica en la Reclamacion No. 19 Orinoco Steamship Co. quedando acordado que, el plazo para la contrareplica, comen- zaria i. contar desde esta fecha. Minutes of 18''^ Session, August ist, 1903. The Secretaries presented a communication " from the Attorney . of the President of the Orinoco Steamship Company requesting a certification as to the filing With this Commission of a Claim by said Orinoco Steamship Co., and the filing of the Answer thereto; and whether such acts established the condition of " lite pendente " in the Case. The Hon. Commissioner for Venezuela held that no person excepting the Agents for both Governments, is authorized to address the Commission asking for certification of its proceedings, and that therefore he believed the petition should be denied. The Hon. Commissioner for the U.S. was of the opinion that in so far as the communication requested the certification of the fact that the claim referred to had been presented to the Commission, there existed no objection to a compliance therewith. The communication was therefore referred to the Hon. President for his decision and instructions and the Hon. Umpire held: That the Commission, in matters relating to any claim, does not know of any parties excepting the two Governments, represented by their respective Agents ; o[This " communication from the attorney of the president of the Orinoco Steam- ship Company" does not appear in the files of the Commission. Rudolf Dolge, secretary on the part of the United States, states that it is his recollection that the communication in question was returned to the attorney of the president of the company, but the letter has not been found. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. I I9 That furthermore it would seem to be in opposition to the rules established for the proceedings of this Commission and therefore establish a dangerous precedent, to communicate any of its pro- ceedings to parties others than the representatives of the respective Governments, even if it were only for the establishment of a fact, and That therefore the petition must be denied. 18'^ Sesion, 1° de Agosto de 190J. Los Secretarios presentaron a la Comision, una comunicacion del apoderado del Presidente de la Orinoco Steamship Co. en la cual solicita una certificacion respecto d haber sido presentado d esta Comisi6n una reclamacion de dicha Orinoco Steamship Company, y tambien la contestacion d dicho Reclame ; y si estos actos constituyen 6 no la condiciou' de "lite pendente." Sostuvo el Hon. Comisionado por Venezuela que con excepci6n de los Agentes de ambos Gobiernos, nadie estd autorizado d dirigirse d la Comisi6n solicitando certificaciones referentes d sus actuaciones, y que por tanto el creia que debia negarse la peticion. El Hon. Comisionado de los Estados Unidos opind que en la parte de la comunicacion que se refiere al hecho de la presentacion del Reclamo d la Comision [Comisi6n] no habia inconveniente para que se le diese curso. Por consiguiente se sometio el asunto al Hon. Presidente para su decision y instrucciones, y el Tercero en discordia sostuvo: Que en todo lo que se refiere d las Reclamaciones la Comision no reconoce sino d los dos Gobiernos representados por sus respectivos Agentes. Que, ademas esto estaria en contradiccion con el reglamento establecido para las actuaciones de esta Comision, y que estable- ceria un precedente peligroso el comunicar actos de esta Comision, aun cuando solo fuese para establecer un hecho, a otras personas que no sean los representantes de los respectivos Gobiernos, y Que por tanto debe negarse la peticion. I20 APPENDIX. Minutes of 44^'^ Session, Wednesday, December gih, 1903. * * 3): * * * * In Claim No 19. The United vStates of America on behalf of The Orinoco Steamship Co., versus The Republic of Venezuela, the Commissioners rendered separate opinions. The Hon. Commissioner on the part of Venezuela held that the Commission had no jurisdiction to entertain the claim and in case it had, the claim should be disallowed. The Hon. Commissioner on the part of the United States held that the claim was within the jurisdiction of the Commission and that an award should be made thereon; and, as on this 9th day of December 1903, the Commissioners formally declared their inability to agree upon Claim No 19. The United States of America on behalf of The Orinoco Steamship Company, versus The Republic of Venezuela, the claim was therefore submitted both as to jurisdiction and as to merits to the Umpire for his decision. 44" Sesidn del Miercoles, 9 de Diciembre de 190 j. Eu la Reclamacion No. 19. Los EsTADOS Unidos de America en nombre de The Orinoco Steamship Company contra La Republica de Venezuela los Comisionados presentaron, por separado, sus opiniones. El Hon. Comisionado por parte de Venezuela sostuvo que la Comision era incompetente para conocer del reclamo y que en el caso de que no lo fuera, el reclamo deberia ser rechazada. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 121 El Hon. Comisionado por parte de los Estados Unidos sostuvo que el reclamo se hallaba dentro de la jurisdiccion de la Comisidn, y que deberia hacerse una adjudicacion; y como hoy, 9 de Diciembre de 1903, los Comisionados declaran formalmente no estar de acuerdo en la Eu la Reclamaci6n No. 19. Los Estados Unidos de America en nombre de The Orinoco Steamship Company contra lyA Repubuca de Venezuela fue, en consecuencia, sometida al Tercero en discordia, para su decision, tanto en lo que respecta d, jurisdiccion como en cuanto al fondo de la misma. Minutes of 46"^ Session, December 26th, 1903. It was agreed that the Opinions and Decisions on the Claims remaining in the hands of the Umpire would be transmitted by the Umpire within the time designated by the Protocol, in duplicate copies in the English and Spanish languages, to the Department of State of the United States, or its Legation at Caracas, and to the Government of Venezuela, one copy in each language to be des- tined for each of the respective Governments, and one copy in each language for each of the Commissioners. 46" Sesion del 26 de Diciembre de 190J. Se convino en que los Dictamenes y Decisiones sobre las Recla- maciones que quedaban sometidas al Tercero en Discordia, serian enviados por el Tercero, en el termino fijado por el Protocolo, en copias duplicadas en los idiomas ingles y espanol, al Departmento de Estado de los Estados Unidos 6 a su Legacion en Caracas, y al Gobierno de Venezuela destindndose una copia en cada idioma para cada uno de los respectivos Gobiernos, y una copia en cada idioma para cada una de los Comisionados. 122 APPENDIX. Extract from Notice Book. July 15, 1903. In Re the claim of The Orinoco Steamship Company. " " " " " Frances Irene Roberts administratrix and sole heir at law of William Quirk dec'd. " " " " " Susanna Maud & Rebecca Josephine Jarvis. " " " " " Henry Woodruff. The United States by its Agent, hereby gives notice that it will file a brief in Replication in each of the above matters, and re- quests five days for so doing in accordance with the Rules of the Commission. Robert C. Morris. D/ " Extracts from the Register. Claim No. 19. The United States of America on behalf of The Orinoco Steamship Company Claimants versus The Republic op Venezuela. Date of filing June 16, 1903 July July July July July July July July July July July I. 1903 7, 1903 10, 1903 14. 1903 14. 1903 17. 1903 25. 1903 25. 1903 25. 1903 25. 1903. 28, 1903 n[The Document Memorial & Brief. fi, 401, 539.05 stated. Int. not 2 Pamphlets & Typewritten in- sertions. 10 days Extension granted Agt. for Ven. for filing answer. Amendment of Memorial. Extension of July 14th granted to Agt for Ven. for filing Answer. Answer. I Original Document as part of Answer. 10 days Extension granted Agt. of U. S. to file Replication. Replication. ! T Original Exhibit "A" I Original Exhibit "B" I Original Exhibit "C" j Time for filing rejoinder fixed as beginning of this date, entries in the register were in English only. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 123 Date of liling Aug. I, 1903 Dec. 9, 1903 Dec. 9, 1903 Dec. 9, 1903 Dec. 9, 1903 Dec. 26, 1903 Remarks Communication from Atty. of Company asking for certifi- cation of filing of claim and Answer thereto. Petition re- fused by Umpire. Opinion of Dr. Grisanti, Cora'r. Opinion of Bainbridge, Com'r. Denies jurisdiction and disallows claim. Admits jurisdiction and holds that an award should be made thereon. Commissioners formally declare inability to agree upon this claim. Claim submitted to Umpire for his decision both as to juris- diction & merits. Umpire agrees to transmit, within the time limit fixed by the Protocol, 2 copies each in the English & Spanish lan- guage to the U. S. Legation at Caracas or the U. S. State Department & to the Government of Venezuela, of his Opinions and Decision in this Claim. Filed June i6th, 1903. Rudolf Dolge, U. S. Secretary. AMENDED MEMORIAL OF THE ORINOCO STEAMSHIP COMPANY, A CORPO- RATION CREATED AND EXISTING UNDER AND BY VIRTUE OF THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY, IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, SETTING FORTH THE VARIOUS CLAIMS AGAINST THE REPUBLIC OF VEN- EZUELA, OWNED BY SAID COMPANY. AND PRAYING THEIR SUBMISSION TO AND PROSECUTION BEFORE THE MIXED COMMISSION PROVIDED FOR IN AND BY THE PROTOCOL OF AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA, SIGNED AT WASHINGTON, FEBRUARY 17TH, 1903. [i]« THE ORINOCO STEAMSHIP COMPANY VS. THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA. I. Your memorialist, The Orinoco Steamship Company, respectfully represents that it is a corporation duly created, organized, and existing under and pursuant to the provisions of an act of the legislature of the State of New Jersey, entitled "An act concerning corporations (revision of 1896)," and the acts amendatory thereof and supplemental thereto, having its principal office in said State of New Jersey, at No. 83 Montgomery street, Jersey City, and a further office at No. 17 Battery Place, in the city of New York, State of New York, both in the United States of America, and also having other offices at Port of Spain, Trinidad, British West Indies, and Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela, and agents at other ports and places in Venezuela. That its articles of incorporation were duly executed on the 31st day of January, 1902, and were recorded in the office of the secretary of state for the State of New Jersey on the 7th day of February, A. D. 1902. Your memorialist, in its own right and as the successor and assignee of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, is the owner of the claim or claims hereinafter set forth against the «[The numbers in brackets refer to the original pagination of the memorial in pamphlet form, as filed before the Mixed Commission of 1903. — Agent's note.] 125 126 APPENDIX. United States of Venezuela, and respectfully prays the Depart- , ment of State of the United States of America to present such claim or claims to and [2] press the same for settlement before the Mixed Commission provided for in the protocol of an agreement between the United States of America and -the Republic of Ven- ezuela, signed at Washington on the 17th day of February, 1903. 2. Your memorialist, among its other corporate powers, was duly authorized to acquire and take over as a going concern the business carried on by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Com- pany, Limited, of London, England, and all the assets and lia- bilities of the proprietors of that business owned, used, acquired, or incurred in connection therewith ; and also to carry on the busi- ness of ship-owners and carriers by land or water, wharfingers, transportation and forwarding agents, and warehousemen, and to purchase and own steamships, and to employ the same in the car- riage of passengers, merchandise, and the mails; and also to pur- chase or otherwise acquire, without limit as to amount or location, real estate and property, with all interests and rights therein; and also to purchase or otherwise acquire concessions, grants, decrees, and privileges and to exercise the same, with full power to conduct its business not only in the Sta,tes and Territories of the United States of America, but also in foreign countries; and also to keep such offices outside of the State of New Jersey as the necessities of the business required; and also to issue stock, bonds, or other obligations in payment for property purchased or acquired. All of which corporate rights and powers, together with many others not herein enumerated, will more fully appear upon inspection of a copy of said articles of incorporation, duly certified copies of which have been heretofore filed in the United States Department of [3] State and registered in the registry at Caracas, in Venezuela, and a copy whereof is annexed hereto and made a part hereof, marked Exhibit No. 1 . "^ 3. The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, the predecessor in interest of your memorialist in certain of the claims hereinafter particularly specified, was a company limited by shares, organized under the English companies acts of 1862 to 1893, and duly registered in the office of the register of joint stock companies, London, England, on the 14th day of July, 1898. Said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, was incorporated and organized, among other things, for the pur- pose of purchasing, leasing, or otherwise acquiring lands, build- o[P. 145, infra.] RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. I9. 1 27 ings, and other property in the United States of Venezuela; the carrying on of the business of ship-owners, carriers by land or water, wharfingers, lightermen, transportation and forwarding agents, and warehousemen; to purchase or otherwise acquire steamships, and to employ the same in the carriage of passengers, merchandise, and mails; to purchase or otherwise acquire and hold the share capital, or any part thereof, of any shipping com- pany carrying on business in Venezuela or elsewhere in South America; to apply for, piurchase, or otherwise acquire concessions, grants, decrees, and privileges, and to carry out and exercise the same; to carry on any other business, whether manufacturing or otherwise, which might be conveniently carried on with refer- ence to any of the company's properties, and to do many and various other things and matters, all of which will more fully appear upon an inspection of the copy of the memorandtmi of association of said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Lim- ited, [4] hereto annexed and made a part hereof, marked Exhibit No. 2."' 4. Although said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, was organized as aforesaid under the English companies acts, nevertheless at least ninety-nine per cent. (99%) of its total capital stock and bonded indebtedness was subscribed and paid for, and at the time of the deed of assignment or transfer to the Orinoco Steamship Company, hereinbefore referred to, was owned by and at all intermediate times had been owned by native-born citizens of the United States of America; and the total capital stock of your memorialist, amounting to one million dollars ($1,000,000), par value, is at the present time and for a long time past has been owned absolutely by native-born citizens of the United States of America, the former owners of the entire capital stock of said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, with the exception of seven shares, of the par value of £1 each, held by the incorporators, were as follows: Alfred B. Scott, J. Van Vechten Olcott, R. Morgan Olcott, all of whom are citizens of the State of New York, U. S. A., and the owners of the entire capital stock of the Orinoco Steamship Com- pany are as follows: Alfred B. Scott, J. Van Vechten Olcott, R. Morgan Olcott, Levi S. Tenney, and Dimcan B. Cannon, all of whom are likewise citi- zens of the State of New York, U. S. A. o[P. 153, infra.] 1 28 APPENDIX. Besides its fully paid capital stock, your memorialist also has issued and has outstanding at the present time a bonded indebt- edness of five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000), secured by a deed of trust upon its steamers, properties, and [5] other assets, which said bonded indebtedness is also owned entirely by citizens of the United States of America. A duly authenticated copy of the deed of trust given to secure the same, wherein the Continental Trust Company of the City of New York is trustee, executed at the city of New York, State of New York,. on the first day of April, 1902, was registered in the oificial registry in Caracas, in the Re- public of Venezuela, on the i6th day of April, A. U. 1903. 5. By virtue of the authority and powers conferred upon it by its articles of incorporation as aforesaid, your memorialist, as is evidenced by a deed of transfer and assignment made, entered into, and delivered on the first day of April, A. D. 1902, purchased, acquired, and took over from the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, of London, England, in consideration of the sum of one million dollars ($1,000,000), represented by the entire capital stock of your memorialist, and an agreement to pay and discharge all outstanding debentures, bills payable, loans, and other claims and demands justly due and owing by the said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Liniited, amounting to more than three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000), all the steamships, lands, houses, and other improvements thereon, implements, tools, and machinery, and all other lands, tenements, and hereditaments or interests therein, and all franchises, con- cessions, and grants belonging to said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Ltd., together with all claims and demands then existing belonging to, in possession of, or in favor of said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company against the Republic of Venezuela, or against any individuals, firms, or [6] corporations, together with all other estates, rights, titles, interests, properties, claims, and demands whatsoever of the said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, as will more fully appear by reference to a copy of said deed of transfer, annexed hereto and made a part hereof , marked Exhibit No. 3," the property rights, privileges, &c., so acquired, purchased, and transferred being reasonably of a value in excess of the sum of one million five hundred thousand dollars ($1,500,000). 6. Among other franchises and property rights of value thereto- fore owned by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited so acquired by your memorialist was the exclusive right [P. 157, infra.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 1 29 or franchise granted by the United States of Venezuela to trans- port goods, wares, and merchandise between the ports of Trinidad, B.- "\y. I., and Ciudad Bohvar, Venezuela, through the Macareo and Pedernales channels of the River Orinoco, which franchise arose and was granted and came into the possession and owner- ship of the Orinoco S. & T. Co:, Ltd., under the following circum- stances and conditions, viz: On the first day of July, A. D. 1893, General Joaquin Crespo, then in possession of the executive power of the United States of Venezuela, issued his executive decree (Law No. 5605) in due form of law, decreeing as follows: Art. I. Vessels engaged in foreign trade with Ciudad Bolivar shall be allowed to proceed only by way of the Boca Grande of the River Orinoco; the Macareo and Pedernales channels being reserved for the coastal service, navigation by the other channels of the said river being absolutely prohibited. Art. 2. In order that the commerce of Ciudad Bolivar [7] shall suffer no interruption, permission is hereby granted only to those lines of steamers actually engaged in carrying on traffic by the Macareo and Pedernales channels ; and in consideration of the mari- time conditions of the steamers which compose the lines which do not permit of their navigating by the Boca Grande, this permission shall continue in force until the 31st of December next, a period which the Government considers sufficient to enable the proprietors of the said lines to modify their vessels so as to fit them for the navigation in conformity with the dispositions contained in thia decree. Art. 3. The maritime custom-house of Pedernales is hereby suppressed, and the operations of Cabotaje shall be superintended by a sub-customs depot under the supervision of the customs of. Ciudad Bolivar. Art. 4. The sub-customs depot of Manoa is transferred to the Puerto de Sacupana, which shall likewise be dependent upon the Aduana of Ciudad Bolivar. Art. 5. The ministers of the interior, of finance, and of war and marine shall be charged with the execution of this decree,, which said executive decree was subsequently ratified and con- firmed by the Congress of the United States of Venezuela and later its validity and binding force was judicially recognized and declared by the High Federal Court of Venezuela on the 14th day of August, A. D. 1894. (See Annual Memorial of the High Federal Court to the Congress of Venezuela, 1895, Re George F. Carpenter and the Macareo Concession.) 7. Thereafter and on or about the 17th day of January, A. D. 1894, the minister of the interior of the United States [8] of Vene- zuela, duly authorized thereunto by the chief of the executive, en- 17301 — 10 9 130 APPENDIX. tered into a contract of navigation with one Edgar Peter Gan- teaume, attorney for one Ellis Grell, which said contract, duly approved in all its parts by the Congress of the United States of Venezuela on the 26th day of May, A. D. 1894, was by President Crespo, on the 8th day of June, A. D. 1894, ordered to be executed and its conditions observed, is in the words and figures following, to wit: Legislative Decree of the 8th of June, 1894, Approving a Contract with Mr. Ellis Grell, Transferred to Citizen Manuel A. Sanchez. The Congress of the U. S. of Venezuela, in view of the contract celebrated in this city on the 17th of January of the present year between the minister of the interior of the U. S. of Venezuela, duly authorized by the chief of the national executive, on the one part, and on the other, Edgar Peter Ganteaume, attorney for Ellis Grell, transferred to the citizen. Manuel A. Sanchez, and the additional article of the same contract dated loth May instant, the tenor of which is as follows : Dr. Feliciano Acovedo, Minister of the Interior of the U. S. of Venezuela, duly authorized by the chief of the national executive, on the one part, and Edgar Peter Ganteatune, attorney for Ellis Grell, and in the latter's name and representation, who is resident in Port of Spain, on the other part ; and with the affirmative vote of the government coimcil, have celebrated a contract set out in the following articles : Art. I. Ellis Grell undertakes to establish and maintain [9] in force navigation by steamers between Ciudad Bolivar and Maracaibo within the term of six months reckoned from the date of this contract, and in such manner that at least one journey per fortnight be made, touching at the ports of La Vela, Puerto 'Cabello, La Guira, Guanta, Puerto Sucre and Carupano, with power to extend the line to any duly established port of the Re- public. Art. 2. The steamers shall navigate under the Venezuelan flag. Art. 3. The contractor undertakes to transport free of charge, the packages of mails which may be placed on board the steamers by the authorities and merchants through the ordinary post- offices; the steamers thereby acquiring the character of mail steamers, and, as such, exonerated from all national dues. Art. 4. The contractor shall draw up a tariff of passages and freights by agreement with the government. Art. 5. The company shall receive on board each steamer a government employ^ with the character of fiscal (postmaster), nominated by the minister of finance, with the object of looking after the proper treatment of the mails and other fiscal interests. The company shall also transport public employes when in commission of the government at half the price of the tariff, pro- RECORD OP CLAIM NO. I9. I3I vided always that they produce an order signed by the minister of finance or by one of the presidents of the States. Mihtary men on service and troops shall be carried for the fourth part of the tariff rates. The company undertakes also to carry gratis, mate- rials of war, and at half freights all other goods which may be shipped for account and by order of the national government. [10] Art. 6. The general government undertakes to concede to no other line of steamers any of the benefits, concessions and exemptions contained in the present contract as compensation for the services which the company undertakes to render as well to national interests as those of private individuals. Art. 7. The government of Venezuela will pay to the con- tractor a monthly subsidy of four thousand bolivars (4,000) so long as the conditions of the present contract are duly carried out. Art. 8. The national government undertakes to exonerate from payment of import duties all machinery, tools, and accessories which may be imported for the use of the steamers, and all other materials necessary for their repair, and also undertakes to permit the steamers to supply themselves with coal and provisions, &c., in the ports of Curacao and Trinidad. Art. 9. The company shall have the right to cut from the national forests wood for the construction of steamers or neces- sary buildings and for fuel for the steamers of the line. Art. 10. The officers and crews of the steamers, as also the wood-cutters and all other employes of the company, shall he exempt from m.ilitary service, except in cases of international war. Art. II. The steamers of the company shall enjoy in all the ports of the Republic the same freedom and preferences by law established as are enjoyed by the steamers of lines established with fixed itinerary. Art. 12. While the government fixes definitely the transship- ment ports for merchandise from abroad, and while they are making the necessary installations, the steamers of this [11] line shall be allowed to call at the ports of Curacao and Trinidad, and any one of the steamers leaving Trinidad may also navigate by the channels of the Macareo and Pedernalles of the River Orinoco in conformity with the formalities which by special resolution may be imposed by the minister of finance in order to prevent contraband, and to safeguard fiscal interests; to all which condi- tions the contractor agrees beforehand. Art. 13. This contract shall remain in force for fifteen years, reckoned from the date of its approbation, and may be trans- ferred by the contractor to another person or corporation upon previous notice to the government. The transfer shall not be made to any foreign government. Art. 14. Disputes and controversies which may arise with regard to the interpretation or execution of this contract shall be resolved by the tribunals of the Republic in accordance with 132 APPENDIX. the laws of the nation, and shall not in any case be considered as a motive for international reclamations. Two copies of this contract, of the same tenor and effect, were made in Caracas the seventeenth day of January, 1894. (S'g'd) Soliciano Acovado. (S'g'd) Edward P. Ganteaume. Additional article. — Between the minister of the interior of the U. S. of Venezuela and Citizen Manuel A. Sanchez, conces- sionaire of Mr. Ellis Grell, have agreed to modify the eighth article of the contract made on the 17th day of January of the present year for the coastal navigation between Ciudad Bolivar and Maracaibo on the following terms: Art. 8. The government undertakes to exonerate from payment of import duties, the machinery, tools and articles [12] which may be imported for the steamers, and all other materials destined for the repairs of the steamers; while the government fixes the points of transport and coaling ports, the contractor is hereby permitted to take coal and provisions for the crew in the ports of Curacao and Trinidad. Caracas, loth May, 1894. (S'g'd) Jose R. Nunez. (S'g'd) M. A. Sanchez. DECREE. SoivE ARTICLE. — The present contract is approved in all its parts. Given in the palace of the federal legislative corps, in Caracas, the 26th day of May, 1894, 83rd year of the independence and 36 of the federation. (S'g'd) The President of the Senate, Vicente Amengual. (S'g'd) The President of the Chamber of Deputies, J. Francisco Castillo. (S'g'd) The Secretary of the Senate, Fran- cisco Pimentel. (S'g'd) The Secretary of the Chamber of Dep- uties, J. A. Bosa. Federal palace in Caracas, the 8th of June, 1894. The 83rd year of the independence and 36 of the federation. Let this contract be executed and its conditions observed. (S'g'd) Joaquin Crespo. (S'g'd) The Minister of the Interior, Jose R. Nunez. 8. Said contract of concession, with all the rights and privileges thereunto appertaining, by duly executed transfers, after requisite previous notice had been given to the government of Venezuela, came into the possession and under the control of the Compania General Venezolana de Navegacion, which company entered upon the performance [13] of the various obUgations imposed upon it as such transferee, and having provided itself with certain steam vessels three in number and other properties necessary to the business of a common carrier of passengers and freight, engaged in such business and continued to be engaged therein until about the 12th day of December, 1898, when the entire share capital of said Compania General Venezolana de Navegacion and the said RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. I9. I33 contract of concession, steamers, and all other property and assets of said Compania General Venezolana de Navegacion were pur- chased by and transferred to the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, which association had been organized, among other things, for the purpose of acquiring the same and doing the business authorized to be done under the terms of said contract. Said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, imme- diately thereafter entered upon the management, operation, and control of said contract of concession, and from time to time added to its fleet of steamships until they became ten in number, and purchased many other properties, stores, and the like, for the purpose of adding to its plant and of enabling it to increase and extend its business thereunder. 9. By an executive decree (No. 392) of October 18, 1898, emanating from the ministry of internal affairs and duly pub- lished, it was resolved as follows: "The President of the Republic has disposed that the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, as soon as it shall have complied with the requisite formalities to establish the fact that it is the cessionary of the contract [14] celebrated between the national government and Ellis Grell on the 17th January," 1894, shall be granted the term of one year, reckoned from this date, for the establishment of the fortnightly navigation service between La Guaira and Maracaibo referred to in art. i of the recited contract, during which time, however, the said company shall not be en- titled to receive the subvention of four thousand bolivars stipu- lated in the said contract until the fortnightly service to which this resolution refers shall have been inaugurated. Let it be communicated and published. "For the national executive. " (S'g'd) ' Z. Bello Rodriguez." And subsequently, by an executive decree of September 4, 1899, which was duly published in the Official Gazette of Septem- ber 5, 1899, a further extension of six months, within which to establish said service, was granted, said decree being in words as follows (translation) : MINISTRY OP INTERNAL AFFAIRS. United States of Venezuela. — Ministry of Internal Affairs. — Administrative Direction.- — Caracas, 4th Sept., 1899, 89 and 41. Having duly considered the petition which has been presented to this ministry by Citizen Cesar Vicentini, as the representative of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., in which he solicits a prorogation of six months for the establishment of a fortnightly 1 34 APPENDIX. steamship service between La Guaira and Maracaibo in conformity with Art. I of the contract celebrated between the national gov- ernment and [i 5] Ellis Grell on the 1 7th January, 1 894 ; and consid- ering the serious inconveniences and risks which all enterprises established in Venezuela have suffered in consequence of political disturbances during recent years, whereby the said company has found itself unable to comply with the obligations stipulated in the article of the said contract; and in view of the valuable and im- portant services rendered to the national government by the said company ; the President of the Republic has sanctioned the follow- ing resolution : Resolved, That the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., be conceded an extension of six months for the establishment of fortnightly navigation by steamer between La Guaira and Mara- caibo in conformity with art. i of the contract hereinabove recited. Let it be communicated and published. For the national executive : (S'g'd) Z. BeIvLO Rodriguez. 10. In the meantime said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Com- pany, Limited, having purchased outright the ships and other assets, including the book accounts, of the navigation company known as the " Orinoco Red Star Line," as well as the Compania General Venezolana above referred to, rendered to the government of Venezuela and its various officials authorized to demand the same services by transporting from place to place its officials, both civil, military, and naval, its troops and accoutrements, war ma- terials and supplies and other materials and supplies belonging to or shipped for the account and on the order of the national govern- ment, and charged for such services at rates much less than the reg- ular rates prescribed in the [i 6] company's tajriffs ; for or on account of which services and accounts neither said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, nor your memorialist, has re- ceived any compensation from said Republic of Venezuela except as hereinafter specified; and various outbreaks, insurrections, and revolts against the established government of Venezuela or its authorities having broken out at various points and places in Venezuela, the officials of said established government from time to time detained or seized the steamers of said company, together with the supplies of stores and cargo in course of shipment thereon, and made use of all thereof, and certain of said steamers either greatly damaged or totally destroyed, and said officials and the soldiers or others under their command or other bands of lawless men under the domination or subject to the control and super- vision of said officials, officers, and soldiers, entered upon and into RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 19. 135 various properties, stores, offices, and warehouses belonging to said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, or your memoriaHst, and destroyed the same and the contents thereof, to their great damage. Detailed accounts of such detentions, seizures, break- ings, and destructions, together with statements showing the amounts of moneys due for services rendered and damages sus- tained as aforesaid have heretofore been rendered to the proper officials of the government of Venezuela, together with full proofs and vouchers necessary to substantiate the accuracy and justness thereof; and such accounts having been first fully and carefully examined and found to be correct, were accepted by said officials, and an agreement for the settlement thereof was duly entered into on the loth day of May, A. D. 1900, which [17] agreement for settle- ment has been but partially performed by said government of Venezuela, and there is now due to your memorialist on account thereof the agreed sum of one hundred thousand (100,000) bolivars in coined money, with interest thereon from said loth day of May, A. D. 1900, besides other sums, either on account stated or by way of damages, for the neglect and refusal of the government of Ven- ezuela to adhere to and carry out said agreement of settlement solemnly entered into, as aforesaid, as will presently be more fully set forth. II. Prior to the loth day of May, A. D. 1900, there was due and owing to the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, as the sole owner and assignee of the "Orinoco Red Star Line" the sum of one hundred and one thousand one hundred and sixty- three tVt pesos venezolanos, equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar to $77,818.01, for services rendered, the bills and vouch- ers for which were then and should be now in the possession and control of the government of Venezuela. There were also due and owing on said date from said govern- ment to said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, further sums of money on account of services rendered or damages suffered, as per detailed statements rendered to the proper officials, with vouchers and proofs of payment accompanying the same (copy of all of which accounts has heretofore been filed in the United States Department of State and is respectfully prayed to be made a part of the diplomatic correspondence pertaining to this claim), amounting to the sum of six hundred and nineteen thou- sand seven hundred and fifty-two tVo pesos, equal at exchange [18] 1 .30 pesos per dollar to the sum of four hundred and seventy-six thousand seven hundred and thirty-two tA dollars ($476,732.50), 136 APPENDIX. or a total in United States currency of five hundred and fifty-four thousand five hundred and fifty AV dollars ($554,550.51), on account of which there had been paid by the government of which President Castro is and was then the official head the sum of one • thousand one hundred and fifty-three ttV dollars ($1,153.86) cash and salt bonds issued by the United States of Venezuela equal to twenty thousand four hundred dollars ($20,400) American cur- rency, leaving a balance due and payable on said loth day of June, . 1900, of five hundred and thirty-two thousand nine hundred and ninety-six t¥o dollars ($532,996.85) American currency. 12. On said loth day of May, A. D. 1900, the balance of $532,996.85 being then due from the United States of Venezuela to The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, as above stated, an agreement for the settlement thereof was effected and entered into by and between Richard Morgan Olcott, as Man- aging Director of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, fully empowered to act in such connection, and Dr. Felix Quintero, Minister of the Interior of the United States of Venezuela, sufficiently authorized by the Supreme Chief of the Republic acting on behalf of the Republic of Venezuela, whereby it was agreed that in full settlement of the claims then accrued, due and sub- mitted, amounting as aforesaid to the sum of $554,550.51, there should be paid to The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, the sum of 200,000 Bolivars in coined money, and the above-mentioned [19] contract or concession of the exclusive right to navigate the Macareo and Pedernales Channels of the Orinoco River should be prolonged for the period of six years to "be reckoned from the date upon which the term of years fixed by article 13 of the said contract expires" — that is to say, for six years to be reckoned from the 8th day of June, A. D. 1909, and said agreement for settlement was evidenced and fully set forth by and contained in two written instruments, duly executed and published in the Gaceta Oficial numbers 7924 and 8104, which are in words and figures following, to wit : Translation of Contract of Settlement with the Govern- ment OF Venezuela. Seal of the Tribunal dc Seal of the Ministry Seal of the Ministry Cuentas. Caracas. of Public Credit. of Hacienda. Dr. Felix Quintero, Minister of the Interior, sufficiently author- ized by the Supreme Chief of the Republic, of the one part, and of the other part Richard Morgan Olcott, Attorney and Director RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 137 of the Company "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited," have celebrated the following private Contract: — Art. I. Richard Morgan Olcott, on behalf of "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd.," agrees to consider as settled all claims, debts and demands whatsoever which the Company may have against the Government of Venezuela for services rendered by the steamers, employes and Agents of the said Company to the General Government, or to the Governments of the States, for the loss, deterioration or other injury to said steamers, for damages, injuries, or losses of any description which the Company may have suffered, and [20] which may have been occasioned by the forces of the Government, by Revolutionary forces, or by any other cause whatsoever; up to the date of this Contract, as well as for all services which the Company may continue to render to the Gen- eral Government or to the Governments of the States up to the first day of July next. Art. 2. The Government of Venezuela gives to the said Com- pany by its Representative Mr. Richard Morgan Olcott, and by way of payment for the causes above specified, the sum of two hundred thousand bolivares (200,000) in coined money and in the following form, (a) One hundred thousand bolivares (100,000) in cash, which the said Mr. Richard Morgan Olcott acknowledges to have received today to his satisfaction ; (b)' One hundred thousand bolivares (100,000) which shall be paid in accordance with such arrangement as the parties hereto may agree upon on the date stipulated in the decree of twenty- third of April ultimo, relative to claims arising from damages caused during the war, or by other cause whatsoever. Art. 3. Richard Morgan Olcott, in representation of the Com- pany, hereby accepts all the foregoing. Art. 4. All doubts and controversies which may arise with respect to the interpretation and execution of this Contract shall be decided by the Tribunal of Venezuela and in conformity with the Laws of the Republic, without such mode of settlement being considered motive of international claims. Signed in duplicate at Caracas, this tenth day of May, one thousand nine hundred. (S'g'd) Feux Quintero. (S'g'd) Richard Morgan OIvCott. [21] Legation op the United States, Caracas, Venezuei^a, May 14th, igoo. I hereby certify that the foregoing signature across the stamp is that of Felix Quintero, Minister of the Interior (Acting). I furthermore certify that a true copy of this Contract has been filed at this Legation. (S'g'd) Francis B. Loomis, United States Minister. [Seal of the Legation.] 138 appendix. Translation of Resolution Granting to "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited," the Prolongation FOR Six Years op the Macareo Contract. ', I Ministry of International AflPairs. United States of Venezuela. Executive. Caracas: loth May, 1900. 89° and 42°. Resolved: Richard Morgan Olcott, Attorney and Director of "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd.," having solicited from the National Government an extension for six years of the contract of Naviga- tion dated loth day of June, 1894, of which the said Company is Concessionaire; the Supreme Chief of the Republic considering the reasons on which the said Company bases its petition to be justified, disposes as follows: 1. The Navigation Contract celebrated between this Ministry and Citizen Manuel A. -Sanchez; which was approved [22] by the Federal Legislative Executive; and of which the said "Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd." is the actual Concessionaire; is hereby prolonged for six years. This extension shall be reckoned from the date upon which the term of years fixed by article 13 of the said Contract expires. 2. The concessionary Company undertakes within the term of 12 months, reckoned from this date, to make at least 12 voyages annually between the Island of Trinidad and La Guaira, touching at the Venezuelan ports according to the Itinerary of the East Coast. 3. The Concessionaire is hereby exempted from the obligation to establish steam navigation between La Guaira and Maracaibo, and renounces the subsidy of four thousand bolivares (4,000) stipulated in article 7 of the said Contract. The National Govern- ment undertakes with regard to the navigation to Maracaibo, to grant to the said Company, represented by Mr. Richard Morgan Olcott, the preference in any negotiation for the establishment of a navigation service in case the said Company should desire at any future time to establish such service. Let this be communicated and published. For the National Executive. (S'g'd) Felix Quintero. 13. In part performance of the settlement agreed upon and evidenced as above, there was paid and delivered to and received by said Richard Morgan Olcott, director and attorney, as aforesaid, of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Ltd., on May 10, 1900, the sum of 100,000 bolivars, [23] equal to $19,200 American currency, and the decree for the prolongation of the original con- RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 139 tract of concession, and all claims of said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, against the United States of Ven- ezuela, as specified in said instruments of settlement, were by said Company, acting in good faith, marked settled and balanced upon the Company's books of account. Notwithstanding such settle- ment of May 10, 1900, and the fact that the chief consideration therefor moving from the Government of Venezuela to the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, was the extension or prolongation for the period of six years of the contract or concession of navigation of June 8, 1894, the chief and, indeed, only, value of which, as hereinbefore set forth, was the exclusive right to navigate the Macareo and Pedernales channels of the River Orinoco, Cipriano Castro, Supreme Chief of the Republic, on or about the 5th day of October, A. D. 1900, promulgated an execu- tive decree in the words and figures following, to wit : [24] Original. Cipriano Castro, General en Jefe de los Ejiircitos de Vene- zuela y Jefe Supremo de la Repiiblica. Decreto: Articulo i.° Se deroga el Decreto de primero de julio de 1893 que prohibi6 la fibre navegaci6n del Macareo, Peder- nales y demds canos navegables del rio Orinoco. Articulo 2.° El Mini.stro de Relaciones Interiores queda encargado de la ejecu- ci6n del presente Decreto. Dado, firmado, sellado con el Sello del Ejecutivo Nacional y refrendado por el Ministro de Relaciones Interiores, en el Palacio Federal del Capitolio, en Caracas, d 5 de octubre de 1900. — Ano 90° de la Independencia y 42.° de la Federacion. [i<. s.] Cipriano Castro. Referendado, El Ministro de Relaciones Interiores, [l. s.] R. Cabrera Malo. Translation. Cipriano Castro, General in Chief of the Army of Vene- zuela and Supreme Chief of the Re- public. Decree: Article i. The decree of the ist of July 1893 which prohibited the free navigation of the Macareo, Pedernales, and other navigable water ways of the River Orinoco is abolished. Article 2. The Minister of Interior Re- lations is charged with the execution of the present Decree. Given, signed, sealed with the seal of the National Executive, and counter- signed by the Minister of Interior Rela- tions, in the Federal Palace of the Capitol in Caracas, on the 5th of October 1900 — year 90 of the Independence and 42 of the Federation. [L- s.] Cipriano Castro. Countersigned, The Minister of Interior Relations, [h. s.] R. Cabrera Malo. 14. The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, by and through its duly authorized agent and representative domi- ciled in Caracas, one Cesar Vicentini, on or about the 6th day of October, A. D. 1900, duly and formally protested against the validity and execution of such decree and lodged copies of said protest in the offices of the Legation of the United States and the Legation of Great Britain at Caracas — a copy of said protest is r:^ 140 APPENDIX. annexed hereto and made a part hereof, marked Exhibit No. 4 " — and said protest was directly brought to the attention of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United States of Venezuela, as fully appears from the Diplomatic Correspondence pertaining [25] to this claim. (See particularly Mr. Russell to Secretary Hay, Oc- tober 21, 1900; Minister Loomis to Minister of Foreign Affairs, January 15, 1901; Senor Eduardo Blanco to Minister Loomis, January 29, 1901.) 15. Notwithstanding the promulgation of said executive decree of October 5, A. D. 1900, the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co., Limited, having theretofore fully performed the obligations on its part required to be performed by and under said contract of June 8, 1894, and with the object and purpose of fulfilling its obligations under article two of the contract of May 10, 1900, for the extensibn or prolongation of the original contract-concession, on April 2, 1901, began and subsequently completed one voyage between the Island of Trinidad and La Guaira, touching at Vene- zuelan ports according to the itinerary of the East coast, the ves- sel despatched on said second of April having reached Port of Spain, Trinidad, on her return trip on the 1 2th of the same month. Thereafter said vessel, being the only steamer available for such service owned or that could be acquired by said company, was temporarily withdrawn for the purpose of necessary repairs. After notice of intention to withdraw said steamer for such pur- pose had been given to the proper officials of the Venezuelan Government and no objection had been made to such action, and said repairs having been completed, the following commimication on the subject was addressed and mailed to the Minister of the Interior, at Caracas, viz: [26] "Port of Spain, Trinidad, " December loth, 1901. "To H. E. the Minister of the Interior, Caracas. "Mr. Minister: "According to the settlement effected by us on the loth day of May, 1900, printed in the Official Gazette, and in consideration of the same, it was resolved that the Company should complete by May loth, 1902, twelve trips between the Island of Trinidad and La Guaira, touching at Venezuelan ports, according to the itinerary of the East Coast. On the 2nd of April last, as we officially notified you, we started to fulfil this contract, and made one voyage, reaching Cartipano on the 3rd, Cumand and Guanta on the 4th, and La Guaira on the 5th of the same month of April. «IP. 164 infra.] RECORD OP CIvAIM NO. 1 9. I4I On the return trip the itinerary was as follows: — Left La Guaira on the 9th April, arrived at Quanta on the loth, Cumand on the same day, Cartipano on the nth and Trinidad on the 12th of the same month. It became apparent during' the above-mentioned trip that we should have to make some repairs to the only steamer owned, or that could be acquired by us, and now available for that service ; and, as it was impossible to make the repairs (which included the supplying of new boilers and new parts of machinery) here, we were obliged on the 26th April ult., to despatch her to Dundee, Scotland, to her original builders. These necessary repairs have cost us over £8,000 (bolivares 200,000) ; and they will soon be completed, when she will be able to fulfil Clause 2 of the Resolution of loth May, 1900, and complete the balance of twelve trips between Trinidad and La Guaira. • [27] "Before starting, however, our steamer on the accomplish- ment of this contract, we desire to inquire if your Government will guarantee us immimity from the seizure of our steamer from any Venezuelan source. "The failure to receive a reply from you — a reply conveying the assurance requested — by the first day of January next, would, in our view, exonerate us from complying with that clause in the Contract. "The loss of our steamer Nutrias, and the practical destruction of our steamer Vencedor, both on Government account, warrant our asking your kind protection for the steamship Manzanares, which, if damaged, or lost, would cause us irreparable injury " (S'g'd) p. p. R. Morgan Olcott. "Thomas A. Turner." To this communication said Minister of Foreign Affairs replied as follows : Caracas, i6th December, igoi. "To the Director of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Ltd., Port of Spain: "For the information of your Company. I remit to you herewith a copy of No. 8,412 of the Official Gazette, in which you will find published the Resolution dictated on the 14th instant and which annuls that of the loth May, 1900, relative to certain concessions granted to the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited. "God and Federation. " (S'g'd) J. A. Velutini." [28] The resolution of December 14, 1901, therein referred to, reads as follows : United States of Venezuela, Ministry of the Interior, Administration, Caracas, 14th December, igoi. Resolved: "Inasmuch as the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, has not fulfilled the obligations contained in Article 2 of 142 APPENDIX. the Concession granted to the said Company by a Resolution of the Executive, dated loth day of May, 1900, whereby the Com- pany undertook to make at least twelve annual voyages between the Island of Trinidad and ports of its itinerary up to La Guaira, and the said Company having up to this date made only one such voyage, thereby prejudicing commercial interests, as well as those of the Government, the Resolution of the loth May, 1900, is hereby revoked and the prorogation and all other benefits therein con- ceded are hereby declared null and void." Let this be communicated and pubUshed. (S'g'd) For the National Executive, J. A. VeIvUTini. Since said i^th day of December, A. D. 1901, notwithstanding the binding contract and agreement between the United States of Venezuela and the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, and your memorialist as assignee of said company, to the contrary, said United States of Venezuela, acting through its duly constituted officials, has authorized and permitted said Maca- reo and Pedernales channels of the River Orinoco to be used and navigated by vessels engaged [29] in foreign trade other than those belonging to your memorialist or its predecessors in interest, and has thus enabled said vessels to do much of the business and to obtain the profits therefrom which, under the terms of said con- tract-concession of June 8, 1894, and the extension thereof of May 10, 1900, should have been done and obtained solely by your memorialist or its said predecessor in interest, and much of said busi- ness will continue to be done and the profits derivable therefrom will continue to be claimed and absorbed by persons and com- panies other than your memorialist, to its great detriment and damage. Said contract-concession, on the basis of the settlement of May 10, 1900, above referred to, was and is of the reasonable value of $82,432.78 per annum, amounting in the whole for the unex- pired term of said contract of concession as prolonged, viz., 14 years, 8 months, and 3 days, to the sum of $1,209,701.05. 16. Since July i, 1900, the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Com- pany, Limited, and your memoriaUst have rendered many and varied services to the Government of Venezuela and its officers, agents, and employees authorized to contract for and to require the same, for which no payments have been made, and has suf- fered damages by reason of the wrongful and illegal acts of the said Government of Venezuela and its officers and agents in im- properly detaining and delaying its vessels and in seizing one or RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 143 more of said vessels and improperly using the same, and in appro- priating to its or their own use the stores and supplies and cargo contained in said vessels and by the wrongful actions of its offi- cials, and particularly its consul at Trinidad, in im-[3o]-properly refusing to clear its said vessels and by discriminating against its said vessels and cargoes transported therein by means of illegal imposts and exactions, as will more fully and particularly appear from the following statement thereof, the details of which state- ment and the items composing the same will appear at length in the vouchers, protests, and proofs submitted herewith. " 800. 00 pesos 600. 00 500. 00 100. 00 Passages and freights, July to Oct., 1900 Hire of "Delta". 44 days 8, Hire of "Socorro" 6 days Hire of "Socorro" 5 days Hire of "Socorro" 11 days i, Hire of "Masparro" 11 days 1,100.00 Hire of "Guanare," "Socorro," "Masparro," and "Heroe" 3, 000. 00 Hire of "Guanare" 1, 650. 00 Hire of "Socorro" 57 days 5, 700. 00 Hire of "Masparro" 3 days 300. 00 Hire of "Socorro" and "Masparro" 75 days to March 31, 1902 7,500.00 Passages to March 31, 1902 3> 348- 76 |i,053.oo 33. 598- 76 Pesos Claim for refund of National Imposts illegally levied Losses sustained owing to detention of "Bolivar" by Consul Expenses caused by stoppage of "Bolivar" at San Felix and cost of goods delivered for use of Government Loss of earnings, June to November, as per average statement Detention and use of "Masparro" and "Socorro," from April i, 1902.- $25, 845, 20 I9-57I-34 3. 509- 22 2, 184. 20 61,336.20 28,461.53 Amount forward [31] Amount brought forward. Repairs to " Masparro" Repairs to " Socorro " Passages since April i, 1902 $141, 960. 69 $141, 960. 69 2,520.50 2,932.98 224. 62 $147, 638. 79 From all of which it plainly appears that there is reasonably, equitably, and justly due to your memorialist from the Republic of Venezuela the sum of one million three hundred and seventy-six thousand five hundred and thirty-nine dollars and five cents ($1,376,539.05), United States gold or its equivalent, without including interest on such of said claims as interest is properly »[P.i67 infra.] 144 APPENDIX. chargeable upon, claim for such interest not being waived, but being hereby expressly asserted. In addition to the foregoing your memorialist hereby makes claim for the further sum of twenty-five thousand dollars for counsel fees, charges, and expenses incurred in and about the prosecution of said claims. Wherefore your memorialist claims of and from the Republic of Venezuela the full sum of one million four hundred and one thousand five hundred and thirty-nine dollars and five cents ($1,401,539.05), in United States gold or its equivalent, exclusive of interest, as aforesaid. The Orinoco Steamship Company, By R. Morgan Oi Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Bolivar," Presente. Sirvase Ud. dar pasaje de ida y vuelta al Ciudadano Enrique C. Pardn, empleado de esta Aduana, quien va A Trinidad, en comisidn del servicio. Dios y Federaci6n, T. A. Barroeta Briceno. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela, custom house. Cd. Bolivar, Sept. 17, ipoo. [90th year of independence and 40th of federation.'] To the Captain S. S. Bolivar. Please furnish first class return passage to Mr. Enrique C. Pardn, employe of this Custom House, who goes on commission to Trini- dad, for the service. God and Federation, T. A. Barroeta Briceno. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. APURE. JEPATURA Civil y Militar del Estado. San Fernando, 2 de Julio de ipoo. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Apure," P. Sirvase Ud. dar pasaje, para Carcara, d bordo del buque de su mando, al Ciudadano Gral. Antonia Sampedro y d diez u ocho individuos de tropa, por cuenta del Gobierno. Dios y Federacidn, M. MiLLARQUEZ. " [The numbers in brackets throughout this section are the original page numbers of the pamphlet filed before the Mixed Commission, 1903. — Agent's note.] ' * [This line, usually abbreviated to "90° y 42°" appears in most of the Spanish texts, but was not translated in the pamphlet filed before the Mixed Commission of 1903. The translation has been inserted in brackets. — Agent's note.] 172 APPENDIX. [Translation.) U. S. OP Venezuei^a. APURE. Civiiv AND Military Chief of the State. San Fernando, July 2, igoo. To the Captain S. S. Apure. Present. Please furnish passage to Caicara on your vessel to General Antonio Sampedro and eighteen soldiers, for account of the Gov- ernment. God and Federation, M. Mii,i,arquez. [28] EsTADOs Unidos db Venezuela. APURE. Jefatura Civil y Militar del Estado. San Fernando, de 26 de Julio de ipoo. Ano 90.° de la -Independencia y 42.° de la Federacion. Vale d favor de la Compania Orinoco "Shipping and Trading Limited," por la suma de novecientos y sesenta boHvares, per valor de pasajes de jefes, oficiales y tropa, desde este puerto hasta Bruzual, por ida y vuelta. Dios y Federaci6n, M. MiLLARQUEZ. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela. APURE. Civil and Military Chief of the State. San Fernando, July 26, 1900. [90th year of independence and 42nd of federation.] Due bill in favor of The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, for the sum of nine hundred and sixty bolivares, for pas- sages of Chiefs, officers and soldiers from this port to Bruzual, going and coming. God and Federation, M. MiLLARQUEZ. EsTADOS Unidos de Venezuela. APURE. Jefatura Civil y Militar del Estado. San Fernando, 18 de Agosto de 1900. Ano go." de la Independencia y 42.° de la Federacidn. Vale d favor de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco y Apure "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.," por la suma de RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. 1 73 cuatrocientos ochenta Bolivares, ochenta centimos {B. 480.80), importe de pasajes desde Pto. Nuhias hasta aqui, en visita oficial del Gobierno de la Nacidn y del Edo. Dies y Federacidn, M. Millarquez. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela, apure. Civil and Military Chief of the State. San Fernando, Aug. i8, igoo. [goth year of independence and 42nd of federation.] Due bill in favor of The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., for the sum of four hundred and eighty Bolivares and eighty centimes (B480.80), value of passages from Port Nutrias to this place on official business of the National Government and of the State. God and Federation, M. MillarquEz. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE VENEZUELA. APURE. JEFATURA Civil y Militar del Estado. San Fernando, i8 de Agosto de igoo. Ano go." de la Independencia y 4.2.° de la Federacidn. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Apure," Pie. Sirvase dar pasaje de segunda en el buque de su mando al [29] Ciudadano Comandante Judn Santiago Mota, que va en comisidn del servicio publico hasta la capital de Guayana. Dios y Federacidn, M. MillarquBz. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela. APURE. Civil and Military Chief of the State. San Fernando, Aug. i8, igoo. [goth year of independence and 42nd of federation.] To the Captain, Steamship Apure. Please furnish a second class passage on your ship to Major Juan Santiago Mota, who goes on commission for the public service as far as the capital of Guayana. God and Federation, M. Millarquez. 174 APPENDIX. Est ADOS Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO APURE. PrESIDENCIA PrOVISIONAI, DEI. ESTADO. EiBERTAD, 7 de Setiembre de igoo. Ano 90.° de la Independencia y 42." de la Federacion. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "A pure," Pte. Sirvase dar pasaje en el vapor de su mando, por cuenta de este Gobiemo, al Ciudadano Br. Horacio Troconis, que se dirije d San Fernando, en comisidn del Gobierno que preside. Dios y Federacidn, Fran'^" Parra Pacheco. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela, state of apure. Provisional Presidency of the State. EiBERTAD, Sept. 7, 1900. [90th year of independence and 4.2nd of federation.] To the Captain S. S. Apure, Present. Please furnish a passage on your steamer for account of this Government to Mr. B. Horacio Troconis, who goes to San Fer- nando on commission for the Government over which I preside. God and Federation, Franco. Parra Pacheco. San Fernando, 10 de Setiembre de igoo. Vale d favor de "The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co., Ltd.," por dos mil seiscientos y cincuenta bolivares, 6 sean pesos sencillos seiscientos sesentidos, con cincuenta centavos ($662.50), que pagard el Gobiemo Nacional por trasporte en el vapor "Apure" hasta Nutrias, la guarnicidn nacional al mando del General Eladio M. Rodriguez (cuatro oficiales y cien hombres de tropa); y por trasporte de ida y vuelta desde aqui i. Nutrias del Gobiemo (per- sonal) de la Seccidn Apure, llamado d aquel Puerto por el Presi- dente Provisional del Estado Apure, General T. Parra Pacheco. Dios y Federaci6n, El Gobernador de la Seccidn Apure, M. MiLLARQUEZ. RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 19. 1 75 [Translation.] San Fernando, Sept. lo, 1900. Due bill in favor of The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. for 2650 Bolivares, or say $662.'50 pesos, which the National Govern- ment will pay for the conveyance on the S. S. Apure to Nutrias of the National garrison under command of Gen. Eladio M. Rod- riguez (four officers and one hundred soldiers) ; and for the con- veyance and return to Nutrias of the personnell of the Govern- ment of the Apure Section, called to that port by the Provisional President of the State of Apure, General T. Parra Pacheco. God and Federation, The Governor of the Apure Section. M. M1LI.ARQUEZ. « [30] ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUEI.A. ESTADO APURE. GoBiERNO Provisional de la Seccion Apure. San Fernando, 10 de Setiembre de igoo. Cindadano Luis Curlaender, Capitdn del Vapor nacional "Apure," Presente. Por requerirlo, asi el servicio publico, prevengo d Ud., que el vapor de su mando no puede seguir viaje para Ciudad Bolivar, hasta segunda orden. Y lo comunico d Ud. para su conocimiento y fines consiguientes. Dios y Federaci6n, M. Millarquez. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela, state of apure. Provisional Government op the Apure Section. San Fernando, Sept. 10, igoo. Citizen Luis Curlaender, Captain S. S. Apure, , Present. It being requisite for the public service, I beg to notify you that the ship under your command cannot continue her voyage to Ciudad Bolivar until further orders. And I communicate this to you for your guidance and compliance therewith. God and Federation, M. Millarquez. 1 ^6 APPENDIX. ESTADOS Unidos DE Venezuei^a. estado guayana. Jekatura Civil del Distrito Cedeno. Caicara, 26 de Octubre de igoo. Ano 90.° de la Independencia y 42.° de la Federacidn. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Apure," Pte. De orden del Ciudadano Presidente del Estado embarca abordo del buque de su mando al Coronel L. M. Riobueno que va conduc- iendo seis reclutas. El pasaje correspondiente es por cuenta del Estado. Dios V Federaci6n, EuG. Burgos A. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela, state of guayana. Civil Chief of the Cedeno District. Caicara, Oct. 26, 1900. [90th year 0} independence and 42nd of federation.] To the Captain S. S. Apure, Present. By order of the President of the State, Col. L. M. Riobueno is taking passage on your vessel, having in his charge 6 recrmts. The corresponding tickets are for account of the State. God and Federation, EuG. Burgos A. Estados Unidos de Venezuela, estado guayana. San Felix, de 2g de Noviembre de igoo. Ano go." de la Independencia y 42." de la Federacidn. A su bordo. Ciudadano Fiscal del Vapor "Delta," El Dador de la presente, Senor Bernardino Silva, empleado, [31] se dirige en comisi6n ante el Cdno. Presidente del Estado, y asi espero que Ud. como autoridad abordo de dicho buque interponga su influencia, para que se le d€ pasaje hasta Ciudad Bolivar, y pueda dejar cumplilo su cometido. Anticipdndole las gracias, Dios y Federacidn, Ram6n C. Ruiz. RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 1 77 [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela, state of guayana. San Feux, Nov. 29, 1900. [goth year of independence and 42nd of federation.'] To the Mail Agent '^ on hoard S. S. Delta. The bearer of this will be Mr. Bernardino Silva, employ^, who goes on commission to the President of the State, and I therefore trust that as a public officer on board said vessel you will use your influence to see that a passage is furnished him to Bolivar so that he may carry out his mission. Anticipating my thanks, God and Federation, Ramon C. Ruiz. Camaguan, 24 de Julio de igoo. Senor Capitdn del Vapor "Delta.'' Sirvase darme pasaje en su buque, para San Fernando de Apure, por cuenta del Gobierno Nacional, para mi, veinte (20) oficiales y doscientos (200) hombres de tropa. Dios y Federacidn, Rafael M. Carabano. [Translation.] Camaguan, July 24, igoo. To the Captain of the Delta. Please furnish passage on yotur vessel to San Fernando de Apure, for account of the National Government, for myself, twenty (20) officers and two hundred (200) soldiers. God and Federation, Rafael M. Carabano. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO apure. PrEsidencia Provisional del Estado. LiBERTAD, ig de Noviembre de igoo. Ano go." de la Independencia y 42." de la Federacidn. Ciudadano Contador del Vapor "Guanare," Pto. Nutrias. Sirvase dar pasaje en primera clase, por cuenta del Gobierno del Estado d los Ciudadanos Dr. Lisandro Alvarado y Coronel Domingo Castillo, M., que van d San Fernando, en comisidn del servicio ptiblico. Dios y Federacidn, FRAisrcisco Parra Pacheco. « [Fiscal. — Agent's note.] 1 7301 — 10 12 ...^,, 1 78 APPENDIX. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela, state of apure. Provisional Presidency of the State. LiBERTAD, NoTj. ig, 1900. [goth year of independence and 42nd of federation.] To the Purser S. S. Guanare, Port Nutrias. Please issue a first class passage for account of the Government of the State to Dr. Lisandro Alvarado and Col. Domingo Cas- tillo M., who go to San Fernando, on commission of the public service. God and Federation, Francisco Parra Pacheco. [32] ESTADOS UniDOS DE VENEZUELA. EST ADO GUAYANA. CiUDAD Bolivar, 6 de Junio de igoo. Ano Sg." de la Indepe'ndencia y 42.° de la Federacidn. Senor Agente de la Compania de Vapor es del " Orinoco " etc., Pte. Espera el Ciudadano Jefe Civil y Militar del Estado, que Ud. se sirva proporcionar al portador que lo es el Teniente Eleodoro Guillen, un pasaje gratis d bordo del Vapor "Socorro, " hasta San Fernando, para que por esa via se restituya d. los lugares de su domicilio en el "Alto Apure, " por encontrarse enfermo y carecer de recursos para su trasporte. Dios y Federacidn, El Secretario General: M. Silva Medina. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela. state of GUAYANA. Cd. Bolivar, June 6, igoo. \8gth year of independence and 42nd of federation.] Agent Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. The Civil and Military Chief of the State trusts that you will please furnish the bearer of this letter, Lieutenant Eleodoro Guillen, a free passage on board the S. S. Socorro as far as San a ["Therefrom" should be "by that route." — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 1 79 Fernando, so that he may therefrom " reach his home in the Upper At)ure, he being sick and having no means to defray his expenses." God and Federation, The Secretary General, M. SiLVA Medina. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. APURE. JEPATURA Civil y Militar del Estado. San Fernando, 14 de Junio de igoo. Ano Sp." de la Independencia y 42.° de la Federacidn. Ciudadano Capitan del Vapor Nacional "Socorro," Pte. For motives de orden plibUco, ha dispuesto esta Jefatura detener el vapor de su mando, en este puerto, hasta segmida orden. Y lo participo d Ud. para su conocimiento, Dios y Federacidn, M. Millarquez. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. APURE. Civil and Military Chiee of the State. San Fernando, June 14, 1900. [89th year of independence and 42nd of federation.] To the Captain S. S. Socorro, Present. For reasons of pubUc order, this office has decided to detain the steamer under your command at this port until further orders. I inform you of this for your guidance. God and Federation, M. Millarquez. [33] EsTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. estado apure. Jefatura Civil y Militar del Municipio. Elorza, 24 de Agosto de 1900. Ano 89." de la Independencia y 42.° de la Federacidn. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Socorro," Pte. En vista de la necesidad que tiene el Cdno. Crnel. Judn de D. Vivas de trasladarse al Municipio Amparo, con una guardia que a[i. e., of transportation. — Agent's note.] l8o APPENDIX. tiene d su mando para el desempeno de una comisidn del Gobierno. Esta jefatura exije d Ud. se sirva darle pasaje con la guardia que estd al mundo de dicho Coronel. Dios y Federacidn, El Jefe Civil Interino: EsT^BAN Est6. , [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela, state op apure. Civil and Military Chief of the Municipality. Elorza, Aug. 24, igoo. \8gth year of independence and 42nd of federation.] To the Captain S. S. Socorro. Col. Juan de D. Vivas being obliged to go to the Municipality of Amparo with a guard he has under his command to carry out a commission of the Government, this Jefatura desires that you should "* give him passage for himself and his men. God and Federation, The Civil Chief, ad interim, EsT^ban Est6. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO APURE. Jefatura de OpEraciones y Representacion del Gbno. del E. EN EL DiSTRlTO PaEZ. GuADUALiTO, 28 de Agosto de 1900. Ano de8g.°de la Independencia y 43.° de la Federacidn. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Socorro," Amparo. Siendo urgente d los intereses de la paz del Gbrno. Nacional y del E. Apure, la permanencia de una guarnicidn en el mpio. Elorza del Distrito Alto Apure, Ud. dard paso d bordo del Barco de su cargo al Cdno. Crnel. Isaac Ontiveros y veinte y cinco hombres mds hasta aquel mpio., por cuenta del Gbno. de la naci6n. Sirvase acusar recibo, Dios y Eederaci6n, Jos6 Av. GonzAlEz, S. » [The correct translation would seem to be " the Jefatura demands that you, " etc. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 181 [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela, state of apure. Chief of Operations Representing THE Government in the Paez District. GuADUALiTO, Aug. 28, igoo. \89th year of independence and 43rd of federation.] To the Captain S. S. Socorro. Amparo. It being necessary in the interest of the peace of the National Government and of the State of Apure that a garrison be kept in the Municipality of Elorza of the District of the Upper Apure, you will please give passage on board the ship under your command to Col. Isaac Ontiveros and twenty " men as far as that Munici- ■ pality, for account of the Government of the Nation. Please acknowledge receipt. God and Federation, Jos6 Av. Gonzalez S. [34] EsTADOs Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO APURE. JEPATURA Civil y Militar del Municipio. Bl Amparo, 29 de Agosto de igoo. Ana go." de la Independencia y 42." de la Federacidn. Luis J. Vallie, Jefe Civil y Militar del Municipio "El Amparo," Certifico: Que el Ciudadano Jos^ Perez, Capitdn del V-apor "Socorro," ha sido detenido en este puerto desde las dos de la tarde del dia de ayer hasta las diez de la manana de hoy, en cumplimiento de orden de las Autoridades Superiores de este Distrito, con el objeto de conducir un nlimero de hombres arma- dos al Municipio de "Blorza" del Distrito Alto Apure, cuya comisidn se hace necesaria en obsequio del servicio piiblico. IvUis J. Vall6e. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela. state of apure. Military and Civil Chief of the Municipality. Kl Amparo, Aug. 2g, igoo. [goth year of independence and 42nd of federation.] I, Luis J. Valine, Civil and Military Chief of the Municipality of El Amparo, certify: That the citizen Josi Perez, Captain of " [The Spanish says " twenty -five. " — Agent's note.] 1 82 APPENDIX. the S. S. Socorro has been detained at this port from 2 o'clock yesterday afternoon to 10 o'clock this morning, in compliance with the order of the Supreme Authorities of this District, for the purpose of taking a number of armed men to the Municipality of Elorza, District of the Upper Apure, the said commission being necessary in behalf of the public service. Luis J. Vall^e. B11.1. No. 3. [Translation.] I 8th ApriIv, 1 90 1. For detention of the steamer " Delta," by order of the Provisional President of the State of Guayana, from the i8th day of December, 1900, to the 31st day of January, 1901, as per vouch- ers attached: — 44 days @ 200 Pesos Pesos 8,800.00 Equal to $6, 769. 23 CUENTA No. 3. 18 DE Abril de 1 901. Por detencion del Vapor "Delta," por orden del Presidente Provisional del Bstado Guayana desde el 18 de diciembre, 1900, hasta el 31 de Enero, seglin comprobantes adjuntes, — 44 dias d 200 pesos - - - Pesos 8,800.00 Equal to $6, 769. 23 [35] Comprobantes No. j. ESTADOS UnIDOS de VENEZUEIvA. ESTADO GUAYANA. CiUDAD Boi^rvAR, 16 de Marzo de 1901. Ano go." de la Independencia y 43." de la Federacion. Ciudadano Presidente Provisional del Estado. El suscrito, Subgerente de "The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Ltd.," con el fin de rendir cuentas d la Direccidn de dicha Compania, del servicio prestado por sus vapores al Gobierno Nacional, suplica d Ud. se sirva certificar al pie: i.° C6mo es cierto que el Vapor "Delta" fu^ detenido en este puerto, desde el dia 18 de Diciembre de 1900 hasta el dia 31 de Enero de 1901. 2.° C6mo es cierto que el Vapor " Socorro " fu^ despachado para Las Bonitas el dia 23 de Enero, regresando el dia 28 del mismo RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 1 83 mes del corriente ano, y que desde eiitonces quedd detenido hasta el dia 24 de Febrero. Es justicia que espero merecer en Ciudad Bolivar, d diez y seis de Marzo de mil novecientos uno. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.: M. Salas Baiz, Sub-Manager. (Ciudad Bolivar.) El Presidente provisional del Estado Guayana Certifica: En virtud de necesidades de orden pliblico impuestas por el estado de guerra, dispuse como responsable de la conservacidn de la paz del Estado, detener en este puerto d. mis drdenes el vapor nacional "Delta," y lo tuve desde el 19 de Diciembre de 1900 hasta el dia 31 de Enero de 1901, que habiendo cesado aquella urgencia lo devolvi d la Compaiiia de Vapores del Orinoco. En cuanto al vapor tambien nacional "Socorro," es igualmente cierto que lo recibi de la Compaiiia de Vapores del Orinoco el dia 23 de Enero y lo devolvi cinco dias despues, el 28 [36] del mismo mes del corriente aiio, y fue solicitado para enviarlo en comisidn d Caicara del Orinoco, con un piquete de la guarnicidn de esta plaza d hacer la prisidn del General Tomds Guardia, ordenada por el Jefe Supremo de la Reptiblica. Dejo asi atendida la solicitud d que se refiere la precedente representacidn. L. Guevara. Translation. To the Citizen, the Provisional President of the State. The undersigned, Sub-Manager of "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Ltd.," hereby requests you to certify at foot the following points, for the object of informing the directors of the Company about the services rendered by their Steamers to the National Government : 1. That it is true that the Steamer "Delta" was detained in this port from the i8th of December, 1900, to the 31st of January, 1901. 2. That it is true that the Steamer "Socorro" was despatched for Las Bonitas on the 23rd of January and returned on the 28th of the same month, and that from that day she was detained until the 24th of February. 1 84 APPENDIX. It is justice that I expect to obtain at Ciudad Bolivar, on the 1 6th of March, 1901. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co.: (Sgd.) M. Salas Baiz, Sub-Manager. (Ciudad Bolivar.) The Provisional President of the State of Guayana Certifies: By virtue of necessities concerning pubUc order, which have been produced by the state of war, I, being responsible for the maintenance of peace in this State, ordered the national Steamer " Delta " to be detained in this port and held at my disposal, and I kept her from the 19th of December, 1900, until [37] the 31st of January, 1901, on which date, that urgency having ceased, I sent her back to the Orinoco Steamship Company. With regard to the " Socorro," which is also a national Steamer, it is true that I received her from the Orinoco SS. Company on the 23rd January this year and sent her back five days later. She was required to be sent on a commission to Caicara on the Orinoco River, with a detachment of the garrison of this place, for effecting the imprisonment of General Tomas Guardia, which was ordered by the Supreme Chief of the Republic. Thus I do respond to the petition contained in the above appli- cation. Ciudad Bowvar, March i6th, igoi. Ninetieth year of independence and 43rd year of federation. (Sgd.) L: Guevara. Cuenta No. 4. El Gobierno de Venezuela d The Orinoco Steamship Company. For alquiler del vapor "Socorro," 6 dias @ 100 pesos por dia 600.00 [Translation.] Bii,!, No. 4. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company. To hire of SS. Sororro [Socorro], 6 days, @ 100 pesos per day - (Pesos) 600.00 RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. 19. 1 85 [38] BiLi, OK Exhibit No. 5. Translation. The Government of Venezuela to " The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited." 1 901 April 1 1 . For hire of the Steamer ' ' Socorro ' ' to San Felix from the 6th day of April to the loth day of the same month, 5 days @ Pesos 100 per day Pesos 500.00 Equal to $385. 38 CUENTA No. 5. El Gobierno de Venezuela d The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Com- pany, Limited. 1 901 Abril II. Por alquiler del Vapor "Socorro" d San Felix, desde el 6 de Abril hasta el dia 10 del mismo mes. 5 dias @ Pesos 100 Pesos 500. 00 Equivalente d $385. 38 [39] Comprobante No. 5. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA estado guayana. Presidencia Provisional Nlimero 341. CiUDAD Bolivar, 22 de Enero de igoi. Ana go de la Independencia y 42 de la Federacion. Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de vapor es del Orinoco Pte. Sirvase Vd. disponer hoy mismo la salida del vapor "Socorro" para Caicara en comision de este Gobierno cerca del Jefe Civil del Distrito Cedeiio General Sabino Fabare, Uevando d su bordo un piquete de la Guarnicidn de esta plaza, con el cual regressard tan pronto como scan cumplidas las drdenes de urgencia que comunico d aquella autoridad. Sirvase Vd. avisarme la hora de la salida para tenerlo todo dispuesto oportunamente. Dios y Federacidn (firmado) L. Guevarra. 1 86 APPENDIX. [Translation.] Exhibit 5. CiUDAD BouvAR, 227id January, igoi. goth year of the Independence and 4.2nd of the Federation. To the Citizen, The Manager of the Company of Steamers of the Orinoco, Present. Kindly give instructions for the departure to-day of the steamer "Socorro" for Caicara, in commission for this Government, on behalf of the Civil Chief of the District of Cedeno, General Sabine Fabare, taking on board a picket of the garrison of this city, with which she will return as soon as the orders of urgent impor- tance which I am forwarding to the authorities there, have been carried out. Kindly let me know the hour of her departure, so that I might have everything ready in time. God and Federation, (signed) L- Guevarra. [40] Comprobante No. 5. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. (Seal) PODER EjECUTIVO. ESTADO GUAYANA. Cd. BoLfvAR, 6 de abril de igoi. go y 43. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de vapor es del Orinoco. Pte. Sirvase Vd. poner d disposicidn del Gobierno del Estado el vapor nacional "Socorro" de un todo listo para zarpar ahora mismo d conducir a San Felix al General Ovidio Perez Bustamante con una fuerza que lleva para el Distrito Piar, y senalar la hora de partida para que el embarque sea oportunamente hecho. Dios y Federacidn, (firmado) h. Guevarra. [Translation.] Exhibit No. 5. Cd. Bouvar, 6th April igoi. go and 43. To the Citizen Manager of the Company of Steamers of the Orinoco Present. Kindly place at the disposal of the Government of the State, the Venezuelan Steamer "Socorro" in perfect readiness, to leave RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 187 immediately for San Felix, with General Ovidio Perez Bustai- mante and some troops which he is taking to the Piar District; and advise me of her hour of departure, so that they might embark in good time. God and Federation, (signed) L. GuEvarra. [41] Biivi. No. 6. [Translation.] I9OI July 30. For detaining the Steamer " Socorro " at San Fernando from the 30th July (tho) 9th day of August, 11 days @ Pesos 100 per day... - Pesos i, 100.00 Equal to $846. 15 CUENTA No. 6. 1901 Julio 30. Por retener el Vapor "Socorro" en San Fernando, desde el 30 de Julio, hasta el dia 9 de Agosto, 1901. 11 dias @ Pesos 100 - Pesos i, 100.00 Equivalente d $846. 15 Comprobante No. 6. EE. UU. DE Venezuela. ESTADO APURE. G0BERNAC16N DEL DisTRiTo San Fernando. San Fernando, 30 de Julio de 1901. 91 y 43- Ntimero 214. , Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Socorro" Pte. De orden del Ciudadano Secretario General de este Estado se servird Vd. detener el barco que estd d, su cargo hasta que le scan comimicadas nuevas drdenes. Dios y Federacidn, Pedro Igno. Carreno. 1 88 APPENDIX. [42I [Translation.] Exhibit 6. San Fernando, 30th July, 1901. gist and 43d. To the Citizen, The Captain of the steamer "Socorro" Present. By order of the Citizen the Secretary General you are requested to detain the ship under your command, until you have received fresh orders. God and Federation, (signed) Pedro Igno. Carreno. BiLi^ of Exhibit 7. [Translation.] The Government of Venezuela to " The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited." 1 901 August 4. For detaining the steamer "Mas- parro " at El Amparo from the 4th day of August to the 14th day of the same month, 1 1 days @ Pesos 100 per day Pesos i, 100.00 Equal to $846. 15 Cuenta No. 7. El Gobierno de Venezuela d The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Com- pany, Limited. 1901 Agosto 4. Por retener el Vapor "Masparro" en El Amparo desde el 4 de Agosto hasta el dia 14 del mismo mes. II dias @ Pesos 100 Pesos i, 100.00 Equivalente d $846. 15 RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 19. 1 89 [43] Exhibit 7. Est ADOS Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO APURE. 91° 7 43°- No. 41. Jefatura Civil de la Parroquia El Amparo, Agosto 4 de igoi. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Masparro En este Ptierto. Por asuntos de importancia que en la actualidad ocupan esta jefatura, se hace necesario que el Vapor de su mando, permanezca en el Puerto hasta nueva orden. Dios y Federaci6n, Luis J. Vall^e. [Translation J Prefect's Office of the District op El Amparo, 4th August, igoi. To the Citizen, The Captain of the Steamer Masparro, In Port. Business of importance which at present occupies this Office makes it necessary that the steamer under your command should remain in this Port until further orders. God and Federation, (Sd.) Luis J. Vall^E. CuENTA No. 8. Por servicios prestados por losVapores abajo mencionados, retenidos por orden del Gobierno, segHn comprobante fechado el ig de Marzo de igo2. Vapor " Guanare " d Caicara, desde el 23 de Septiembre hasta el i de Octubre de 1901. 9 dias @ Pesos 150- i, 350. 00 A la vuelta 1,350.00 [44] De la vuelta i , 350. 00 Vapor "Socorro" a Barrancas, desde el 26 de Sep- tiembre hasta el i de Octubre de 1901. 6 dias @ Pesos 100 -— — 600. 00 Vapor "Masparro" i, Caicara, desde el 4 hasta el 9 de Octubre de 1901. 6 dias @ Pesos 100..- 600. 00 Vapor " Heroe " d Soledad, el 21 de Septiembre de 1901 . I dfa — - -- 150. 00 19° APPENDIX. Vapor " Masparro " d Barrancas, desde el lo hasta el 12 de Octubre. 3 dias @ Pesos 100 300.00 Pesos 3, 000. 00 Equivalente d $2, 307. 70 [Translation.] Bill of Exhibit 8. For services rendered by the undermentioned steamers detained by order of the Government, as per voiM:her dated igth May, igo2. S.S. "Guanare" to Caicara, from 23d September to ist October, 1901. 9 days @ Pesos 150 1,350.00 S.S. "Socorro" to Barrancas, from 26th September to ist October, 1901. 6 days @ Pesos 100 600.00 S.S. "Masparro" to Caicara, from 4tli October to gth October, 1901. 6 days @ Pesos 100 600.00 S.S. "Heroe" to Soledad, 21st September, i day 150.00 S.S. "Masparro" to Barrancas, from loth to 12th October, 1901. 3 days @ Pesos 100.. 300.00 Pesos 3, 000. 00 Equal to $2, 307. 70 E. & O. E. 12th October, igoi. [45] Comprobante No. 8. Senor General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente Provisional del Estado Bolivar: Los suscritos, Subgerentes de "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.," con el fin de rendir d la Direccidn de la mencionada Compania, tma relacidn del movimiento de sus buques al servicio del Gobiemo, suplicamos d Ud., se sirva certificar al pie d los par- ticulares siguientes: 1.° Como es cierto que el dia 23 de Septiembre del corriente ano, zarp6 de este puerto el vapor "Guanare," con destino d Caicara, en comisidn del Gobierno, de donde regres6 el dia primero del corriente mes. 2° Como es cierto que el dIa 26 de Septiembre del corriente ano, zarp6 de este puerto el vapor nacional "Socorro," con destino d Barrancas, en comisidn del Gobiemo, y regresd el dia primero del corriente mes. 3.° Como es cierto que el dia 4 del corriente, zarpd de este puerto el vapor nacional "Masparro," con destino d Caicara, en comisidn del Gobiemo, de RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 191 donde regres6 el 9 del corriente. 4.° Como es cierto que el dia 21 del prdximo pasado, estuvo remolcando el vapor "Heroe" una goleta de soledad d este puerto, y luego conduciendo fuerzas d aquel puerto. 5.° Como es cierto que el dia 10 del presente mes, zarp6 con destine a Barrancas el vapor "Masparro," en comisidn del Gobierno, de donde regres6 el 12 del mismo mes. — Es justicia que esperamos alcanzar en Ciudad Bolivar, d, 14 de Octubre de 1901. — Firmado, por "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd."— C. Hammer.— M. Salas Baiz. Seilor General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente Constitucional del Estado Bolivar. P. Como este documento se extravio, suplico i. Ud. se sirva cer- tificarme, si son ciertos los particulares que se consignan en ^1. Cd. Bolivar, 5 de Mayo de 1902. por The Orinoco Steamship Co.: P. J. AlvCALA. [46] El Presidente del Estado Bolivar Certifica: Que son ciertos los particulares consignados en la precedente solicitud, como los mismos d, que se refiere la certificacidn anterior que la Compaiiia dice, habersele extraviado y queda por la presente sin valor alguno. Ciudad Bolivar, 19 de Mayo de 1902. 91.° y 44.° J. Sarria Hurtado. [TranslationJ Exhibit of Bill No. 8. To General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Provisional President of the .State of Bolivar. The under-mentioned Sub-Managers of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company in order to render to the Director of the above- mentioned Company a statement of the operations of their Steam- ers at the service of the Government, do hereby request you to certify at foot the following particulars : i . Whether it is true that on the 23d Sept., this year, the Steamer Guanare left this port on a commission of the Government, bound for Caicara, whence she returned on the ist instant. 2. Whether it is true that on the 26th Sept. last, the steamer" Socorro left this port bound for Bar- rancas, on a Government Commission, having returned on the ist instant. 3 . Whether it is true that on the 4th instant the steamer * " [The translation should be " the national steamer," i.e., vessel carrying Venezuelan flag.— Agent's note.] 6 [See previous note.] 192 APPENDIX. Masparro left this port for Caicara, on a Government Commission having returned on the 9th instant. 4. Whether it is true that on the 2 1 St of last month the steamer Heroe was towing a schooner from Soledad to this Port and then carrying troops to that Port. 5. Whether it is true that on the loth instant the steamer Masparro started from here, bound for Barrancas on a Government Com- mission, having returned on the 12th of the same month. It is Justice that" we expect to obtain in Ciudad Bolivar this 14th day of October, 1901. Signed, The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Com- pany, Ltd., by C. Hammer, M. Salas Baiz. To General JuUo Sarria Hurtado, Constitutional President of the State of Bolivar, Present. As this document has been misplaced, I request you to certify whether the particulars therein mentioned are true. Cd. Bolivar, May 5, 1902. for The Orinoco Steamship Company, (Sgd.) P. J. AlvCALA. The President of the State of Bolivar Certifies: That the particulars enumerated in the foregoing petition are just as true as those to which refers the former certificate which the Company states has been misplaced, and which is hereby cancelled. Ciudad Bolivar, May 19, 1902. Signed on Stamps. J. Sarria Hurtado. CUENTA No. 9. El Gobierno de Venezuela d The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. Por servicios prestados por el Vapor "Guanare," retenido por orden del Gobierno, seglin compro- bante. Desde el 13 hasta el 23 de Octubre de 1901. II dias @ Pesos 150 Pesos 1,650.00 Equivalente d $1, 269. 23 13 de Octubre de 1901. o [For "It is Justice that" the translation should read, "This is an act of Justice which." — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CI COMANDANCIA DE ArMAS. ESTADO ApURE. San Fernando, 13 de Octubre de igoi. pjo y 4.30. No. 173. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Gtianare," Presente. Sirvase poner ^ disposicidn de esta comandancia, y por orden del Ciudadano Presidente de la Repliblica, el vapor de su mando para conducir fuerzas hasta Puerto Nutrias, y regresar d esta Ciudad. Dios y Federaci6n, (Sd.) CivODOMiRO Sanchez. San Fernando, 23 de Octubre de 1901. Habiendo verificado la comisidn exigida por el Ciudadano Presidente de la Repfiblica puede Ud. disponer del vapor como d bien tenga. (Firmado) C. Sanchez. Al Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Guanare." 17301 — 10 13 194 APPENDIX. [Translation.] Exhibit p. United States op Venezuela. state of apure. (Seal) COMANDANCIA DE ArMAS. ESTADO ApURE. San Fernando, October 13, 1901. No. 173. To the Citizen, The Captain of the Steamer "Guanare." Present. Kindly place at the orders of this department, and by order [48] of the Citizen, President of the Republic, the steamer under your command to take forces to Puerto Nutrias and return to this city. God and Federation, (Sd.) Clodomiro Sanchez. San Fernando, October 23, igoi. As the Commission requested by the Citizen President of the Republic has been duly carried out, you may dispose of the steamer as you like. (Sd.) C. Sanchez. To the Citizen, Captain of the SS. " Guanare." CuENTA No. 10. El Gobierno de Venezuela d the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. Por servicios prestados por el Vapor "Socorro," rete- nido en Ciudad Bolivar por orden y ^ la disposicidn del Gobierno, desde el 16 de Octubre hasta el dia 10 de Diciembre de 1901. 54 dias @ Pesos 100 5,400.00 Por servicios prestados "^ por el Vapor "Socorro," mandado en comisi6n d San Felix, desde el 3 hasta el 5 de Enero de 1902. 3 dIas @ Pesos 100 300.00 Pesos 5, 700. 00 Equivalente d, $4, 394. 61 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 1 95 [Translation.] [49] Bii^L OF Exhibit id. The Government of Venezuela to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. Services rendered by the Steamer "Socorro," de- tained at Bolivar by and at the disposal of the Government from the i6th of October to the loth of December, 1901. 54 days @ Pesos 100 per day.... 5, 400. 00 Services rendered by the Steamer "Socorro," sent on commission to San Felix from 3rd to 5th of January, 1902. 3 days @ Pesos 100 per day 300.00 Pesos 5, 700. 00 Equal to $4, 384. 61 Comprobante No. 10. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUEI.A. TESORERIA GENERAL DEL ESTADO BOLIVAR. (Sello.) (Sello.) EsTADO Bolivar. Presidencia Provisional. Clase Octava. Estado BolIvar. Vale un BolIvar. El suscrito, Subgerente de "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., I/td.," con el fin de rendir d la direcci6n de la mencionada Compania, una relacidn del movimiento de sus buques, suplica £ Ud. se sirva certificar al pie, d. los particulares siguientes: i." Si es cierto que el vapor "Socorro," perteneciente d, esta Compania, sali6 en comisidn del Gobierno el 16 de Octubre liltimo, y que, despu^s de esta fecha, ha hecho tres viajes mds d San Felix, tambi^n en comisidn del Gobierno, regresando del tiltimo viaje el dia 15 de Noviembre. [50] 2." Si es cierto igualmente, que desde su regreso hasta esta fecha, permanece fondeado en este puerto por orden y d dispo- sicidn del Gobierno; y 3." Si es cierto, que el Vapor "Bolivar," perteneciente d esta Compania, d su pasada por San FeUx el dos de los corrientes tomd d su bordo al General A. Barrdn con cien hombres de tropa, y los condujd d este puerto. 196 APPENDIX. Asf lo pido d. Ud. en Ciudad Bolivar d los nueve dias de Diciembre del afio mil novecientos uno. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.: C. Hammer, Sub-Manager. {Civdad Bolivar.) Presidencia Provisional del Est ado Bolivar. Senor General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente Provisional del Estado Bolivar. Ciudad Bolivar, 10 de Diciembre de igoi. 91." y 43.0 El suscrito Presidente Provisional del Estado Bolivar Certifica: Que seglin los documentos que existen en el Archivo de este Despacho, son ciertos los particulares d que se contrae la solicitud que precede. J. SarrIa Hurtado. El Secretario General, B. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Exhibit 10. Clase Octava. Vale UN Bolivar. The undersigned, Sub-Manager of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Ltd., hereby requests you to certify, at foot, the following points for the object of affording the Directors of the Company information as to the movements of their steamers. [51] I. That it is true that the steamer "Socorro," belonging to the Company left in commission for the Government on the i6th of October last, and since that date has made three trips more to San FeUx also in commission for the Government returning from her last trip on the 1 5th of November. 2. That it is also true that from the date of her return to the present date she has remained anchored in this Port, by the order and at the disposal of the Government. 3. That it is true that the steamer " Bolivar," belonging to the Company, on her passing at San Felix on the 2nd instant took on board General A. Barran and one hundred men and brought them to this Port. RECORD OF ClyAIM NO. 19. 197 It is justice that I expect to obtain at Ciudad Bolivar on the 9th of December, 1901. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Ltd.: (Signed) C. Hammer, Sub-Manager. (Citidad Bolivar.) Provisional Presidency op the State Bouvar. To General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Provisional President of the State of Bolivar. Ciudad Bolivar, loth of December, 1901. The undersigned Provisional President of the State of Bolivar Certifies: That, according to the documents which are filed in the Archives of this Office, the particulars which I am requested to certify are true. (Sgd.) J. Sarria Hurtado. El Secretario General, (Sgd.) B. Arreaza Monagas. [52] Bill op Exhibit ii. [Translation.] For services rendered by the undermentioned steamer, detained by order of the Government as per voucher, dated 28th of February, 1902. SS. "Masparro," Guarampo, 26th to 27th of January, 1902. 2 days @ Pesos 100 200.00 SS. "Masparro," Corrientoso, on the nth of February, 1902. I day 100.00 Pesos 300. 00 Equal to $230. 76 CuenTa No. II. Por servicios prestados par el Vapor abajo expresado,retenido por orden del Gobierno, segHn comprobante fecha de 28 de Febrero de igo2. Vapor "Masparro," d Guarampo, desde el 26 hasta el 27 de Enero. 2 dias @ Pesos 100 200.00 Vapor "Masparro," d Corrientes, el dia 11 de Febrero de 1902. I dia - 100.00 Pesos 300.00 Equivalente d $230. 76 198 APPENDIX. Comprobante No. 11. Presidencia Provisional. (Sello.) ESTADO BOUVAR. KSTADO BOLfVAR. Clase Octava. Vale UN Bolivar. Ciudadano Oral. Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente Constitucional del Estado Bolivar, Presente. El suscrito, Agente de "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.," con el fin de rendir d la Direcci6n de la mencionada [53] Compania, una relacion del movimiento de sus buques suplica i Ud. se sirva certificar al pie d los particulares siguientes: i.° Si es cierto que el 3 de Enero pr6ximo pasado, salid el Vapor "Socorro" en coniisi6n d San Felix, por orden del Gobierno, de donde regres6 el dia 5 del mismo mes d las 10 a. m. 2° Si es cierto que el 26 de Enero proximo pasado, sali6 el Vapor "Masparro" en comisidn del Gobierno, con destino d Guar- ampo, de donde regres6 el dia 27 del mismo mes, d las 6 p. m., y que volvi6 d salir en otra comision el 11 del corriente mes d. la 1.30 p. m., con destino d Corrientoso, regresando el mismo dla d las 4 p. m. ; y 3.° Si es cierto que el Vapor " Bolivar," d su paso por San Felix el 23 de Enero prdximo pasado, tomo d su bordo 2 oficiales y 60 hombres de tropa, y los condujo d este puerto. Asl lo pido d Ud. en Bolivar d los veintiseis dias de Febrero de mil novecientos dos. (Firmado) The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.: P. J. Alcala. (Sello.) Presidencia, Estado Bolivar. Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente Constitucional del Estado Bolivar, Certifica: i.° Que es cierto que el 3 de Enero prdximo pasado, salid el Vapor " Socorro " en comisidn d San Felix, por orden del Gobierno, de donde regres6 el dia 5 del mismo mes d las 10 a. m. 2." Que es tambien cierto que el 26 de Enero prdximo pasado salid el Vapor "Masparro" en comisidn del Gobierno, con destino d Guarampo, de donde regresd el dia 27 del mismo mes d las 6 p. m., y que volvid d salir en otra comisidn el 11 del corriente mes RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 199 d la 1.30 p. m., con destine d Corrientoso, regresando el mismo dia d las 4 p.m.; y 3.° Que es igualmente cierto el Vapor "Bolivar" d su paso por San Felix el 23 de Enero pr6ximo pasado, tomd d su bordo dos oficiales y 60 hombres de tropa, y los conduj6 d este puerto. Ciudad Bolivar, 28 de Febrero de 1902. (Firmado) J. SarrIa Hurtado. Exhibit II. [54] Translation. To the Citizen General Julio Sarria H. , Constitutional President of the State of Bolivar. Present. The undersigned Agent of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, I,imited, requests you to certify at foot the following particulars, so that he might give the Directors of the aforesaid Company a statement of the movements of its steamers. I St. That it is true that on the 3rd of January last the steamer "Socorro" sailed in commission for San Felix by order of the Government, and that she returned from there on the 5th of the same month, at 10 a. m. 2nd. That it is true that on the 26th of January last the steamer "Masparro" sailed in commission for the Government for Gua- rampo, and she returned from there on the 27th of the same month, at 6 p. m.; and that she left on another commission on the nth of the current month, at 1.30 p. m., for Corrientoso, and returned the same day at 4 p. m. 3rd. That it is true that steamer "Bolivar," when she touched at San Felix on the 23rd of January last, took as passengers for this port 2 officers and 60 men. I request this of you at Ciudad Bolivar on the 26th day of February, 1902. (Sgd.) The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.: P. J. AlcaIvA. Julio Sarria Hurtado, President of the State of Bolivar, Certifies: [ffist. That it is true that on the 3rd of January last the "So- corro" sailed in commission to San Felix by order of the Govern- ment, returning on the 5th of the same month, at 10 a. m. 2nd. That it is also true that on the 26th of January last the steamer "Masparro" sailed in commission for the Government for Guarampo, returning on the 27th of the same month, at 6 p. m.; ■'■f f 200 APPENDIX. and that she left on another commission on the nth of the pres- ent month at 1.30 p. m., destined for Corrientoso, and returned the same day, at 4 p. m., and, [55] 3rd. That it is also true that steamer " Bolivar," when she touched at San Felix on the 23rd of January last, took as passen- gers for this port two officers and sixty men. Ciudad Bolivar, 28th of February, 1902. (Signed) J. Sarria Hurtado. Bill op Exhibit 12. [Translation.! For services rendered by the undermentioned steamers, detained by order of the Government. SS. "Socorro," from i8th of February to 31st of March, 1902. 42 days @ Pesos 100 per day 4, 200.00 SS. "Masparro," from 27th of February to 31st of March, 1902. 33 days @ Pesos 100 per day._._ 3,300.00 Pesos 7, 500. 00 Equal to $5, 769. 23 E. & O. E. CUENTA No. 12. Por servicios prestados por los abajo expresados Vapores, retenidos por or den del Gobierno: Vapor "Socorro," desde el 18 de Febrero hasta el 31 de Marzo de 1902. 42 dias @ Pesos 100 4, 200.00 Vapor " Masparro," desde el 27 de Febrero hasta el 31 de Marzo de 1902. 33 dias @ Pesos 100 3, 300.00 Pesos 7, 500. 00 Equivalente ^ $5, 769. 23 [56] Comprobante No. 12. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. Tesoreria General del Estado BoLfvAR. (Sello.) (Sello.) EsTADO Bolivar. Presidencia Provisional. EsTADO BOLfVAR. Ciudadano Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente Constitucional del Es- tado Bolivar. El suscrito Agente de "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.," con el fin de rendir d la Direccidn de la mencionada Com- RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 19. 20I pafiia una relaci6n del movimiento de sus buqiies, suplica i. Ud. se sirva certificar al pie i, los particulares siguientes : I." Si es cierto que el dia 18 de Febrero prdximo pasado sali6 el Vapor "Socorro" en comisidn del Gobierno, con destino d Manoa, de donde regresd el 1 7 del mismo mes que volvid A zarpar el 27, con destino d Tucupita, regresando de este liltimo puerto el 2 de Marzo, que desde esta fecha ha hecho tres viajes d Barrancas y uno d Corrientoso, regresando de este liltimo puerto el dia 21 .del mismo Marzo y permanece desde entonces i. las 6rdenes y por cuenta del Gobierno; y 2° Si es cierto que desde el 27 de Febrero de prdximo pasado esta el Vapor " Masparro" por cuenta y orden del Gobierno. Asi lo pido d Ud. en Ciudad Bolivar d los treinta y un dias del mes de Marzo de mil novecientos dos. (Firmado) The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.: P. J. Al,CAI,A. /. Sarria Hurtado, Presidente Constitucional del Estado Bolivar, Certifica: Que son ciertos en todas sus partes los particulares a que se contra la anterior solicitud. Devuelvese d su dueno el original de la presente solicitud. Ciudad Bolivar, 21 de Abril de 1902. (Firmado) J. Sarria Hurtado. Exhibit 12. [57] Translation. General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Constitutional President of the State of Bolivar. The undersigned Agent of The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., wishing to render to the Directors of the said Company a statement of the movements of their steamers begs you to kindly certify at foot to the following particulars. — I. If it is true that on the i8th of February last the SS. "So- corro" left for Manoa on Government Commission from which port she returned on the 27th of February; that she again left on the 27th for Tucupita, returning on the 2nd of March, and that from that date she has made three trips to Barrancas and one to Cor- rientoso, returning from this last port on the 21st of March and that she is since then at the order and for the account of the Gov- ernment, and. 202 APPENDIX. 2. If it is true that SS. "Masparro" is at the order and for the account of the Government since the 27th of February. Ciudad BoHvar, 31st of March, 1902. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., P. J. Ai^CALA. /. Sarria Hurtado, Constitutional President of Bolivar, Certifies: That all the particulars on the above therein contained are true. Original of this request to be returned to party interested. 2ist df April, 1902. (Sgd.) J. Sarria Hurtado. BiivivS OF Exhibit 13. 1 901. [63] Mayo 7. — For pasajes en camara de los Senores : M. Silva Medina d Trinidad 20. 00 M. A. Guevara 6. Trinidad. 20. 00 J. V. Guevara d Trinidad 20. 00 Mayo 13. — '3 presos criminales de Barrancas 30.00 90.00 Junio 3. — For pasajes en camara de los Seiiores: Dr. G. Calatrava d San Felix 5 . 00 Junio 23. — Edo. Sanchez, de San Fernando d Nutrias 20. 00 J. M. Oliveros y asistente d Nutrias 35- 00 Junio 27. — ^Judn Rivas G. d Moitaco 10.00 Narciso Grillet A., de San Felix. 5.00 Junio 28. — Ernesto Ruiz, de Los Castillos 6.00 V. Romero, de San Fernando. 25.00 R. Bravo, de San Fernando 25.00 131.00 Julio 10. — For pasajes en camara de los Seiiores: M. F. Reverdn d Nutrias, ida y vuelta 79. 20 Julio II. — B. Arreaza i hijo, de San Felix.. 10.00 Julio 15. — D. Arreaza M. d Trinidad, ida y vuelta 36. 00 Julio 17.— L. A. Talhardat y una bestia, d San FeUx 10. 00 Julio 26. — Rodolfo Bigott, de San Felix 5. 00 RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 19. 203 Julio 30.— Pedro Ramos d Trinidad 20. 00 A. Lujan, de Caicara 15.00 Luis F. Acosta £ Barrancas 5. 00 Rafael Diaz a Barrancas ...._ 5.00 Fco. Martinez d Barrancas- _ 5.00 A la vuelta 190. 20 221 . 00 [64] De la vuelta 190. 20 221. 00 Miguel Arismendi, J. E- Benites, L. Castillo, d Trinidad y vuelta_ 108. 00 Alojamiento y comida A bordo @ Pesos 2.50 diarios cada uno, 8 dias _ 60.00 358. 20 Agosto 8. — Por pasajes de los Senores sigui- entes en camara: Narciso Grillet A., de San Felix.. 5. 00 Agosto 12. — T. J. Ontiveros, de San Fernando d Nutrias.... 20.00 Agosto 13. — J. E. Benites, C. Gomez, L. Castillo, d Trinidad ida y vuelta 100.00 Alojamiento y comida d 'bordo, 8 dlas @ Pesos 2.50 diarios cada uno 60. 00 Pedro Ojeda d Trinidad 20. 00 Agosto 14. — Flete de 11 bultos, de Trinidad, 54 pies cubicos @ centavos 16 11-23 Agosto 19. — Antonio Villegas S., de San Fer- nando 25.00 Agosto 22. — B. Arreaza, de San Felix 5.00 Agosto 24. — ^A. Sarria M., i. Trinidad ida y vuelta.. 36.00 J. G. Perez G., de San Felix 5.00 Agosto 25. — Trifondo Landaeta, Curiapo d El Toro 15- 00 Martin Kohler, Curiapo d El Toro... 15.00 Cesar Grillet y 2 policias, Curiapo d El Toro 25. 00 Agosto 26. — Cesa.r Grillet, El Toro d Sta. Cata- lina .-.- 5- 00 Agosto 28. — Fco. Gonzalez C. de San Felix 5.00 Leonardo Ranseo de San Felix 5- 00 Jacinto Ranseo de San Felix 5. 00 Adon Navarro II clase de Barrancas 5.00 367.23 A la vuelta Pesos [946. 43 204 APPENDIX. [65] De la vuelta 946. 43 Setiembre 5. — Por pasajes en cdmara de los Sefiores : Rafael Montilla de Barrancas.— 10. 00 Bartolome Monroy de Barrancas 10. 00 L. F. Rojas C. de San Fernando 25. 00 Setiembre 6. — B. Salom de Caicara i5-oo Setiembre 10. — Clodomiro Sanchez de San Fer- nando d Nutrias 20.00 6 oficiales de San Fernando d Nutrias 120.00 67 liombres de tropa II clase de San Fer- nando d Nutrias 670.00 J. T. Calatrava d Trinidad 20.00 L. A. Falhardat d, Trinidad 20. 00 C. Cotira ida y vuelta d Barrancas 20. 00 Setiembre 15. — Bernabe Ardila de San Fer- nando _. 25.00 Setiembre 27. — Luis A. Delgresse d Mapire.-...'— 12.00 J. T. Baso Jugo d Barrancas — - 10.00 16 hombres de tropa II clase d Barrancas.-.- 80.00 1,057.00 Pesos 2,003.43 Menos 50% segfin el contrato con el Gobierno Nacional .- i, 001. 71 Pesos 1,001.71 S. E. ti O. $770. 54 Translation. 1 901. May 7. — For cabin passage to Messrs. : M. Silva Medina to Trinidad 20.00 M. A. Guevara to Trinidad.... 20.00 Carried forward 40. 00 [66] Brought forward 40. 00 J. V. Guevara to Trinidad 20.00 May 17. — 3 criminal prisoners fr. Barrancas 30. 00 90. 00 June 3. — For the following cabin, passages: Dr. G. Calatrava to San Felix 5- 00 June 23. — Eduardo Sanchez, San Fernando to Nutrias 20. 00 J. M. Oliveros and assistant do 35. 00 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 205 June 27. — Juan Rivas G. to Moitaco lo. oo Narciso Grillet A. from San Felix 5. 00 June 28. — Ernesto Ruiz from Los Castillos 6. oo V. Romero, from San Fernando... 25.00 R. Bravo, from San Fernando. 25. 00 131 . 00 July 10. — ^For the following cabin passages: M. F. Reveron, round trip to Nutrias 79. 20 July 1 1 . — B. Arreaza and son to San Felix 10. 00 July 15. — D. Arreaza M. round trip to Trinidad.. 36. 00 July 17. — Iv. A. Falhardat and an animal to San Felix 10.00 July 26. — Rodolfo Bigott, from San Felix 50.00 July 30. — Pedro Ramos to Trinidad 20.00 A. Lujan from Caicara 15- 00 Luis F. Acosta to Barrancas. 5- 00 Rafael Diaz to Barrancas.. 5- 00 Fco. Martinez to Barrancas 5- 00 Miguel Arismendi, J. E. Benites, L. Castillo, to Trinidad and return 108. 00 Board and lodging on board at Pesos 2.50 per day each, 8 days 60.00 358. 20 August 8. — -For the following cabin passages: Narciso Grillet A., from San Felix. 5. 00 August 12. — T. J. Ontiveros, San Fernando to Nutrias 20.00 Carried forward 25.00 579.20 [67] Brought forward 25.00 579.20 August 13. — J. E. Benites, C. Gomez, L. Castillo, Trinidad and return '.... 100.00 Board and lodging on board, 8 days at Pesos 2.50 per day each 60. 00 Board and lodging for Mr. Jorge Herrera, 6 days, and servant 6 days 30. 00 Pedro Ojeda to Trinidad 20.00 August 14. — Freight on 11 packages from Trini- dad, 54 cubic feet @ 16 centavos 11-23 August 19. — Passages to Antonio Villegas S. from San Fernando 25. 00 August 22. — B. Arreaza, from San Felix .' 5.00 206 APPENDIX. August 24. — A. Sarria H., round trip to Trini- dad ._... ._ 36.00 J. G. Perez G. from San Felix 5.00 August 25. — ^Trifon Landaeta, Curiapo to Bl Toro 15.00 Martin Kohler, Curiapo to El Toro 15. 00 Cesar Grillet and 2 police officers, do 25.00 August 26. — Cesar Grillet, El Toro to Santa Catalina 5- 00 August 28. — Eco. Gonzales, C. from San Felix.... 5. 00 l/conardo Ranseo from San Felix 5- 00 Jacinto Ranseo, from San Felix.. 5. 00 Adon Navarro 2d class from Barrancas 5- 00 367.23 Sept. 5. — For the following cabin passages: Rafael Montilla from Barrancas 10. 00 Bartolome Monroy from Barrancas 10. 00 L. F. Rojas from San Fernando 25.00 Sept. 6. — B. Salom from Caicara 15. 00 Sept. 10. — Clodomiro Sanchez from San Fernan- do to Nutrias 20. 00 6 officers from San Fernando to Nutrias.. 120.00 Carried forward 200. 00 946. 43 [68] Brought forward 200. 00 946. 43 67 soldiers, 2d class from San Fernando to Nutrias 670.00 J. T. Calatrava to Trinidad... 20.00 ly. A. Falhardat to Trinidad 20. 00 C. Cotira, round trip to Barrancas 20.00 Sept. 15. — Bernabe Ardila from San Fernando.. 25.00 • Sept. 27. — Luis A. Delgresse to Mapire 12.00 J. T. Baso Jugo to Barrancas 10.00 16 soldiers, 2d class to Barrancas.... 80.00 1,057.00 Pesos 2,003.43 Less 50% according to the contract with the National Government.. 1,001. 71 Pesos 1,001.71 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar. $770. 54 Sept. 30, 1901. RECORD OF CI,AIM NO. I9. 207 1 90 1. Por los siguintes pasajes en camara: Jtmio 25. — General Luis Grafe Calatra, d San Felix 5. oo Octubre 4. — Sr. Josd Romero, Barrancas d Bolivar 10. 00 Gral. Juan Rivas G., i. Moitaco.... 10.00 Gral. Manuel Delepiani, d Caicara — . 20.00 Y 2 Jefes, 8 Oficiales. 200.00 40 soldados en cubierta.. ..— 400. 00 Octubre 7. — Sr. Manuel P. Duarte, i, San F^lix 5. 00 Sr. Ernesto Mota, d San Felix 5- 00 Sr. Manuel de J. Arreaza, d San Fdlix 5- 00 Octubre 8. — Carlos Olavarria, d Trinidad 20.00 Salvador Hernandez, d Trinidad 20.00 Octubre 9. — Sr. Pro. Jos^ C. Quintana R., d San Fer- nando 35- 00 Sr. Santiago Machado, d Las Bonitas-.. i5-oo A la vuelta 750. 00 [69] De la vuelta 750. 00 Octubre 22. — Sr. Jose R. Avila, Trinidad 20.00 Sr. Carlos Guia, d Trinidad, ida y vuelta 36. 00 Sr. Antonio Ochoa e hijo, d Trinidad.... 40.00 Octubre 27. — Sr. B. Salom, de Caicara 15- 00 Sr. P. Africano y i oficial, de San Felix a Barrancas.. 10. 00 40 hombres de tropa en cubierta, de San F^lix d Barrancas.... : 200. 00 Octubre 30. — Sr. Domingo A. Polanco, de Trinidad 20. 80 Sr. Fernando Gonzales, de Trinidad. 20. 80 Octubre 31. — Antonio Biaggi, de Barrancas 10.00 Sr. P. Africano y i oficial, de Barrancas d San F^lix.. 10. 00 45 hombres de tropa, en cubierta, de Barrancas d San F^lix - 225. 00 Sr. Juan B. Mathison, de San Felix.. 5.00 Nov[i]embre 5. — Sr. Olegario Quero, d San Felix 5.00 Sr. Santiago Moreno, en cubierta d San Felix 2. 50 Sr. Juan B. Torres, d Trinidad..... 20. 00 Sr. D. Serrano y Senora en cubierta d Trinidad 20. 00 Sr. Carlos R. Coll, d Caicara 20. 00 Rafael Ochoa, d Caicara 20.00 Nov[i]embre 9. — Sr. Eustaquio Guerra, en cubierta d Caicara — -^— 10.00 Sr. Justo Barcaza, en cubierta d Caicara.. 10.00 Sr. Jos6 F. Perez, en cubierto d Caicara 10.00 208 APPENDIX. Nov[i]embre 14. — J. B. Gonzales, de San Fernando d Camaguan.. 6.00 Sr. Heredia, de San Fernando d Camaguan - 6. 00 Sr. F. M. Scott, de San Fernando d Camaguan 6. 00 3 asistentes en cubierta, de San Fernando d Cama- guan - 9.00 Nov[i]embre 15. — Sr. M. Carabano, de San Fernando , 25. 00 Un Secretario, de San Fernando 25.00 Un Ayudante, de San Fernando 25.00 Nov[i]embre 19. — Sr. Trifon Landaeta, d Trinidad 20.00 A la vuelta i, 602. lo [70] De la vuelta i, 602. 10 Sr. R. Nunes Caseres, a Trinidad 20. 00 Sr. Rafael M. Carabano, d Trinidad.. 20.00 Sr. Dr. Augusto Figueredo, d Trinidad 20. 00 Sr. Leon Carabano, d Trinidad 20. 00 Nov[i]embre 21. — Sr. Pedro M. Canas, d Barrancas 10.00 Pesos I, 692. 10 Menos 50% segtln contrato 846.05 Pesos 846.05 Equivalente d $650. 80 S. E. fi O. CiUDAD Bolivar, jo de Noviembre de igoi. Translation. For the following cabin passages : 1 901, June 25. — Gen. Luis Grafe Calatrava to San Felix 5. 00 Oct. 4. — Mr. Jose Romero, Barrancas to Bolivar 10.00 Gen. Juan Rivas G. to Moitaco 10.00 Gen. Manuel Delepiani to Caicara 20.00 And 2 chief[s] and 8 officers 200.00 40 soldiers on deck 400.00 Oct. 7. — Mr. Manuel P Duarte to San Felix 5.00 Mr. Ernest Mota to San Felix... 5.00 Mr. Manuel J. Arreaza to San Felix 5.00 Oct. 8. — Mr. Carlos Olavarria to Trinidad 20.00 Mr. Salvador Hernandez to Trinidad 20.00 Oct. 9. — Rev. Jos^ C. Quintana R. to San Fernando _ 35- 00 Chr. Santiago Machado to Las Bonitas... _ 15- 00 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 209 Oct. 22. — Mr. Jose R. Avila to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. Carlos Guia, round trip to Trinidad.... 36. 00 Mr. Antonio Ochoa and son to Trinidad 40. 00 Carried forward 846. oo [71] Brought forward 846. 00 40 soldiers on deck, from San Felix to Barrancas... 200. 00 Oct. 27. — Mr. Salom from Caicara. 15- 00 Mr. P. Africano and i officer, from San Felix to Barrancas 10. 00 Oct. 30. — Domingo A. Polanco, from Trinidad 20. 80 Mr. Fernando Gonzalez, from Trinidad 20. 80 Oct. 31. — Antonio Biaggi, from Barrancas 10.00 P. Africano and i officer, from Barrancas to San Felix 10. 00 45 soliders on deck, from Barrancas to San Felix.... 225. 00 Mr. Juan B. Mathison, from San Felix 5. 00 Nov. 5. — Olegario Quero to San Felix 5- 00 Mr. Santiago Moreno, on deck to San Felix.... 2. 50 Mr. Juan B. Torres to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. D. Sorrano and wife, on deck to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. Carlos R. Coll to Caicara 20.00 Mr. Rafael Ochoa to Caicara.. 20. 00 Nov. 9. — Mr. Estaquio Guerra, on deck to Caicara lo. 00 Mr. Justo Barcaza, on deck to Caicara 10. 00 Mr. Jos^ F. Perez, on deck to Caicara 10.00 Nov. 14. — Mr. J. B. Gonzalez, from San Fernando to Camaguana.... 6.00 Mr. A. Heredia, from San Fernando to Camaguana.. 6. 00 Mr. F. M. Scott, from San Fernando to Camaguana.. 6. 00 3 assistants, on deck from San Fernando to Cama- guana 9.00 Nov. 15. — Mr. Rafael M. Carabano, from San Fernando.. 25. 00 A Secretary, from San Fernando 25. 00 An Assistant, from San Fernando.... 25. 00 Nov. 19. — Mr. Trifon Landaeta to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. R. Nufiez Caceres to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. Rafael M. Carabano to Trinidad 20. 00 Dr. Augusto Figueredo to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. Leon Carabano to Trinidad.. 20. 00 Nov. 21. — Mr. Pedro M. Canas to Barrancas 10.00 Carried forward Pesos 1,692.10 1 7301 — 10 14 2IO APPENDIX. [72] BrougHt forward Pesos i, 692. 10 Less 50% as per contract 846.05 Pesos 846.05 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $650. 80 E. & O. E. Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 30, igoi. [74] Por pasaje al General A. Barren y 100 hombres de tropa de San Felix d Ciudad Bolivar, por el vapor "Bolivar" el 2 de Diciembre de 1902, seglin el comprobante fechado 9 de Diciembre de 1901 (medio pasajes) pesos.... 255.00 [75] Translation. For passage to Gen. A. Barran and 100 men from San Felix to Ciudad Bolivar, December 2, 1902, as per voucher (half passage)... 255.00 = $196.15 Por pasajes dados por cuenta del Gobierno, desde el i de Noviembre de 1901 hasta el 14 de Enero de 1902, seglin comprobantes i, 861.00 Menos 50%, seglin contrato con el Gobierno de Vene- zuela 930. 50 Pesos 930. 50 $715.00 S. E. ii O. Translation. For passages issued for account of the Government from November i, 1 901, to January 14, 1902, as per vouch- ers filed in Trinidad office i, 861. 00 Less 50% on passages, as per contract with the Govern- ment 930. 50 Pesos 930. 50 Equal at exchange to 1.30 Pesos per dollar $715.00 E. & O. E. January ij, igo2. RECORD OK CI^AIM NO. I9. 211 1902. Knero 8. — Por los siguientes pasages en cdmara: Sr. Mario Garcia P. de Trinidad.. 20.00 A la vuelta 20. 00 [76] De la vuelta 20. 00 Sr. J. Mayobre de Trinidad 20.00 Sr. P. Pinto, en cubierta de Trinidad 10.00 Enero 23. — Sr. M. de J. Rojas d, San Felix. 5- 00 Enero 27. — Sr. D. Arreaza M. ida y vuelta Trinidad 36. 00 Enero 28. — Sr. M. Mariani ida y vuelta Trinidad.. 36. 00 Sr. Carlos Guia d Barrancas 10. 00 Sr. M. Martinez A. d Trinidad 20.00 157.00 Por pago d la tripulacion del vapor "Mas- parro" en viaje comisidn del Gobierno... 22. 50 Menos 50% sobre 157.00 valor de los pasa- jes seglin contrato con el Gobierno 179- 50 78.50 Pesos loi . 00 B. 404.00 S. E. tiO. 51 de Enero de igo2. Translation . 1902. Jan. 8. — For the following cabin passages: Mr. Mario Garcia P., from Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. J. Mayobre, from Trinidad 20.00 Mr. P. Pinto, on deck from Trinidad 10. 00 Jan. 23. — Mr. M. de J. Rojas, to San Felix 5.00 Jan. 27.— Mr. D. Arreaza M., round trip to Trinidad 36.00 Carried forward 91 . 00 [77] Brought forward 91 . 00 Mr. M. Mariani, round trip to Trinidad._ 36. 00 $77-69 212 APPENDIX.. Jan. 28. — Mr. Carlos Guia, to Barrancas 10. 00 Mr. M. Martinez A., to Trinidad 20. 00 157. 00 To payment to the crew of the steamer " Masparro " on trip in the service of the Government 22. 50 179-50 Less 50% on 157.00, value of the passages, as per contract with the Government 78. 50 Pesos loi. 00 B. 404.00 Equal to exchange 1 .30 pesos per dollar... $77. 69 E. & O. E. January 31, igo2. Por pasajes por el vapor "Bolivar" d 2 oficiales y 60 hombread, San Felix el dia 23 de Enero de 1902 (medio pasajes) — —. Pesos 80. 00 $61.51 Translation. Passages per "Bolivar" of 2 officers and 6 [60] men to San Felix on the 23d of January 1902 (half pas- sages) - Pesos 80. 00 Equal at exchange i .30 pesos per dollar $61 . 50 [78] February 28, 1902. Por pasaje dado al Senor M. Silva Medina de Trinidad d Ciudad Bolivar seglin comprobante fechado el dia 5 de Febrero de 1902 Pesos 30.00 Menos50% $11. '54 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 2 13 Translation. 5 de Febrero de 1902. S. E. tiO. For- passages issued to Sr. M. Silva Medina from Trinidad to Cd. Bolivar, as per voucher dated February 5, 1902 Pesos 30.00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar Less 50% Si I. 54 For los siguientes pasajes en cdmara: 1902 Febrero 8. — Carlos M. Roman a Los Castillos. 6. oo J. Rodrigo B. to Los Castillos 6. oo Carlos Dreyer to Los Castillos 6. oo Febrero 9. — E. Quintero d Trinidad 20. 00 Febrero 17. — F. A. Lamar a San Felix 5. 00 Febrero 18. — J. Rauseo d San Felix 5- 00 Febrero 21. — 10 hombres de tropa en cubierta de Los Castillos 30. 00 Febrero 23. — J. M. Travieso de Caicara.... i5-oo R. E. Guerra de Caicara ..._ 15. 00 Febrero 25. — J. Rauseo d San Felix 5. 00 F. A. Marmol d, San Felix , 5. 00 M. F. Reveron d Trinidad ida y vuelta._ 36. 00 Visso Mata d Trinidad 20. 00 174. 00 Marzo 13. — Alberto Ponce d Trinidad 20. 00 L. Laforye d Trinidad en cubierta 10. 00 Marzo 25. — M. Arismendi S. d Trinidad ida y vuelta 36. 00 66. 00 A la vuelta Pesos 240. 00 [79] De la vuelta Pesos 240. 00 Menos 50% , segtin contrato con el Gobiemo Nacional 120.00 Pesos 120.00 31 de Marzo de 1902. $92.30 214 APPENDIX. Translation. To cabin passage, issued to the following gentlemen : 1902. Febr. 8. — Carlos M. Romdn to Los Castillos 6. 00 J. Rodrigo B. to Los Castillos 6. 00 Carlos Dreyer to Los Castillos 6. 00 Feb. 9. — E- Quintero to Trinidad 20. 00 Feb. 17. — F. A. Lamar to San Felix.... 5. 00 Feb. 18. — J. Rauseo to San Felix 5, 00 Feb. 21. — 10 recruits, 2d class, from Los Cos- tillos 30. 00 Feb. 23. — J. M. Travieso from Caicara 15- 00 R. B. Guerra from Caicara 15. 00 Feb. 25. — J. Rauseo to San Felix 5. 00 F. A Marmol to San Felix 5. 00 M. F. Reveron, round trip to Trinidad 36. 00 Visso Mata to Trinidad.... 20. bo 174. 00 Mar. 13. — Alberto Ponce to Trinidad 20.00 L. Laforye, 2d class to Trinidad.... 10. 00 Mar. 25. — M. Arismendi S., rotmd trip to Trini- dad 36. 00 66. 00 Pesos 240. 00 Less 50% , as per contract with the Govern- ment 120.00 Pesos 120.00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar.. $92. 30 E. &0. E. — March 31, 1902. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 215 [80] Comprobante No. ij. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO BOLiVAR. SecretarIa General. CiUDAD Bolivar, 7 de Mayo de igoi. Ano ()o° de la Independencia y 43.° de la Federacion. Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapor es del Orinoco, P. De orden del ciudadano Presidente provisional del Estado, sir vase Vd. expedir cddula de pasaje en primera clase i, bordo del Vapor "Delta," con destino a Trinidad, i. los ciudadanos Gral Manuel Silva Medina y Coroneles Manuel Antonio y Jose Vicente Guevara, por cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federacion, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation ] U. S. OF Venezuela. Office of the Secretary General. Cd. Bolivar, May 7, 1901. [90th year of independence and 43rd of federation.] To the Agents"- Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class ticket by the S. S. Delta to Trinidad for Gen. Manuel Silva Medina and Col.'' Manuel Antonio and Jose Vicente Guevara, for account of the Government of the State. God and Federation. D. Arreaza Monagas. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA estado guayana. Barrancas, 17 de Mayo de igoi. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional "Delta," Presente. Sirvase recibir d, bordo de ese vapor y con destino d, Bolivar, tres presos criminales que me han sido entregados por la Autoridad Civil del Distrito. Dios y Federacion, J. Bazo Jugo. "■ ["Agents" should be "manager." — Agent's tiote.] b ["Col." should be "Cols." — Agent's note.] 2l6 APPENDIX. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. STATE OF GUAYANA. Barrancas, May 17, 1901. Captain S. S. Delta. {Present.] Please receive on board that Steamer to be taken to Bolivar, three criminals delivered to me by the Civil Authorities of the District. God and Federation. J. Bazo Jugo. CiUDAD Bolivar, 3 de Junio de igoi. 90." y 43." Nfimero 102." Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente Provisional del Estado sirvase usted expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase, [81] en el vapor "Delta," con destine a San Felix, al ciudadano doctor Gabriel Calatrava, que se dirije al Distrito Piar en el desempeno de una comision del Servicio Publico; cuyo pasaje se servird usted cargar d la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federacion, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.! [No. 102.] CiUDAD Bolivar, June j, ipoi. [goth and 43rd.] Agents ** Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class passage by the S. S. Delta to San Felix to Dr. Gabriel Calatrava, who goes to the Piar District on a commission of the public service, which passage you will please charge to the account of the Government of the State. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. » [The nutnbers of letters were not translated in the record before the commission of 1903, and the translation therefore appears in brackets. — Agent's note.] b [" Agents" should be "Manager." — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 217 ESTADO UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO APURE. San Fernando, 2j de Junio de igoi. 90." y 43." Ciudadano Comandante del vapor " A pure," Pte. Sirvase dar pasaje hasta Nutrias, y por cuenta del Gobierno Nacional, d los coroneles, Kduardo Sanchez y Jesus M.°^ Oliveros y un asistente, quienes van para la Front era con Colombia, en comisi_6n de esta Comandancia. Dios y Federaci6n, Clodomiro Sanchez. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela. STATE OF APURE. San Fernando, June 23, 1901. [goth and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Apure, Present. Please furnish passage to Nutrias for account of the National Government, to Col. Eduardo Sanchez and Col. Jesus M. Oliveros and an assistant, who go to the " frontier on commission from this office. God and Federation, Clodomiro Sanchez. CiUDAD Bolivar, 27 de Junio de igoi. 90."y43.'' Nlimero 170. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en el vapor "Socorro," con destino d Moitaco, al ciudadano General Juan Rivas Gomez, cuyo pasaje anotard Vd. d la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado, con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacion, D. Arreaza Monagas. Conf orme : The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Salas Baiz, Sub-Manager. {Ciudad Bolivar.) (2 [Insert "Colombian" before "frontier." — Agent's note.] 2l8 APPENDIX. [Translation.] [No. 170.] Cd. Bolivar, Jurie 27, igoi. [90th and 43rd.] Agent ° Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Present. Please issue a passage by the S. S. Socorro to Moitaco for Gen- eral Juan Rivas Gomez, which passage you will please charge to the Government of the State with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, ^ Arreaza Monagas. Correct : The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Salas Baiz, Suh-Manuger, Ciudad Bolivar. [82] Est ADOS Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO GUAYANA. San F^lix, 27 de Junio de igoi. 90." y 43." Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional "Delta," Pte. Puede Vd. dar pasaje al velador Narciso Guiles hasta Ciudad Bolivar, que va en comision de este resguardo. Dios y Federacion, Jos^ RODRIGO Balza. Vale d favor del Contador del Vapor Nacional "Delta," per un pasaje d Ciudad Bolivar, que hago en Comisi6n del Servicio Pliblico como Comandante del Resguardo de los Castillos. Los Castillos, 28 de Junio de 1901. Ernesto Ruiz B. [Translation.] U. S. of Venezuela. STATE OF GUAYANA. San F^lix, June 27, igoi. [goth and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Delta, Present. Please furnish a passage to the Customs Police Narciso Grillet [Guiles], who goes to Ciudad Bolivar on a commission for this De- partment. God and Federation, j^^^ Rodrigo Balza. " ["Agent" should be "Manager." — Agent's Note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 219 Due bill in favor of the Purser of S. S. Delta, for a passage to Ciudad Bolivar, where I am going on commission in behalf of the public, service as Commandant of the garrison of Los Castillos. Los Castillos, June 28, 1901. Ernesto Ruiz B. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE VENEZUEIvA. ESTADO APURE. Ntimero 147. San Fernando, 28 de Junio de igoi. 90.° y 43.0 Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor " Apure," Pte. Sirvase dar pasaje hasta Ciudad Bolivar, y por cuenta del Gobierno Nacional, al ciudadano Comandante Valentin Romero, que vd en comisidn de esta Comandancia. Dios y Federacion, Ci^ODOMiRO Sanchez. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. STATE OP APURE. [No. 147. J San Fernando, June 28, igoi. [goth and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Apure, Present. Please issue a passage to Ciudad Bolivar for account of the National Government, to Major Valentin Romero, who goes on commission for this Department for this Department. God and Federation, Clodomiro Sanchez. EsTADOS UnIDOS DB VENEZUELA. ESTADO APURE. Ny43.<> Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor "Apure," Pte. SIrvase dar pasaje hasta Ciudad Bolivar, y por cuenta del [83] Gobierno Nacional, al ciudadano Comandante Ramdn Biaro y asistente, que van en comisidn de esta Comandancia. Dios y Federacidn, Clodomiro Sanchez. 220 APPENDIX. [Translation.) U. S. OP Venezuela. STATE OF APURE. [No. 148.] San Fernando, June 28, igoi. [goth and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Apure, Present. Please furnish a passage to Ciudad Bolivar for account of the National Government, to Major Ram6n Biaro and an assistant, who are going on a commission from this Office. God and Federation, Clodomiro Sanchez. Nfimero 228. Ciudad BoIvIvar, 10 de Julio de igoi. 90.0 y 4.3.0 Ciudadano Gerente de la Companla de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje de ida y vuelta en primera clase d bordo del Vapor "Apure," con destino d Nutrias, al ciuda- dano General Manuel Felipe Reverdn, que vd, en desempefio de una comisi6n del servicio publico, por cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federacion, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] [No. 228.] Ciudad Bouvar, July 10, igoi. {goth and 43rd.] To the Agent °- Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please issue a first class return passage ticket by the S. S. Apure to Nutrias, to General Manuel Felipe Reverdn, who goes on com- mission of the public service for account of the Government of the State. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. Estados Unidos de Venezuela, estado bolivar. Nlimero 130. San F^lix, ii de Julio de igoi. gi." y43-'' Ciudadano Fiscal del Vapor Nacional "Bolivar" d su bordo. Por disposici6n superior se servird Vd. proporcionarle pasaje i bordo de dicho buque al Ciudadano Coronel Bernardo Arreaza i o ["Agent" should be "Manager." — Agent's Note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 221 « hijo, que se dirijen en comisidn del servicio publico d la Capital del Estado. Dios y Federacidn, P. Africano B. [Triinslation.] U. S. OF Venezuela. STATE OF BOUVAR. [No. 130.] San Felix, July ii, igoi. [91st and 43rd.] To the Mail Agent " on board S. S. Bolivar. By superior order, you are requested to furnish passage on your vessel to Col. Bernardo Arreaza and his son, who are going on commission of the public service to the Capital of the State. God and Federation, P. Africano B. CiUDAD Bolivar, 75 de Julio de igoi. 91." y 43.0 N^mero 669. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje de ida y vuelta en pri[84]mera clase en el vapor nacional "Bolivar," con destino d, Trinidad, al ciudadano General Diego Arreaza Mondgas, Secretario General del Estado. Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Cd. Bolivar, July 15, igoi. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 669.] To Agent *" Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue a first class return passage by the S. S. Bolivar to Trinidad for Gen. Diego Arreaza Monagas, Secretary General of the State. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. o [Fiscal. — Agent's Note.] ''["Agent" should be "Manager." — Agent's Note] 222 APPENDIX. CiUDAD BowvAR, ij de Julio de igoi. Ntimero 279. gi° y 43." Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en el vapor "Socorro" al ciudadano Coronel Leopoldo A. Falhardat, que, con una bestia, se dirije d San Felix en el desempeno de una comisidn del servicio publico. Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] [No. 279.J Cd. Bouvar, July ly, igoi. {gist and 43rd.] To the Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue a passage ticket by the S. S. Socorro to Col. I^ 228 APPENDIX. [88] CONSULADO DE LOS E. E- U. U. DE VENEZUELA EN TriNIDAD. Puerto Espana, 14 de Agosto de 1901. Niimero 670. Civdadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional " Delta," A su bordo. Remitidas por la Aduana Maritima de la Guayra y de orden del Ciudadano Presidente Provisional de la Repdblica han Uega- do d la Aduana de este puerto, en el vapor holand6s "Prins Willem IV," diez bultos vestuarios y una caja papel sellado, rotuladas asi : General Ovidio Salas — Ciudad BoHvar — 5 bultos, General Cleodomiro Sanchez — San Fernando — 5 bultos, Admor. de la Aduana — Ciudad BoHvar — i caja; que espero se sirva Ud. admitir d bordo del buque de su mando y conducir d los referidos puertos. * J. Jimenez Arrais. [Translation.] Consulate op the U. S. op Venezuela in Trinidad. Port op Spain, Aug. 14, 1901. [No. 670.] Captain S. S. Delta. Sent by the Custom House of La Guayra, and by order of the Provisional President of the Republic, there have arrived at the Custom House of this port per Dutch Steamer Prins. Willem IV, 10 packages uniforms, and i case stamped paper, addressed as follows : Gen. Oridio Salas, Ciudad Bolivar, 5 packages. , Gen. Clodomiro Sanchez, San Fernando, 5 packages. Collector of Customs, Ciudad Bolivar, i case, which you will please receive on board your ship and convey to said ports. J. Jimenez Arraiz. CONSULADO DE LOS E. E. U. U. DE VENEZUELA EN TrINIDAD. Niimero 671. Puerto Espana, 14 de Agosto de igoi. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional ' 'Delta," A su bordo. Sirvase recibir d bordo del buque de su mando una caja rotu- lada "Ciudadano Admor. de la Aduana' Maritima de Ciudad RECORD OP CLAIM NO. I9. 229 Bolivar," que se servird entregar en dicho puerto al referido senor. Soy de Ud. ato. servidor, J. Jimenez Arrais. [Translation.] Consulate op the U. S. op Venezuela at Trinidad. Port op Spain, Aug. 14, 1901. [No. 671.] Captain S. S. Delta. Please receive on board your vessel a case addressed " Collector of Customs of Ciudad Bolivar" and deliver same to said gentleman at the above port. Yours very truly, J. Jimenez Arraiz. [89] EsTADOs Unidos de Venezuela. Estado apure. San Fernando, Agosto ig de igoi. 91 ■" y 43-'' Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Apure," Pte. Sirvase Ud. dar pasaje hasta Ciudad Bolivar al Coronel Antonio Villegas S., que va desempenando una comisi6n de este Despacho. Dios y Federacidn, Clodomiro Sanchez. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. STATE OP APURE. San Fernando, August 19, igoi. Ygist and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Apure. Please furnish a passage to Ciudad Bolivar to Col. Antonio Villegas S., who goes on a commission of this Office. God and Federation, Clodomiro Sanchez. 230 APPENDIX. Est ADOS Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO BOlvfVAR. San F^ux, 22 de Agosto de 1901. 91.0 y 43." Ciudadano Fiscal del Vapor Nacional "Bolivar." El Ciudadano Bernardo Arreaza se dirije d Ciudad Bolivar, en comisi6n del servicio ptiblico, y espera esta Jefatura que Ud. como autoridad abordo de dicho buque, le haga proporcionar el pasaje, para que deje cumplida su comisidn. Dios y Federacidn, P. Aericano R, [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. STATE OF BOLIVAR. San Felix, Aug. 22, 1901. [91st and 43rd.] To Mail Agent " of S. S. Bolivar. Mr. Bernardo Arreaza goes to Ciudad Bolivar on commission of the public service and this Department begs that you as an authority on board of said steamer, will see that he is furnished a passage, so that he may carry out his commission. God and Federation, P. Apricano R. EsTADos Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO BOLfvAR. San FiSlix, 23 de Agosto de 1901. 91.0 y 43.0 Ciudadano Fiscal del Vapor Nacional "Bolivar." El dador de la presente, Senor Josd G. Perez Guillen, se dirije d Ciudad Bolivar, en comisidn del servicio pliblico, y esta Jefa- tura espera le proporcione el pasaje para dejar cumplida su comisidn. Dios y Federacidn, por El Jefe Civil: M. A. EzEiZA, Secretario. "■ [Fiscal. — Agent's Note.] RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 23 1 fTranslation.] ' U. S. OF VENEZUEIvA. STATE OF BOWVAR. San Fewx, Aug. 23, igoi. \pist and 43rd.] To Mail Agent " of S. S. Bolivar. The bearer of this, Mr. Jos6 G. Perez Guillen, goes to Ciudad Bolivar on commission of the public service, and this Department requests you to furnish him a passage so that he may carry out his commission. God and Federation, For the Civil Chief, M. A. EzEiza. ^ [90] Ciudad Bowvar, 24 de Agosto de igoi. 91.0 y 43.0 Nfimero 428. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase Ud. expedir cddula de pasaje de ida y vuelta en pri- mera clase abordo del Vapor "Delta," con destino d Trinidad, al Ciudadano Arturo Sarria Michelena, que va en comision del Gobierno. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Cd. Boi^fvAR, Aug. 24, igoi. [No. 428.] \gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Please issue a first class return ticket to Trinidad by the S. S. Delta to Mr. Arturo Sarria Michelena, who goes on commission for the Government. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. "■ [Fiscal. — Agent's Note.] 6 [The word "secretary" should appear below the name. — Agent's Note.] 232 APPENDIX. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUEIvA. GOBIERNACi6n DEI, TERRITORIO DEWA Y AMACURO. CuRRAPO, 25 de Agosto de 1901. 91° y 4.3.0 Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Socorro." El personal de esta Gobiernacidn se traslada de este puerto al de El Toro, en asuntos del servicio ptiblico, abordo del Vapor de su mando. Dios y Federacidn, Trip6n Landaeta. [Translation.] U. S. OP VENEZUEI/A. GOVERNMENT OP THE TERRITORY OP DEIvTA AND AMACURO. CuRAPO, Aug. 25, 1901. \pist and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Socorro. The officials of this Government go from this port to that of El Toro on business of the public service, on board the steamer under your command. God and Federation, Trifon Landaeta. EsTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. El/ Toro, 26 de Agosto de igoi. 91." y 43.' Ciudadano Contador del Vapor "Socorro," Presente. Espera esta Gobiernacidn que Ud. se sirva aceptar abordo de ese vapor, en clase de pasajero al Ciudadano C&ar Grillet, que pasa d Santa Catalina, en comisi6n de este Gobierno. Dios y Federacidn, Trip6n Landaeta. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. El Toro, Aug. 26, 1901. [91st and 43rd.] To the Purser, S. S. Socorro, Present. This Government hopes that you will receive on board that steamer as passenger, Mr. Cesar Grillet, who goes to Santa Catalina on commission of this Government. God and Federation, Trif6n Landaeta. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 19. 233 [91] Est ADOS Unidos de Venezuei^a. ESTADO BOIvIVAR. San FiSwx, 28 de Agosto de 1901. Nfimero 464. Ciudadano Contador del Vapor Nacional "Socorro." El dador de la presente, Senor Fco. Gonzdlez Calderdn, se dirije a Ciudad Bolivar, en comisidn del servicio publico, y espera esta Jefatura le proporcione el pasaje para asl dejar cumplido su cometido. Le anticipo las gracias, Dios y Federaci6n, P. Africano R. [Translation.] U. S. OF VENEZUEI.A. STATE OF BOUVAR. San Feux, Aug. 28, 1901. To the Purser S. S. Socorro. The bearer of this, Mr. Fco. Gonzalez Calderon, goes to Bolivar on commission for the public service, and this Department hopes you will furnish him a passage so that he may carry out his com- mission. I beg to thank you in advance. God and Federation, B. Africano R. EsTADOS Unidos de Venezuei^a. ESTADO GUAYANA. San FiSi/ix, 28 de Agosto de 1901. 90.0 y 43.' Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional "Socorro," Pte. Sfrvase concederles pasaje d los celadores Yacinto Ranseo y I/Conardo Ranseo, que van en comisidn de este resguardo. Dios y Federacidn, Jos^ RoDRiGO Bawa. 234 APPENDIX. [Translation.] U. S. OF VENEZUEI/A. STATE OP GUAYANA. San Fewx, Aug. 28, 1901. [poth and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Socorro. Present. Please furnish passage to Custom's Police Yacinto Ranseo and Ivconardo Ranseo, who go on commission of this garrison. God and Federation, Jos:^ RoDRiGO Balza. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Bolivar." Sirvase darle pasaje al celador Adon Navarro, empleado del Resguardo. Dios y Federacion, por el Comandante: Zarpe. G. Sosa. ETranslationJ Capt. S. S. Bolivar. Please furnish passage to Custom's Police Ad6n Navarro, em- ploye of this garrison. [God and Federation,] " For the Commandant, G. Sosa. Barrancas, 5 de Setiembre de 1901. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional "Bolivar." Sirvase dar pasaje a los Ciudadanos Rafael Montilla y Bar- tolome Monrroi, quienes pasan d Ciudad Bolivar, en comisidn de este resguardo. Dios y Federacidn, El Jefe del Resguardo: Gabriei/ Sosa. "■ [Not translated in original filed before the Mixed Commission of 1903. — Agent's note.] RECORD OP CLAIM NO. I9. 235 [TTanslation.] Barrancas, Sept. 5, igoi. Captain S. S. Bolivar. Please furnish passages to Messrs. Rafael Montilla and Bar- tolome Monrroi, who go to Ciudad Bolivar on commission of this garrison. God and Federation, The Chief of the Garrison, Gabriei^ Sosa. [92] ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO APURE. Nlimero 163. San Fernando, 5 de Setiemhre de igoi. 91." y 43.° Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Guanare," Pte. Al portador, Coronel Luis F. Rojas Caballero, que va en co- misidn de esta Comandancia, sirvase dar pasaje hasta Ciudad Bolivar. Dios y Federacidn, Clodomiro Sanchez. [Translation,] U. S. OF Venezuela. STATE OE APURE. San Fernando, Sept. 5, 1901. [91st and 43rd.] [No. 163.] Captain S. S. Guanare, Present. You will please give bearer Col. Luis F. Rojas Caballero, who goes on commission for this Department, a passage to Ciudad BoUvar. God and Federation, Clodomiro Sanchez. 236 APPENDIX. EsTADOs Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO BOUVAR. 6 DE SetiEmbrE de 1 901. Ntimero 96. ^^^ ^ '^^• Civdadano Capitdn del Vapor "Guanare," Presente. El Ciudadano Bachiller Buenaventtira Salom, comisionado del Gobiemo del Estado, regresa d Ciudad Bolivar en desempeno de la comisidn que le confiara el Ciudadano Presidente Provisional del Estado. Y lo comunico d Ud. para los efectos consiguientes. Dios y Federacidn, Manuel N. Delepiani. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela. STATE OF bolivar. Sept. 6, 1901. | [No. 96.] [91st and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Gtmnare, Present. Mr. Bachiller Buenaventura Salom, commissioner of the Gov- ernment of the State, returns to Ciudad Bolivar to fulfil a com- mission entrusted to him by the Provisional President of the State. I advise you of this for your guidance. God and Federation, Manuel N. Delepiani. EsTADOs Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO apure. San Fernando, 10 de Setiembre de igoi. 91.0 y 43.' Nlimero 165. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Apure," Presente. Sirvase dar pasaje, en el vapor de su mando, en primera [93] clase, al suscrito, Comandante de Armas del Estado y seis Oficiales de su Estado Mayor. Y sesenta y siete hombres de tropa en segunda clase. Hasta el Pto. de Nutrias, por cuenta del Gobierno Nacional. Dios y Federacidn, Clodomiro Sanchez. RECORD OP CLAIM NO. I9. 237 [Translation.] U. S. OF VENEZUBLA. STATE OF APURE. [No. 165.] San Fernando, Sept. lo, igoi. [91st and 43rd.] Captain S. S. A pure, Present. Please furnish " passage by the steamer under your command, to the undersigned Commandante* of the State, and six officers of his staff; also to 67 soldiers in second class as far as the Port of Nutrias, for account of the National Government. God and Federation, Clodomiro Sanchez. CiUDAD Bolvar, 10 de Setiemhre de ipoi. pi.o y 43." Nlimero 465. Civdadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase Vd. expedir cMula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo del vapor "Bolivar," con destino d Trinidad al ciudadano Br. Jos^ Tadeo Arreaza Calatrava que va en comisidn del servicio ptibUco. Dicho pasaje se servird Vd. anotarlo d la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federaci6n, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] [No. 465.] CiUDAD Bolivar, Sept. 10, 1901. [91st and 43rd.] To the Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please issue a first class passage by the S. S. Bolivar to Trinidad for Mr. B. Jose Tadeo Arreaza Calatrava, who goes on commission of the PubUc service. Said passage you will please charge to the accotmt of the State Government. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. a [Insert "first-class" before passage. — Agent's note.] 6 [Insert "de Armas" after Commandante. — Agent's note.] 238 APPENDIX. CiUDAD Boi,fvAR, 10 de Setiembre, 1901. 91." y 43.' Nlimero 462. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. El ciudadano General Clotilde Cotua, que procedente de Bar- rancas vino en el dltimo viaje del vapor "Bolivar," regresa hoy con destino d dicho puerto en el mismo buque, en comisidn del Gobiemo. Espera el suscrito que Vd. se sirva anotar d la cuenta de este Gobierno los dos pasajes del General Cotua. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] [No; 462.] Cd. Bolivar, Sept. 10, 1901. [91st and 43rd.] To the Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Gen. Clotilde Cotda, who came on the last trip of the Bolivar from Barrancas, returns today to said port on the same vessel, on commission for the Government. You will please charge the two passages of General Cotda to the account of this government. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. [94] ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUEI/A. ESTADO APURE. San Fernando, 75 de Setiembre de 1901. 91." y 43." Ndmero 166. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor "A pure," Pte. SIrvase dar pasaje hasta Ciudad BoHvar al Capitdn, Bernabi Ardila, quien va en comisidn de esta comandancia. Dios y Federacidn, Por el Comandante de Armas, El Ayvdante de Plaza: JUUO MaIvPICA. RECORD OP CtAIM NO. I9. 239 [Translation.] U. S. OF VENEZUEI.A. STATE OF APURE. San Fernando, Sept. 15, igoi. [No. 166.] [gist and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Apure, Present. Please furnish a passage to Ciudad Bolivar to Captain Bernabd Ardila, who goes on commission for this Department. God and Federation, For the Commandant, Juuo Malpica, Adjutant. Ciudad Bolivar, 27 de Setiembre de igoi. Nfimero 518. 9i.''y43.'> Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase abordo del vapor "Apure," con destino A Mapire al ciudadano General Luis Alfredo Delgress que va en una comisidn del servicio publico, por cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Cd. Bolivar, Sept. -27, igoi. [No. 518.J [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Please issue a first class passage by the S. S. Apure as far as Mapire to Gen. Luis Alfredo Delgress, who goes on commission of the public service for account of the Government of the State. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. Estados Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO bolivar. Comandancia de Armas. Ntimero 76. Ciudad Bolivar, 24 de Setiembre de igoi. Ano gi." de la Independencia y 43.° dela Federacidn. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. El Ciudadano Coronel JosS J. Bazo-Jugo va para Barrancas con diez y seis hombres de tropa en comision de esta Comandancia 240 APPENDIX. esperando de Ud. orden para que sean trasladados en el vapor "Bolivar" d dicho puerto. Dios y Federaci6n, Ovidio Salas. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela, state of bolivar. Commandant's Office. [No. 76.] Cd. BoLivAR, Sept. 24, igoi. \gist and 43rd.] Agent " Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Col. Jose J. Bazo-Jugo goes to Barrancas with 16 soldiers on cornmission for this Department, and I request you to give the necessary order for their conveyance by the S. S. Bolivar to said port. God and Federation, Oridio Salas. [95] Ciudad Bolivar, 25 de Junio 1901. 91.0 y 43." Ndmero 173. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en el vapor "Bolivar," en primera clase, con destino d. San F^lix, al ciudadano General Luis Grafe Calati-ava y tui sirviente, por cuenta del Gobiemo del Estado. Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Cd. Bolivar, June 25, igoi. [91st and 43rd.] [No. 173.] Agent " Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please issue a passage ticket to San Felix on the S. S. Bolivar to Gen. Luis Grafe Calatrava and a servant, for account of the Gov- ernment of the State. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. ' o ["Agent" should be "Manager." — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 24I Barrancas, Octuhre 4 de igoi. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar," Pte. Sirvase dar pasaje al ciudadano Jose Romero, empleado de la aduana quien se dirige d, Ciudad Bolivar en desempefio de una comisidn. Dios y Federacidn, Ernesto Ruiz B. [Translation.] Barrancas, October 4, ipoi. Captain S. S. Bolivar, Present. Please furnish a passage to Mr. Jos6 Romero, employ^ of the Custom House, who goes to Bolivar on a commission. God and Federation, Ernesto Ruiz B. Ciudad Bolivar, 4 de Octubre de igoi. 91.° y 43." Nlimero 544. Civdadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. Eos Generales Manuel N. Delepiani i Juan Rivas Gomez, con oficiales i tropa, se dirigen d. Caicara i Moitaico, en comisidn del servicio pliblico, y lo participo d. Vd. para su conocimiento y demd,s fines. Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria Hurtado. 2 Jefes. 8 Oficiales. 40 tropa. [Translation.] Cd. Bolivar, Oct. 4, 1901. \^ist and 43rd.] [No. 544.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Generals Manuel N. Delepiani and Juan Rivas Gomez, with ofiicers and men, are going to Caicara and Moitaco on commission of the public service and I inform you of this for your guidance. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. 2 chiefs, 8 officers, 40 soldiers. 17301 — 10 16 242 APPENDIX. [96] CiUDAD BoUvAR, 7 de Octubre de 1901. 91.0 y 43." N^imero 556. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente provisional del Estado, sirvase Vd. expedir c^dulas de pasaje en el vapor "Boli- var," con destino d San Felix d los ciudadanos Manuel Perfecto Duarte y Ernesto Mota, que van en el desempeno de una comisidn del servicio pliblico. Dichos pasajes se servird, Vd. anotarlos en la cuenta de este Gobierno con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Cd. Bowvar, Oct. 7, 1901. [91st and 43rd.] [No. 556.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue passage tickets by the S. S. Bolivar to San Felix to Messrs. Manuel Perfecto Duarte and Ernesto Mota, who go on commission of the public service. Said passages you will please charge to this Government, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. CiUDAD BouvAR, 7 de Octubre del 1901. 91." y 43." Nlimero 562. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente provisional del Estado, sirvase Vd. expedir c^dula de pasaje en primera clase i bordo del vapor "BoHvar," con destino d, San Felix al ciudadano Br. Manuel de Jesus Arreaza, que va en comisidn del Gobierno al Distrito Piar. El valor de dicho pasaje se servird Vd. anotarlo en la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado con el rebajo correspondiente. Dios y Federaci6n, D. Arreaza Monagas. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 243 *ct. 7, igoi. \gist and 43rd.] [Translation.] Cd. Bouvar, Oct. 7, 1901. [No. 562.J Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. By order of the Provisional President of the State, Please issue a first class passage ticket to San Felix by the S. S. Bolivar to Mr. B. Manuel de Jesus Arreaza, who goes on commission of the Government to the Piar District. The value of said. passages you will please charge to the accoimt of the Government of the State with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. CiUDAD BoUvar, 8 de Octubre de ipoi. 91.0 y 43.° Nlimero 560. Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente provisional del Estado, sirvase Ud. expedir cedula de primera clase d bordo [97] del vapor "Bolivar," con destino A Trinidad, al ciudadano Carlos Olavarria, que va en comisi6n del Gobiemo. Dios y Federaci6n, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation,] Cd. Bolivar, Oct. 8, 1901. [91st and 43rd.] [No. 560.J Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., [Present.] By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class passage ticket by the S. S. Bolivar to Trinidad for Mr. Carlos Olavarria, who goes on commission of the Government. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. 244 APPENDIX. CiUDAD BoLfvAR, 8 de Octubre de 1901." Numero 559. pj." y 45." Civdadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase Ud. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase A bordo del vapor " Bolivar," con destino d Trinidad, al ciudadano Salva- dor Hernandez, que va en comisi6n del servicio pliblico. Dios y Federacion, D. Arreaza Monagas. [CiUDAD BouvAR, Oct. 8, igoi. gist and 43rd. [No. 559. [Manager Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co., Present. [Please issue a first class passage by the S. S. Bolivar to Trini- dad, to Salvador Hernandez, who is going on a commission for the public service. [God and Federation, [D. Arreaza Monagas.] CiUDAD BowvAR, 9 de Octubre de igoi. 91.0 y 43." Nlimero 563. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente provisional del Estado, sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo del vapor "Guanare" con destino d San Fernando, al ciudadano Sr. Dr. Jos^ Calazdn Quintana Rojas, que va en el desempeno de una comisidn del Servicio pliblico — cuyo pasaje lo anotard Vd. en la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado, con el des- cuento correspondiente. Dios y Federaci6n, D. Arreaza Monagas. " [No translation of this voucher was filed before the commission, and the transla- tion printed was furnished by the official translator of the Department of State. — Agent's Note.] RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. 19. 245 [Translation.] Cd. BoivfvAR, Oct. 9, igoi. [No. 563.] {gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class passage ticket to San Fernando by the S. S. Guanare, to Dr. Jos6 Calazdn Quintana Rojas, who goes on commission of thp public service, which passage you will please charge to the account of the Government of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. CiUDAD BouvAR, g de Octubre de igoi. Nlimero 565. gi.° y 43.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente provisional del Estado sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera abordo del vapor "Guanare" con destino d "Las Bonitas," al Coro- [98] nel Santiago Machado, que va en comisidn del Gobierno, cuyo pasaje anotard, Vd. con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federaci6n, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] CiUDAD Bouvar, Oct. g, igoi. [No. 565.] [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. By order of the Provisional President of the State, you will please issue a first class passage ticket to Las Bonitas by the S. S. Guanare to Col. Santiago Machado, who goes on commission of the Government, which passage you will please charge, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. CiUDAD BowvAR, 22 de Octubre de igoi. Nlimero 587. gi." y 43.0 Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano Presidente provisional del Estado, sirvase Vd. 6xpedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase, d bordo del 246 APPENDIX. vapor "Bolivar" con destine i, Trinidad, al ciudadano Capitdn Jos^ Ramdn Avila, que va en servicio del Gobierno d desempeiiar una comisidn. Dios y Federacidn, D. ArrBaza Monagas. [Translation.] [No. 587.] Cd. Bowvar, Oct. 22, igoi. {gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class ticket to Trinidad, on the S. S. Bolivar, to Captain Jos 6 Ram6n Avila, who goes on a commission in the service of the Government. God and Federation, D. ArrEaza Monagas. Cd. Bolivar, 22 de Octubre de igoi. 91.° y 43." Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. El ciudadano General Carlos Guia va en comision del servicio pfibhco hasta Trinidad, y lo participo d Ud. para que se sirva extenderle el pasaje de ida i vuelta y en primera clase. Dios y Federacion, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Cd. Bouvar, Oct. 22, igoi. [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. General Carlos Guia goes on commission of the pubhc service to Trinidad, and I inform you of it that you may furnish him with a first class return passage ticket. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. I9. 247 Cd. Bo^fvAR, 22 de Octubre de 1901. 91° y 43.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. La Sefiora Antonia Ochoa y un hijo, se embarcardn en San Felix con destino d Trinidad, y lo comunico d Ud. para que se sirva expedirles el pasaje en primera clase. Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria Hurt ADO. [Translation.] Cd. Bouvar, Oct. 22, igoi. \^ist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. Mrs. Antonia Ochoa and son will embark at San Felix for Trini- dad, and I inform you of it, so that you may issue the necessary first class passages. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. [99] Jepatura Civil del Distrito Cedeno, Caicara, 27 de Octubre de igoi. 91° y 43° Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Guanare." El Coronel Buenaventura Salom pasa d, Ciudad Bolivar en comisidn de esta Jefatura hacia el Gobierno del Estado, condu- ciendo correspondencia importante. lyO comunico a Ud. para los fines consiguientes. Dios y Federaci6n, Manuel N. Delepiani. [Translation .] Office of the Civil Chief of the District of Cedeno. Caicara, Oct. 27, igoi. {gist and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Guanare. Col. Buenaventura Salom goes to Ciudad Bolivar on commission for this Ofl&ce, to the Governor of the State, conveying important correspondence. I notify you of this for your guidance. God and Federation, Manuel N. Delepiani. 248 APPENDIX. San Felix, 22 de Octubre igoi. Capitdn del vapor "Bolivar,'" Su bordo. Teniendo que trasladarme de este puerto al de Barrancas con un oficial y cuarenta hombres de tropa lo participo & Ud. para que se sirva|darnos el pasaje, de acuerdo con los t^rminos del contracto con el Gobierno Nacional. Soy de Ud., Atto. S.S. P. Apricano B. [Translation.] San Felix, Oct. 22, igoi. Captain S. S. Bolivar. Having to pass over" to the port of Barrancas with an officer and forty men, I beg to notify you of it so that you may give the necessary passages in accordance with the terms of the contract with the National Government. Yours very truly, P Apricano B. Puerto Bspana, jo de Octubre de ipoi. He recibido de la Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. dos pasajes de segunda para los Sres. Domingo A. Polanco, Fernando Gonzalez, del valor de ocho dollars cada uno. Carlos Guia. ! ;. $16.00. [Translation.] Port op Spain, Oct. 30, 190 1. Received from The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., two second class passages for Messrs. Domingo A. Polanco and Fer- nando Gonzalez, costing eight dollars each. Carlos Guia. $16.00. Cd. Bolivar, 22 de Octubre de igoi. 91.0 y 43." Senor Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco. Sirvase mandar extender ocho pasajes de segunda para ocho personas que vienen de Trinidad, d esta ciudad en comisi6n del servicio pfiblico. Dios y Federaci6n, J. Sarria Hurtado. "■ [Insert "from this port" after "over."— Agent's note.] RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 249 [Translation.] Cd. Bouvar, October 22, 1901. [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue eight second class passages for eight persons who are coming from Trinidad "■ on commission of the public service. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. [100] Ciudadano Contador del Vapor Nacional "Bolivar." Slrvase conceder pasaje al ciudadano Antonio Biaggi, empleado de este Resguardo para trasladarse A Ciudad Bolivar en asuntos del servicio. Barrancas, 31 de Octubre de 1901. Dios y Federaci6n, Pedro Rafael Vivas. [Translation.] To the Purser S. S. Bolivar. Please issue a passage to Mr. Antonio Biaggi, employ^ of this garrison, who is going to Ciudad Bolivar on business of the service. Barrancas, Oct. 31, 1901. God and Federation, Pedro Rafaei/ Vivas. Barrancas, 31 de Octubre de igoi. Capitdn del "Bolivar," Su bordo. De acuerdo con los terminos del Contrato con el Gobierno Nacional se servira Ud. darnos pasaje para San Felix d. mi d, un oficial y d, cuarenticinco hombres de tropa. El Ciudadano Presidente del Bstado arreglard con la Agencia respectiva tantos estos pasajes como los anteriores de bajada. Soy de Ud. Atto. S. S. P. Africano B. " [Insert "to this city" after "Trinidad." — Agent's note.] 250 APPENDIX. [Translation.) Barrancas, Oct. 31, 1901. Captain S. S. Bolivar, On board. In accordance with the terms of the contract with the National Government, you will please give passage to San Felix to myself, an officer and forty -five soldiers. The President of the State will settle for these passages, as well as for the previous ones of the down trip. Yours very truly, P. Africano B. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUEIyA. ESTADO GUAYANA. San Feux, Octubre 31, 1901, 91.° y 43.0 Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional ''Bolivar " Pte. Sirvase dar pasaje al Ciudadano Juan B. Mathison hasta Cd. Bolivar. Diosjy^ Federacion , El Comandante del Resguardo, Joslfc RoDRiGO Balza. [Translation.] U. S. OF VenezueIvA. [" STATE OF GUAYANA. San Felix, Oct. 31, igoi. {gist and 43rd.] Captain S. S. Bolivar, '■: Present. ' ''^'Please furnish a passage as far as Ciudad Bolivar to Mr. Juan B. Mathison. God and Federation, The Commandant of the Garrison, Josfe RoDRiGO Balza. Ciudad BolIvar, 5 de Noviembre de 1901, Nlimero 609. 91.0 y 43. Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano Presidente Provisional del Bstado sirvase Vd. expedir cddula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo [loi] del RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 25 1 vapor Bolivar con destino d San Felix al ciudadano Olegario Quero que va en comisi6n del Gobierno al Dto. Piar. El valor de dicho pasaje se servird, Vd. anotarlo en la cuenta del Gobierno del Kstado con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Cd. BoivivAR, Nov. 5, igoi. [No. 609.] {gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class passage ticket by the S. S. Bolivar to San Felix to Mr. Olegario Quero, who goes on commission of the Government to the Piar District. The value of said passage you will please charge to the account of the Government of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. SecretarIa General Bstado Bouvar. Cd. BoiyivAR, 5 de noviembre de igoi. Ntimero 611. gi." y 43." Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano Presidente del Estado, sirvase Ud. expe- dir cedula de segunda clase abordo del vapor "Bolivar," con des- tino d Barrancas, al ciudadano Santiago M. Moreno, quien va en comisidn del servicio pliblico. Dicho pasaje se servird Ud. anotar en la cuenta del Gobierno, con el rebajo correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Secretary Generai., State oe Bolivar. [No. 611.] Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 5, igoi. [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. By order of the President of the State, please issue a second class ticket on the Bolivar to Mr. Santiago M. Moreno, who goes to Barrancas on commission of the public service. 252 APPBNDIX. Said passage you will please charge to the account of the Gov- ernment, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. Sbcrbtaria General Estado BotivAR. Cd. BoiJvar, 5 de no{i\vembre de ipoi. Nlimero 610. 91." y 43." Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano Presidente Provisional del Kstado, sirvase Vd. expedir c^dula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo del vapor "Bolivar" con destino d Trinidad al ciudadano Juan Bautista Torres, que va en comisidn del Gobierno. El valor de dicho pasaje se servird. Vd. anotarlo en la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado con el rebajo correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bouvar. Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 5, 1901. [No. 610.] [pist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Skipping & Trading Co., Ltd. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class ticket to Trinidad, by the Bolivar, to Mr. Juan Bautista Torres, who goes on commission of the Government. The value of said passage you will please charge to the Govern- ment of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. [102] ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. estado BOLfVAR. JEFATURA Civil del Distrito HerES. CiUDAD BoiivAR, 5 de noviembre de igoi. Nfimero 119. gi." y 43." Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvanse Uds. hacer expedir por orden del Ciudadano Presi- dente del Estadd^, un pasaje de segunda clase hasta Trinidad al ciudadano Diego Serrano. Dios y Federaci6n, Adolpo E. QraNTERO. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. I9. 253 Por orden del Gral. Sarria se cambi6 este pasaje d Diego Serrano con su Senora para San Felix. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela, state of bolivar. Civil Chief of the Herbs District CiUDAD BoLfvAR, Nov. 5, igoi. [No. 119.] {gist and 43rd. "] Manager The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. Please issue by order of the President of the State, a second class passage to Trinidad, for Mr. Diego Serrano. God and Federation, Adolfo E. Qxhntero. By order of Gen. Sarria, this passage was changed for Diego Sferrano and wife to San Felix. SECRETARfA General Estado Bolivar, Cd. BoLfvAR, 5 de Noviemhre de igoi. Nfimero 6oi. gi.° y 45." Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. Los ciudadanos Carlos R. Coll y Rafael Ochoa, se dirijen d Caicara, en comisidn del servicio pliblico. Lo comunico d. Ud. de orden del ciudadano Presidente Pro- visional del Estado, para que les expida c^dula de pasaje de primera clase abordo del vapor "Apure." Dios y Federacidn. D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation,] Secretary General, State op Bolivar. Cd. BoLfvAR, Nov. 5, igoi. [91st and 43rd.] ' [No. 601.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. [Present.] Messrs. Carlos R. Coll and Rafael Ochoa go to Caicara on com- mission of the public service. I notify you of this by order of the Provisional President of the State, so that you may give them first class passages on board the S. S. Apure. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. 254 APPENDIX. CiUDAD BoiyfvAR, 9 de Noviembre de igoi. Ciudadano Gerente de la Co-mpunia de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase darle pasaje en el vapor "Apure" hasta el Puerto de Caicara, al Comandante Eustaquio Guerra, Justo Barcaza, [103] y ]os6 Fidel Perez por cuenta de este Gobierno. El pasaje d que se refiere esta orden es de segunda clase. Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria HurTado. [Translation.] Cd. Bouvar, Nov. 9, igoi. To the Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. [Present] Please issue passages on the Apure to Caicara for Major Eusta- quio Guerra, Justo Barcaza and Jose Fidel Perez, for account of this Government. The passages referred to herein are second class. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. ESTADOS UnIDOS DB VENEZUEI.A. ESTADO APURE. COMANDANCIA DE ArMAS, EsTADO ApURE. San Fernando, Noviemhre 14 de 1901. 91.° y 43.0 N^imero 178. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Apure," Pte. Sirvase conceder pasaje hasta Camagu^n, en primera clase, d los coroneles Juan Bautista Gonzdles y Andres Heredia y comandante Felix Ma. Scott; y en segunda clase d tres asistentes de los ex- presados. Dichos pasajes son por cuenta del Gobierno Nacional. Dios y Federacion, Clodomiro Sanchez. . RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 255 [Translation.] u. s. op vbnbzuei.a. state of apure. Commander op the Garrison, State op Apure. San Fernando, Nov. 14, 1901. [i^ist and 43rd.] [No. 178.] Captain S. S. Apure, Present. Please give first class passages as far as Camaguan to Col. Juan Bautista Gonzalez, Col. Andres Heredia and Major Felix Ma. Scott; and second class passages to 3 assistants of said gentlemen. The said passages are for account of the National Government. God and Federation, Clodomiro Sanchez. PrESidencia Provisional, Estado Apure. San Fernando, i^ de Noviemhre igoi. 91.0 y 43." Nfimero 416. Ciiidadano Capitdn del Vapor "Apure," Presente. SIrvase dar pasaje de primera hasta Ciudad Bolivar, en el buque de su mando, al suscrito, d su secretario privado y d su ayudante, por cuenta del Gobierno Nacional. Dios y Federaci6n, Rafael M. Carabano. Provisional Presidency, State of Apure. San Fernando, Notj. 15, 1901. \^ist and 43rd.] [No. 416.] Captain S. S. Apure, Present. Please give first class passages on the ship under your command, to the undersigned, his private secretary, and his adjutant, for account of the National Government. God and Federation, Rafael M. Carabano. 256 appendix. [104] Secretaria General Estado BoivIvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 19 de Noviembre de igoi. 91.0 y 43.0 Nlimero 650. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente provisional del Estado, sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase en el vapor "Bolivar" con destino d Trinidad al ciudadano General Trifdn Landaeta, que va en el desempefio de una co- misidn del servicio piiblico. Dicho pasaje se servird Vd. anotar en cuenta del Gobierno del Estado con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacion, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. BoLfvAR, Nov. ig, 1901. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 650.J Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. , Ltd. , Present. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class passage ticket by the S. S. Bolivar to Trinidad, for Gen. Trifdn Landaeta, who goes on commission of the public service. Said passage you will please charge to account of the Govern- ment of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. Secretaria General Estado BoLfvAR. CiUDAD BoLfvAR, ig de Noviembre de igoi. gi." y 43.' Niimero 651. Civdadano Gerente de la Compania de vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del Ciudadano General Presidente provisional del Estado, sirvase Ud. • expedir cddula de pasaje en primera clase en el vapor "Bolivar," con destino i, Trinidad, al Ciudadano Dr. R. NMez Caceres que va en el desempefio de una comisidn del servicio publico. « RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 257 Dicho pasaje se servird Ud. anotar en la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 19, igoi. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 651.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. [Present.] By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class passage to Trinidad, by the S. S. Bolivar to Dr. R. Nunez Caceres, who goes on commission of the public service. Said passage you will please charge to the account of the Gov- ernment of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. [105] Secret aria General Estado Bolivar. Ciudad Bolivar, ig de Noviembre de igoi. gi." y 43." Nfimero 652. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del Ciudadano General Presidente provisional ' del Estado, sirvase Ud. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase en el vapor "Bolivar" i. los Ciudadanos General Rafael M. Cara- bano, Dr. Augusto Figueredo y Coronel I^edn Carabano, con destino i. Trinidad, quienes van en comisidn del Gobierno del Estado. Dichos pasajes se servird Ud. anotarlos en cuenta de este Go- bierno con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Nov. ig, igoi. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 652.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. [Present.] By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue first class passages to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar, to General 1 7301 — 10 17 258 APPENDIX. Rafael M. Carabano, Dr. August Figueredo and Col. Leon Cara- bano, who go on commission for the Government of the State. Said passages you will please charge to the account of this Govern- ment, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas, Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 21 de Noviembre de igoi. 91° y 43-° Nfimero 656. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase Ud. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase, en el vapor "Apure," con destino a Barrancas, al Ciudadano Coman- dante Pedro Manuel Canas, que va en comisi6n del servicio pliblico, cuyo pasaje con el descuento correspondiente anotard Ud. en la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 21, igoi. [No. 656.] {gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. [Present.] Please issue a first class passage ticket to Barrancas by the S. S. Apure, to Major Pedro Manuel Canas, who goes on commission for the public service, which passage, with the corresponding discount, you will please charge to the Government of the State. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. CiUDAD Bolivar, 9 de Noviembre de igoi. 91° y 45-° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase tener listo el vapor "Socorro," con su correspon-[io6] diente dotacidn, y pr^ctico, para el desempeno de una comi- sion importante. Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria Hurtado. Del 9 al 15 = 7 dias. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 259 [Translation.] Cd. Bolivar, Nov. g, igoi. [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please hold the S. S. Socorro ready with the corresponding crew and pilot, to carry out an important commission. God and F'ederation, J. Sarria Hurtado. From the 9th to the 15th — 7 days. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTAbO maturin. COMANDANCIA DEL RESGUARDO DE BaRRANCAS. Barrancas, 14 de Noviemhre de igoi. gi." y 43.0 Ciudadano Contador del vapor nacional "Bolivar." Sirvase concederle pasaje al Ciudadano Pedro Rafael Vivas, empleado de esta Aduana, que pasa d Ciudad BoHvdr d recibir drdenes. Diosjy|Federaci6n , Ernesto Ruiz B. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela, state op maturin. Commander op the Garrison of Barrancas. Barrancas, Nov. 14, igoi. Ygist and 43rd.] To the Purser, S. S. Bolivar. Please issue a passage to Mr. Pedro Rafael Vivas, employe of this Custom House, who goes to Cd. Bolivar to receive orders. God and Federation, Ernesto Ruiz B. 26o APPENDIX. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO GUAYANA. COMANDANCIA DEL RESGUARDO DE SaN F^LIX. San F6lix, 14 de Noviembre de 1901. 91.0 y 43.0 Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional ''Bolivar." Sirvase dar pasaje al Ciudadano Manuel Ma. Blanco hasta Ciudad Bolivar. Dios y Federacidn, Jos6 RoDRiGO Balza. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela, state op guayana. Commander of the Garrison of San Felix. San Felix, Nov. 14, 190 1. {gist and 43rd.] Captain, S. S. Bolivar. Please give a passage to Mr. Manuel Ma. Blanco, to Ciudad Bolivar. God and Federation, ]OSt RODRIGO BaLZA. Aduana Maritima Ciudad Bolivar. Ciudad BoLfvAR, 19 de Noviembre de 1901. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar'' Pte. Sirvase Ud. darles pasaje a los empleados siguientes: [107] Coronel Roberto F. Feo, d San F^lix; Carlos Dreyer, d San Fdlix; Isidoro Acosta, i. Barrancas; Rafael Vivas, d Barrancas. Dios y Federaci6n, Barroeta Bricei^o. RECORD OF ClyAIM NO. 1 9. 26 1 [Translation.] Custom House, Ciudad Bouvar. Cd. BoUvar, Nov. ig, 1901. To the Captain, S. S. Bolivar, Present. Please give passages to the following employes : Col. Roberto F. Feo, to San Felix. Carlos Dreyer, to San Felix. Isidore Acosta, to Barrancas. Rafael Vivas, to Barrancas. God and Federation, Barroeta Briceno. PrEsidencia del Estado Bolivar. Ciudad Bowvar, 21 de Noviembre de igoi. 91.0 y 43.0 Ciudadano Capitdn de vapor "A pure," Pte. Sirvase Ud. recibir d bordo del vapor "Apure," al Senor Dr. Antonio Bello, que va hasta San Felix, en el desempeno de una comisidn del servicio publico. Dios y Federaci6n, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Presidency of the State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 21, igoi. Ygist and 43rd.] Captain, S. S. Apure, Present. Please receive on board the S. S. Apure, Dr. Antonio Bello, who goes to San Felix, to carry out a commission of the public service. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. 262 APPENDIX. Administracion Aduana Maritima Ciudad BoivfVAR. CiUDADA BouvAR, 21 de Noviembre de igoi. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Apure," Pte. Sirvase Ud. darle pasaje hasta Barrancas al Ciudadano Mar- cial Dupuy Cabo de ese Resguardo. Dios y Federaci6n, A. Barroeta Briceno. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Ciudad Bolivar. O. K. — C. Hammer. [Translation.] Custom House, Ciudad Bouvar. Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 21, igoi. Captain S. S. Apure, Present. Please furnish passage to Barrancas to Marcial Dupuy, cor- poral of that Garrison. God and Federation, A. Barroeta Briceno. \^The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co., Ltd., Ciudad Bolivar. O. K.— C. Hammer.] ESTADOS UNIDOS de VENEZUEIvA. gobernaci6n del territorio federal yuruari. Ntimero 309. GuASiPATi, 25 de Noviembre de igoi. 91.° y 43.0 Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor "Bolivar" A bordo del tuque. Sirvase Ud. recibir a bordo del vapor de su mando al Capitdn [108] Francisco Andrade y la escolta de seis soldados, con que conduce al Senor Henrique Hahn, confinado politico para la capital del vecino Estado Bolivar. El importe de pasaje serd satisfecho por esta Gobernaci6n, mediante un giro de la Agencia de Vapores, d quien se servird Ud. presentar como comprobante esta nota. Dios y Federacidn, M. SiLVA Medina. Nota. — El pasaje d que se refiere esta nota es de ida y vuelta, y asi serd pagado el orden. M. SiLVA Medina. " [These two lines were not reproduced in the translation before the Mixed Com- mission of 1903. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 263 [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. GOVERNMENT OF THE FEDERAL TERRITORY OF YURUARI. GuASiPATi, Nov. 25, igoi. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 309.] Captain, S. S. Bolivar, On board. Please receive on board the steamer under your command, Captain Francisco Andrade and the escort of six men, with which he is taking Mr. Henrique Hahn, a poUtical prisoner, to the Capital of the neighboring State of Bolivar. The value of the passage will be paid by this Government by draft of the Agency of the Steamers, to whom you will please present this note as a voucher. God and Federation, M. SiivVA Medina. Note : The passage referred to in this order is a return passage, and as such will be paid for." [M. SiivVA Medina.]* PrESidencia Provisional Estado Apure. Ndmero 429. San Fernando, 25 de Noviembre de igoi. gi.o y 43." Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Guanare," Pte. Slrvase aceptar d bordo del barco de su mando, como pasajero de primera al Ciudadano Dr. Ernesto Delgado, hasta Nutrias, quien va d desempenar una comisidn importante al Alto Apure. Dios y Federacion, M. MiLLARQUBz. « [In place of "as such will be paid for" read "the draft will be paid thus." — Agent's note.] 6 [In the translation before the Mixed Commission of 1903 this signature was omitted. — Agent's note.] 264 APPENDIX. [Translation.] Provisionai. Presidency, State of Apure. San Fernando, Nov. 25, igoi. {gist and 43rd.] [No, 429.] Captain S. S. Guanare, Present. Please receive on board the vessel under your command, as first class passenger, Dr. Ernesto Delgardo, who goes to Nutrias to fulfill an important commission in Upper Apure. God and Federation, M. MlLI,ARQUEZ. CiUDAD BoiviVAR, 29 de Noviembre de igoi. Capitdn Matias Pirez, Abordo del vapor "Bolivar." Reciba abordo al Gral. Barratii con cien hombres de tropa, conduciendo los d este puerto por orden y cuenta del gobierno. Dios y Federaci6n, C. Hammer. [Translation.] Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 29, igoi. Captain Matias Perez, On board the S. S. Bolivar. Please receive on board Gen. Barratii with 100 men, and bring them to this port, by order and for account of the Government. God and Federation, C. Hammer. [109] ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO BOLIVAR. COMANDANCIA DEL RESGUARDO SaN FeJLIX. San F^lix, 2g de Noviembre de igoi. gi."y43.'> Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar," Pte. Slrvase dare pasaje d los Ciudadanos empleados del Resguardo Jeslis Maria Gomez y Francisco Ortiz, que van en comisidn. Dios y Federacidn, Roberto F. Feo. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 19. 265 LTranslation.] U. S. OF VENEZUEIyA. state op bouvar. Commander of the Garrison, San Felix. San Feux, Nov. 29, igoi. \gist and 43rd.] Captain, S. S. Bolivar, Present. Please give passage to the employ & of this garrison, Jeslis Maria Gomez and Francisco Ortiz, who go on a commission. God and Federation, Roberto F. Feo. Presidencia Provisional Estado Apure. Numero 443. San Fernando, 29 de Noviembre de igoi. 91.° y 43.0 Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor "Guanare," Pte. Sirvase dar pasaje de primera clase al Ciudadano Coronel Pedro Guevrara Level, que va A Ciudad Bolivar en comisidn de este Gobierno. Dios y Federacidn, M. MlLLARQUEZ. [Translation.] Provisional Presidency, State of Apure. San Fernando, Nov. 29, 1901. \91st and 43rd.] [No. 443. J Captain, S. S. Guanare, Present. Please give a first class passage to Col. Pedro Guevrara Level, who goes to Ciudad Bolivar on commission of this Government. God and Federation, M. MiLLARQUEZ. 266 appendix. Presidencia Provisional Estado' Apure. Ntitnero 442. San Fernando, 29 de Noviembre de igoi. gi.o y 43.0 Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor "Guanare," Pte. Sirvase dar pasaje de primera clase al Ciudadano Gral. Judn Carabano, que va A Caicara, en comisi6n de este Gobierno, con 2 asistentes. Dios y Federaci6n, M. MlLLARQUEZ. [Translation.] Provisional Presidency, State of Apure. San Fernando, Nov. 29, igoi. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 442.] Captain, S. S. Guanare, Present. Please give a first class passage to Gen. Judn Carabano, who goes to Caicara on commission of this Government, with two assistants. God and Federation, M. MillarquBz. [no] Ciudad Bolivar, 30 de Noviembre de igoi. Eduardo Oxford, Antonio Bello L., Cells Camero y Jos^ Me. Alcald I/., pueden embarcarse en el vapor "Bolivar," y mostrarle este telegrama al Capitdn del vapor, Matias Pdrez. Dios y Federaci6n, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 30, 1901. Eduardo Oxford, Antonio Bello E., Cells Camero and Jos^ M. AlcaM E. may take passage on the S. S. Bolivar, and show this telegram to the Captain of the Steamer, Matias P6rez. God and Federation, J. SarrIa Hurtado. record of claim no. 19. 267 Presidencia ProvisionaIv Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD BoLfvAR, 30 de Noviembre de igoi. " 91.° y 43." Civdadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco. Sirvase dar sus drdenes para que reciban d bordo del vapor " Apure," al Capitdn Efigenio Torres, dos tenientes y diez y nueve de tropa hasta Las Bonitas. Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria Hurtado. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Ciudad Bolivar. O. K. — C. Hammer. [Translation.] Provisional Presidency, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Nov. 30, igoi. [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. Please give orders that Capt. Efigenio Torres, two lieutenants and nineteen soldiers be received on board the S. S. Apure, and be given passage to Las Bonitas. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Ciudad Bolivar. O. K. — C. Hammer. Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. Ciudad Bolivar, 3 de Diciembre de igoi. gi.<>y43.<' Nfimero 671. Civdadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco. De orden del Ciudadano Presidente provisional del Estado, sirvase Ud. expedir cMula de pasaje en el vapor "Bolivar," con destino d San Felix, d, los Ciudadanos Comandante Judn Ferndndez y Julidn Herndndez, que van en comisidn del Gobier- no, cuyos pasajes se servird anotar en la cuenta del Gobierno. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. 268 APPENDIX. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bouvar. Cd. Bouvar, Dec. 3, igoi. {gist and 43rd.] [No. 67 1. J Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a passage ticket by the S. S. Bolivar to San Felix, for Majors Juan Fernandez and Julian Hernandez, who go on commission for the Government. Said passages you will please charge to the account of the Government. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. [hi] Aduana Maritima Ciudad BoivivAR. CiUDAD Bolivar, 3 de Diciembre de igoi. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar," Pte. Sirvas Ud. darles pasajes a los empleados siguientes: Comandante Jose Rodrigo'Balza, d San Felix; Jeslis Maria Gomez, d. San Felix; Luis M. Godoy, ^ San Felix; Francisco Ortiz, d San Felix; Alberto Alfonzo, ^ San Felix: Coronel Ernesto Ruiz B., d Barrancas; y Manuel de Jestis Arreaza, a Barrancas. Dios y Federacidn, A. Barroeta Briceno. [Translation.] Custom House, Ciudad Bouvar. Cd. Bouvar, Dec. 3, igoi. Captain, S. S. Bolivar, Present. Please issue passages to the following employees : Major Jos^ Rodrigo Balza, to San FeUx, Jesus Maria Gomez, to San Felix, Luis M. Godoy, to San Felix, Francisco Ortiz, to San Felix, Alberto Alfonso, to San Felix, Col. Ernesto Ruiz B., to Barrancas, and Manuel de Jestis Arreaza, to Barrancas. : God and Federation, A. Barroeta BriceSo. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 269 ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO BOIylVAR. San F6wx, j de Diciembre de igoi. 91.0 y 43." Ntimero 12. Civdadano Fiscal del vapor nacional "Bolivar," A su bordo. El dador de la presente, Ciudadano Leopoldo Figuera, se em- barca en ese buque, con destine d Barrancas, en comisi6n del servicio ptiblico ante el Ciudadano General Jose del R. Maica, y esta Jefatura espera de Ud. como autoridad abordo de dicho buque le haga proporcionar el pasaje hasta su destino i. fin de que deje cuniplido su cometido. Dios y Federaci6n, Jos^ Aristeguieta. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. STATE OP BOLIVAR. San F6lix, Dec. j, 1901. {gist and 43rd.] [No. 12.] To Mail Agent " of S. S. Bolivar. The bearer of this, Mr. Leopold© Figuera, is going by that vessel to Barrancas, on commission of the public service to General Jos^ del R. Maica, and this Department requests of you, as an official on board of said vessel, to obtain a passage for him to his destination, so that he may be able to carry out his mission. God and Federation, Jos6 Aristeguieta. Ciudad Bolivar, 6 de Diciembre de 1901. 9i."y 43." Ciudadano Gerente de la CompaMa de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. Los Ciudadanos Coroneles Aguedo Villasana y Carlos Lanza, [112] junto con cuatro oficiales, van en comisidn del Gobierno, hasta Las Bonitas, y espera este Gobierno los reciba d bordo del vapor " Apure." Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria Hurtado. J ~ o [Fiscal.— Agent's note. ] 270 APPENDIX. [Translation.] Cd. Bowvar, Dec. 6, ii.)oi. [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co , Present. Col. Aguedo Villana and Col. Carlos I.anza, together with four officers go on commission of the Government to I,as Bonitas, and this Government hopes you will receive them on board the S. S. Apure. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurt ado. Administracion de Aduana Maritima, Ciudad Bouv.^r. CiUDAD Bolivar, 7 de Diciembre de igoi. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor nacional "Apure," Pte. Sirvase Ud. darles pasaje hasta Las Bonitas a los ciudadanos Santos E. Urbane] a Tello y M. Fernandez Hiu-tado, quienes van en comisi6n de esta Aduana, d^ndoles tambien el pasaje de regreso. Dios y Federacion, A. Barroeta Briceno. [Translation.] Custom House, Ciudad BolIvar. Cd. Boijvar, Dec. 7, igoi. Captain S. S. Apure, Present. Please issue passages to Messrs. Santos E. Urbaneja Tello and M. Ferndndez Hurtado, who go on commission of this Custom House to Las Bonitas, and you will also give them return passages. God and Federation, A. Barroeta BriceSo. Secretaria General Estado BotfvAR. Ciudad B0LIV.^R, 10 de Diciembre de igoi. gi.o y 43." Nlimero 683. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. De or den del Ciudadano Presidente provisorio del Estado, sirvase expedir c^dula de pasaje en segunda clase d bordo del vapor "Guanare" con destino d San Fernando de Apure, al Ciudadano Aurelio Torero. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 19. 27 1 Dicho pasaje se sen/ird. Ud. anotarlo en la cuenta de este (iobierno con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation,] Secretary GeneraIv, State op Bowvar. Cd. Bolivar, Dec. lo, igoi. \gist and 43rd.] [No. 683.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a second class passage by the S. S. Guanare to San Fernando de Apure, to Mr. Aurelio Torero. Said passage you will please charge to the Government, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. [113] SecretarIa General Estado BoiivAR. CiUDAD Bolivar, ii de Diciembre de igoi. gi.o y 43." Nlimero 685. Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pie. De orden del Ciudadano Presidente provisional del Estado, sirvase Ud. expedir c^dula de pasaje en primera clase de ida y vuelta en el vapor nacional "Guanare," con destino a San Fernando de Apure, al Ciudadano General Agustin Barrao, que va en comisi6n del Gobierno, cuyo pasaje se servird Ud. anotar en cuenta. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. BoLfvAR, Dec. 11. iqoi. \gist and 4^rd.] [No. 685.] Manager, Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue a first class return passage to San Fernando de Apure by the S. S. Guanare, to Gen. Agustin Barrao, who goes on commission 272 APPENDIX. of the Government, which passage you will please charge in account. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. Senor Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar." Espero se digne Vd. dar pasaje en ese vapor al Senor Pedro Vte. Tovar, empleado del Resguardo de este puerto. Los Castillos, ii de Diciembre de 1901. El Comandante interino: ■ RafaiSl Montilla. [Translation.] Captain S. S. Bolivar. Please give a passage on that steamer to Mr. Pedro Vte. Tovar, employe of the garrison of this port. Los Castillos, Dec. 11, 1901. The acting Commandant, Rafael MontilIvA. Se embarcan en el "Bolivar" Gral. Cecilio Alvarez, Hector Cipriani, cap.; 12 hombres de tropa; 2 presos. Empleados, en comisi6n — Dr. R. Quir6z Oliveras, Juez del Distrito Piar y su secretario. Vapor "Bolivar," 13 de Diciembre de 1901. Jos6 Aristegxheta. [Translation.] Gen. Cecilio Alvarez, Captain Hector Cipriani, 12 men and 2 prisoners, are going by the Bolivar. Employes on commission: Dr. R. Quiroz Oliveras, Judge of the Piar District, and his secretary. S. S. Bolivar, Dec. 13, 1901. Jos6 AristeguiETa. AdMINISTRACION de AdUANA MaRITIIMA CiUDAD BoIvIVAR. ' CiUDAD Boi^fvAR, 17 de Diciembre de igoi. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor "Bolivar," Presente. Sirvase Ud. darles pasajes d los empleados siguientes: Luis [114] M. Godoy, San F^lix; Rafael Montilla, Los Castillos; Rafael Diaz, Los Castillos. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 273 A su paso por Barrancas, se servird tambidn darle pasaje con destine d Trinidad al Ciudadano Coronel Francisco Belmonte, Cabo del Resguardo de Uracoa, que va en comisidn de esta Aduana. Dios y Federacidn, A. BarroETa Briceno. [Translation.] Custom House, Ciudad Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Dec. 17, igoi. Captain S. S. Bolivar, Present. Please give passages to the following employes: Luis M. Godoy, San Felix, Rafael Montilla, Los Castillos; Rafael Diaz, Los Castillos. On his arrival at Barrancas, you will also please give passage to Trinidad, to Col. Francisco Belmonte, Corporal of the Garrison of Uracoa, who goes on commission of this Custom House. God and Federation, ^ Barroeta Briceno. Bstados Unidos de Venezuela. ESTADO bolivar. Comandancia de Armas Ciudad Bolivar. Ciudad Bolivar, ij de Diciembre de igoi. 91.0 y 43.° Ntirome 90. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. Slrvase dar pasaje de primera clase hasta Barrdncas en el vapor nacional Bolivar al Ciudadano Carlos Gdmez, quien va en comisidn del Gobierno. Dios y F.ederaci6n, Ovidio Salas. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela, state of bolivar. Garrison of Ciudad Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Dec. 17, igoi. \^ist and 43rd.] [No. 90.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. , Present. Please issue a first class passage to Barrdncas by the S. S. Bolivar to Mr. Carlos G6mez, who goes on commission of the Government. God and Federation, Oridio [Ovidio] Salas. 17301 — 10 18 274 appendix. Secretaria Generai. Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD Bowvar, ij de Diciembre de igoi. 91.0 y 43.0 Ndmero 691. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de- Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. De orden del ciudadano Presidente del Bstado sirvase Ud. expedir c^dula de pasaje en primera clase hasta Trinidad d bordo del vapor "Bolivar," al ciudadano Gustavo Quintero hijo. [115] Dicho pasaje se servird Vd. anotarlo en cuenta de este Gobierno con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacion, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. BoLivAR, Dec. 17, 1901. [91st and 43rd.] [No. 691.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. By order of the President of the State, please issue a first class passage to Trinidad on the S. S. Bolivar to Mr. Gustavo Quintero hijo. Said passage you will please charge in account to this Govern- ment, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. Secretaria General Estado BolIvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, ly de Diciembre de igoi. 91." y 43.0 Ndmero 690. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente provisorio del Estado sirvase expedir cddula de pasaje en segunda clase a bordo del vapor "Bolivar" hasta Trinidad, al ciudadano Gui- llermo Conde. Dicho pasaje se servird Ud. anotarlo en la cuenta de este Go- bierno con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federaci6n, D. Arreaza Monagas. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 275 [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Dec. 17, 1901. [pist and 43rd.] [No. 690.J Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. By order of" the Provisional President of the State, please issue a second class passage to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar to Mr. Guillermo Conde. Said passage you will please charge to the Government, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 17 de Diciembre de igoi. 91." y 43." Ndmero 693. Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. De orden del ciudadano Presidente Provisional del Estado, sirvase Ud. expedir c^dulas de pasajes de segunda clase d bordo del vapor "Bolivar," con destino d Trinidad, d los ciudadanos Henrio Danielo y Charles Johnson. Dichos pasajes se servird Ud. anotarlo en la cuenta de este Gobierno con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacion, D. Arreaza Monagas. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. BoLfvAR, Dec. 17, igoi. [No. 693.] {gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., By order of the Provisional President of the State, please issue second class tickets to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar to Messrs. Henrio Danielo and Charles Johnson. Said passages you will please charge in account to this Govern- ment, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. 276 ■ appendix. [116] Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD BoUvAR, ij de Diciemhre de 1901. Nlimero 692. gi." y 43.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente del Estado, sir- vase Ud. expedir cddula de pasaje de ida y vuelfa en primera clase d bordo del vapor "Bolivar," con destino d Trinidad, al ciudadano Coronel Visso Mata. Dicho pasaje se servird Vd. anotarlo en la cuenta de este Go- biemo con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, D. Arreaza Monagas. , [Translation.] Secretary General, State op Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Dec. 17, igoi. [No. 692.] {gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. By order of the President of the State, please issue a first class return passage to Trinidad, on board the S. S. BoKvar, to Col. Visso Mata. Said passage you will please charge to this Gov- ernment, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO bolivar. COMANDANCIA DEL RESGUARDO SaN Fl^LIX. San F:6lix, ly de Diciembre de igoi. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar." Sirvase dar pasaje en el vapor de su mando al celador J. Avila con destino i, Barrdncas. Dios y Federacidn, Roberto F. Feo. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 277 [Translation.] U. S. OP VENEZUBIvA. state of bolivar. Commander of the Garrison, San Feux. San Fbux, Dec 17, igoi. Captain S. S. Bolivar, Present."' Please give a passage to Barrancas on the steamer under your command, to Customs Police J. Avila. God and Federation. Roberto F. Feo. Secretaria General Bstado Bouvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 25 de Diciembre de igoi. Ntimero 700. 91.° y 43.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. De orden del ciudadano Presidente provisional del Estado, slrvase Vd. extender cddula de pasaje d bordo del vapor "Socorro," [117] con destino d Caicara, al ciudadano Presbitero J. M. Guevara Carrera y un sacristan. Y lo participo d Vd. A los efectos del medio pasaje. Dios y Federaci6n, D. Arreaza Monagas. Secretary General, State op Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Dec. 23, igoi. [No. 700.] \(pist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. By order of the Provisional President of the State, you will please issue a passage ticket by the S. S. Socorro to Caicara, for Rev. J. M. Guevara Carrera, and a sacristan. I inform you of this on account of the half passage. God and Federation, D. Arreaza Monagas. « [No word for " present " appears in the Spanish original. — Agent's note.] 278 APPENDIX. ESTADO UnIDOS DE VENEZUEIvA. ESTADO BOLfVAR. Comandancia del Resguardo San Fi^ux. San F6IvIX, 26 de Diciembre de 1901. 91." y 43." Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional "Bolivar." Sirvase dar pasaje al Ciudadano Narciso Grillet hasta Ciudad Bolivar, que va en comisidn de este Resguardo. Dios y Federacidn, Roberto F. Feo. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela. state OF BOLIVAR. Commander of the Garrison. San Felix, Dec. 26, 1901. [91st and 43rd.] Please issue a passage to Cd. Bolivar to Mr. Narciso Grillet, who goes on commission of this garrison. God and Federation, Roberto F. Feo. EsTADO UnIDOS de VENEZUELA. estado maturin. gobernacion del distrlto sotillo BarrAncas. Barrancas, 26 de Diciembre de 1901. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar." Sirvase Ud. conceder pasaje de primera clase al Ciudadano Cdrlos G6mez, hasta Ciudad Bolivar, en el vapor nacional de su mando, que pasa d esa Ciudad en comisidn del Gobiemo. Dios y Federacion, ' Jos6 DEL R. MOICA P. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela, state of maturin. Government of Sotillo District, Barrancas. Barrancas, Dec. 26, 1901. Captain, S. S. Bolivar. Please furnish a first class passage to Ciudad Bolivar on the steamer under your command, to Mr. Carlos Gomez, who goes to that city on commission of the Government. God and Federation, Jos^ DEL R. Moica P. RECORD OF CLAIM NO I9. 279 [118] PODER EjECUTlVO ESTADO ApURE. Presidencia del Estado Apure San Fernando. N^imero 83. San Fernando, 26 de Diciembre de 1901. 91.° y 43.0 Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor " Masparro, " Presente. Sirvase aceptar d bordo del vapor de su mando seis oficiales y cuarenta hombres de tropa que portard Ud., hasta el Puerto de Nutrias en comisidn del Gobierno del Estado y por cuenta del Gobierno Nacional. Dios y Federacidn, A. MiLLARQUEZ. [Translation .] Executive Power, State of Apure, Presidency of the State of Apure, San Fernando. San Fernando, Dec. 26, 1901. [No. 83.] [91st and 43rd.] Captain, S. S. Masparro, Present. Please receive on board the steamer under your command, six officers and forty men, whom you will convey to the port of Nutrias, on commission of the Government of the State, and for account of the National Government. God and Federation, A. Millarquez. Ciudad Bolivar, 30 de Diciembre de 1901. Nfimero 915. 91.° y 43.° Citidadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje de ida y vuelta en pri mera clase d bordo del vapor " Bolivar, " con destino a Trinidad, al ciudadano Jos^ E. Benites, y se servira anotar dicho pasaje en la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Or den y Cuenta Gobierno. Dios y Federaci6n, J. SarrIa Hurtado. 28o APPENDIX. [Translation.] Cd. Bolivar, Dec. 30, igoi. [No. 915.J [91st and 4srd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue a first class return passage ticket to Trinidad on the S. S. Bolivar to Mr. Jose E. Benites, value of which you will please charge to account of the Government of the State. Order and account of the Government. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. Administracion de Aduana Maritima Ciudad Bouvar. Ciudad Bolivar, j de Enero de 1902. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional "Socorro. " Slrvase dar pasaje al Ciudadano Narciso Grillet, hasta San Felix. Dios y Federacidn, A. Barroeta Briceno. [Translation.] Custom Hoifse, Ciudad Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. 3, igo2. Captain S. S. Socorro. Please give a passage to San Felix to Mr. Narciso Grillet. God and Federation, A. Barroeta BricejJo. [119] BoLfvAR, 9 de Enero de igo2. Capitdn de "El Bolivar. " Slrvase dar pasaje en el vapor "Bolivar" d, los Ciudadanos Perez Bustamante y Pazos con destino A este puerto, por orden y cuenta del Gobierno. C. Hammer. [Translation.] Bolivar, Jan. g, igo2. Captain S. S. Bolivar. Please furnish passages to this port on the S. S. Bolivar, to Messrs. Perez, Bustamante and Pazos, by order and for account of the Government. C. Hammer. RECORD OP CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 28 1 GoBiBRNo Constitutional Estado Bowvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, g de Enero de 1902. 91.0 y 43." Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. SIrvase dar orden d la Agenda de Vapores que Ud. regenta, para que se embarguen en el puerto de San Fdix, por vapor "Bolivar" los Ciudadanos Perez Bustamante y Pazos, que vie- nen para esta Ciudad. Dios y Federacion, J. Sarria Hurtado. Constitutional Government, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. g, igo2. [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue an order on the Agency of the Steamers under your management to furnish passage by the S. S. Bolivar from San Felix, to Messrs. Perez Bustamante and Pazos, who are coming to this city. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. San FiSlix, io de Enero de igo2. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor "Bolivar, " Su bordo. Tengo ordenes para embarcarme con destino d Ciudad Bolivar con 28 individuos de tropa. Y lo comunico i, Ud. para los fines consiguientes. De Ud. Att. y S. S., Casimiro Ruiz. San Felix, Jan. lo, igo2. Captain S. S. Bolivar, On board. I am ordered to embark for Ciudad Bolivar, with 28 soldiers. I advise you of this for your guidance. Yours very truly, Casimiro Ruiz. 282 appendix. Secretaria Generaiv Estado Bouvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 13 de Enero de 1902. Nlimero 29. gi." y 43." Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. anotar con el descuento correpondiente, d la [120] cuenta del Gobiemo del Estado, el pasaje d bordo del vapor "Bolivar" desde San Felix hasta este puerto, de los ciudadanos Gral. Manuel Silva Medina, F. Medina Planchart y J. Martinez Mejias. Dios y Federacion, L. A. Natera Ricci. [Translation.] Secretary General., State of Bolivar. Cd. BoLfvAR, Jan. 13, igo2. [No. 29.] [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please charge, with the corresponding discount, to the account of the Government of the State, the passages on the S. S. Bolivar, from San Felix to this port, of General Manuel Silva Medina, F. Medina Planchart and J. Martinez Mejias. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 13 de Enero de igo2. Nlimero 30. gi." y 43.° Ciudadano Agente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo del vapor "Bolivar" i. los ciudadanos Dr. Eduardo Oxford, Cnel. Lucio Cells Camero y J. M. AlcaM Lezama que se embarcan con destino d San Fdlix. Dichos pasajes se servird Vd. anotarlos con el descuento correspondiente, d, la cuenta del Gobiemo del Estado. Dios y Federacion, E. A. Natera Ricci. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 283 [Translation.] Secretary General, State op Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. jj, 1902. [No. 30.] [91st and 43rd.] Agent Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please issue first class passage tickets to San Felix, by the S. S. Bolivar, to Dr. Edward Oxford, Col. Lucio C^lis Camero and J. M. Alcald Lezama. Said passages you will please charge to the Government of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. Secretaria General Estado BolIvar. CiUDAD BoLivAR, jj de Enero de 1902. Ntimero 27. 91." y 43." Civdadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo del vapor "Bolivar" con destino d San Felix, d los ciudadanos Manuel F. Reveron y Julio Sarria hijo. Dichos pasajes se servird Vd. anotarlos con el descuento correspondiente d la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federacion, L. A. Natera Ricci. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. BolIvar, Jan. 13, 1902. [No. 27.J [gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please issue a first class passage ticket to San FeUx by the S. S. Bolivar to Messrs. Manuel F. Reverdn and Julio Sarria hijo. Said passages you will please charge in account to the Government of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. 284 -appendix. [121] Secretaria General Estado BoUvar. CiUDAD BoiyfvAR, 13 de Enero de 1902. Niimero 28. 91.° y 43.° Ciudadano Agente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. expedir c^dula de pasaje en segunda clase al ciuda- dano Eleuterio Carrasca que se embarca d, bordo del vapor " Boli- var," llevando tres bestias. Dios y Federacidn, L. A. Natera Ricci. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. BoLfvAR, Jan. 13, 1902. [No. 28.] {91st and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please issue a second class passage ticket by the steamer Bolivar to Mr. Eleuterio Carrasca, who is taking three animals with him. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD BoLfvAR, 13 de Enero de 1902. Niimero 26. 91." y 43." Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. expedir cMula de pasaje en prima [primera] clase d bordo del vapor " Bolivar " con destino d. Trinidad d, los ciudadanos Grals. M. Silva Medina y F. Medina Planchar. Dichos pasajes se servird Vd. anotarlos con el descuento correspondiente, d la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federaci6n, L. A. Natera Ricci. RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. 285 [Translation.] Secretary Generai., State op Boi,ivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. ij, 1902. [No. 26.] [pist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Skipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue first class passages to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar to Gen. M. Silva Medina and Gen. F. Medina Planchar, said pas- sages you will please charge with the corresponding discount, to the account of the Government of the State. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 14 de Enero de igo2. Nlimero 38. pr." y 43.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. expedir cddula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo del vapor " Bolivar" d los ciudadanos Grals. A. Zapata A., y [129] Juan de Dios Ferndndez que se embarcan hoy para San F^lix, con un Ayudante, en comisi6n del Servicio P^iblico. Dichos pasajes se servird Vd. anotarlos con el descuento correspondiente d la cuenta del Gobiemo del Estado. Dios y Federaci6n, Iv. A. Natera Ricci. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. 14, igo2. [No. 38.J {gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue first class passage tickets on the S. S. Bolivar to Gen. A. Zapata A. and Gen. Juan de Dios Ferndndez, who embark today for San FeHx with an adjutant, on commission of the pubUc service. Said passages you will please charge, with the correspond- ing discount, to the Government of the State. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. 286 APPENDIX. Secretaria General Estado BoLfvAR. CiUDAD BOLfvAR, 14 de Enero de 1902. Ntimero 35. Civdadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. Slrvase expedir c^dula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo del vapor "Bolivar" al ciudadano General Miguel Acevedo que se embarca para San F^lix, con un asistente, en comisi6n del Ser- vicio Pfiblico. Dicho pasaje se servird, Vd. anotarlo con el descuento correspondiente, d la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federaci6n, L. A. Natera Ricci. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. 14, 1902. ' [No. 35-] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue a first class passage to San Felix by the S. S. Bolivar, to General Miguel Acevedo, and an assistant, who goes on commission of the public service. Said passage you will please charge in account to the Government of the State. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. Ciudad Bolivar, 14 de Enero de 1902. 9i.°y 43.° Nlimero 36. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. Slrvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase A bordo del vapor "BoUvar" al ciudadano Jos^ Jesus Urrutla que se embarca para Trinidad en comisidn del Servicio P^ibHco. Dicho pasaje se servird Vd. anotarlo con el descuento correspondiente d la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federaci6n, L. A. Natera Ricci. RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. 287 [Translation.] Secretary General, State op Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. 14, 1902. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 36.] Agent '^ Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please issue a first class passage by the S. S. Bolivar, to Mr. Jos^ Jesfis Urrutia, who goes to Trinidad on commission of the public service. Said passage you will please charge, with the corre- sponding discount, to the account of the Government of the State. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. [123] consulado de los ee. uu. de venezuela Trinidad. Al. Sr. Fiscal del vapor "Bolivar." El portador, Sr. Pedro Pinto, empleado de la Aduana de Ciu- dad Bolivar, es el pasajero que va agregado d la guarnicidn de dicho vapor. FiGUEREDO. 8 DE EnERO de 1902. [Translation.] Consulate op the U. S. of Venezuela. Trinidad. To the Mail Agent *" 5. 5. Bolivar. The bearer of this, Mr. Pedro Pinto, employ^ of the Custom House of Bolivar, is the passenger who goes as an attach^ of the guard on said steamer. FiGUEREDO. Jan. 8, 1902. Consulado de Venezuela Particular. Puerto Espana, Trinidad, 8 de Enero de igo2. Sr. Fiscal del vapor "Bolivar." Los Senores Mario Garcia Paz y Jose Mayobre, empleados de la Armada Nacional Venezolana, pasan en comisi6n d Ciudad BoUvar, y van agregados d la guarnicidn de ese vapor. Soy de Ud. att. S., Carlos B. Figueredo. o [For "Agent " read " Manager." — Agent's note.] b[Fiscal. — Agent's note.] 288 APPENDIX. [Translation.] Consulate op Venezuela, Private. Port op Spain, Trinidad, Jan. 8, igo2. To the Mail Agent,"' S. S. Bolivar. Messrs. Mario Garcia Paz and Josd Mayobre, employes of Venezuelan National Navy, go on commission to Ciudad Bolivar, as attaches of the guard on that steamer. Yours very truly, Carlos B. Figueredo. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. BSTADO BOLIVAR. JEPATURA Civil del Municipio San F^lix EsTADO Bolivar. San F^lix, 23 de Enero de igo2. gi." y 43.0 Niimero 40. Civdadano Fiscal del Vapor nacional "Bolivar," d su bordo. De orden del Ciudadano Gral. Miguel Acevedo, representante del Gobierno del Estado en el Distrito Piar, se servird Ud. hacer dar pasaje a bordo de dicho buque, al Ciudadano Coronel Ma- nuel de Jesus Rojas que va en comision del servicio pliblico. Dios y Federacidn, Jose; Aristeguieta. [Translation.] U. S. OF Venezuela. STATE OP bolivar. Civil Chiep op the Municipality op San Felix, State of Bolivar. San Felix, Jan. 23, igo2 [gist and 43rd.] [No. 40.] Mail Agent '^ S. S. Bolivar. By order of General Miguel Acevedo, representing the Govern- ment of the State in the Piar District, you will please arrange for a passage on said vessel for Col. Manuel de Jesus Rojas, who goes on commission of the public service. God and Federation, Jos6 Aristeguieta. " [Fiscal. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 289 [124] Secretaria Generai, ESTADO BoiylVAR. Ciudad Bolivar, 27 de Enero de 1902. 91." y 43.0 Nfimero 57. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. El ciudadailo General D. Arreaza Monagas se embarca con un asistente en el vapor "Bolivar" en comisi6n del Gobierno con destino a la capital de la Repliblica. Y lo participo i. Vd. para que se sirva expedirle cedula de pasaje en primera clase hasta Trinidad y anotar su importe con el descuento correspondiente a la cuenta de este Gobierno. Tambien se servird Vd. avisar d la Agenda de Vapores en Trinidad que puede expedir al General Arreaza Monagas cedula de vuelta, si al efectuar su regreso d este puerto, lo hiciere por la misma via, y anotar el valor con el descuento correspondiente 6. la cuenta de este Gobierno. Dios y Federacidn, 1/. A. Natera Ricci. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. 27, 1902. [91st and 43rd.] [No. 57-] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. General D. Arreaza Monagas, is going with an assistant by the S. S. Bolivar, on commission of the Government, to the Capital of the Republic. I advise you of it so that you will please furnish him a first class passage to Trinidad, charging the value of same, with the corresponding discount, to the account of this Govern- ment. You will also please advise the Agency of the Steamers at Trinidad that they may issue a return passage to General Arreaza Monagas, if on his return to this port, he should come by the same route, and charge the value of said passage, with the cor- responding discount, to the acco|jnt of this Government. God and Federation, Iv. A. Natera Ricci. 17301 — 10 19 290 appendix. Secrbtaria Generai, ESTAOt) BOLfVAR. CiUDAD Boi^ivAR, 27 de Enero de igo2. 91.0 y 43.0 Ntimero 66. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente del Estado sir- vase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje de ida y vuelta, en primera clase, al ciudadano coronel Manuel Mariani i. bordo del vapor "Bolivar" con destino d Trinidad. Dicho pasaje se servird Vd. anotarlo en la cuenta de este Go- bierno con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacion, L. A. Natera Ricci. [Translation.] Secretary General, State op Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. 27, 1902. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 66.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. By order of the President of the State, you will please issue a first class return ticket to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar to Col. Manuel Mariani. Said passage you will please charge in account to this Govern- ment, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. [125] Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. CiUDAR [Ciudad] Bolivar, 28 de Enero de 1902. gi." y 43." Nlimero 67. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase expedir cedula de pa9e.je de ida y vuelta en primera clase en el vapor "Bolivar" al ciudadano Carlos Guia que se embarca para Barrancas en comisidn del Gobierno. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 29 1 Dicho pasaje se servird. Vd. anotarlo d, la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, L. A. Natera Ricci. ITranslation.] Secretary Generai,, State op Bowvar. Cd. Bo^fvAR, Jan. 28, 1902. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 67.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please issue a first class return passage to Barrancas, by the S. S. Bolivar, to Mr. Carlos Guia, who goes to Barrancas on com- mission of the Government. Said Passage you will please charge to the account of the Gov- ernment of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, L. A. Natera Ricci. Gobierno Constitucional del Estado Bouvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 28 de Enero de igo2. 91" y 43" Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. El ciudadano Coronel Manuel Martinez Alferez debe embar- carse en el vapor "Bolivar " con destino d Trinidad en una comisi6n del servicio ptiblico. Lo que comunico d Ud. para que se sirva expedirle cedula de pasaje de primera clase, por cuenta de este Gobierno, haciendo el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, to ' tt „ •' ' J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Constitutional Government, State oe Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Jan. 28, igo2. {gist and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Col. Manuel Martinez Alferez is going to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar on a commission of the public service. I advise you of this so that you may furnish him a first class passage for account of the Government, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, j g^^^^f^ Hurtado. 292 appendix. Administraci6n de Aduana Maritima, ClUDAD BOWVAR. CiUDAD BoLfvAR, 8 de Febrero de igo2. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar," Pte. Sirvase Ud. dar pasaje d los empleado que van para Los [126] Castillos d tomar posesidn de aquel resguardo, que son los si- guientes, Carlos M. Romon, Jose Rodrigo Balza y Carlos Dreyer. Dios y Federacidn, Barroeta BriceSo. [Translation.] Custom House, Ciudad Bouvar. Cd. BotivAR, Feb. 8, igo2. Captain, S. S. Bolivar. [Present.'] Please furnish passages to the employes who go to Los Castillos to take possession of that garrison, as follows : Carlos M. Romon, Josd Rodrigo Balza and Carlos Dreyer. God and Federation, J. SarrIa Hurtado." GOBIERNO CONSTITUCIONAI,, DEL ESTADO BoUvAR. Ciudad Bolivar, 9 de Febrero de igo2. pi." y 43.0 Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, P. Sirvase extender cedula de pasaje en primera clase al Ciudadano Coronel Ernesto Quintero que va hasta Trinidad, desempenando una comision del servicio ptiblico. Dios y Federaci6n, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Constitutional Government op the State of Bolivar. Cd. BoLfvAR, Feb. 9, ipo2. [pist and 43rd.] Manager, Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue a first class passage for Col. Ernesto Quintero, who goes to Trinidad to carry out a commission of the public service. God and Federation, J. Sarria HurTado. o [This signature is evidently a mistake, as the Spanish is signed by Barroeta Briceno. — Agent's note.] record op ci/aim no. 1 9. 293 Secretaria General, Estado Bouvar. CiUDAD Boi^fvAR, ly de Febrero de igo2. 91.0 y 4.3.0 N^imera 98. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania. de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. Slrvase Vd. expedir cddula de pasaje en el vapor " Socorro " con destino i, San Felix al ciudadano Francisco Antonio Lamar, y anotar el valor con el descuento correspondiente d. la cuenta de este Gobierno. Dios y Federacion, M. S11.VA Medina. [Translation.] Secretary GeneraIv, State of Bowvar. Cd. Bolivar, Feb. 17, 1902. {91st and 43rd.] [No. 98.] Manager, Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue a passage ticket to San Felix by the S. S. Socorro to Mr. Francisco Antonio I/amar and charge the value of same with the corresponding discount, to the account of this Govern- ment. God and Federation, M. Silva Medina. Aduana Maritima Ciudad BoLfvAR. Ciudad Bolivar, 18 de Febrero de 1902. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional "Socorro," P. Sirvase darle pasaje hasta San FeUx al Celador Jacinto Rauseo. Dios y Federaci6n, Sanoja Mur^. [Translation.] Custom House, Ciudad Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Feb. 18, 1902. Captain, S. S. Socorro. [^•] Please give a passage to Customs Police Jacinto Rauseo. God and Federation, Sanoja Mur6. 294 APPENDIX. [127] Certifico que se han embarcado abordo del vapor "Boli- var" por orden del Gobierno nacional, diez reclutas de Los Cas- tillos A Cd. Bolivar. Febrero 21, 1902. El Fiscal, OVIDIO POGGIOU. [Translation.] I certify that by order of the National Government, ten re- cruits took passage on the S. S. Bolivar from Los Castillos to Ciudad Bolivar. Feb. 21, 1902. The Mail Agent," OviDIO POGGIOU. JEKATURA CiVIIy DEL DiSTRlTO CEDENO. Caicara. 23 DE Febrero de 1902. 91° 7 43° Nlimero 38. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor " Masparro." Pasan d ciudad Bolivar de orden del Ejecutivo del Estado, los ciudadanos Jose Maria Travieso y Ramon Emilio Guerra d pre- sentarse ante aquel Magistrado. Sirvase admitirlos abordo, en calidad de pasajeros, por cuen- ta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federacion, Manuel N. DelEpiani. [Translation.] Civil Chief of the District of Cedeno. Caicara. February 23, 1902. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 38.] Captain, S. S. Masparro. Messrs. Jos^ Maria Travieso and Ramon Emilio Guerra go to Ciudad Bolivar by order of the executive of the State, to appear before said Magistrate. Please receive them as passengers aboard of your vessel, for account of the Government of the State. God and Federation, Manuel N. Delepiani. o [Fiscal.— Agent's note.] record of claim no. 1 9. 295 Administraci6n de Aduana Maritima. CiuDAD Bolivar. CiUDAD BoivfvAR, 25 de Febrero de 1902. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor Nacional "Bolivar," P. Sirvase darles pasaje hasta San Felix d los Celadores Jacinto Rauseo y Tomas A. Marino. Dios y Federacidn, A. Barroeta Briceno. [Translation.] Office of the Custom House, Ciudad Bowvar. Cd. Bolivar, Feb. 25, igo2. Captain S. S. Bolivar, Present. Please give passages to San Felix to the Customs Police Jacinto Rauseo and Thomas A. Marino. God and Federation, A. Barroeta Brice^^^o. SecretarIa General. ESTADO BOLfVAR. Ciudad Bolivar, 25 de Febrero de igo2. Ntimero 121. gi.° y 44.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., P. De orden del ciudadano General Presidente del Estado, sirvase Ud., expedir cedula de pasaje de ida y vuelta en primera [128] clase al ciudadano General Manuel F. Reveron abordo del vapor " Boli- var" con destino d. Puerto de Espana. Dicho pasaje lo anotard Ud. en la cuenta de este Gobierno con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federaci6n, M. SiLVA Medina. [Translation.] Secretary General, State op Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, Feb. 25, igo2. [No. 121.] [91st and 44th.] _ Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. By order of the President of the State, please issue a first class .return passage ticket to General Manuel F. Reveron by the S. S. Bolivar to Port of Spain. 296 APPENDIX. Said passage you will please charge in account to this Govern- ment, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, ^ g^^^^ ^^^^^^ Puerto Espana, 28 de Febrero de 1902. Nlimero 16. Senor Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar," Pie. Sirvase usted recibir abordo del buque de su mando tres (3) bultos rotulados Jefe del Teldgrafo Nacional, los que tendrd usted d. bien entregar en Cd. Bolivar al Senor Adorn de la Aduana Mari- tima de dicho puerto. Dejando asi d salvo la responsibilidad de usted y su buque relativamente al transporte de los tres bultos mencionados, me es grato dar d, usted los gracias y suscribirme. Su atento servidor, Cari^os B. Figueredo. [Translation.] Port of Spain, Feb. 28, igo2. [No. 16.] Captain, S. S. Bolivar, Present. Please receive on board the vessel under your command three (3) packages addressed "Jefe del Telegrafo Nacional," which you will kindly deliver in Ciudad Bolivar to the Collector of Customs of said port. Thus saving your responsibility and that of yoiu" vessel for the conveyance of the said three packages, I beg to thank you in advance. I remain, ° ^ ^ ^' Carlos B. Figueredo. EsTADos Unidos de Venezuela. ADUANA MARITIMA. Ciudad Bolivar, 13 de Marzo de 1902. 91.° y 43° Ntimera 820. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional, "Bolivar," P. Sirvase darle pasaje hasta Trinidad al Ciudadano Alberto Ponce, Cajero de esta Aduana, quien va en comisidn del servicio pfiblico. Dios y Federacidn, ' A. Barroeta Briceno. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 297 [Translation.] U. S. OF VenezueIvA. CUSTOM HOUSE. Cd. Bolivar, March 13, igo2. [gist and 43rd.] [No. 820.] Captain, S. S. Bolivar, Present. Please give passage " to Mr. Alberto Ponce, Cashier of this Custom House, who goes on commission of the public service. God and Federation, A. Barroeta Briceno. [129] GOBIERNO CONSTITUCIONAL DEL EsTADO BOLIVAR. Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. 91.° y 43.° Sirvase mandar extender pasaje de segunda clase hasta Tri- nidad, al Ciudadano Luis Laforye, por cuenta del Gobierno, y con el rebajo correspondiente. Dios y Federaci6n, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Constitutional Government, State of Bolivar. [91st and 43rd.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Present. Please issue a second class passage to Trinidad for Mr. Luis Laforye, for account of the Government, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. Secretaria General, EsTADo Bolivar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 25 de Marzo de igo2. Ntimero 155. gi.° y 44.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase Vd. expedir c^dula de pasaje de ida y vuelta en primera clase d, bordo del vapor "Bolivar," con destino a Trinidad, al ciudadano General Miguel Arismendi Smith; quien va en comision a [Insert "to Trinidad," after "passage." — Agent's note.] 298 APPENDIX. del Gobierno. Dicho pasaje se servird Vd. anotarlo d la cuenta de este Gobierno, con le descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federaci6n, M. S11.VA Medina. [TranslationJ Secretary General, State op BolIvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, March 25, 1902. [No. 155.] [gist and 44th.] Manager Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Present. Please issue a first class return ticket to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar to General Miguel Arismendi Smith, who goes on com- mission of the Government. Said passages you will please charge in account to this Government, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, M. Silva Medina. [130] Cuenta No. 14. Por los terminos del contrato la Compania estd exenta del pago de todos los impuestos nacionales (que compunden tambien los honorarios consulares); pero, ello no obstante, la Compania ha sido obligada a pagar todos esos impuestos desde el 1° de Noviem- bre de 1898 hasta el 31 de Marzo de 1902, los cuales alcanzan por junto d $19,571.34, segdn se demuestra d, continuacidn : Vapor "Bolivar": Pagado a la Aduana en Ciudad Boli- var, Pesos 7,854.19 — $6,041. 60 Pagado al Consul en Trinidad 5,250.00 $11,291.60 Alavuelta $11,291.60 [131] De la vuelta $11,291.60 Vapor "Delta": Pagado d la Aduana en Ciudad Boli- var, Pesos 3>836.95-- -- 2, 951 . 50 Pagado al Consul en Trinidad 1,964.00 4,915.50 Vapor es del Alto-Orinoco: Pagado d la Aduana en Ciudad Boli- var, Pesos 3,964.35.. 3, 049. 50 Pagado al Consul en Trinidad.. 314.74 3,364.24 619)571-34 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 299 [Translation.] Bill 14. By the terms of the Company's Contract-Concession the Com- pany is exempted from payment of all National Imposts (which include Consular Fees), notwithstanding which the Company has been obliged to pay all such Imposts which, from the ist Novem- ber, 1898, to the 31st March, 1902, amount in the aggregate to $19,571.34, as shown below: SS. "Bolivar": Paid Customs at Ciudad Bolivar 7,854.19 Pesos.... _......_. $6,041.60 Paid Consul at Trinidad ._ 5, 250. 00 $11, 291. 60 SS. "Delta": Paid Customs at Ciudad Bolivar 3,836.95 Pesos - 2, 951. 50 Paid Consul at Trinidad i, 964.00 4, 915. 50 Up-River Steamers: Paid Customs at Ciudad Bolivar 3,964.35 Pesos 3, 049. 50 Paid Consul at Trinidad 314. 74 3, 364. 24 619,571.34 [132] Memo of Exhibit 14. Port-of-Spain, Trinidad (B. W. I.), 13th January, 1903. MEMORANDUM. In connection with the accompanying claim the following explanation may be necessary. By Law XV relative to the Internal Regulations of the Customs of Venezuela (copy and translation whereof are hereunto annexed)" it will be seen that the official hours for loading and discharging vessels are from 6 to 10 a. m. and from noon to 4.30 p. m.; and according to Law XVI vessels "having a fixed itinerary" (that is to say, vessels of a regular Line carrying mails) are to be afforded every facility for their operations. But by article 77 of Law XV, it is left to the absolute discretion .of the Customs Authorities in the port of loading or discharging to grant such facilities. As a o [The copy and translation of Law XV seem to have been omitted. — Agent's note.] 300 APPENDIX. matter of fact, it has been the common practice, more especially in the case of the various Collectors of Customs at the port of Cd. Bolivar, to delay in the most vexatious and unreasonable manner the necessary permits to the Company's steamers to discharge or load within official hours. Steamers which have arrived over night and which by the terms of the Law are entitled to start their discharge at 6 o'clock on the ensuing morning, have been systematically prevented from doing so until late in the day, for the express and avowed purpose of compelling the company to pay overtime (" habilitaciones ") and to employ at double rates for overtime the "caleteros" (dock laborers) of the port. It has been openly and repeatedly admitted that, as the officials have not been paid their salaries by the Government, their only means of subsistence have been the exactions levied upon the Company ; while as regards the caleteros, as they in turn have not been paid their wages by their employers, the Company has been compelled to employ twice and even thrice as many of them as would have been necessary, had their steamers not been persistently prevented from working during official hours. There is apparently no section of the "Codigo de Hacienda" which stipulates precisely what are National Imposts, but amongst the latter are admitted to be all Consular Fees where Consuls of Venezuela [133] are paid a salary, as in the case of the Venezuelan Consul at Trinidad. Where Consuls are not paid a salary they are permitted to retain the fees they collect; but since the acces- sion to Power of General Castro Consular Fees collected in Trinidad have been deemed and considered part of the Revenue of the Republic — in other words a National Impost, from which the steamers of the Company are, by the terms of its Contract-Con- cession, expressly declared to be exempted. The accompanying statement setting forth the sum total which the Company has paid out on this account during the period covered by the state- ment is composed exclusively of Consular Fees and Extraordinary Charges for "habilitaciones" and "caleteros." Moreover, on account of the vexatious impediments imposed by the Custom's Authorities at Ciudad Bolivar against the operations of the steamers, the Company has during the whole period of its exist- ence been compelled to land cargo on the wharf at that port in order to maintain its Contract for the carrying of the Trinidad- Ciudad-Bolivar Mails. In consequence of such impediments and obstructions numerous and wholesale robberies and broach- ings of cargoes have taken place and the Company has been RECORD OP CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 3OI compelled to pay large sums on account of robberies for which they were in no wise responsible. From July, 1900, to May, 1 90 1, the amount paid by the Company on account of such spurious claims was $1,091.68 pesos. Exhibit 14. [Translation.] Trinidad. I, Thomas Augustus Turner, of the Town of Port-of-Spain in the Island of Trinidad do solemnly and sincerely declare and state as follows: 1. I am the manager and attorney of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Ivtd., doing business in this Colony in Venezuela, England and elsewhere. 2. The said Company is duly incorporated under the Com pany's Acts in England since the year 1898. 3. By articles 3 and 11 of the said Company's Contract-Con- cession with the Venezuelan Government dated the 17th [134] day of January, 1894, it was agreed that the Company's steamers, whenever carrying mails, should be exempted from the payment of all National Imposts. 4. National Imposts in the shape of Consular Fees and Extraor- dinary Custom House charges have been systematically exacted from the said Company and they have been compelled to pay the same. 5. The paper writing hereunto annexed and marked No. 14 contains a true and faithful account of all such imposts and charges paid by the Company from the ist day of November, 1898, to the 31st day of March, 1902, to the Venezuelan Author- ities and amounts in the aggregate to the sum of $19,571.34. And I make this Declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true and according to the Statutory Declarations Ordinance, 1879, ^^'^ I ^™ aware that if there is any statement in this Declaration which is false, in fact, which I know to be false or do not believe to be true, I am liable to fine and im- prisonment. Thus declared at 78 Marine Square in the Town of Port-of- Spain in the Island of Trinided [Trinidad], B. W. I., this 13th day of January, 1903. (Sgd) Thos. a. Turner. Before me, (Sgd) John D. B. Sei^uer, Notary Public. 302 APPENDIX. Comprobante No. 14. El infrascrito, Tomas Augusto Turner, vecino de la ciudad de Puerto-Espana, isla de Trinidad, declare solemnemente y con toda sinceridad, lo que d continuacion expongo: 1. Soy, el Gerente-apoderado de "The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, I^imited," la cual tiene su giro de operaciones en esta Colonia, en Venezuela, en Inglaterra y en otras partes. 2. Dicha Compafiia fud constitulda debidamente, seglin las leyes de companias en Inglaterra, desde el ano de 1898. [135] 3- Seglin los articulos 3 y n del contrato de dicha Com- pafiia, celebrado con el Gobierno de Venezuela el 17 de Enero de 1894, se convino en que los vapores de la Compafiia que desem- penaran el servicio de correos, quedarlan exonerados del pago de todo impuesto nacional. 4. Impuestos nacionales, en forma de honorarios consulares y gastos extraordinarios de Aduana, se han venido cobrando sis- temdticamente de dicha Compafiia, la cual ha sido obligada a satisfacerlos. 5. La relaci6n adjunta y marcada No. 15 [14] contiene la cuenta fiel y fidedigna de todos esos impuestos y gastos pagados por la Compafiia, desde el i de noviembre de 1898, hasta el 31 de Marzo de 1902, d las Autoridades venezolanas y alcanzan por junto d la suma de $19,571.34. 6. Y hago esta declaracidn concienzudamente, en la convic- ci6n de que es verdadera y de acuerdo con la Ordenanza de las Declaraciones Legales de 1879; y se tambi^n que si algo hay en esta declaracidn que resulte ser falso de hecho 6 que yo sepa que es falso 6 que no crea que sea verdadero, estoy sometido d multa 6 pj-isidn. Asi ha sido declarado en Marine Square No. 78, en la ciudad de Puerto-Espafia, isla de Trinidad A. O. B., hoy 13 de Enero de 1903. (Firmado) Th. A. Turner. Ante ml, (Firmado) J. B. D. SeIvLIER, Notario Publico. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 3O3 CUENTA No. 15. Resutnen de los reclamos contra el Gobierno de Venezuela por los danos y perdidas sufridas por The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, por causa de las demoras del Consul en el despacho del vapor-correo "Bolivar" en las fechas abajo apun- tadas : 19 de Febrero de 1902 $977-85 5 de Marzo de 1902 i, 220. 80 19 de Marzo de 1902 i, 310. 57 $3, 509. 22 [Translation.] Bii.iv OP Exhibit 15. Recapitulation of Claims against the Government of Venezuela for damage and loss sustained by The Orinoco Shipping & Trad- ing Company, Limited, through the Consul delaying to clear the Mail Steamer, Bolivar, from Trinidad, on the undermentioned dates : ' February 19, 1902 $977-85 March 5, 1902 1,220.80 March 19, 1902 1,310.57 Total . ...... $3, 509. 22 Reclamo por danos y perjuicios sufridos por " The Orinoco Ship- ping & Trading Company, Limited," por causa de la demora del Consul de Venezuela en el despacho de los documentos consulares del vapor "Bolivar" de Trinidad, el dia 19 de Febrero de 1902. Por 12 horas de retenci6n del vapor-correo, a causa de haber perdido la marea alta en la barra del macareo.. $500. 00 Carbon gastado durante retencidn 36. 00 Abasteci miento de pasajeros y tripulacidn durante 24 horas d consecuencia de haber Uegado d Ciudad Boli- var desques de las 6p.m 120.00 Habilitaciones y gratificaciones..- 129. 85 Trabajo extra, descarga en dia domingo y carga en horas habilitadas en lunes 192.00 $977-85 304 APPENDIX. [Translation.] Claim for damage and loss sustained by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, through the Consul for [137] Venezuela delaying to clear the SS. Bolivar from Trinidad, on the 19th of February, 1902: 1 2 hours detention of Mail Steamer, through losing the tide on the Macareo Bar $500.00 Coals consumed during the stoppage - 36. 00 Victualling of passengers and crew for 24 hours in con- sequence of arriying at Bolivar after 6p.m - 120.00 Habilitation fees 129. 85 Extra labor, discharging on Sunday, and taking in after hours on Monday 192.00 $977-85 Reclame por dafios y perjuicios sufridos por "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited," por causa de la demora del Consul de Venezuela en el despacho de los documentos con- sulares del vapor "Bolivar" de Trinidad, el dia 5 de Marzo de 1902. Por 1 2 horas de retenci6n del vapor-correo d causa de haber perdido la marea alta en la barra de Macareo.... $500. 00 Carbon gastado durante la retenci6n..._ 43. 20 Abastecimiento de pasajeros y tripulacion d consecu- encia de haber llegado el vapor demasiado tarde a tierra 120.00 Habilitaciones y gratificaciones 89. 60 Trabajo extra por descaraga y habilitacidn 143. 00 Por perdida causada por llegar el vapor a Trinidad de- masiado tarde para enlazar con la Mala-Real y otros vapores : Descarga en alijos $40. 00 Deposito de la carga en los alijos durante dos semanas 125. 00 Guardiasyetc 35. 00 Provisiones extras gastadas 125.00 325.00 $1, 220. 80 [138] [Translation.] Claim for damage and loss sustained by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, tlirough the Consul for Venezuela RECORD OP CLAIM NO. I9. 3O5 delaying to clear the Mail Stetamer Bolivar from Trinidad on the 5th of March, 1902: 1 2 hours detention of Mail Steamer, through losing the tide on the Macareo Bar ._. $500. 00 Coals consumed during stoppage 43. 20 Victualling of passengers and crew for 24 hoiu-s in con- sequence of Steamer arriving too late to land 120. 00 Habilitation fees 89. 60 Extra labor discharging after hours _ 143. 00 Extra loss caused by steamer arriving at Trinidad too late to connect with Royal Mail and other steamers : Discharging into punts $40.00 Keeping cargo in punts for two weeks 125. 00 Watching, extra labor, &c., &c - 35. 00 Extra stores consumed _ 125.00 325.00 $1, 220. 80 Reclamo por danos y perjuicios sufridos por "The Orinoco Ship- ping & Trading Company, Limited," por causa de la demora del Consul de Venezuela en el despacio de los documentos consulares del vapor "Bolivar" de Trinidad el dia 17 de Marzo de 1902. Por 12 horas de retencidn del vapor-correo d causa de haber perdido la marea alta en la barra de Macareo.. $500. 00 Carbon gastado durante la retencidn 43. 20 Abastecimiento de pasajeros y tripulacidn d consecu- encia de haber Uegado el vapor despues de la 6 p. m... 120. 00 A la vuelta $663. 20 [139] De la vuelta $663. 20 Habilitaciones y gratificaciones- 62.62 Trabajo extra y habilitacidn del domingo -.- 238. 75 Por perdida causada por Uegar el vapor d Trinidad de- masiado tarde para enlazar con la Mala-Real y otros vapores : Descarga en alijos - $50. 00 Deposito de la carga en los alijos durante dos semanas-— 136. 00 Guardias y etc. 35. 00 Provisiones extras ^astadas-- - -— 125.00 346.00 $1,310.57 1730 1 — 10^ — 20 306 APPENDIX. [Translation.] Claim for damage and loss sustained by The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, through the Consul for Venezuela delaying to clear the Mail Steamer Bolivar from Trinidad on March 17, 1902: 1 2 hours detention of Mail Steamer, through losing the tide on Macareo Bar $500.00 Coals consumed during the stoppage 43. 20 Victualling of passengers and ship's crew for 24 hours in consequence of steamer arriving after 6 p. m 120. 00 Habilitation fees 62. 62 Extra labor, discharging on Sunday 238. 75 Extra loss caused by steamer arriving at Trinidad too late to connect with Royal Mail and other steamers : Discharging cargo into punts $50.00 Keeping cargo in punts for two weeks 136. 00 Extra labor, watching, &c., &c... 35.00 Extra stores consumed 125.00 346.00 ^1,310.57 [140] Exhibit 15. Trinidad. I, John Wharton, of the Town of Port-of -Spain, in the Island of Trinidad, employee of The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, do hereby solemnly and sincerely declare and state as follows : 1. I am and was on the 19th day of March last past the manager of the Despatch Department of The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited. 2. For many months prior to the 19th day of March last past it was the habit of Carlos Benito Figueredo, the Venezuelan Consul in this Colony, to delay the departure of the Company's Mail Steamers plying between Port-of-Spain and the City of Bolivar on the River Orinoco in the RepubUc of Venezuela by signing and sending to the Company's Agents in this Colony the clearance of such steamers long after the hour fixed for the departure of the said steamers. 3. On the 19th day of March last past the hoiur of the de- parture of the Company's Mail Steamer "Bolivar" was fixed for 1.30 in the afternoon. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 307 4. At one o'clock in the said afternoon the necessary clear- ance papers were handed into the office of the said Carlos Benito Figueredo for his signature. 5. At 1.30 this declarant attended at the office of the said Carlos Benito Figueredo and protested against the delay in signing the said papers and reminded the said Carlos Benito Figueredo of the heavy damages which always resulted to the Company from the delayed departure of their steamers on account of the loss of the proper tide to cross the bar of the Macareo Channel, the consequent delay in the arrival of the steamer at Bolivar, .the heavy charges of the Customs Officer in Bolivar for overtime and Sunday work, the extra labor required and the inconvenience to shippers at Bolivar as well as the extra large expense of feeding passengers and Government Officers. 6. After hearing all these representations the said Carlos Benito Figueredo promised to give the despatch papers for 3 o'clock in that afternoon, but they did not reach the Company's Office before 4.15 of the same afternoon. [141] 7. The paper- writings hereunto annexed and marked No. 1 5 contain the particulars of the damage sustained by the Company from the continuous and persistent wilful neglect of the said Consul in delaying the signing of the said despatch papers of the Company's Mail Steamers. 8. A true copy and translation of the Laws of Venezuela regulating the Consul's duty in this respect is hereunto an- nexed and marked "B." 9. The paper- writings hereunto annexed and marked re- spectively "C" and "D," are true copies of the correspondence between the Venezuelan Consul and the said Company on the said subject. And I make this Declaration conscientiously, believing the same to be true and according to the Statutory Declarations Ordinance, 1879, ^^^ I ^™ aware that if there is any statement in this Declaration which is false, in fact, which I know to be false, or do not believe to be true, I am liable to fine and im- prisonment. Thus declared at [78 Marine Square] in the Town of Port- of-Spain, in the Island of Trinidad, B. W. I., this 2nd day of January, 1903. (Signed) John Wharton. Before me, (Signed) J. B. D. Selwer, Notary Public. 308 APPENDIX. Traduccion — Comprobante 15. Yo, Juan Wharton, de esta Ciudad de Puerto-Espana, en la Isla de Trinidad, empleado de "The Orinoco Shipping & Trad- ing Company, Limited," aqui, ante Ud., solemnemente declare lo siguiente: I." Que yo soy y era el dia 19 de Marzo pasado el Jefe del Departamento de despacho de "The Orinoco Shipping & Trad- ing Company, Limited." 2." Que por muchos meses antes del dia 19 de Marzo Ultimo [142] pasado era costumbre de Carlos Benito Figueredo, Cdnsul de Venezuela en esta Colonia, demorar la salida de los vapores- correos de la Compaiila, que hacen el trdfico entre Puerto-Espana y Ciudad Bolivar en el rio Orinoco en la Repliblica de Venezuela, firmando y remitiendo d los Agentes de la Compania en esta Colonia los documentos consulares de despacho de dicho vapores, mucho tiempo despu^s de la hora fijada para zarpar los referidos vapores. 3.° Que el dia 19 de Marzo filtimo se fijd la salida del vapor- correo " Bolivar" de la Compania para la 1.30 p. m. 4.° Que d la I p. m. de dicho dia los documentos necesarios para el despacho consular fueron entregados en la oficina de dicho Carlos Benito Figueredo para ser firmados. 5.° Que d la 1.30 p. m. el declarante fui d la oficina de dicho Carlos Benito Figueredo y protestd contra la demora en firmar dichos documentos y recordd al dicho Carlos Benito Figueredo los graves perjuicios que siempre ocasionaban d la Compania las demoras en las salidas, porque se perdia el tiempo oportuno en que la marea permite atravezar la barra del Cano Macareo, por la consiguiente demora en la llegada del vapor d Ciudad Bolivar, por lo costoso de las horas de habilitacidn de Aduana y el trabajo del dia domingo por el trabajo d deshoras, por el inconveniente que presenta d los embarcadores en Bolivar, como tambien, por el fuerte gasto de la mantencidn de los pasajeros y de los oficiales del Gobierno. 6.° Que despu^s de olr estas manifestaciones, el dicho Carlos Benito Figueredo ofrecid dar los documentos de despacho d las tres de la tarde, pero estos no Uegaron d la oficina de la Compania antes de las 4.15 p. m. de la misma tarde. 7.° Que el legajo adjunto y marcado No. 15 contiene los de- talles de los dafios sufridos por la Compania por la persistente y voltmtaria negligencia de dicho Cdnsul en demorar la firma de los documentos de despacho consulares de los vapores-correos. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 309 8.° Una copia fiel y traduccidn de las I^eyes de Venezuela de los deberes consulafes va adjunta y marcada "B." 9.° Que el legajo adjunto y marcado respectivamente "C" & "D" son copia fiel de la correspondencia entre el Consul Venezolano y dicha Compania sobre este particular. [143] Y, yo hago esta exposicidn crey^ndola en conciencia verda- dera y de acuerdo con la Ley y Estatutos de 1879 sobre De- claraciones, siendo sabedor de que, si algun ntimero de esta exposici6n fuere falso y resultase yo no ignorar que es falso, 6 no lo creyere yo verdadero, estoy sujete i, multa y encarce- lacidn. Asi lo declaro en la casa No. 78 Marine Square en la Ciudad de Puerto-Espana, en la Isla de Trinidad, B. W. I., hoy dia dos de Enero de 1903. ^ (Firmado) John Wharton. Ante mi, " (Firmado) J. D. SELUER, Notario Publico. Trinidad, Puerto-Espana, 7 de Abril de 1902. Senor Gerente de "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company," Presente. Senor, Queda en cuenta este Consulado, de la queja protesta 6 acu- sacidn contra el suscrito, y con la cual Usted, en su caracter de Gerente de esa Compania ha molestado la atencidn del Exc. Senor Gobernador de esta Isla, olvidindose de que yo, como Cdnsul de Venezuela, y de que es ante esta superioridad que deben llevarse las quejas 6 protestas d que haya lugar con motivo de mis actos consulares. Observo d esa Compania muy cuidadosa de sus derechos pero como d la vez descuida mucho el cumplimento de la mayor parte de ^us deberes, sobre todo en el despacho del "Bolivar," hagale saber, que aqui estoy yo para hacerle cumplir con estos deberes. En primer lugar, el despacho del "Bolivar" debe ser traido d esta Oficina, cuatro horas entes de la sefialada para la salida del buque, y no d tiltima hora, como lo hacen de costumbre. Asimismo esa Compaiiia no debe expedir cddulas de pasaje, sino d aquellas personas que presenten su lista de equipaje auto- rizada por mi, y i, los ciudadanos, — ^Venezolanos 6 estranjeros, — provistos del obligatorio Pasaporte; quedando desde [144] luego esa Compania responsable de la falta de cumplimiento de esos 3IO APPENDIX. requisites, y sujeta al pago de la multa que le impondrd la Aduana de Ciudad Bolivar por tal respecto. Este Consulado ha tornado nota de las personas que en cada viaje del "Bolivar" van sin lista de equipaje y sin pasaporte. Entre los papeles del buque debe venir la carta de partici- pacion, firmado por el Capitdn, dando d conocer el dia de salida, ya sea en lastre 6 con carga, separadamente de la carta de lastre. Tampoco admitird este Consulado ninglin documento del buque que necesita del requisite de la firma del Capitdn, fir- mado por otra persona que no sea este. Y aquellos que la ley dice que deben ser firmados delante del C6nsul, habrd de fir- mar los el Capitdn en presencia del suscrito. Desde luego advierto i. esa Compania que, el Capitdn debera acordarse con el suscrito en la hora de dicha firma, — pues las multiples y diversas ocupaciones inherentes al capgo que de- sempena, y el cumplimiento de 6rdenes del Gobierno, que tiene que atender hacen que no siempre el suscrito se encuentre en la Oficina a horas de despacho. De lo cual puede, si gusta, esa Compaiila quejarse d mi Gobierno. Advierto d esa Compaiiia que el pago de los honorarios con- sulares debe hacerse en el momento mismo que scan entregados por el Consulado los papeles del buque. El Consul de Venezuela, (Firmado) Carlos B. FiguErEdo. [Translation.] Trinidad, Port-of-Spain, April lyth, 1902. The Manager of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Ltd., Present. Sir: This Consulate has taken note of the complaint, protest, or accusation against the tmdersigned, with which you, as manager of the above-mentioned Company, have troubled the attei^tion of His Excellency, the Governor, of this Island, overlooking the fact that I, as Consul for Venezuela, am solely responsible [145] to the Government of Venezuela, and that it is before the latter superior authority that all complaints or protests regarding my Consular acts should be made. I notice that the Company is supremely careful in regard to ' its own rights, but, at the same time, that it is equally careless with regard to compliance with the greater part of its obhgations, RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 3II above all, in regard to the despatch of the "Bolivar"; where- fore, I would have you to know that here am I to compel you to comply with those obligations. In the first place the despatch of the " Bolivar " must be brought to this office four hours before the time indicated for the departure of the steamer, and not at the last hour, as is your custom. Furthermore, the Company has no right to issue passenger tickets, except to such persons as present their baggage lists, duly authorized by me, and to persons — Venezuelans, or for- eigners — provided with passports, which are obligatory; the Company being responsible for any failure to comply with these requisites, and subject to the payment of the fine which may be imposed by the Customs authorities of Ciudad Bolivar for such fault. This Consulate has taken note of persons who on each voyage of the "Bolivar" have travelled without baggage lists or passports. Among the papers of the vessels a letter should reach me, signed by the Captain, notifying me of the date of departure, whether in ballast or with cargo. This Consulate, furthermore, will not admit any document connected with the steamer which requires the signature of the Captain, when such document is signed by any other person than the Captain, and those which the law requires to be signed before the Consul will have to be signed by the Captain in the presence of the writer. I hereby notify the Company that the Captain must agree with the undersigned as to the hour in which such signatures shall be attached, inasmuch as the multitudinous and diverse occupations inherent to the post I occupy, and the fulfilment of the orders of my Government to which I have to attend, are reasons why the undersigned cannot be always in the office [146] during despatch hours, of which fact, if the Company desire, they may complain to my Government. I furthermore notify the Company that the payment of Consular fees must be made at the same moment that the Consul delivers the ship's papers. The Consul for Venezuela, (Signed) Carlos B. Figueredo. 312 APPENDIX. [Copy.] PorT-of-Spain, Trinidad, 12 de Ahril de igo2. Senor Carlos B. Figueredo, Consul de Venezuela, Puerto-Espana. Senor, Acuso recibo de su comunicacion fechada el 7 del presente, a la cual no he podido contestar por haber estado muy ocupado con el paquete. El Codigo de Hacienda no fija que se deban Uevar al Consulado los papeles para el despacho de buques con tantas 6 cuanta^ horas de anticipacidn, sino tinicamente establecer: "Art. 39. Los Agentes Consulares no pueden diferir el despacho de los documentos que se les presenten con arreglo d este Capitulo, en tiempo habil, sin quedar responsables de los perjuicios que, con la demora, ocasionen a los interesados. " El tiempo habil para los despachos en los Consulados de Vene- zuela serd el mismo de las Oficinas Pliblicas del lugar en que residan. "Art. 38. En los puertos en que la Repfiblica no tenga Agentes Consulares, se presentardn los documentos exigidos en este Capi- tulo al Agente Consular de una Naci6n amiga, y en donde no lo haya, 6 que los existentes no convengan d certificar los documentos mencionados, lo hardn dos comerciantes, cuyas firmas autenticard, un funcionario publico. " No es cierto que se hayan expedido cedulas de pasaje sin el cor- respondiente pasaporte y la lista de equipaje. Pero, aun supo- niendo que asi fuere, en todo caso el Consul ha dado su asentimiento, porque en cada despacho del " Bolivar, " d mds de los documentos de barco, se le manda una lista de los pasajeros, extractada del libro de cedulas de la Compania. [147] Las otras formalidades mencionadas en los demds pdrrafos de su nota constituyen nuevas trabas, porque no estdn fundadas en la Ley, son contrarias d las practicas observadas hasta ahora en esta isla y vienen d confirmar, de manera muy robusta, las quejas que ha presentado esta Compania ante el Senor Gobernador, para demostrar los entorpeciemientos que dpone este Consulado d la marcha regular y expedita de los intereses mercantiles de la Colonia. Lamento tener que Uegar d la conclusion que se desprende de su carta: que, en vez de estar Ud. dispuesto d modificar las restric- ciones impuestas, en perjuicio de los intereses generales del comercio en esta Colonia, y los graves inconvenientes para el servicio postal RECORD OF CI,AIM NO. 1 9. 313 • de esta Compania, es su intenci6n interponer obstaculos aun mayores que los actuales. Copias y traducciones fieles de esta correspondencia serdn enviadas al S. E. El Senor Gobernador de esta Colonia. Soy de Ud., Atto y S. S., The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.: Thos. a. Turner, Manager. [Translation.] PorT-of-Spain, Trinidad, April 12, 1902. Carlos B. Figueredo, Esq., Consul for Venezuela at Port-of-Spain. Sir, I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your communication, dated the 7th inst., to which I have been unable to reply sooner because of the pressure of work due to the mails. The Codigo de Hacienda does not anywhere stipulate that the papers connected with the despatch of vessels are to be lodged at the Consulate at any particular hour, nor with any specified period of hours. The law stipulates only the following: "Art. 39. Consuls or Consular Agents may not delay the despatch of documents presented to them in accordance with this Ordinance, during official hours, without being respon[i48]sible for any damages that may be sustained by the interested parties by reason of such delay. The official hours for despatching in the Con- sulates of Venezuela shall be the same as those of the Public Offices of the place where Consulates are established. "Art. 38. In ports where there are no Consular Agents of the Republic, the documents called for by this Ordinance, shall be presented to the Consular Agent of a friendly Nation, and in cases where there are none such, or where the former may not be dis- posed to certify such documents, then they may be certified by two merchants whose signatiu'es shall be attested by a Government Official." It is untrue that this Company has ever issued passenger tickets without the previous production of the corresponding passport and baggage Ust; but, even supposing that the Com- pany had done so, in every case it has been with the assent of the Consul, because, in every despatch of the "Bolivar," besides the ship's papers, the list of passengers taken from the Company's ticket book is sent to the Consulate. 314 APPENDIX. » The other formaUties mentioned in your letter constitute the imposition of fresh obstacles, inasmuch as they have no founda- tion in Law, are contrary to the practice hitherto observed in this Colony; and confirm in the most emphatic manner the complaints which this Company has found it necessary to make to the Executive, in order to demonstrate the obstacles which the Consulate puts in the way of the regular and expeditious conduct of the mercantile interests of this Colony. I regret to be forced to the conclusion from your letter that, so far from being disposed to modify the restrictions which you have imposed to the detriment generally of the trade of this Colony and the grave inconvenience of this Company's mail service, it is your intention to interpose still further obstacles. Copies, together with faithful translations of this correspond- ence, are sent for the consideration of His Excellency, the Gov- ernor of this Colony. I am, Sir, Your obedient servant, The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.: Thos. a. Turner, Manager. [149] [Copy] CONSULADO DE VENEZUELA. Ptierto-Espana, Trinidad, 15 de Abril de 1902. Senor Gerente de "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company," Presente. *' Senor, Sean cuales fueren las apreciaciones de esa Compania con referenda d mis actos consulares, y scan cuales, fueren las acu- saciones que Ud., en nombre de esa Compania, haga contra el suscrito; advierto d esa Compania que mantengo firmes todos los particulares de mi nota fecha 7 del corriente. El retardo que sufra el "Bolivar" en su salida se debiera linicamente d esa Compania, pues este Consulado estd lista para hacer el despacho cuando esa Compania lo desee, pero siempre que se cumplan los particulares de mi citada nota. El Cdnsul de Venezuela, (Firmado) Carlos B. PiguerEdo. RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. 315 [Translation.] Copy.] Consulate of Venezuela. Port-of -Spain, Trinidad, April 15, igo2. To the Manager, The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Present. ■ Sir, Whatever may be your Company's views in regard to my Consular acts, or whatever may be the accusations that you on behalf of your Company may make against the undersigned, 1 have to notify you that I maintain in every particular the tefms of my note dated the 7th inst. The delay which the "Bolivar "may suffer in her departure will be caused solely by the Company, this Consulate being ready to give despatch whenever the Company may so desire, but al- ways under the conditions mentioned in my above-cited note. Consul for Veneziiela, (Signed) Carlos B. FiguerEdo. [150] Cuenta No. 16. Trasporte de pasajeros, que habian tornado cedula para Ciudad BoHvar, de San Felix d Trinidad $353- 60 Manutenci6n de los mismos en su permanencia en San Felix 44. 00 Trasporte de los mismos pasajeros d Ciudad Bolivar, gratis, despues de la apertura del Orinoco 273. 60 Importe de los siguientes efectos, que formaban parte de la carga manifestada del " Bolivar " y de que dis- puso el Gral. Sarria Hurtado, en San FeUx: 20 sacos de arroz $120.00 10 barriles de papas 50. 00 10 barriles de ceboUas 70. 00 16 latas de manteca 48.00 288.00 Detencion del "Bolivar" por orden del Fiscal Arturo Uzlar (30 a 31 de Mayo de 1902), 2 dias a $500.00 por dia... i, 000. 00 Sacada del vapor de guerra " 23 de Mayo," el domingo I de Junio, despues de haber encallado en el cano Macareo loo.oo 2 toneladas de carbdn suplidas al " Forzosa," por orden del Fiscal Arturo Uzlar 20. 00 3l6 APPENDIX. Provisiones y otros efectos del buque, supUdos d exi- gencia del Gral. Julio Sarrla Hurtado $io6. 60 52, 184. 20 [iSi] Translation. Bill op Exhibit 16. For transporting passengers who had taken their pas- sage to Cd. Bolivar, from San Felix to Trinidad ' $353. 60 For feeding same during stay at San Felix 44. 00 Cost of conveying same passengers to Cd. Bolivar ^ without extra charge, after opening of Orinoco 273. 60 Value of undermentioned goods, being part of mani- fested cargo of SS. BoUvar, commandeered by Gen- eral Sarria Hurtado, at San Felix: 20 bags of rice $120. 00 10 barrels potatoes - 50. 00 10 barrels onions - 70. 00 16 tins lard 48.00 288.00 Detention of SS. Bolivar by order of Fiscal Arturo Uslar (30 to 31 May, 1902) 2 days @ 500 per day.... 1,000.00 Hauling off Gunboat, "23 de Mayo," on Sunday, ist June, she having grounded in Cano Macareo — 100. 00 For two (2) tons coal suppUed Forzosa, as per order of Fiscal Arturo Uslar. — „ 20.00 For provisions and ship's stores supplied on requisition of General J. Sarria Hurtado 106. 60 $2, 184. 20 [132] Comprobantes No. 16. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. Presidencia Constitucional del Estado BoLivAR. San F6lix, 31 de Mayo de 1902. Ciudadano Cdpitan del Vapor Nacional "Bolivar," En la rada. Si^ndome indispensable arbitrar recursos para el sosteni- miente de la fuerzas de mi mando, dada la circumstancia de haber sido ocupada la Capital del Estado por fuerzas revolucionarias. RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 317 ocurro d Ud. d fin de que, se sirva poner d disposicidn de este Gobierno los viveres que tomara mi Secretaria General, y por lo cual le otorgard el correspondiente recibo ; £ fin de dejar d cubierto la responsabilidad de Ud., para con la Compafiia de que es Ud. empleado. Dichos viveres serdn tornados de la carga que trae el buque. Dios y Federacidn, (Firmado) J. SarrIa Hurtado. [Translation.] United States of Venezuela. Constitutional Presidency op the State of Bolivar. San Felix, May si, 1902. The Captain SS. Bolivar; In Port. It being indispensable for me to use means for providing for the maintenance of the troops under my command, in view of the circumstance that the Capital of the State has been occupied by Revolutionary Forces, I apply to you, in order that you will be pleased to place at the disposal of this Government the provisions which can be delivered to my Secretary -General, and for which he will give you the corresponding receipt, so as to save you respon- sibility to the Company employing you. The said provisions are to be taken from the cargo which the steamer carries. God and Federation. (Signed) J, Sarria Hurtado. [153] Cano MacarEO, 29 de Mayo de 1902. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor "Bolivar," Sir vase entragarle al Vapor "Forzosa" en comisi6n del servicio piiblico, y por cuenta del Gobierno Nacional, dos toneladas de carbdn. Este documento constard como recibo de dicho carbdn. El Fiscal, (Firmado) Arturo Uslar. [Translation.] Marcareo Channel, May 29, 1902. The Captain SS. "Bolivar," You will please deliver to the steamer " Forzosa," in commission of pubUc service and for account of the National Government, two (2) tons of coal. This document shall be sufficient receipt for the coal. (Signed) Arturo Uslar. 3l8 APPENDIX. San F6lix, jo de Mayo de igo2. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor "Bolivar." Habi^ndome informado el Jefe Civil de esta plaza, de que Ciudad Bolivar se halla en poder de la Revolucidn, y de que el General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente del Bstado Bolivar, debe Uegar d esta puerto por momentos, en mi car deter de Fiscal Nacional d bordo del vapor de su mando, y en resguardo de los intereses del Gobierno Nacional, ordeno d Ud. fondearse aqui en este puerto hasta segunda orden. Dios y Federacidn, El Fiscal: (Firmado) Arturo Uslar. [Translation.] San Felix, May 30, 1902. The Captain SS. "Bolivar," The Civil Chief of this port having informed me that Ciudad Bolivar has fallen into the hands of the Revolution and that [154] General Julio Sarria Hurtado, President of the State of Guayana may arrive here at any moment, I, as Fiscal Agent for the Gov- ernment on board the steamer under your command and in pro- tection of the rights of my Government, do order you to anchor in this Port until further notice. God and Federation. (Signed) Arturo Uslar. Fiscal. San F^lix, ji de Mayo de 1902. He recibido del Contador del vapor nacional " Bolivar," cum- pliendo drdenes del Ciudadano Presidente Constitucional del Estado Bolivar, los articulos anotados d continuacidn y desti- nados al sostenimente [sostenimiento] de las fuerzas acampadas en esta [este] puerto; cuyos bultos corresponden al cargamento que dicho buque conducia d Ciudad Bolivar. J. A. — 20 sacos arroz. M. — 10 sacos papas. M. — 8 sacos ceboUas. A. — 2 sacos cebollas. P. C. — 16 latas de 25 lbs. manteca. El Secretario General: (Firmado) Carlos Guia. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 3IQ [Translation.] San Feux, May 31, 1902. I have received from the purser of the National Steamer BoUvar, in compUance with the orders of the Constitutional President of the State of Bolivar, the under-mentioned articles destined for the maintenance of the troops encamped in this port, the respective packages forming part of the cargo of the said steamer deliverable at Ciudad Bolivar. J. A. — 20 sacks rice. M. — 10 sacks potatoes. M. — 8 sacks onions. A. — 2 sacks onions. P. C. — 16 tins lard, each 25 lbs. (Signed) Carlos Guia. General-Secretary . [155] Exhibit and Bitiv No. 17. Trinidad. We, Thomas Augustus Turner, Manager, and Arthur Simmons Eckstein, Accountant of the Orinoco Steamship Company, both of the Town of Port-of-Spain, in the Island of Trinidad, do jointly and severally solemnly and sincerely declare and state for truth as follows: 1. That the statement hereunto annexed and marked "18" contains a true and faithful account of the moneys received by the said Orinoco Steamship Company from the ist day of June to the 30th day of November of each of the years of 1899, 1900 and 1901, from the plying of their steamers under and by virtue of the Macareo Contract Concession granted by the Venezuelan Government; and also the expenses actually incurred for the working of the said steamers during the said periods. 2. The sum of $61,336.20 represents the total of the said monthly averages during the period covered by the said state- ments. And we make this Declaration conscientiously, believing the same to be true and according to the Statutory Declarations Ordinance 1879, ^^^ '^^ ^^^ aware that if there is any statement in this Declaration which is false, in fact, which we know to be false or do not believe to be true, we are liable to fine and im- prisonment. Thos. a. Turner. A. S. Eckstein. 320 APPENDIX. Thus declared at Port-of-Spain in the island of Trinidad, B. W. I., this 7th day of April, 1903. Before me, John Dennis Sei^wer, Notary Piiblic. [Statement i5.] This is the statement referred to in the foregoing declaration of Thomas Augustus Turner and Arthur Simmons Eckstein, dated the 7th day of April, 1903. John Dennis Sei^uer, Notary Public. [156] The Government op Venezuela to "The Orinoco Steam- ship Company." Loss of revenue from June to November, 1902, caused by the Blockade of the Orinoco. Monthly earnings of the steamers of the Com- pany from June to November, of the years i8gg, 1900, igoi. J Une Revenue Expenditure Net Average 1899 12,946.73 8,123.60 1900 11,891.19 6,607.93 I9OI - 17,619.67 11,788.64 4^,457-59 26,520.17 15,937.42 5,312.47 July— 1899 21,309.77 12,612.70 1900 32, 200. 99 14, 584. 45 1901 30,494-25 15,899.37 84,005.01 43,096.52 40,908.49 13,636.16 August — 1899 33,580.77 16,109.33 1900 19,264.03 10,166.86 1901 27, 790. 39 14, 424. 18 80,635.19 40,700.37 39,934.82 13,311.61 RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. 1 9. CiepteMOeV Revenue Expenditure Net 1899 26,800.78 17,549.21 1900 28,708.55 14,592.45 I9OI -- 20,468.59 12,352.42 75,977-92 44,494 .08 31,483.84 Carried forward [157] Brought forward October — 1899- 22,107.75 15; 255- 72 1900 25,708.97 13,709.98 1901 24,600.96 10,452.81 72,417.68 39,418.51 32,999.17 November — 1899 .-. 19,897.44 15,413.07 1900 20,019.53 11,592-10 1901 20,201.48 10,368.40 60,118.45 37,373-57 22,744.88 321 Average 10, 494, 61 42,754-85 42,754-85 10,999.72 7,581-63 61,336.20 Consulate of the United States. Trinidad, B. W. I., April 7, 1903. I, Alvin Smith, Consul of the United States of America at Trinidad hereby certify that the signitures at the foot of the foregoing document hereto annexed, is the true and genuine signiture of John Dennis SeUier, a Notary Public at this island, personally known to me and as such is entitled to full faith and credit. Given under my hand and the seal of the Consulate the day and year hereof. Alvin Smith, U. S. Consul. 17301 — 10- 322 APPENDIX. [158] CUENTA No. 18. POR P^RDIDA DE RENDIMIENTOS DE JUNIO A NOVIBMBRE DE 1902, CON MOTIVO DEL BLOQUEO DEL ORINOCO. Rendiwiientos mensuales de los vapores de la "Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd.," de Junio d Noviembre de los anos i8gg, igoo, igoi. J UniO Rendimiento Gastos Neto TSrmino Medio 1899 12,946.73 8,123.60 1900 11,891.19 6,607.93 I9OI 17,619.67 11,788.64 42,457-59 26,520.17 15,937.42 5,312.47 Julio — 1899 21,309.77 12,612.70 1900 32,200.99 14,584.45 1901-- - 30,494.25 15,899.37 84,005.01 43,096.52 40,908.49 13,636.16 Agosto — 1899 33, 580. 77 16, 109. 33 1900 19,264.03 10,166.86 1901-- - 27,790.39 14,424.18 80,635.19 40,700.37 39,934.82 13,311.61 Setiembre — 1899 26,800.78 17,549.21 1900 28,708.55 14,592.45 1901- -- 20,468.59 12,352.42 75,977-92 44,494-08 31,483.84 10,494.61 A la vuelta 42, 754. 85 [159] De la vuelta 42, 754. 85 Octubre — 1899 22,107.75 15,255.72 1900 - 25,708.97 13,709.98 1901 24,600.96 10,452.81 72,417.68 39,418.51 32,999-17 10,999-72 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 323 JyOinemOre Rendimiento Gastos Neto Tdrmino Medio 1899 19,897.44 15,413.07 I9OO- 20,019.53 11,592.10 I9OI 20,201.48 10,368.40 60,118.45 37,373-57 22,744.88 7,581.63 61,336. 20 [Traducci6n.] Comprobante No. 17. NosoTROS, Thomas Augustus Turner, Gerente, y Arthur Simmons Eckstein, Contador de la Orinoco Steamship Company, ambos vecinos de Puerto Espafia, Trinidad, juntamente y cada uno per si, solemnemente y con toda sinceridad declaramos y manifestamos en verdad lo signiente: 1 . Que el documento adjunto" contiene una relacidn exacta y fiel de las sumas recibidas por la referida Orinoco Steamship Company, desde el primer dia de Junio hasta el 30 de Noviembre de cada uno de los anos 1899, 1900 y 1901, por el tr^fico de sus vapores bajo y en virtud del Contrato-Concesion del Macareo otorgado por el Gobierno de Venezuela; y aslmismo con respecto d los gastOs incurridos en la operacidn de los referidos vapores durante dichos periodos. 2. La suma de $61,336.20 representa el total de los rendi- mientos mensuales, por termino medio, durante el periodo que abarcan dichas relaciones. Y hacemos esta declaracidn concienzudamente y de confor- midad con la ley y Estatutos de 1879 sobre Declaraciones, siendo sabedores de que, si cualquiera relacidn de esta exposicidn fuere falsa y resultemos no ignorar que es falsa, 6 no la creyeremos nosotros verdadera, estamos sujetos i. multa y encarcelacidn. Asi lo declaramos en Puerto Espafia, Trinidad, A. B., el dia 7 de Abril de 1903. (Firmado) T. A. Turner. Ante mi: A. S. Eckstein. (Firmado) John Dennis Sei^uER, Notario Publico. "[The document referred to is the "Cuenta Xo. 18," immediately preceding. — Agent's note.] 324 APPENDIX. CUENTA No. 18. Por detencion y alquiler del vapor "Masparro," desde el I de Abril hasta el 18 de Setiembre de de 1902: 171 dias d 100 pesos 17, 100.00 Pol: detencidn y alquiler del vapor "Socorro," desde el I de Abril hasta el 5 de Noviembre de 1902 : 219 dias d 100 pesos 21, 900.00 Pesos 39, 000. 00 S. E. u 0. Equivalente d, $30,000.00 [161] [Translation.] Bill of Exhibit 18. For detention and hire of SS. "Masparro," from the ist May to i8th September, 1902: 141 days @ 100 pesos 14, 100. 00 For detention and hire of the SS. "Socorro," from the 2ist March to 5th November, 1902: 229 days @ 100 pesos... 22, 900. 00 Pesos 37, 000. 00 E. & O. E. Equal to $28, 461 . 53 The Orinoco Steamship Company, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad (B. W. I.), 6 de Noviembre de igo2. Senor Gral. Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente Constitucional del Estado Bolivar (Venezuela) , Actualmente de transito en esta Antilla. Senor, — El infrascrito, Gerente de "The Orinoco Steamship Co.," con el fin de rendir d la Direccidn de la mencionada Com- pania, una relacidn del movimiento de sus buques, suplica d Ud., se sirva certificar, al pie, los particulares siguientes : 1. Si es cierto que el vapor "Socorro," perteneciente a esta Empresa, ha estado por cuenta y d la orden del Gobierno desde el 21 de Marzo pr6ximo pasado hasta el dia en que se separo Ud. del Estado Guayana. 2. Si es cierto, por constarle y por ser de piiblica notoriedad, que del mismo modo permaneci6 el expresado vapor desde el dia de la separaci6n de Ud. hasta anoche, en que llegd d esta isla. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 325 Asi lo pido d Ud., por ser de extricta justicia, en Puerto Es- pana, d los seis dias del mes de Noviembre de mil novecientos dos. The Orinoco Steamship Co.: Thos. a. Turner, Manqger. [162] Certifico, ser cierta en todas sus partes A que se refiere en esta misma nota. Trinidad, d los siete dias del mes Noviembre. J. Sarria Hurt ado. [Translation.] Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, Nov. 6, 1902. General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Constitutional President of the State of Bolivar {Venezuela). At present in transit at this Island. Sir: The undersigned, Manager of the Orinoco Steamship Co., with the object of sending to the Directors of the said Company a report of the movement of its vessels, begs to request you to certify at foot the following particulars : 1 . If it is certain that the Steamer Socorro, belonging to this Corporation, has been subject to the order of the Government, and for account of the latter, from the 21st of March last up to the day you left the State of Guayana. 2. If it is true, as known to you, and of public knowledge, that the said steamer remained so subject from the day of your departure up to last night, when she arrived at this Island. I make this request of you as a matter of strict justice, at Port-of-Spain, the sixth day of November, Nineteen hundred and two. (Signed) The Orinoco Steamship Co., Thos. A. Turner, Manager. I hereby certify that what is referred to in the above docu- ment is true in every particular. (Signed) J. Sarria Hurtado. Trinidad, Nov. 7TH. General Anselmo Zapata Avila, Jefe de Operaciones del Estado Guayana, hace constar: Que el vapor nacional "Masparro," su Capitdn Carlos Re- villa, ha estado al servicio del Gobierno Nacional desde el mes 326 APPENDIX. [163] de Mayo liltimo hasta la fecha, en que sale en comisidn para Trinidad. Por esta circunstancia y por encontrarse la plaza de Ciudad Bolivar ocupada por fuerzas revolucionarias, no le ha sido posible al Capitdn, obtener de la Aduana maritima de aquel puerto los documentos que ordena la ley para navegacion, toda vez que no hay alii representante alguno del Gobierno legiti- mamente constituido. En fe de lo cual expido la presente certi- ficacion para los fines que puedan importar a la parte intere- sada. Certifico ademds que no hay papel sellado ni estampillas. (Firmado) AnsEI/MO Zapata A. [Translation.] General Anselmo Zapata Avila. Chief of the Operations of the State of Guayana makes it known : That the National Steamer "Masparro," Captain Revilla, has been in the service of the National Government since the month of May last to the present day, on which she goes to Trinidad on commission. For this reason and because the town of Ciu- dad Bolivar was found to be occupied by the revolutionary forces, it has not been possible for the Captain to obtain from the Maritime Customs the navigating documents which are pre- scribed as necessary by the law since there is no representative there of the legally Constituted Government. In faith thereof I issue the present certificate for whatever purposes it may serve, whomsoever it may concern. I further certify that in this office there are no sealed paper or stamps. (Signed) Anselmo Zapata A. [164] EsTADos Unidos de Venezuela. Jefatura de Operaciones Miutares del Estado Bolivar. lyOS Castillos, 16 de Setiembre de igo2. 92." y 44.° Licencia de Navegacidn. Se concede al Capitdn Carlos Revilla para que en el vapor na- cional "Masparro," de su mando y con la tripulacidn constante en su roll navegue d Trinidad con carga. Dios y Federaci6n, (Firmado) Anselmo Zapata A. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 327 [Translation.] United States op Venezuela. JEFATURA DE OpERACIONES MiUTARES DEL EsTADO BOLIVAR. Los Castillos, i6th September, igo2. 92.°y44° Navigating License. Permission is hereby granted to Captain Carlos Revilla to sail in the National Steamer "Masparro" under his command together with his crew as per his roll to Trinidad with cargo. God and Federation, (Signed) Anselmo Zapata A. CuENTA No. 19. Reparaciones especiales hechas al vapor "Masparro," i. su regreso a Trinidad, las cuales fueron necesarias d causa del mal uso que tuvo mientras estaba en poder del Gobierno de Venezuela, desde el i de Abril hasta el 18 de Setiembre de 1902, seglin presupuesto y certificacidn adjuntos Pesos.— 2, 520. 50 [165] [Translation.] Bill of Exhibit 19. For special repairs done to SS. "Masparro," on her return to Trinidad, necessitated by the ill usage of the vessel whilst in the hands of the Government of Venezuela, from April i to September 18, 1902, as per estimate and certificate attached Pesos.— 2, 520. 50 Exhibit ig. Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, November 24, 1902. T. A. Turner, Esq., Manager of the "Orinoco Steamship Co." Sir: — In accordance with your instructions I have carefully examined the hull of the SS. "Masparro," and find it to be in bad condition, principally from the bow stem to the collision bulkhead. Five (5) plates must be replaced and seven (7) frames. The bottom of the steamer is heavily dented in many places, and the three rudders require to be repaired. The main deck has been very badly treated, and it will be necessary to put many patches, and caulk it all over. 328 APPENDIX. The upper and hurricane decks require new canvas and re- painting. The joiner's work needs repairing in many places and entirely repainting. The engine and boilers require extensive repairs. I estimate the cost of the above mentioned repairs, when satis- factorily completed, at the sum of two thousand three hundred and seventeen dollars and forty-three cents ($2,317.43). Your obedient servant, (Signed) R. EnsEnat, Chief Engineer. Trinidad, "November jo, igo2. I hereby certify that the amount Two thousand five hundred and twenty dollars and fifty cents ($2520.50) is a true and faithful [166] account of the repairs done to the SS. "Masparro," as represented in the books of this Company. The Orinoco Steamship Company, (Signed) A. S. Eckstein, Accountant. [Traducci6n.] Comprobante ig. Puerto Espana, Trinidad, 27 de Noviembre de 1902. Senor T. A. Turner, Gerente de la " Orinoco Steamship Company. " MuY senor mio: De acuerdo con sus instrucciones, he exa- minado cuidadosamente el casco del vapor "Masparro," y en- contrddole enmala condici6n, principalmente de la roa [proa] d la divisidn contra colision. Hay necesidad de poner cinco planchas nuevas y siete marcos. El fondo del vapor estd muy abollado en varias partes, y los tres timones exigen composiciones. La cubierta principal ha sido muy maltratada y serd indispensable ponerle muchos re- miendos 6 parches, y calafatearla por completo. La cubierta superior y la toldilla necesitan nueva lona y pin- tar las nuevamente. El maderaje de cubierta necesita tambien composiciones en varias partes y repintarlo del todo. La maquinaria y las calderas requieren considerables repa- raciones. Presupongo el coste de las reparaciones mencionadas, una vez que estdn Uevadas d cabo satisfactoriamente, en la suma RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 19. 329 de dos mil trescientos diez y siete dollars, cuarenta y tres cen- tavos ($2,317.43). Su atento. servidor, (Firmado) R. EnsE^Jat, Ingeniero-Superintendente. Trinidad, jo de Noviembre de igo2. Certifico que el monto de dos mil quinientos veinte dollars con cincuenta centavos ($2,520.50) es el importe fiel y verdade- [i67]ro de las composiciones hechas al vapor "Masparro," como arrojan los libros de la Compania Uevados por mi mismo. The Orinoco Steamship Company: (Firmado) A. S. Eckstein, Tenedor de libros. Cuenta No. 20. Reparaciones especiales hechas al vapor "Socorro," a su regreso d. Trinidad, las cuales fueron necesarias d causa del mal uso que recibio, mientras estuvo en poder del Gobierno de Venezuela, desde el i de Abril hasta el 5 de Noviembre de 1902, segiin presu- puesto -.. . $2, 932. 98 [Translation.] Bill op Exhibit 20. For special repairs done to the SS. "Socorro," on her return to Trinidad, necessitated by the ill usage of the vessel whilst in the hands of the Government of Venezuela, from April ist to November 5th, 1902, as per estimate $2, 932. 98 Exhibit 20. Port op Spain, Trinidad, November 24, igo2. T. A. Turner, Esq., Manager of the "Orinoco Steamship Co." Sir: — In accordance with your instructions I have carefully examined the hull of the steamer "Socorro," and find it to be in bad condition, principally the bottom of the steamer is heavily dented in many places, and badly corroded all over. Two bow plates must be renewed and nearly all the frame. 330 APPENDIX. The main deck has been very badly treated, and it will be nec- essary to put new deck all over. The upper deck and hurricane deck require new canvas and repainting. The joiner's work needs repairing all over and entirely repainting. [i68] The engine and boilers require extensive repairs. I estimate the cost of the above mentioned repairs, when satis- factorily completed, at the sum of $2,932.98 (Two thousand nine hundred and thirty-two dollars and ninety-eight cents) . Your obedient servant, (Signed) R. Ensenat. Consular Service U. S. A. Trinidad, B. W. I., December 2, igo2. I, the undersigned Consul of the United States at Trinidad, hereby certify that the signature at the foot of the foregoing, hereto annexed, is the true and genuine signature of R. Ensenat (Marine Engineer) , the surveyor appointed on the hull of the SS. "Socorro," personally known to me, and as such is entitled to full faith and credit. Given under my hand and Seal of Office, the day and year hereof. (Signed) Ai,viN Smith, U. S. Consul. (Seal.) Consulate of the United States. Trinidad, W. I. [Traduccion.] Comprobante No. 20. Puerto Espana, Trinidad, 24 de Noviembre de 1902. Senor T. A. Turner, Gerente de la "Orinoco Steamship Co." Muy seiior mlo: De acuerdo con sus instrucciones, he exa- minado cuidadosamente el casco del vapor "Socorro," y lo he encontrado en mala condicidn, principalmente el fondo del buque, que estd aboUado en muchas partes y muy corroido en toda su extensidn. Dos de las planchas de proa deben ser cambiadas por nuevas, como tambien todos los largueros. La cubierta principal ha sido muy maltratada, y serd necesa- [i69]rio poner nueva cubierta por completo. Ea cubierta supe- rior y la toldilla exigen nueva lona y nueva pintura. Eas construc- ciones de madera necesitan composiciones por todas partes y una pintura general. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 33 1 La maquinaria y las calderas requieren considerables repara- ciones. Presupongo la suma de $2,932.98 (dos mil novecientos treintidos dollars, con noventiocho centavos) para llevar i. cabo satisfac- toriamente las reparaciones arriba enumeradas. Su atento servidor, (Firmado) R. Ensbnat, Ingeniero-Superintendente. Servicio ConsuIvAR de IvOs Estados Unidos de N.- America. Trinidad, 2 de Diciembre de igo2. El infrascrito, C6nsul de los Estados Unidos en Trinidad, certifico: Que la firma al pie del documento que precede es la firma verdadera y autdgrafa de R. Ensenat (Ingeniero de Marina) , el perito nombrado para inspeccionar el casco del vapor "So- corro," a quien conozco personalmente, y, como tal, merece pletia fe y cr^dito. Dado y firmado con el sello de esta Oficina, en la fecha ut supra. (Firmado) Ai,viN Smith, Cdnsul de los E. E. U. U. (Sello.) CONSUIvADO DE LOS E. E. U. U. Trinidad, I. O. [176] Cubnta No. 21. El gobierno de Venezuela d the Orinoco Skipping & Trading Co., Ltd. 1902. Mayo 4. — Por los siguientes pasajes en cdmara: Dolores de Subero € hija, Trinidad ida y vuelta 72. 00 Mayo 6. — Policarpo Espejo, Trinidad ida y vuelta 36. 00 Bartolom6 Taboada 20. 00 Gabriel Lanza H., Trinidad ida y vuelta 36. 00 Elias Guerra A., Trinidad 20. 00 Mayo 15. — Eduardo Viso P., San Felix 5- 00 Mayo 20. — Carlos A. Guia, Trinidad ida y vuelta 36. 00 Focidn Soto, Trinidad 20.00 R. Uribe U., Trinidad.. 20.00 Ruperto Aya, Trinidad... 20.00 J. M. Plata Uribe, Trinidad 20.00 Jose del C. Caballero, Trinidad.. 20.0a 332 APPENDIX. Mayo 20. — C. E. Urueta, Trinidad 20. 00 Alejandro Pesquera L 20.00 Pesos 365.00 Menos 50%, segdn contrato con el Gobierno 182. 50 Pesos 182. 50 Bolivares 730. 00 Equivalente a $140. 39 [Translation.] Bill of Exhibit 21. The National Government to the Orinoco Steamship Company, Ltd. 1902. May 4. — For the following first class passages : Dolores de' Subero and daughter to Trinidad and return $72.00 May 6. — Policarpo Espejo to Trinidad an[d] return 36.00 Bartolotne Taboada to Trinidad 20.00 Gabriel Lanza H. to Trinidad and return 36. 00 Elias Guerra A. to Trinidad 20.00 May 15. — Eduardo Viso P. to San Felix 5- 00 May 20. — Carlos A. Guia to Trinidad and return 36. 00 Focion Soto to Trinidad 20. 00 R. Uribe U. to Trinidad 20.00 Ruperto Aya to Trinidad 20.00 J. M. Plata Uribe to Trinidad 20.00 Jose del C. Caballero to Trinidad 20. 00 C. E. Urueta to Trinidad 20.00 Alejandro Pesquera T. to Trinidad 20.00 Pesos 365.00 Less 50%, according to the contract with the National Government ._ 182. 50 Pesos 182. 50 Bolivares 730. 00 Equal to $140. 39 E. & O. E. record of claim no. 1 9. 333 [178] Bill of Exhibit 21. [Translation.] The National Government to the Orinoco Steamship Company. 1902. For the following passages : Aprils. — Salvador Hernandez to Trinidad 20.00 M. Silva M., return to Trinidad 36. 00 Andrade A. Silva to Trinidad 10. 00 Baldomero Benitez, return to Trinidad 36. 00 Salvador Hernandez, return to Trinidad 20. 00 April 17. — Carlos Garcia R. to Barrancas 10.00 Pedro M. Castro to Barrancas 10.00 A 2d class passenger to Barrancas 5. 00 April 28. — Carlos Guia, return to Trinidad. 36. 00 Jaime Todd, return to Trinidad 36. 00 Pesos 2ig. 00 Less 50%, according to the contract with the National Government 109. 50 Pesos 109. 50 Equal to $84. 23 El Gobierno Nacional d the Orinoco Steamship Co. 1902. Por los siguientes pasajes, en cdmara: Debe. Abril 8. — Salvador Herndndez, de Trinidad 20. 00,. M. Silva M., ida y vuelta d Trinidad.. 36. 00 Andres A. Silva, A Trinidad.. 10.00 Baldomero Benitez, ida y vuelta a Trinidad.. 36. 00 Salvador Sanchez, d Trinidad 20.00 Abril 17. — Carlos Garcia R., de Barrancas 10.00 A la vuelta 132. 00 [179] De la vuelta 132. 00 Pedro M. Castro, de Barrancas.. 10.00 Un asistente, en segunda clase, de Barrancas 5. 00 ^bril 28. — Carlos A. Guia, ida y vuelta d Trinidad 36.00 Jaime Todd,, ida y vuelta a Trinidad 36. 00 Pesos 219. 00 Menos 50% segfin contrato... 109. 50 S. E. is O. 109. 50 Equivalente d $84. 23 334 APPENDIX. Comprobantes No. 21. Secretaria Generai^, Estado Bouvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 4 de Mayo de 1902. 91.° y 44.0 Ntiihero 193. Ciudadano Agente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del Ciudadano Presidente del Estado, sirvase Ud. expedir c^dula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo del vapor "Bolivar," con destino d Trinidad, d vuelta d esta capital, A la Sefiora Dolores de Subero e hija, cuyo valor se servird anotarlo ^ la cuenta de este Gobierno. Dios y Eederacidn, M. SiivVA Medina. [Translation.] Secretary General., State of Bouvar. Cd. Bouvar, May 4, 1902. [91st and 44th.] [No. 1 93. J Manager, Orinoco Steamship Co. By order of the President of the State, please issue a first class passage by the Steamer "Bolivar" to Trinidad and return to this Capital, for Mrs. Dolores de Subero and daughter, charging the value of same to this Government. ' God and Federation, M. SiivVA Medina. Gobierno Constitucional Estado Bouvar. Ciudad Bouvar, 6 de Mayo de 1902. 91.0 y 44.0 Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. El Ciudadano General Policarpo Espejo va d Trinidad, abordo del vapor "Bolivar," en una comisidn del servicio publico. [180] Do que comunico d Ud. para que se sirva expedirle c6dula de pasaje de ida y vuelta, cuyo descuento correspbndiente anotard d la cuenta del Gobierno. Dios y Federacidn, J. SarrIa Hurtado. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 335 [Translation.] Constitutional Government, State of Bouvar. Cd. BoLfvAR, May 6, igos. [pist and 44th.] Manager, Orinoco Steamship Co., Present. General Policarpo Espejo goes to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar on a commission of the public service. I advise you of this so that you will issue to him a return passage ticket, charging same to the account of the Government, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. Secretaria General, Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 6 de Mayo de igo2. Ndmero 220. gi.° y 44." Ciudadano Agente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. Sirvase expedir de orden del Ciudadano Presidente del Estado cddula de pasaje en primera clase al Ciudadano Bartolome Taboada que se embarca hoy, con destino i. Trinidad abordo del .vapor Bolivar; cuyo valor cargard Ud. d, la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, M. Silva Medina. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, May 6, igo2. [No. 220.] {gist and 44th.] Agent, Orinoco Steamship Co., Present. By order of the President of the State, you will please issue a first class passage ticket to Mr. Bartolome Taboada, who embarks today for Trinidad on the S. S. Bolivar, the value of which pas- sage you will please charge to the Government of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, M. Silva Medina. 336 appendix. Secretaria General, Estado Bowvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 6 de Mayo de 1902. Nlimero 218. 9/.° y 44.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del Ciudadano General Presidente del Estado, sirvase Ud. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase, de ida y vuelta, al Ciudadano Jose Gabriel Lanza Herndndez, con destino i. Trinidad, y anotar su valor d, la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federaci6n, M. SiLVA Medina. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bouvar. Cd. Bouvar, May 6, igo2. [ gist and 44th.] [No. 218.] Agent, Orinoco Steamship Co., Present. By order of the President of the State, please issue a first class return passage ticket to Mr. Josd Gabriel Ivanza Hernandez, who goes to Trinidad, charging the value of same to the Government of the State. God and Federation, M. SiLVA Medina. [181] Secretaria General, Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 6 de Mayo de igo2. 91.° y 44.° Niimero 219. Ciudadano Agente de la "Orinoco Steamship Co.," P. El Ciudadano EHas Guerra Agosto va d Trinidad en una comi- si6n del servicio ptiblico, abordo del vapor "Bolivar." To que comunico d, Ud. de orden del Ciudadano Presidente del Estado, i, fin de que se sirva expedirle cedula de pasaje en primera clase, cuyo valor anotard, Ud. i, la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, M. Silva Medina. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. I9. 337 [Translation.] Secretary General, State ok BoivfvAR. Cd. Bolivar, May 6, igo2. Ygist and 44th.] [No. 219.] Agent, Orinoco Steamship Co. Mr. Elias Guerra Agosto goes to Trinidad on a commission of the public service by the S. S. Bolivar. I advise you of this by order of the President of the State, so that you may furnish him a first class passage ticket, charging the value of same to the Government of the State, with the corre- sponding discount. God and Federation, M. SiLVA Medina. ESTADOS UnIDOS DE VENEZUELA. ESTADO BOLIVAR. COMANDANCIA MiLlTAR DE LA PlAZA. San F^lix, 13 deJSiayo de 1902. 92° y 44-° Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar.'' Sivase dar pasaje al General Eduardo Viso Palacio, que va en comisidn de esta Tomandancia ante el Presidente del Estado. Dios y Federacidn, Erasmo Inojosa. [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. state of bolivar. Coivfi«ANDER, Military Department. San F^lix, May 15, igoz. [g2nd and 44th.] Captain, S. S. Bolivar. Please give a passage to General Eduardo Viso Palacio, who goes on commission of this Department to the President of the State. God and Federation, Erasmo Inojosa. 17301 — 10 — 22 33^ appendix. Secretaria GeneraIv, Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 20 de Mayo de 1902. 91° y 44° Ntimero 133. Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del Ciudadano Presidente constitucional, sirvase Ud. expedir c^dula de pasaje en primera clase, de ida y vuelta, [182] en el vapor "Bolivar," con destino d, Trinidad, al Ciudadano Carlos A. Guia, por cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. ■ Dios y Federacion, M. SiLVA Medina. Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, May 20, 1902. [91st and 44th.] No. 133. Manager, Orinoco Steamship Co. By order of the Constitutional President, please issue a first class return ticket to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar, to Mr. Carlos A. Guia, for account of the Government." God and Federation, M. SiLVA Medina. Secretaria General, Estado Bolivar. CiUDAD BoLivAR, 20 de Mayo de 1902. Numero 132. 91." y 44.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, Pte. De orden del Ciudadano Presidente del Estado, sirvase Ud. expedir d las seis personas que indique d Ud. el portador, cddulas de pasaje de primera clase en el vapor "Bolivar" para Trinidad, cargando el importe a la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado, con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federaci6n, M. SiLVA Medina. Focion Soto. R. Uribe Uribe. Ruperto Aya. J. M. Plata Uribe. Jose del C. Caballero. C. A. Urueta. a [Add "of the State." — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 339 [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bouvar. Cd. BoLfvAR, May 20, igo2. [No. 132.] [gist and 44th.] Manager, Orinoco Steamship Co. [Present.] By order of the President of the State, please issue to the six persons whose names will be given by bearer, first class passages to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar, charging the value to the account of the Government of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, M. SiivVA Medina. Focion Soto. J. M. Plata Uribe. R. Uribe Uribe. Jose del C. Caballero. Ruperto Aya. C. A. Urueta. Secretaria General Estado BolIvar. CiUDAD Bolivar, 20 de Mayo de igo2. gi." y 44.' N^imero 131. Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. De orden del ciudadano Presidente del Estado, slrvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje en prima clase a bordo del vapor "Boli- var" con destino d Trinidad, al ciudadano Alejandro Pesquera hijo, y anotar su valor d la cuenta de este Gobierno. Dios y Federacidn, M. SiLVA Medina. [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, May 20, igo2. [gist and 44th.] [No. 131.] Manager Orinoco Steamship Co. [Present.] By order of the President of the State, please issue a first class passage to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar, to Mr. Alejandro Pes- quera hijo, charging value of same in account to this Government. God and Federation, M. Silva Medina. 340 APPENDIX. [183] GOBIERNO CONSTITUCIONAL DEI. ESTADO BoUVAR. CiUDAD Bolivar, 8 de Abril de igo2. gi." y 44.' Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. El Ciudadano Salvador Herndndez vino en el liltimo viaje del "Bolivar," de Trinidad, en comision cerca del Gobiemo de este Estato [Estado], y espero se sirva hacerle el descuento i reintegro correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Constitutional Government of the State op Bolivar. Cd. Bolivar, April 8, 1902, [gist and 44th.] Agent, Orinoco Steamship Co. [Present.] Mr. Salvador Hernandez came on the last trip of the S. S. Bolivar from Trinidad, on commission to the Government of this State, and I hope you will give him the corresponding discount and return. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. Secretaria General Estado Bolivar. CiuDAD Bolivar, 7 de Abril de igo2. Nllmero 106. gi." y 44." Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Vd. expedir cedula de pasaje de primera clase en vapor "Bolivar" para Trinidad, al suscrito Secretario General y su hijo menor Andres Avelino Silva, comprendida en la del primero la vuelta a esta ciudad, por cuenta del Gobiemo del Estado con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, M. Silva Medina. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 34 1 [Translation.] Secretary General, State of Bouvar. Cd. Bolivar, April 7, igos. [No. 106.] [gist and 44th.] Manager, Orinoco Steamship Company, Present. Please issue a first class passage to Trinidad per S. S. Bolivar to the undersigned Secretary General, and his young son Andres Avelino Silva, including a return ticket for myself to this city, for account of the Government of the State, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, M. SiLVA Medina. GobiERNO CoNSTITUCIONAL del EsTADO BOLfVAR. CiUDAD Bolivar, 8 de Abril de 1902. 91.° y 44.' Ciudadano Gerente de la Campania de vapor es del Orinoco, Presente. Sirvase Usted expedir cedula de pasaje de ida i vuelta en primera clase al Ciudadano Baldomero Benitez d bordo del vapor "Boli- var" con destino i, Trinidad, dicho pasaje se servird Usted ano- tarlo en la cuenta de este Gobierno con el descuento correspond- iente. Dios y Federaci6n, J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] Constitutional Government of the State of Bolivar. Cd. BoLfvAR, April 8, 1902. [gist and 44th.] Manager, Orinoco Steamship Co. [Present.] Please issue a first class return passage to Mr. Baldomero Benitez by the S. S. Bolivar to Trinidad, the value of which you will please charge in account to this Government, with the cor- responding discount. God and Federation, J. Sarria Hurtado. 342 APPENDIX. [184] GOBIERNO CONSTITUCIONAI. DEI, ESTADO Boi^fVAR. CiUDAD BoivfvAR, 8 de Abril de igo2. 91-'' 7 44-° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de vapores del Orinoco, Presente. Slrvase Ud. expedir cedula de pasaje en primera clase d bordo del vapor "Bolivar"' al Ciudadano Salvador Hernandez que se embarca hoy para Trinidad, en comision del servicio pliblico. Dicho passaje [pasaje] se servird Ud. anotarlo con el descuento correspondiente, d la cuenta del Gobierno del Estado. Dios y Federacidn. J. Sarria Hurtado. [Translation.] CONSTlTUTIONAIv GOVERNMENT OP THE STATE OF BOUVAR. Cd. Bowvar, Abril 8, igo2. [gist and 44th.] Manager Orinoco Steamship Co., Present. Please issue a first class passage ticket to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar, to Mr. Salvador Hernandez, who goes " on commission of the public service. Said passage you will please charge, with the corresponding discount, to the account of the Government of the State. God and Federation, J. SarrIa Hurtado. ESTADOS UnIDOS de VENEZUEI/A. estado maturIn. Ei< Gobernador . DEL Territorio Federal Delta Amacuro EN Camp ANA. CuARTEL General en Barrancas, 17 de Abril de 1902. Ciudadano Capitdn del vapor nacional "Bolivar." Sirvase dar pasaje al General Carlos Garcia Ramires, al Coronel Pedro M. Castro L. y un asistente, que pasan d, Ciudad Bolivar en comisi6n. Dios y Federacidn, A. Celis Plaza. « [Insert "to Trinadad to-day" after "goes." — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 343 [Translation.] U. S. OP Venezuela. STATE OF MATURIN. The Governor of the Federal Territory Delta Amacuro IN Campaign. Headquarters at Barrancas, April ly, igo2. Captain, S. S. Bolivar. Please give passages to General Carlos Garcia Ramires, Col. Pecho [Pedro] M. Castro L. and an assistant, who go to Ciudad Bolivar on commission. God and Federation, A. Celis Plaza. Ciudad Bolivar, 28 de Abril de igo2. Nlimero 184. gii.° y 44.° Ciudadano Gerente de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, P. De orden del Ciudadano General Presidente del Estado, sirvase Ud. expedir cedula de pasaje, de ida y vuelta, en primera clase, al Ciudadano General Carlos Guia, abordo del vapor "Bolivar," con destino d Trinidad. Dicho pasaje anotard Ud. en la cuenta de este Gobierno, con el descuento correspondiente. Dios y Federacidn, El Secretario General interino: A. SarrIa MichelEna. [Translation,] Ciudad BolIvar, April 28, 1902. [No. 184.] [91st and 44th.] Manager, Orinoco Steamship Co., Present. By order of the President of the State, please issue a first class return passage ticket to Trinidad by the S. S. Bolivar, to General Carlos Guia. Said passage you will please charge in account to this Govern- ment, with the corresponding discount. God and Federation, The Acting Secretary General, A. SarrIa MichelEna. 344 APPENDIX. [185] CiUDAD Bolivar, 28 de Abril de 1902. gi." y 44.0 N[This enclosure is printed in the Record ante, p. 350. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 36 1 was one which annulled the decree of July, 1893, by which the Orinoco was closed to commerce except through the principal mouth. On the 6th of October, the day after the passage of the decree, the representative of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Com- pany Limited came to me with a protest against the passage of such a decree as being a direct attack against the rights of his company and a virtual annulment of the contract under which said company is at present operating. A similar protest was made to the English Legation, as the company is registered in London, and some of the stockholders are English. The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited is the owner of a line of steamers plying between Trinidad and Ciudad Bolivar. The line was formerly called "Compania Anonima Venezolana de Navegacion" which operated under a contract celebrated Jan. 17, 1894, between the Venezuelan Government and Ellis Grell. The Shipping and Trading Company acquired this line and with it the contract and its privileges. [10] Article 12 of the contract is as follows: "Until the Government establishes transfer stations for foreign merchandise the steamers of this line will be allowed to touch at Curacao and Trinidad, and the steamers leaving this last port can enter the Orinoco river through the Macareo and Pedernales channels, after having complied with the special provisions which the Ministry of Hacienda shall establish for the prevention of contraband trade." This is the privilege which the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited was enjoying until Oct. 5, last, when the whole of the Orinoco and its channels were opened to commerce. According to Art. 6 of the contract the Government binds itself to grant to no other line of steamers any of the privileges, con- cessions, or exemptions granted in said contract. In company with the English Minister I made an informal call on the Minister of Foreign Affairs. We told the Minister that we had come in the interests of our respective capitalists, showed him the protests, and asked if the decree could not be modified in some way, as the carrying out of it would certainly very greatly injure the interests of the Company in question. The Minister promised to look into the matter, but up to the present I have heard nothing more from him. The opening of the Orinoco has been a very popular move on the part of the President and he has received the congratulations of the whole country. 362 APPENDIX. Some time ago the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company presented a claim for the loss of two of its ships that had been destroyed while on Government service. This claim was settled last May when the Government paid 100,000 bohvars [11] in cash and agreed to pay 100,000 bolivars more when the Commission shall meet next January which is to consider claims for damages resulting from the last revolution; and as a further compensation extended the navigation contract of 1894 for six years, which contract contained the special privilege of entering the Orinoco by the Macareo and Pedernales channels. The decree of July, 1893, says that "the principal mouth of the Orinoco river is the only entrance for foreign trade with Ciudad Bolivar; the Macareo and Pedernales channels being reserved for the coastwise trade, and navigation by any of the other channels of said river is absolutely prohibited." This decree was annulled on the 5th of this month by a decree which opened up all the channels of the Orinoco. My action as to the protest so far has been the call on the Minister of Foreign Affairs. I await your instructions. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, WlIvIvIAM W. RUSSEI^L. Telegram received in cipher. From Caracas, January 15, 1901. Received 12.29 P M. Secretary of State, Washington. Venezuelan authorities at Bolivar have (taken) two steamers of Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company for use against the revolutionists. In all probability this means loss of steamers. LooMis. [12] Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street, N. W., Washington, D. C. Claim of Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., vs. The Gov- ernment OF Venezuela. February i, 1901. To the Honorable The Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir — Referring to my various communications had with your office on the above subject — I have the honor to inform you that by last mail I received from Mr. R. Morgan Olcott, Managing Director of the Orinoco RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. 19. 363 Shipping & Trading Company, Ltd., a letter dated at Port of Spain, Trinidad, January 17th, 1901, wherein he advises me that two of the Company's steamers, namely, the " Delta" and the "Socarro," had been seized and were held at Ciudad Bolivar and that the Company's steamer "Bolivar" which was due to arrive at Port of Spain at six o'clock on the morning of January 17th had not at 3 P. M. of that day been reported. He expresses fears that this steamer also might have been forcibly detained either by the insurgents or under direction of President de Castro's government, and expresses apprehension that possibly the refusal to allow such steamer to make the regular trip, which was required by the con- tract of concession from the Venezuelan government under which his Company was operating, might, as was done in a former case, be seized as a pretext for declaring the concession forfeited by reason of a failure to comply with its terms. It seemed well to report this [13] matter to the Department in order that it might be fully advised of all recent occurrences in the above connection. Yours very truly, F. D. McKenney, Attorney for Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street, N. W., Washington, D. C. Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., Claim against Vene- zuela. February 6, 1901. To the Honorable the Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir — I have, this morning, received from the Company's office. Port of Spain, Trinidad, copy of a protest against the recent action of the Venezuelan Government in the seizure of the steamers "Delta" and "Socarro" belonging to the Company, also copies of two communications signed by R. Morgan Olcott, Managing Director, under date of the 22d ultimo, copies of all of which I herewith hand you for the information of the Department. I am also in receipt of a letter from the Company's Sub-Manager at Port of Spain under date of January 24th, and of a further letter from Mr. Olcott himself "dated Caracas, January 26th, 1901," in both of which letters is expressed the apprehension that the seizure by the Venezuelan Government, or its agencies, of the two up-river steamers belonging to the Company was done with the design of rendering it impossible for the Company to comply 364 APPENDIX. with the obligations imposed upon it by the governmental con- cession under which it is navigating the Macareo and Pedernalles channels [14] of the Orinoco River, thus affording a seeming excuse or justification for the cancellation of such contract, — it being understood that the present Supreme Chief of the Repubhc, Gen- eral de Castro, has arranged to put a steamer of his own, or in which he is peculiarly interested, upon the routes in question with a view of reaping the benefits heretofore conceded to the Company for which I have the honor to be attorney. I have the honor to request that the Department will advise me as fully as may be consistent with public interests of the receipt of any official documents or papers which may bear upon the interests of the above Company. Respectfully yours, F: D. McKennEy, Atty. for Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. (Enclosures.) [Enclosure.] The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, 155 Fenchurch St., London, E. C. Port of Spain, Trinidad, B. W. I. Port of Spain, 22nd January, igoi. CarIvOS Hammer, Esq., Sub-Manager, Ciudad Bolivar. Dear Sir, I have received the communication you forwarded through Mr. Salas regarding the comments made by General Guevara, that I was in revolution against the Government, due to my having removed the Company's Steamers from the Orinoco. Will you kindly inform General Guevara that I am not in any revolution against the Gov-[i5]emment, General Castro's or any other person's opinion to the contrary notwithstanding; and that I am sailing for Caracas on the 23rd inst. to inform General Castro that he is mistaken if he says so. Furthermore, if by trying to preserve our Steamers it is an evidence of an interest in a Revo- lution, we shall always be charged with being Revolutionists. I think General Guevara is a gentleman who would act the same way himself and can appreciate my desire to serve my Company as he may beg to serve his Government. I hope for the sake of the service he will despatch the "Delta" on receipt of this, as it is most probable we shall have to send up at various times a steamer to assist the "Delta," as there is a large accumulation RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 365 of cargo now in Port-of -Spain which the S. S. " Bolivar " is obliged to leave behind, on account of the lowness of the water in the Orinoco. Faithfully yours, (Sgd) R. Morgan Olcott, Mg. Dir. [Enclosure.] | The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, 155 Fenchurch St., London, E. C. Port of Spain, Trinidad, B. W. I. Port of Spain, 22nd January, igoi. Senor Lorenzo Guevara, Provisional President of the State of Guayana, Ciudad Bolivar. Sir, Mr. C. Hammer, Sub-Manager of this Company in Ciudad Bolivar, writes under date 15th inst., as follows: " I am authorized by General Guevara to inform Mr. [16] Olcott (or rather the Directors of the Company) that he has received communications from General Castro informing him that the Company has been denounced as a hostile enemy of the Govern- ment, and that he himself (Guevara) has also received from other persons in this locality the same reports; and what gives more force to the reports, as Guevara himself says, is the fact that the Company has withdrawn all its steamers from this port and has them all stationed at Trinidad." If the circumstance of the Company's withdrawing its steamers to Trinidad for the purpose of doing certain very necessary repairs . in order that they may be fitted for the next navigation season is to be interpreted by you as a proof of hostility to the Government of Venezuela; and seeing also that it would be futile to asseverate to the contrary; I can only bow to your judgment, while at the same time stating here that such reports and opinions are very far indeed from the truth. * It is now my duty to inform you that the steamer "BoUvar" on both the upward and downward trips of her last vayage, grounded in the Franquia Channel and arrived here 12 hotirs behind time, consequently losing her connection with the Royal Mail, in consequence of which and in view of the Protest made to me by the Captain, Pilot and Chief Engineer of the said Steamer (a copy of which I enclose) , I consider it positively dangerous to continue to run the said steamer " Bolivar," which should be at once 366 APPENDIX. replaced by the ' ' Delta " which is of much lighter draft. Inasmuch, however, as the " Delta" is detained at Ciudad Bohvar without, in my opinion, there being the sHghtest motive for such detention, I have to request that you, in [17] view of the circumstances de- scribed, will at once permit the "Delta" to return to Trinidad in order to replace the " Bolivar " in the mail service. In order to safeguard the Company's responsibilities, and so as to be able to claim whatever damage or loss the Company may sustain by reason of the detention of the " Delta," I hereby formally notify you that this is the last voyage of the Steamer "Bolivar," and that unless the "Delta" is set free to replace her, the mail service between Trinidad and Ciudad Bohvar will at once be sus- pended, and remain suspended until the River shall have risen sufficiently to permit the safe navigation of the said steamer "Bolivar." I am, Sir, your obedient servant, (S'g'd) R. Morgan Olcott, Mg. Dir. [Enclosure.] [Protest of R. Morgan Olcott concerning Detention of "Delta" and "Socorro." — Notice op Intention to Claim FOR Damages.] I, Richard Morgan Olcott, of New York City, a citizen of the United States of America, never having by word or deed renounced my Citizenship nor given cause to beheve that I ever intend renouncing my Citizenship, being at all times ready to serve the Government of the United States of America, but temporarily •resident in the City of Caracas, Capital of the United States of Venezuela, in my own name and behalf and as Attorney and Man- aging Director of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company (Ltd.) , over 90 % of the capital stock whereof is held and owned by American Citizens ; do hereby make formal protest before the Minister of the United States of America with regard to the forcible detention of two of the Company's steamers by the authorities of Venezuela at Ciudad Bohvar, whereby the Company finds it impossible to carry on its business of navigating between the Island of Trinidad (B. W. I.) and the said port [18] of Ciudad Bohvar, or to fulfil the conditions of its Contract for the conveyance of mails, passengers and cargo between the two ports aforesaid, in proof whereof I subjoin the following Protest (which I do accept and endorse) made to me under date of the 19th day of January, 1901, by the Captain, Navigating Officer and Chief Engineer respectively RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 367 of the Company's Steamer "Bolivar," wherein those Officers declare as follows: We, the undersigned, Pedro Jose Alcala, Captain; Matias Perez, Chief Navigating Officer; and Thomas Haynes, Chief Engineer, of the Steamer " Bolivar, " do declare as follows: The "Bolivar" on her trip No i left Port-of -Spain on the 9th January, 1901, at 6.40 p. m. bound for Ciudad Bolivar, and hav-, ing on board besides the usual mails, 7,086 packages of merchan- dise and a large number of cabin and deck passengers. We reached the Bar of the Cano Macareo At 3.45 a. m. on the loth where we anchored to await the high tide. We weighed anchor again at 5.10 a. m. and crossed the Bar in 9 feet of water. We passed Pescadores at 6 a. m.; Mayorga at 10.20 a. m.; and Vuelta Mala at 1.40 p. m; and arrived at Los Indios at 6.10 p. m. Upon reaching La Franquia at 8.20 p. m. we found the River so low that although we had taken the usual channel the steamer grounded in 8 feet of water; and it was only after extraordinary exertions that we succeeded in floating her at 12.30 of the same night, having lost 4 hours and 10 minutes. We then proceeded, and reached Barrancas at 3 a. m. on the nth and left again at 3.40 a. m. We reached Los Castillos at 3.45" a. m. and left again at 7.25 [19] a. m.; San Felix at 10.50 a. m. continuing at 11 a. m. and arriving at Ciudad Bolivar at 1 1 p. m. . On our return trip we left Ciudad Bolivar on Tuesday the 1 5th January at 6 p. m.; passed Panapana at 7.30 p. m. in 12 feet of water; Mamo at 9.45 p. m. in 12 feet of water; and Palital at 10.50 in 9 feet of water; reaching San Felix at 1.20 a. m. on the i6th. Left again at 3.20 a. m. and arrived at Los Castillos at 5.40 a. m. Started again at 6.20 a. m. reached Barrancas at 8.45 and anchored there until 9.30 a. m. when we proceeded with great care and keeping a keen lookout; upon reaching La Fragua again we once more grounded in 8 feet of water. Such grounding coming down was far more dangerous than when going up, because of the currents which dragged us towards the sand banks. We had to discharge part of our cargo to lighten the ship, and sent out two kedge anchors to help the winches. We also sent out a boat with two pilots to take soundings in other channels, but in none was more than 8 feet of water found. After great exertions and anxiety we again floated at 5.50 p. m. having lost 6 hours and 15 minutes. We then proceeded on our way, passing Los Indios at 1.40 p. m. ; Vuelta Mala on the 17th at 2 a. m. ; Mayorga at 5.05 a. m. Reached the mouth of the Macareo at 8.35 a. m. and there cast anchor and waited for the tide until 11 a. m. ; reached Pesca- dores at 11.25; the Bar at noon in 9 feet of water; Icacos Point at 1.25 p. m. and finally reached Port of Spain at 7.30 p. m. 12 hours o [The original manuscript on file in the Department of State reads " 6.45.'' — Agent's note.] 368 APPENDIX. overdue. Pumps worked perfectly throughout the voyage and neither ship nor cargo sustained the shghtest damage. In view of the foregoing and in order to safeguard our own responsibiUty in the future; and considering, further[2o]more, that the dangers of the navigation at the points mentioned herein are daily increasing, owing to the continuous subsiding of the River during this exceptionally dry season of the year, a state of .things which must continue until April next, when the rainy season sets in; we consider it to be our duty to present to you as Managing Director of the Company our formal Protest and to explicitly declare that in our opinion the Steamer " Bolivar " cannot continue in this service during the said dry period without running very great risk, not only to herself, but also to the lives and prop- erty committed to our charge, and should the company persist in running the " Bohvar " in the said service, we decline to assume any responsibility for the consequences of such determination. It is well known that the Bar of the Macareo as well as the usual navigating channels of the Orinoco, especially La Franquia, are every year becoming more dangerous and difficult to pass in the dry season. As the steamer "Delta" is of very much lesser draft — drawing only 6^ feet when fully laden — and is, moreover, very suitable for the service in which the "Bolivar" is now en- gaged, we think our experience warrants our recommending that the "Bolivar" be replaced by the "Delta," which would afford the desired opportunity for the "BoUvar to go to Dock and undergo those repairs of which she stands in great need,- — after running continuously during nearly two years. Signed on board the Steamship "Bolivar," at Port-of -Spain, this nineteenth day of January, 1901. P. J. AlCAIvA. M. Perez. T. Haynes. [21] As recorded in the above-quoted Protest it is clear that, owing to the rapid and continuous fall of the waters of the River Orinoco and to the shifting and uncertain depths of the customary navigation [navigating] channels of the River, it is both difficult and dangerous for the Company to run the Steamer " BoHvar " while such a state of things continues; and whereas the only other Steamer of the Company's fleet suitable to replace the "Bolivar," — viz: — the "Delta," which, although having adequate space and accommo- dation for mails, passengers and cargo and for the requirements of the trade in which the "Bolivar" is actually engaged, has a much lesser draft when laden than the "Bolivar" and would be immediately put on to run in place of the " BoUvar," were it not that the said Steamer " Delta" (as well as the Steamer "Socorro," one of the Company's River fleet) has been detained forcibly at RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 369 the aforesaid port of Ciudad Bolivar by the Authorities of that State, acting on orders transmitted to them by the Supreme Chief of the Republic, General Cipriano Castro, which orders have been exhibited and due notification served on the Company's Agents at Ciudad BoUvar; Now therefore, I, the said Richard Morgan Olcott, Attorney and Managing Director of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, do hereby make formal protest against whomsoever it may concern against the described unlawful and forcible detention of the said Steamers " Delta " and " Socorro;" and so [do] furthermore by this Protest give formal notice to all con- cerned that unless the said Steamers "Delta" and "Socorro" be forthwith delivered up to the Company or its representatives, the Company will be obUged to suspend its steamer service between the aforementioned points of Trinidad and Ciudad Bolivar, and will not be able to re-[22]sume the said service until the said Steamers " Delta " and " Socorro " shall have been restored, or the rise in the waters of the Orinoco may permit, and until full possession is accorded to the Company to navigate without let, hindrance or molestation on the part of the Authorities of Venezuela, together with guarantees that the properties of the Company, as well as its servants, shall be respected and accorded the protection which the Laws and Constitution of the United States of Venezuela are said to afford to all alike; and I do furthermore formally request the Minister of the United States of America to forward this my Protest to the Venezuelan Government and to the State Department at Washington for their information, and in order that should this my Protest fail of its effect and purpose with the Authorities of Venezuela, I may, as I am entitled to do, claim protection for my rights and interests as a Citizen of the United States of America. I do further desire to declare and record that the suspension of the mail service herein referred to is compulsory and due solely to the exceptional lowness of the River Orinoco, and to the forcible deten- tion of the Steamship " Delta " by the Government of Venezuela — in other words, to force majeure, and therefore the sole responsi- bility for such suspension rests upon the Government of Venezuela, from whom will be claimed full indemnization for whatever losses or damages may be sustained by the Company, myself or any one interested in the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited. Wherefore, I repeat, in order to safeguard the interests, rights and properties of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, as well as for the protection of my own personal interests as an 1 7301 — 10 24 370 APPENDIX. American [23] citizen representing other large stockholders in the said Company; do hereby make formal protest against all and whomsoever it may concern, reserving to the said Company as well as to myself the right to claim and demand full compensation and indemnization for any loss of [or(?)] damage which I or the said Company may sustain by reason of the violent and unlawful acts of the Authorities of Venezuela ; all of which I do hereby declare and subscribe to before the Minister of the United States of America, at Caracas, this — day of January, 1901. R. Morgan Oi,cott. No. 565. Legation of the United States, Caracas, February 22, igoi. To the Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington. Sir: Referring to your instructions numbered 386 concerning the affairs of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company I have the honor to enclose a translation of the decree of June 8, 1894 which contains the contract between the Venezuelan Government and the above mentioned Company. Answering your inquiry with reference to the subsidy it is my impression that this has never been paid nor asked for. Article 7 of the enclosed decree refers to the subsidy. I have written to the Managing Director of the Company for exact information on this point. There is no doubt however that the Venezuelan Government is largely in the debt of the company in a financial way as the result of losses inflicted upon its property and the in- terruption of its busi-[24]ness by the arbitrary seizure of steamers from time to time. At present there is an outstanding obligation on the part of the Venezuelan Government to pay the company the sum of one hundred thousand bolivars as a partial compensa- tion for losses inflicted upon it in former revolutions. In making this arrangement the claim of the company for a hundred thousand or more dollars was scaled down by consent to forty thousand dollars in consideration of the fact that its concession should be extended for six years. The extension of the concession was thought to be of very great value. A few months after the ex- tension was granted the value of the whole contract was destroyed by the opening of the Macareo channel to navigation. This was done without prior notice to the company. RECORD OP Ct,AIM NO. 1 9. 37 1 The question of the registry of the vessels of this company is also answered by the contract. Article 2 says "the steamers shall navigate under the Venezuelan flag. ' ' The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company now claims that it has been damaged to the extent of several hundred thousand dol- lars by the action of the Government in annulling the concession which gave value to its contract, though I believe no claim has been formally filed. ■' The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company has its offices at Port of Spain, Trinidad and its business is managed from that point. Its largest boats run from Trinidad to Ciudad BoHvar. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Francis B. Loomis. Enclosure : — I. Translation of contract. [Enclosure.] [25] IvEGisivATivE Decree of the 8th of June, 1894, Approving A Contract with Mr. Ei.ws GrEll, Transferred to Citizen Manuei. a. Sanchez. " No. 594. Legation of the United States, Caracas, April 7, igoi. To the Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington. Sir: Referring to your instructions numbered 386 and dated January 26, 1901, in which you make inquiries concerning the payment of the subsidy to the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company as provided for in article 7 of their contract, I have the honor to report that I am informed by the Managing Director of the Company, Mr. Olcott, that the Government never did pay this subsidy and that it was finally waived last autumn by him in order to facilitate a [30] speedy settlement of the Company's claims against the Venezuelan Government on a cash basis. I have the honor to be. Sir, Your obedient servant, Francis B. Loomis. ffl [This enclosure is printed in the Record, ante, p. 347. — Agent's note.] 372 APPENDIX. I,aw offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street N. W., Washington, D. C. In Re Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co., Ltd. April 9, 1901. Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. '■ Sir: Referring to our former letters in regard to the losses and annoyances which have been imposed upon the above company by the acts of the de facto government of Venezuela, and particu- larly to various conversations recently had with Honorable Assist- ant Secretary of State Hill; — I have the honor to inform you that I have just received a further letter from Mr. R. Morgan Olcott, Managing Director of the above Company, dated Port of Spain, Trinidad, March 27, 1 90 1, transmitting a clipping from the Venezuelan "Herald" of February 28th, which is herewith handed to you for your infor- mation. It will appear from this cHpping that since the promulgation of the Executive Order opening the Macareo and Pedemalles Chan- nels of the Orinoco to free navigation and thereby destroying the value of the Legislative Concession to the above Company, the Supreme Chief of the Republic Senor de Castro has seen fit to grant similar monopolies with respect [31] to other neighboring rivers thus clearly evidencing the fact that the destruction of the concession belonging to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Ltd., was not in pursuance of an enlightened public policy. Mr. Olcott further advises me that his Company has just received a communication from a German firm to the effect that it is the purpose of that firm to put on a line of steamers to nav- igate from Trinidad by way of the Macareo unless his Company should be willing to dispose of its steamers at a price which pre- sumably the German firm would be willing to pay. I have written to Mr. Olcott to furnish me with a copy of the commtmi- cation referred to. Respectfully yours, F. D. McKennEy. Enclosure i. • • [Enclosure.] Monopoi,y of the River Motatan Cenizo or Los Negros. Ven. " Herald," 28tli February, 1901. 1 ; Dr. Rafael Cabrero Malo, Minister of the Interior and General Ramdn Ayala, Minister of Encouragement, thereto authorized by RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 373 the Supreme Chief of the Repubhc, of the one part, and of the other part Elbano Spinetti, in his own right, have entered into the following contract : Art. I. The Government of the United States of Venezuela grants to Elbano Spinetti, his partners and transferees, the exclu- sive privilege of navigating the interior of the River Motatdn, Cenizo or Los Negros and likewise of any other river tributary or to become tributary thereto ; and also that of constructing wharves, depots and stations on the banks of the said river, for the receipt, deposit and embarcation of [32] fruits, merchandise and produce of what kind soever they may be, during the term of 30 years to count from the date of this contract and under the conditions set out in the following articles : Art. 2. Elbano Spinetti undertakes to clean and canalize the River Motatdn, Cenizo or Los Negros in order to render it navi- gable to steamships at least as far as El Casino ; the said cleaning and canalization may extend as far as the point known as Pal- marito or even further if it should be found convenient. Art. 3. Elbano Spinetti shall place or cause to be placed and shall maintain or cause to be maintained in activity on the River Motatdn, Cenizo or Los Negros, one or more steamships and a sufficient number of sailing vessels for carrying on the navigation of the course which shall be cleaned and canalized pursuant to the preceding article; the number of the said vessels shall cor- respond with the requirements of the traffic on the said river and be sufficient to maintain communication with the port of Maracaibo. Art. 4. The steamships shall be national, shall carry the Vene- zuelan flag, and shall in all things be subject to the laws and maritime regulations of the Republic. Art. 5. The cessionary shall put into active operation the steamships referred to in article 3 within the terms of two years to cotmt from the date at which the work of canalizing the river shall have been completed, and he must have in the river the ships necessary for the transport of the fruits, merchandise and produce which have to be taken to and from Maracaibo. Art. 6. The cessionary shall have the exclusive right to [33] cut and exploit the woods found in the Government lands on eithter bank of the river. Art. 7. The Government declares this enterprise to be of pubhc utility and in accordance with section 4 of article 9 of the present 374 APPENDIX. law of waste lands, grants to the contractor the ownership of portions of unreclaimed lands on both margins of the river, along its entire length, of i ,000 meters frontage on the river, and of 500 meters in depth, measuring at a distance of 50 meters from the river, alternating with portions of equal frontage which are reserved to the Nation. Art. 8. The cessionary shall pursuant of the national laws concerning public utility, pay for such private lands as he should require for his warehouses, workshops, storehouses, depots, stations and other works and establishments which may be required for the better working of the enterprise. Art. 9. The enterprise shall be exempt from the payment of customs duties or national taxes for the steamships and other vessels which it may have in service, and their corresponding equipments, whether they come mounted or dismounted; likewise with respect to the machinery, materials, tools and instruments which should be necessary for the work of construction and of canalizing the said river, and for the erection of warehouses, work- shops, storehouses, deposits and stations. Art. 10. The cessionary undertakes that the work of canal- izing the river shall be terminated within the term of two years from the date of the approval of the contract and that' half the work shall be concluded within the first year. Art. II. If owing to war or superior force the work of canaliza- tion or the traffic on the river should be suspended [34] the Gov- ernment will grant a prorogation equal to the time lost. Art. 12. The cessionary may charge the maximum tariff for first class passengers of 30 centimes of a bolivar and for second class passengers 25 centimes of a bolivar per kilometer of the journey. Art. 13. The freight tariff shall not exceed 10 centimes of a bolivar for each 92 kilograms per kilometer of the journey. Art. 14. The contractor may charge for freight from Maracaibo to the mouth of the. river or vice versa a maximum of one bolivar for 92 kilograms of gross weight for fruits, merchandise and prod- uce of every class whatsoever; 25 bolivars for first class passengers and 15 bolivars for second class passengers. Art. 15. For passages of employees of the Government and chiefs and officers in the service of the nation only half the tariff price shall be charged. For passage of troops and munitions of War only the third part, and the correspondence shall be carried free of charge. RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 375 Art. 16. The contractor reserves the right to construct a large and substantial wharf, provided with the necessary machinery and apparatus for the loading and unloading of vessels and steamships. Art. 17. The contractor binds himself to hasten the course from the most convenient point on the margin of the river Motatdn, Cenizo or Los Negros as far as Sabana de Mendoza, or in this direction, as far as Valera for traffic by means of a cart road or a high road, tramway or railway. Art. 18. The cessionary shall have the usufruct of the waste lands which he cultivates on both sides of the road to [35] Sabana de Mendoza and Valera or which he uses for cattle raising, during the period covered by this contract, in conformity with the law of waste lands. Art. 19. This enterprise shall in no case or respect be burdened with national taxes. Art. 20. The cessionary is authorized to transfer this contract to any person or Company whether native or foreign but in no case to a foreign Government. Art. 21. All doubts and controversies which arise as to the interpretation or execution of this contract shall be decided by the Tribunals of the Republic in accordance with the laws of Venezuela, but shall in no case and in no regard be allowed to give rise to international reclamations. Made in triplicate at Caracas, the 12th day of February, 1901. Cabrero Malo. EivBANO Spinetti. Ramon Ayala. [MiNISTERIO DE RELACIONES InTERIORES." [Doctor Rafael Cabrera Malo, Ministro de Relaciones Interiores , y General Ram6n Ayala, Ministro de Fomento, autorizados sufi- cientemente por el Jefe Supremo de la Repliblica por una parte, y por la otra Elbano Spinetti, por sus propios derechos, han cele- brado el siguiente contrato: [Art. I °. Bl Gobierno de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela con- cede d Elbano Spinetti, d sus asociados 6 causahabientes, el privi- legio exclusivo de la navegaci6n interna del Rio Motatdn, Cenizo 6 Los Negros, el de cualquiera otro que sea 6 pueda llegar a ser tribu- o[The Spanish text was not filed before the Mixed Commission of 1903, and is reprinted from the Gaceta Oficial, No. 8165, of February 23, 1901. — Agent's note.] 376 APPENDIX. tario de d; y tambien el de construir Bodegas, Depdsitos y Esta- ciones en las riberas de dicho rio, para el recibo, depdsito y em- barque de frutos, mercaderias y productos de cualqtiiera especie que sean ; todo por el termino de treinta anos contados desde la fecha de este contrato y bajo las condiciones que expresan los articulos siguientes: [Art. 2°. Elbano Spinetti, se compromete d, limpiar y canalizar el Rio Motatdn, Cenizo 6 lyOS Negros para hacerlo navegable por buques de vapor, cuando menos hasta el sitio conocido con el nombre de El Casino; cuya limpieza y canalizacion podra Uevar hasta el punto denominado Palmarito 6 mds adelante si asi lo tuviere por conveniente. [Art. 3°. Elbano Spinetti pondrd 6 hard, poner, y mantendrd y hard mantener en actividad en el Rio Motatan, Cenizo 6 Los Negros uno 6 mds vapores y los buques de vela 6 remos de capa- cidad suficiente para la navegaci6n en el trayecto que debe quedar canalizado de acuerdo con el articulo anterior: el numero de dichos vehiculos serd en un todo de acuerdo con las necesidades del trdfico de dicho rio y suficientes para su comunicaci6n con el puerto de Maracaibo. [Art. 4°. Los vapores serdn necionales, Uevaran bandera venezo- lana y quedaran sujetos en un todo d las leyes y reglamentos marltimos de la Repdblica. [Art. 5°. El Empresario deberd poner en operacidn el vapor 6 vapores de que trata el articulo 3° dentro de dos anos contados desde la fecha en que quede terminada la canalizacidn del rio, debiendo tener en el Lago, los buques necesarios para el trasporte de los frutos, mercadarias y productos que deban conducirse d Maracaibo 6 viceversa. [Art. 6°- Se concede al Empresario el derecho exclusivo para la explotacidn y corte de maderas en las tierras pertenecientes al Gobierno, que se encuentren d ambos lados de las mdrgenes del rio. [Art. 7". El Gobierno declara de utilidad pfiblica esta empresa y de conformidad con el inciso 4°, articulo 9° de la Ley de Tierras Baldias vigente, cede en propiedad al Empresario porciones de terrenos baldios d ambos lados de las mdrgenes del rio y en toda su extensi6n, de mil metros de frente, hacia ^1 y de quinientos metros de fondo, partiendo ellas d 50 metros de distancia de las riberas, alternando con porciones de terrenos de igual frente que se reserva la Naci6n. [Art. 8°. El Empresario pagard con arreglo d las leyes nacionales de utilidad pliblica los terrenos de propiedad particular que necesi- RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. 377 tare ocupar para las Bodegas, talleres, almacenes, dep6sitos, esta- ciones y demas obras y establecimientos que requiera el mejor servicio de la Empresa. [Art. 9°. La Empresa estard exenta del pago de derechos aran- celarios 6 impuestos nacionales respecto de los vapores y demds buques que tengan a su servicio y de los aparejos correspendientes d ellos, bieti sea que se hagan Venir en piesas 6 armados; asl como respecto de las mdquinas, materiales, instrumentos y herramientas que fueren necesarios para las obras, trabajos y construcciones para la canalizacidn y navegaci6n del no ya mencionado, y para la fabricacion de sus bodegas, talleres, almacenes, depositos y esta- ciones. [Art. id. El Empresario se compromete d tener terminada la canalizaci6n de que trata el articulo 2°, en el termino de dos anos despues de aprobado este contrato y dejar concluida la mitad de la obra en el curso del primer ano. [Art. 1 1 . Si por casos fortuitos de guerra u otros de fuerza mayor fuesen suspendidos los trabajos de canalizacidn 6 el trdfico del rio, el Gobierno concederd una prorroga igual al tiempo perdido. [Art. 12. El Empresario podrd cobrar por pasajes de i^ clase hasta 30 centimos de bolivar por cada kildmetro de bajada 6 de subida, y hasta 25 centimos de bolivar por pasajes de 2* clase en la misma proporci6n. [Art. 13. Los fletes de trasportes no excederan de 10 centimos de bolivar por cada 92 kilogramos por kil6metro de subida 6 de bajada. [Art. 14. El Empresario podrd, cobrar por flete de Maracaibo d la Boca del rio 6 viceversa, hasta un bolivar por cada 92 kilo- gramos de peso bruto de frutos, mercaderias y productos de cual- quiera clase; 25 bolivares por pasajes de i'' y 15 bollvares por pasajes de 2^. [Art. 15. Por pasajes de comisionados del Gobierno y de Jefes y Oficiales al servicio de la Nacion se cobrard la mitad del precio de tarifa. Por pasajes de tropa y de elementos de guerra la tercera parte, y el trasporte de la correspondencia se hard gratis. [Art. 16. El Empresario se reserva el derecho de construir un muelle amplio y solido, provisto de las mdquinas y aparatos necesa- rios para facilitar la carga y descarga de los buques y vapores. [Art. 17. El Empresario se compromete a poner expedito el trayecto desde el sitio de la margen del rio Motatdn, Cenizo 6 Los Negros, que mds le convenga, hasta la Sabana de Mendoza, 378 APPENDIX. pudiendo hacerlo tambi^n d Valera para su trdfico, por medio de un camino de recuas, 6 de una carretera, tranvia 6 linea f^rrea. [Art. 1 8. Los terrenos baldios que el Empresario cultive A ambos lados de las vias d Sabana de Mendoza y Valera, 6 que empleen en la cria de ganados, le serdn cedidas en posesi6n para el goce de su dominio Mil durante el periodo que abarca la concesidn de conformidad con la Ley de Tierras Baldlas. [Art. 19. Bsta Empresa no podrd ser gravada en ninglin caso ni por ninglin respecto por derechos nacionales. [Art. 20. El Empresario queda autorizado para poder traspasar este contrato en todo 6 en parte d otra persona 6 compania nacional 6 extrangera; pero en ninglin caso d Gobierno extrangero. [Art. 21. Las dudas y controversias que puedan suscitarse en la ejecucion e inteligencia de este contrato, serdn resueltas por los Tribunales de la Reptiblica conforme d las leyes de Venezuela, y en ningun caso ni por ninglin motivo, daran lugar a reclamaciones internacionales . [Hechos tres ejemplares de un mismo tenor y d un mismo efecto en Caracas, d 12 de febrero de 1901. — Ano 90° de la Independencia y 42° de la Federacidn. [(l. s.) [R. Cabrera Malo [(I., s.) [Ramon Ayala. [Elbano Spinetti.] No. 639. Legation of the United States, Caracas, June 30, igoi. To the Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington. Sir: — Referring to yom- cable on the subject I have the honor to report that I have made inquiry at the Foreign Office as to whether the second hundred thousand bolivars due the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited has been paid. I have received no answer as yet, due to the fact that the Foreign Office lias not been open for more than two days this week, owing to the death of one of its high [36] officials, and on Thursday the Presi- dent and cabinet left for la Guaira and will not return until Monday. RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 19. 379 Mr. Olcott had an interview with the President on Tuesday and at his request I made no inquiry until after the interview was over. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, WiLUAM W. RUSSBI/L. No. 641. Legation of the United States, Caracas, July 14, igoi. To the Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington. Sir : I have the honor to herewith forward a copy, with transla- tion, of my note to the Foreign Office inquiring whether the second 100,000 bolivars due the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company had been paid. I had a long interview with the Foreign Minister on this subject and he admitted that the whole of the 200,000 bolivars had to be paid in gold, and the only reason that Mr. Olcott's name appeared as one of the claimants before the late Clai;tns Commission was that in accordance with article 2 of the contract the Commission has to fix the date for paying the second 100,000 bolivars. I have the honor to be. Sir, Your obedient servant, WiivUAM W. Russell. Enclosures: — Copy of letter from the Foreign Office. 2 . — Translation of above. [Enclosure.] Copy. [37] MiNISTERIO DE Relaciones Exteriores DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE VENEZUELA. Caracas: io de Julio de igoi. Senor: — Con referenda 6 en respuesta a la nota de U. S. de 26 del m6s liltimo, relacionado con un asunto del Senor Olcott, debo manifestarle que, conforme d la cita hecha en la misma comunicacidn de U. S., ha leido el celebrado arreglo en el numero 8104 de la Gaceta Oficial y podido ver que el pago de que se trata depende de un previsto convenio cuyos efectos si dieren motivo d dudas se habrdn de ventilar ante los Tribunales Venezolanos sin 380 APPENDIX. Uegar en ningun caso d, ser motive de reclamaciones intemacio- nales. Como esto ademds de conformarse d los principios generales de la Legislacidn interior, obedece de manera concreta d la estipu- laci6n misma juzgo excusado anadir una palabra mds y me limito d remitir d U. S. un ejemplar del arreglo con la sliplica que se sirva reconsiderarlo. Acepte &c 8z:c &c &c &c &c. Eduardo Blanco. Honorable Senor William W. Russell Encargado de Negocios ad interim de los Estados Unidos. [Enclosure.— Translation.] Ministry op Foreign Affairs of the United States op Venezuela. Sir: — Referring to or rather in reply to your note of the 26th of last month concerning an affair of Mr. Olcott's, I [38] have to say that, as suggested by you in said communication, I have read the contract published in No. 8104 of the Official Gazette and see that the payment in question depends upon a stipulation in said contract, and that if any doubts arise as to the under- standing or execution of said contract they must be settled by the Venezuelan Tribunals, and in no case become a motive for international claims. As this, in addition to being in conformity to the general principles of internal legislation, is in strict accord- ance with said stipulation, I will add no more but confine myself to sending you a copy of the contract and beg that you will look it over again. Bduardo Blanco. Accept, &c., &c., &c., Honorable William W. Russell, U. S. Charge d' Affaires ad interim. Telegram received in cipher. From San Juan, P. R., July 31, 1 901. SecState, Washington. Your cable of i8th received 23d. Second instalment Orinoco Shipping Trading Company not paid. Government of Vene- zuela made the proposal to pay (one) thousand bolivars a month. Russell. RECORD OF CI/AIM NO. I9. 38 1 Macareo Concession. [39] Copy Correspondence Between the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., I^td., and British Foreign Office, Lord KiNTORE & Others. Filed by F. D. McKenney Nov. 16, 1901. Copy. 155 Fenchurch Street, London, E. C. 26th October, igoo. My lyORD, I had the honour some time ago to call on the Hon. F. C. Vil- liers, having received an introduction to him through the United States Legation. In anticipation of some difficulty with the Venezuelan Government, I then asked Mr. Villiers to whom we should apply in the event of it being necessary to take action for restitution of our rights in Venezuela, explaining at the same time that we were an English Company, incorporated under the Com- panies' Acts, with the Right Honorable, the Earl of Kintore as Chairman, but that the Capital invested was over 90 per cent American. In reply to my inquiry, Mr. Villiers stated that he believed we had the right to appeal to not only to Her Majesty's Government, but also to the United States. That same opinion I also obtained from the first Assistant Secretary of State at Wash- ington. I am therefore proceeding to Washington on the 28th inst., to lay our case before the Government there, and obtain their moral support, through the United States [40] Minister at Caracas, for the purpose of securing the reinstatement of our rights. A brief history of our grievance is as follows : — On ist July 1893, a Concession was granted for the exclusive navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales Rivers, which was passed by Congress on June 8th 1894, and thereby became a law of Venezuela. This Concession was soon after transferred to a Venezuelan Company, which was, together with all their rights, legally absorbed by this Company on December 12th 1898. Since that time we have suffered considerable loss through the action of the Venezuelan Government during the last revolution, and as compensation we accepted, on the loth May last, the decree of the present Supreme Chief of the Republic of Venezuela, General Castro, extending our Concession for a further period of six years, making in all 15 years to run from the loth of June last. Without 382 APPENDIX. warning and without reason, the same Chief of the RepubUc, on the 5th of the present month, in a brief article, of which a copy and translation are enclosed herewith, decreed the free navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales Rivers, thus pretending to abrogate not only a law of Venezuela, but his own act of May loth last. I therefore beg that your Lordship will instruct the British Minister in Caracas to use his best efforts in obtaining for us the reinstate- ment of our just rights. I purpose obtaining the like assistance from the United States Government, and in fact am led to believe they have already cabled their Minister on our behalf. Trusting to be favored with your Lordship's support and assist- ance in this matter. [41] I have the honour to remain, your Lordship's obedient Servant, (Signed) R. Morgan Olcott, Managing Director. To the Most Honorable,. The Marquis of Sausbury, K. G., Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Downing Street, S. W. Copy. Foreign Office, November 8, igoo. Sir: With reference to your letter of the 26th ultimo respecting your Company's Concession of the right of exclusive navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales Rivers, I am directed by the Marquess of Salisbury to inform you that Her Majesty's Charge d'Afifaires at Caracas has reported by telegraph that he and the United States Representative, have made friendly representations to the Venezuelan Government on the subject of the decree de- claring the navigation of those rivers to be free. I am. Sir, your most obedient, humble Servant, (Sgd) Martin Gosselin. R. Morgan Olcott, Esq., Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, 155, Fenchurch Street, E. C. Copy. Caracas, Dec. 14th, xpoo. Hon : A. C. Grant Duff, Her Majesty's Minister Resident, Caracas, Venezuela, Sir: As I am leaving for Trinidad on Monday next, I take the liberty of putting before you, the history of the com-[42]pany, doing business in this country, of which I am Managing Director. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 383 The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co, Ltd., was duly incorporated under the EngHsh Companies Acts 1862 to 1893, during the year 1898. Since its incorporation we have suffered many losses, such as The loss of Merchandise. The loss of other property (Cash, Cattle, Horses, Carts, etc.). The loss of two valuable Steamers ("Nutrias" & "Vencedor") and latterly, by an executive decree of the 5th of October 1900, the abrogation of the decree of Joaquin Crespo, of the ist July, 1893, on which this Company was founded, indirectly. The decree of the ist July 1893 was approved by Congress in February 1894. That decree reserved absolutely the Macareo and Pedernales Rivers,, for the Coastal trade only. The decree of the 5th October last, not only opens the navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales, to every one, but apparently is intended, to break the law passed by Congress in February 1894. On the 17th January 1894 a contract was celebrated, between the National Executive and Grell and Sanchez. This Contract or Concession was approved by Congress on the 26th May 1894, and extended by the President, the Minister of the Interior on the 8th June 1894. The Contract was transferred to a Venezuelan Co, which in turn was legally absorbed by us, on the 29th October 1898. In Article 6 of the said Contract, "The General Govern- ment undertakes to concede to no other line of steamers, any of the benefits, exemptions, etc., contained in the present Contract," etc. Therefore, the decree of Crespo, its approval by Con-[43] gress, and subsequent Contract of the 8th June 1894, are to all intents and purposes the same, and forms one of the many well known examples of vested rights. On May loth 1900 I concluded an arrangement with the Vene- zuelan Government for the settlement of our claims, which amounted to over £90,000. The Government agreed to satisfy that amount in the following manner: — (i) Cash 100,000 Bolivares, received May loth last. (2) 100,000 " more or less 6 months after declara- tion of peace. (3) The prolongation for 6 years of the Contract of the 8th of Jxme 1894. (4) The exemption for running a steamer to Maracaibo, and the extension for one year, of putting on a steamer, to run between Trinidad ha, Guayra, and intermediate Ports. 384 APPENDIX. When agreeing to the above settlement, I took into account, almost entirely, the value of the extension for six years, which the Minister entrusted with these negotiations, frequently stated, in conversation (before my Agent here, Mr. C. Vicentini) was "to the value of at least £100,000, alone." In an interview, my Lawyer in Washington, F. D. McKenney Esq., had with Asst: Secretary of State Hill, he (Dr. Hill) made use of the following significant expression: — "Well; in that settlement, this concession was regarded as a thing of value, if destroyed they should pay for it." I hope therefore, Mr. Minister, that the British Government may look upon the matter in the same Ught, and may demand for our account, the sum of £150,000 as an indemnity. I have the honoiu" to be, Sir, Faithfully Yours, (Signed) R. Morgan Olcott. [44] Copy Caracas, Dec. 14, igoo. Sir, I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of yester- day's date, on the subject of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., and to inform you in reply that the matter will receive my earnest attention. I am. Sir, your obedient servant, (Signed) A. C. Grant Duff. Copy, London, 5th January, igoi. My Lord: I am desired by Mr. R. Morgan Olcott, the Managing Director of this Company, to forward to your lordship the enclosed copies of letters which he exchanged, on December 14th, with the British Minister at Caracas, relative to this Company's right to the exclu- sive navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales rivers. I am also requested to earnestly solicit your lordship's kind attention to this important matter, and to express the hope that, in addition to the assistance already promised by the Government of the United States, the Directors may rely on the influence of the British Government, in support of the Company's just claims against the Republic of Venezuela. I have the honour to remain, Your lordship's most obedient humble Servant, (Signed) F. Thomas, Secretary. The Most Honorable, The Marquess op Lansdowne, K. G., Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Downing Street, S. W. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 19. 385 Copy. Foreign Office, January i^, igoi. [45] Sir, With reference to your letter of the 5th. instant re- specting the claim of your Company to the exclusive navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales rivers, • I am directed by the Marquess of Lansdowne to express His Lordship's regret that after full consideration of the matter he does not consider it to be one in regard to which Her Majesty's Representative can properly be instructed to take diplomatic action. I am. Sir, Your most obedient, humble Servant, (Signed) Martin GossEUN. The Secretary, Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, 155, Fenchurch Street, E. C. Copy. London, i8th January, igoi. The Right Honorable, The Earl of Kintore, G. C. M. G., Alder- shot. My Lord: In accordance with the instructions of the Managing Director, I have the honour to enclose, herewith, a Memorial addressed to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, and to beg your lord- ship to kindly forward the same to Lord Lansdowne, with such recommendations in the Company's favor as your lordship may deem judicious. For the information of your lordship, I also enclose a copy of a letter from the Foreign Office, dated January 1 5th ; but I venture to think that the Marquess of Lansdowne could [46] not then have been acquainted with the facts as set out in the enclosed Memorial; otherwise, it is inconceivable that he would have hesitated to instruct Her Majesty's representative to continue the diplomatic representations which had already been initiated by Mr. Grant-Duff in Caracas. There seems to be good reason for believing that the United States Government would, in the present circumstances, welcome the co-operation of the British Government, with a view to pro- tecting the interests of British and American subjects in Vene- zuela; and the fact that two of our steamers have recently been seized by the Venezuelan Government, should strengthen the case for intervention by the British Foreign Office. 17301 — 10 25 386 APPENDIX. Regretting the necessity for troubling your lordship in connec- tion with this matter, I have the honor to remain, Your lordship's obedient servant, (Signed) F. Thomas, Secretary. Enclosures : — (i) Copy of letter to Trinidad Office. (2) Copy letter from Trinidad Ofl&ce. (3) Memorial and accompanying document. (4) Copy letter from Foreign Office. Copy. Foreign Office, February 4, igoi. My Lord: — I am directed b}^ the Marquess of Lansdowne to state that His Lordship has had under his consideration Your Lordship's letter of the 2oth ultimo inclosing a Memorial from the Orin-[47]oco Shipping and Trading Company praying for the intervention of His Majesty's Government on behalf of the British subjects con- cerned to protect the Company and them from further loss, dam- age or molestation on account of the acts of the Venezuelan Government affecting the Company's Concession or Contract with that Government. I am to express to you Lord Lansdowne's regret that he is not, as at present advised, able to modify the decision conveyed to the Company by Sir Martin Gosselin's letter of the 15th ultimo to which Yotur Lordship refers, and I am further to draw your attention to the terms of Article 4 of the translation of the Con- tract — which forms an appendix to the Memorial — namely; "All doubts and controversies which may arise with respect to the interpretation and execution of this Contract shall be decided by the Tribunal of Venezuela and in conformity with the laws of the Republic, without such mode of settlement being con- sidered motive of international claims." Although the general international rights of His Majesty's Government are in nowise modified by the provisions of this document to which they were not a party — the fact that the Company have so far as lay in their power deliberately contracted themselves out of every remedial recourse in case of dispute, except that which is specified in Article 4 of the Contract is undoubtedly an element to be taken into serious consideration RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 387 when they subsequently appeal for the intervention of His Majesty's Government. I am, My Lord, your most obedient, humble servant, (Signed) H. F. Sanderson. Copy. London, 6th February, igoi. [48] The Right Honorable The Earl of Kintore, G. C. M. G., 5, Portman Street, W. My Lord, I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your lordship's favor of the 5th inst., covering the reply of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to the Memorial addressed to him by this Company. The Directors will learn with great regret that, notwithstanding your lordship's efforts on behalf of the Company, Lord Lansdowne still refuses to modify his previous decison. This decision is the more unsatisfactory in that his lordship does not condescend to give any reason for non-intervention. If I may be permitted to say so, the terms of Article 4 of the Contract, to which reference is made in the letter of Sir T. H. Sanderson, have absolutely no connection whatever with the matter at issue between this Com- pany and the Government of Venezuela. No "Doubt" or "Con- troversy" has arisen with respect to the "interpretation and execution" of the Contract. What has happened is that the Venezuelan Government has, by a most dishonest and cunningly devised trick, defrauded the Company to the extent of entirely nullifying a Concession which it had legally acquired at a very heavy cost, &c., &c. I am, your lordship's obedient Servant, (Signed) F. Thomas, Secretary. (49I Copy. London, loth May, igoi. The Most Honorable, The Marquess of Lansdowne, K. G., Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Downing Street, S. W. My Lord, I am instructed by the Directors of this Company to address a further letter to your Lordship with reference to the correspond- ence which has already passed between the Foreign Office and the Company, and particularly to the Memorial presented by the Earl of Kintore, on hehalf of the Company, and the reply thereto of Sir Thomas Sanderson, dated the 4th of February. 388 APPENDIX. Referring first to the statement contained in Sir Thomas San- derson's letter that "the Company have, as far as lay in their power deliberately contracted themselves out of every remedial recourse in case of dispute," I am desired to respectfully draw your Lordship's attention to the fact that no "doubt" nor " con- , trover sy" has arisen in regard to the "interpretation and execution" of any contract which this Company has with the Venezuelan Government, but that the injustice complained of in the Memorial is that General Castro, of his own motion, and without first ob- taining the consent of the National Assembly, has abrogated a law relating to the navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales rivers, (upon which the Company's Contract with the Venezuelan Government was based) thereby depriving the Company of the exclusive right to navigate those rivers, which was the real con- sideration for the performance by the Company of the terms of the contract to which Sir Thomas Sanderson refers. [50] Although the Directors have only appealed to your Lord- ship in reference to this particular breach of faith by the Vene- zuelan Government, many others might be cited, such as the seizure of the Company's steamers and servants, and other out- rageous acts on the part of the Government officials of Venezuela, constituting a menace to the very existence of the undertaking. The Company is an English Company, and pays taxes in this country on an income entirely received from its trade in Vene- zuela. The bulk of its Share and Debenture Capital is, however, held by American Citizens who have made representations to their Government that their property is being imperiled by the unlawful acts which President Castro permits to be perpetrated in the name of his Government; and there are good reasons for believing that the United States Government are prepared to offer that protection to their Citizens which they consider the Govern- ment should afford. The object of this letter is to beg your Lordship to either recon- sider the decision conveyed to the Company by Sir Thomas San- derson's letter of the 4th of February, or to signify to the Ambas- sador of the United States in this Country, the willingness of His Majesty's Government that the United States of America, in pro- tecting the interests of their Citizens as Debenture holders and Shareholders, should also protect the Company as a corporate body, notwithstanding the fact that it is a British institution. RECORD OF CI,AIM NO. 1 9. 389 This letter will be forwarded to your Lordship by the Earl of Kintore who is Chairman of the company, and who of his own knowledge can testify, if desired, that the Shares [51] and deben- tures of this Company are chiefly held by American Citizens. I have the honour to remain. Your Lordship's most obedient Servant, (Signed) F. Thomas, Secretary. Copy. London, loth May, igoi. His Excellency, the Honorable J. H. Choate, United States Ambassador, Carlton House Terrace, S. W. Sir, As Chairman of Directors of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, I have been desired by my colleagues on the Board to bring to your excellency's notice how seriously the very unsatisfactory state of affairs in Venezuela is affecting the prop- erty of American citizens. This Company, although British by constitution, having been incorporated in England and its business being managed by a London Board, is almost entirely owned by American Citizens; the bulk of the Stock and Debenture Capital being held by them. Mr. Loomis, the United States Minister in Caracas, has rendered the Company very valuable assistance, by the exercise of his influ- ence while there; but the fact that the constitution of the Com- pany is British has led to a suggestion that the British Government are the proper parties to appeal, to for assistance. A Memorial was, therefore, presented to Lord Lansdowne, soliciting support from the British Government, but his Lordship's reply seems to show the Foreign Office to be averse to taking the initiative. Lord Lansdowne may be influenced by the fact that the Company, although English in name, is virtually [52] American; and although the British Government are reluctant to move in the matter, yet I have reason to believe that they would be glad to see the United States Government take steps for the protection of its own citizens. I, therefore, would ask your excellency to use your great influence in bringing this matter before the notice of the Government at Washington, so that instructions may be given to take such steps as may be considered advisable for the due protection of the Venezuelan property of the Company, in which Citizens of the United States are so deeply interested. The action on the part of President Castro, of which the Com- pany has grave reason to complain, consists in his having of his 390 APPENDIX. own motion deprived the Company of the exclusive right of navi- gating the Macareo and Pendernales rivers, in violation of a Con- cession, which had been granted by Congress to the Company's predecessors. This Concession is a very valuable one, and it should be either reinstated, or full compensation awarded. There are also other unjustifiable acts of the Government in connection with the seizure of the Company's servants and vessels, with which I do not think it necessary to trouble you. I can give, if necessary, the names of the American Citizens to whom I refer, and I respectfully beg your excellency to forward and recommend this application to the State Department at Washington. I have the honor to remain. Your Excellency's obedient Servant, (Signed) Kintore. [53I Copy. Foreign Ofeice, May 11, 1901. Sir: I am directed by the Secretary of State to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the loth inst. on the subject of your Company's interests in Venezuela, and I am to acquaint you, in reply, that the matter shall receive attention. I am, sir. Your most obedient humble servant, (Signed) Martin Gosselin. The Secretary, The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., J55, Fenchurch Street, E. C. Copy. Foreign Office, June i, igoi. Sir: With reference to your letter of the loth ultimo relating to the case of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, I am directed by the Marquess of Tansdowne to express his regret that a careful reconsideration Of the facts placed before him has not enabled him to modify the decision at which he had originally arrived that the case was not one in which His Majesty's Govern- ment could properly intervene on the Company's behalf. His Lordship has taken note of the passage in your letter pointing out that the Company's claim has not arisen in regard to the interpretation and execution of any contract; [54] and that the reference in the letter of the 4th of February from this Office to RECORD OF ClvAIM NO. 1 9. 39 1 Article 4 of the Contract of Settlement of loth May, 1900, does not apply to the case now in question. This circumstance alone does not, however, furnish any sufficient grounds for diplomatic* intervention. The Company does not appear to have exhausted the legal remedies at its disposal before the ordinary tribunals of the country, and it would be contrary to international practice for His Majesty's Government formally to intervene on their behalf through the diplomatic channel unless and until they should be in a position to show that they had exhausted their ordinary legal remedies with the result that a prima facie case of failure or denial of justice remained. Moreover subject to the right and duty in the circumstances above indicated of His Majesty's Government to protest against any injustice which had apparently been inflicted on British subjects concerned, His Lordship doubts whether he would be justified in actively supporting the continua- tion to a Company, only partially composed of British share- holders — of a monopoly of navigation — which is opposed to the general interest and the effect of which might well be to exclude other British enterprises of a praiseworthy character, from the same field. With reference to the fifth paragraph of your letter of the loth ultimo, I am to say that His Lordship cannot instruct Lord Pauncefote to invite the intervention of the United States Govern- ment on behalf of your company. The question whether the United States Government should intervene on behalf of individual United States citizens who may be debenture holders or Share- holders of the Orinoco Com-[55]pany is of course one which is entirely for the decision of the United States Government. I am. Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant, (Signed) Martin Gosselin. The Secretary to the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, i^§ Fenchurch Street, London, E. C. 392 APPENDIX. Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street N. W. Washington, D. C. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, and the Govern- ment OP Venezuela. Washington, D. C, November 20, igoi. The Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir: In the settlement effected between the Government of Venezuela and myself, on the loth of May, 1900, (copies of which have been filed in your Department) it was resolved, that we were to receive $40,000 (200,000 Bolivares) in coin, — of which half of that amount, namely, — $20,000 (or 100,000 Bolivares), has been paid; the balance of $20,000 (or 100,000 Bolivares) being consid- ered long overdue, the Minister of Finance promised, orally, before witnesses, to pay this balance during last month. We crave further considerate action by you, through the American Minister on this accoimt. In that same settlement, it was also resolved that the Company should complete twelve trips between Trinidad and [56] La Guaira before May 10, 1902. The first trip was completed during the month of April last, when it became evident that the only available Steamer we possessed, or could acquire, to navigate on that route, was greatly in need of a new boiler, new parts of machinery etc., etc., so we were reluctantly compelled to send her to the original builders at Dundee, Scotland. These repairs will soon be com- pleted at a cost of over $40,000, and she can then resume the above- mentioned itinerary. She is in such good condition, that we fear the Venezuelan Government will impress her into service, and possibly destroy her, a result that would cause us irreparable injury. Having caused the total wreck of our Steamer Nutrias, and irreparable damage to our Steamer Vencedor, we cannot afford to allow the Manzanares to share this fate, and we crave your good offices with the Venezuelan Government, to obtain a promise from its head, that the steamer Manzanares, will be allowed to complete her twelve trips, between Trinidad and La Guaira before next May, without hindrance from any Venezuelan source. We shall accept the Honorable the Assistant Secretary of State's sug- RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 393 gestion, and make this request to the Venezuelan Government, but we very much doubt if they will favor us with any reply, unless induced to do so, by your good offices. Trusting my request will receive favorable consideration, I have the honor to be. Sir respectfully, R. Morgan Olcott, [Mg Dir] " [57] No. 50. Legation of the United States, Caracas, December 14, igoi. To the Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington, Sir: — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication No. 31 of November 23d, last, referring 'to the representations of the Managing Director of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, and to say that I have carried out your instructions in regard to the steamer Manzanares, the property of the above-mentioned company. I am. Sir, with great respect, Your obedient servant, Herbert W. Bowen. No. 55- Legation of the United States, Caracas, December ig, igoi. To the Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington, Sir: — I have the honor to inform you that the decree of May 10, 1900, extending for six years the privileges of the Orinoco Ship- ping and Trading Company, was abrogated and annulled on the 14th of this month by the Venezuelan Government because of the alleged failure on the part of the Company to fulfill its obliga- tion to make twelve trips per year between Trinidad and the ports of Venezuela. [58] This is an Executive decree, and I understand it is final. I am. Sir, with great respect. Your obedient servant, Herbert W. Bowen. "'[These words "Mg Dir" appear in the original on file in the Department of State, although omitted in the copy filed before the Mixed Commission of 1903. — Agent's note. 394 APPENDIX. Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 131 7 F Street, N. W. Washington, D. C. In re — Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company. March 13, 1902. . Hon. John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir: Referring to the various communications which have passed between ourselves and your Department during the course of the two or three years last past upon the above subject, I now have the honor to inform you that on or about the 31st day of January 1902 Articles of Incorporation under the laws of the State of New Jersey were obtained by various persons interested in the above-named Company. The name of the New Jersey Corporation is "The Orinoco Steamship Company," and a duly certified copy of such Articles of Incorporation is handed you herewith for filing in your Department. I also have the honor to inform you that on the loth inst. a Resolution was duly passed authorizing the transfer of all of the property and assets of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. to The Orinoco Steamship Co. A duly certified copy of this Resolution will also be handed to you for filing [59] as soon as the same shall have been received by me in due course of mail. With great respect, I am, Sir, Your obedient servant, F. D. McKenney. (Enclosure.) [Enclosure.] Certificate of Incorporation of the Orinoco Steamship Company." Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street N. W., Washington, D. C. In Re Orinoco Steamship Company. June 20, 1902. Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: — On behalf of the Orinoco Steamship Company, a corporation duly incorporated under the laws of the State of New Jersey, U. S. A., and engaged in the business of carrying goods "■ [This enclosure is printed in the Record ante, p. 145. — ^Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 395 and merchandise in steamers owned by it between Port of Spain, Trinidad, B. W. I. and Ciudad Bolivar, and other ports and places on the Orinoco River, Venezuela; I would call attention to the fact that there is a distinct con- flict between the official advices received from the [70] United States Minister at Caracas to the effect that "There is no blockade of the Orinoco River" and the advices and reports hereinafter referred to. My company's steamer, the "BoHvar," left Port of Spain, Trinidad, on Wednesday the 28th day of May with cargo and general mails bound for Ciudad Bolivar. She proceeded without molestation until 3:15 o'clock P. M. on Friday, the 30th day of May, when her further progress was stopped at San Felix. Afterwards, by order of Seiior J. Sarria Hurtado, Constitutional President of the State of Guayana, Venezuela, she was prohibited from further proceeding on her way, her cargo was broached and certain stores consisting of rice, potatoes, onions and the like, removed therefrom, all Venezuelan mails were taken from the custody of the ship's officers, and she was turned back under papers authorizing her to return to Trinidad. A copy of the ship's Log setting forth the above matter in more detail is here- with handed to you for your information. By same steamer a communication from Senor Sarria Hurtado was sent to the General Manager of the Orinoco Steamship Com- pany which notified said officer that by reason of the occupation of Ciudad Bolivar by revolutionary forces the seat of Government had been transferred to San Felix and "until public peace shall have been re-established" interdicted the despatch of any of the Company's steamers for said Port. A copy of this communication is also enclosed for your information. From the public prints, particularly the New York Tribune of the 17th instant, it appears that the Captain of a Norwegian vessel engaged in transportation of cattle and plying between Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela, and Cayenne, French Guiana, while proceeding downstream and when [71] opposite San Felix was fired upon by Venezuelan Government troops "from two stern wheel vessels," killing her captain and wounding a passenger, Nunez. A copy of this report is also enclosed for your convenience. It appears from the L.og of the "BoUvar," above referred to, that the forces under Senor Sarria Hurtado are in possession of two Venezuelan gunboats, the "Crespo" and the "23d de Mayo" and that same are being used to render effective the embargo laid 396 APPENDIX. upon navigation of the Orinoco. A cable received from our Man- ager at Trinidad on the 14th instant indicates that on the precediiig day three additional Venezuelan Government gunboats had left that port ostensibly bound for the Orinoco with the intention of bombarding Ciudad Bolivar. In view of the above circumstances, and particularly in view of the conflict between the reports from the American Minister at Caracas and those received from private sources, I have the honor to suggest that an American warship of light draft should be sent to the Orinoco with instructions to ascend the same for the purpose of ascertaining the exact state of affairs in that quarter, and also with instructions to convoy the Orinoco Steamship Company's steamer "Manzanares" flying the American flag, loaded with innocent cargo and a large accumulation of general mails to the Port of Ciudad Bolivar. In view of the declaration of the Vene- zuelan Government as reported by Minister Bowen to the effect that the Orinoco is not blockaded, there would seem to be no international reason why such course might not be pursued with- out protest. I am informed that the United States gunboat "Marietta," which recently left New York bound for San Juan, Porto [72] Rico, is thoroughly equipped and would be a suitable vessel for this purpose. In this same connection I beg to hand you herewith copy of a communication from the Company's Manager at Trinidad under date of June 6, 1902, addressed to the Honorable Alvin Smith, U. S. Consul at Trinidad. It seems possible, in view of this com- munication, that Mr. Smith may have heretofore made known the above facts to your Department. Respectfully yours, F. D. McKennby. [Enclosure] NORWEGIAN CAPTAIN KIIyl^ED." VENEZUELAN REBEIvS SEIZE A STEAMER — GOVERNMENT FORCE FIRES ON VESSEL. St. Thomas, Danish West Indies, June 17. — Advices received here from Georgetown, British Guiana, under date of Saturday, June 14, say that the Norwegian steamer Jotun, a cattle trader, plying between Bolivar, Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela, and Cayenne, French Guiana, arrived at Georgetown that morning from Vene- « [Newspaper clipping. — Agent's note. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 397 zuela, and the chief officer reported that Venezuelan revolutionists "commandeered" the vessel on June 6 at Barancas. The chief of the party, General Valentin Perez, took charge of the vessel, and ordered her commander. Captain Meling, to his cabin. Revolu- tionary troops were then embarked on board the Jotun, and she conveyed about 250 of them from Barancas to Bolivar, landing them at the latter place on June 7, when Captain Meling was allowed to resume command of the ship, and she was taken to the other side of the bay, where she loaded cattle. On her return voyage, when passing St. Felix, Venezuelan Gov-[72]ernment troops fired on the Jotun from two stern wheel vessels, killing Captain Meling and wounding a passenger named Nunez. The Govern- ment vessels pursued the Jotun, but the latter succeeded in escap- ing them. [Enclosure.] WARSHIPS ORDERED TO LA GUAYRA. THE CINCINNATI AND THE TOPEKA SENT THERE TO PROTECT AMERICAN INTERESTS." Washington, June 17. — The Cabinet to-day discussed the situa- tion in Venezuela so far as it was revealed in the press dispatches, and in some cable messages received by commercial companies operating in that country. It was decided that two warships should be sent at once to La Guayra. This action was taken not on definite advices, but in pursuance of the general policy of look- ing after American interests in case of disturbance. Later in the afternoon orders were sent the Cincinnati and the Topeka, now at San Juan, Porto Rico, to proceed at once to La Guayra, where they should arrive before the end of the week. The orders to the Cincinnati and the Topel^a mentioned La Guayra specifically as their destination, but the commanders of the two vessels will be allowed to exercise their discretion in pro- ceeding to 'other points in Venezuela, where American interests appear to be threatened. From cable and mail advices received in a trustworthy quarter here, and used for the information of the Cabinet at to-day's session, it appears to be probable that the Topeka, because of her light draught, will proceed from La Guayra up the Orinoco River, where steamships of a big commercial com- pany are practically in a state of blockade, owing to the activity of the [74] revolutionists. The mail advices of May 31 say that Sefior Sarria, President of the Venezuelan State of Guayana, was captured at his capital, Ciudad Bolivar, and-that the revolutionists. '■'[Newspaper clipping. — Agent's note.] 398 APPENDIX. secured twelve hundred rifles, two million rounds of ammunition, a quick-firing gun and two breech-loading cannon. General Salas, the commander of the defending government forces, made his escape, boarded with his party two government gunboats and two ships of a trading company, sailed down the Orinoco, and estab- lished a temporary capital at San Felix. A cable dispatch received in the same quarter, dated at Trinidad, June 13, says that on that day three government gunboats had sailed from Trinidad, presumably to relieve the government forces up the Orinoco. The advices also say that General Matos, the leading spirit in the revolution, is marching on Caracas with a force of nearly seven thousand men, and that all indications point to the overthrow of the Castro administration in a short time. An interesting situation in connection with the bombardment of the port of Carupano by the government gunboats recently, which has not appeared in the press dispatches, is brought out in the advices received here to-day. It appears that the French cruiser Suchet and the German cruiser Falke were both present at the bombardment. The firing had proceeded only a short time when the commanders of both the foreign vessels sent word to the commanders of the Venezuelan gunboats that further bom- barding could take place only at their own peril, and by this threat the firing was immediately silenced. This information would serve to explain why the bombardment of that port, which was begun with such energy, came to naught. [Enclosure.] [75] DUTCH CRUISER FOR I,A GUAYRA." The Hague, June 17. — ^The Dutch cruiser Konigin Regentes has been ordered to proceed from Willemstad, island of Curacoa, to La Guayra, Venezuela, in order to protect the interests of the Netherlands there. [Enclosure. GOVERNMENT TROOPS TAKE TOWN." Colon, Colombia, June 17. — The report has reached here that the government troops have reoccupied Chorrera, which was held by the insurgents. News is momentarily expected of an engagement between the contending forces. o [Newspaper clipping. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 399 [Enclosure.] LOG OF S. S. "bolivar," TRIP NO. 6 UP. Left. Wed. 28. Port of Spain 6:1.0 P. M. Hicacos- 12:05 A.M. 12:05. Thr. 29. Bar 3:10 A.M. 5:30 A. M. 10 ft. Pescadores 6:10 A.M. % speed' until 6:30 P.M. Tucupita _.., 9:40 A.M. 11: A. M. met "Forzoza." Mayorga.... 1:00 P. M. MatBson 6:00 P.M.. 6:05 P.M. Matias 7:10 P.M. 7:20 P.M. Indios 10:55 P. M. Fri. 30. Franquia 1:15 A.M. Barrancas 4:30 A. M. La Bolina.. 5:35 A. M. Los Castillos . 8:20 A. M. 8:30 A. M. Mucura 10:08 A.M. • San Felix.. 15:15 P.M. [76] On arriving at the Bar we anchored to awaifthe proper tide to enter the river. On Thursday, the 29th, at 9:40 A. M., when off the Island of Tucupita the American owned steamer " Forzosa " was sighted, flying no flag aft, and an American flag at the bow. She went alongside the bank of the river, and, after whistling once, sent a boat to us. The boat contained Gen. Espejo, who said he was on his way to Trinidad, and requested Fiscal Uslar to accompany him to the "Forzosa" as he had something of importance to communicate to him. They went to the " Forzosa," and on coming back informed Captain Perez and myself that Gen. Espejo had reported that the garrison at Ciudad Bolivar had revolted against the Government, and that when the "For- zosa" left on Wednesday at 4:30 P. M., the rebels had seized one-half the town and fighting was still going on, that the "For- zosa" had been fired on the night before when passing Barrancas, and had been pursued by armed canoes which had kept up a running fight with her for two hours, and that he considered it dangerous for the "Bolivar" to proceed. The Fiscal furthermore informed us that he would not attempt to suggest anything in regard to the ship's movements, but left it entirely in our hands. After consulting, we informed him that we had decided to con- 400 APPENDIX. tinue our voyage, and he then said that he agreed with us. As the " Forzosa " was on a Government commission, he asked us to supply her with two tons of coal, and gave an order to that effect and a receipt. Before proceeding, Mr. Haynes, Chief Engineer, and myself went on board the "Forzosa," to interview the Captain, and to verify the report Gen. Espejo had made. Captain Christensen confirmed all and showed us several places [77] on the ship which had been perforated by bullets, and also told us that a bullet had struck a steam pipe, causing it to burst. He cofild tell us nothing of the armed canoes, as he was below at the time. We therefore returned to the "Bolivar" .and left at 11 A. M. We passed Franquia and Barrancas and found all quiet. We arrived at Los Castillos at 8:20 A. M., and a boat came off with the officer in charge of the garrison. He informed us that they knew nothing of what had happened at Bolivar, except what the "Forzosa" had reported, that the Government had troops at San Felix, and that there was no telegraphic communication with San Felix. On arriving at San Felix, Fiscal Uslar went ashore and came off after a short time with the news that the town of Cd. Bolivar had been captured by the rebels, and that, as Gen. Sarria, President of the State of Guayana, had evacuated that town, and was expected to arrive at San Felix momentarily, he requested us to anchor where we were until fur- ther orders. I asked him to sign a document which I had drawn up, stating the reasons for our detention, and he said he would sign after consulting Gen. Sarria. He furthermore informed us that the steamers "Masparro," "Socorro" and "Caura" were on the other side of the river Caroni, which is a few miles above San FeUx, awaiting the arrival of Gen. Sarria, who had elected to march with his men to San Felix, and had sent these three steamers under Gen. O. Salas away from Cd. Bolivar just before he had evacuated the place. The mail agents and certain Government officials of San Felix went ashore and came on board as they Uked, but no one from the ship had landed except the boatman. After awhile, however, Fiscal Uslar sent a note off to Fiscal Herrera telling him that he might allow certain [78] passengers to land, but on his communi- cating this to me, I told him that it was an illegal step to take and that I consequently opposed it, as also did Captain Perez, whereupon he sent to inform Fiscal Uslar, who decided not to press the matter, but to await the arrival of Gen. Sarria. May 30. — Later on Fiscal Uslar sent word to Fiscal Herrera, requesting him to send ashore the mail bags, but on our suggest- RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. I9. 4OI ing that it would be better to await the arrival of Gen. Sarria before landing any one or anything, Fiscal Uslar was informed of what we advised and it was agreed to. At 7:35 we sighted a steamer's Ughts ahead, and got under way, intending to stand off the port tmtil we knew what steamer it was, but after waiting some time, and thinking that the vessel had stopped as the lights seemed stationary, we steamed towards them, and at 8:50 P. M. " we came up to the S. S. "Caura." A boat was sent with Fiscal Uslar, and when he returned he was accompanied by Gen. O. Salas, late Commander . of the forces at Cd. Bolivar, and other oflScers. We then went back to San Felix and reached our 'anchorage at 9:15 P. M. The "Caura" followed and was moored close to the beach. Sat. 31. — On meeting Fiscal Uslar, Captain Perez informed him that at 12 o'clock that day, having been at anchor for 24 hours and hearing nothing of Gen. Sarria, he would decide whether he would proceed to Bolivar or return to Trinidad, as he could not keep the ship on full commission, with passengers on board for an indefi- nite time. Fiscal Uslar went ashore at about 8 A. M. to explain the situation to the Authorities. At 8:40 A. M., the steamer "Masparro" arrived with Gen. Sarria, several officers of his Staff and about 60 men, and [79] some horses. She was moored alongside the beach. At 9:15 the " Socorro " arrived with about 30 men, and was moored a little below the "Masparro." At 9:50 A. M. received verbal orders from Gen. Sarria, through Fiscal Uslar, to land any passengers who wished to go ashore, and was also informed that Pres. Sarria had expressed his approval of our action in keeping aboard all passengers and mails until our arrival. At 2:15 P. M., having allowed a few hours for the President to settle down, I accompa- nied Captain Mattas ashore and went to the President's head- quarters for an interview. Gen. Sarria informed us that, owing to treason, the Capital of the State was lost to the Government, that he intended to establish his Government at San Felix, pro tern.; and that he could not allow us to proceed to Bolivar, but would despatch us for Trinidad that afternoon. On my intimat- ing to him that I should require documents for this step, he stated that that was aheady being attended to. He also said that he would require some provisions, and trusted that we would spare him some from the ship's stores, and said that he had empowered his Secretary to give a receipt for same. After waiting until his 17301 — 10 26 402 APPENDIX. official correspondence was ready, we bade him farewell, and went to the British Consular Agent for our Bill of Health to Trinidad. We arrived on board, with the President's Secretary, named Carlos Killen, at 4:20 P. M., and gave orders for steam, and also told the steward to send ashore for the President any of the ship's stores that he could spare, and to get a receipt for the same from Killen. After getting what we gave him, Mr. Killen took ashore the mail bags containing mails for Cd. Bolivar from Trinidad and Venezuela, leaving on board the mails for Europe. [80] At 5:20 P. M., Mr. E. Guia, the President's Secretary Gen- eral, brought me a despatch from Gen. Sarria, stating that as he found it necessary to obtain provisions to feed his troops, he wished me to deliver to the Secretary General any provisions which he might ask for and for which I would be given a receipt. I informed this official that Mr. Killen had already given a receipt for provisions which had already been landed, but he answered that those provisions were not enough, and that he would require to take some more from the ship's cargo. On my stating that Gen. Sarria's order did not authorize them to broach the ship's cargo, the Secretary General told me that that was an oversight on the part of a junior secretary, as he had talked the matter over with Gen. Sarria who agreed that the step was necessary. I there- upon requested him to add to Gen. Sarria's order a note stating that the provisions to be supplied were to be taken from the ship's cargo, and he at once ordered his Secretary Pavan to do as I re- quested. It was done. Mr. Guia then told me that he wanted the ship's papers so that he might open any of the documents ad- dressed to the Collector of Customs at Bolivar, and find out the nature of the cargo we had on board. I told him that if he gave me a list of what he required I would find it, and that I was against any papers being opened, as it >vas not necessary. Moreover, I said that, not knowing when we would go to Bolivar, I could not say what party would be in power, and that the new Collector of Customs might object to receive documents which had been tampered with, and might, if he chose, fine the vessel heavily. I went below with the list that he made out, and supplied him with all he asked for, except salt fish, flour and biscuits, which articles we did not have. I had several times, by evasive answers and delays, to prevent the ship's [81] papers from being opened. The following are the marks, numbers and contents of the goods which I delivered, and for which I got a receipt: RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 403 J A 20 bags rice No, 17, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 85, 87, 88, 91, 96, 97, 98, loi, 109, 112, 114, 119, 122 M 10 bags potatoes No 7-4 1-4 3-2 " 8 " onions 4-2 6-3 8-3 A 2 " onions 4-2 P C 16 tins at 25 Ins. lard No. 8, 31, 9 5, 10 2, 11 4, 12 2, 13 i, 14 I, total 86 packages, which were landed at 6:10 P. M. A squad of 25 men came on board on their way to Los Castillos and I asked for and obtained an order from Gen. Salas for their passage. I also got Fiscal Uslar to sign the order of detention which I had written out on Friday. Weighed anchor and left. San FeUx 6:30 P. M. Mucura 7:20? M. Los Castillos 8:40 P. M. 9:30 P. M. La Bolina 11:00 P. M, Barrancas - 11:20 P. M. June I. Franquia 1:00 A.M. Indios - 2:25 A. M. 23 de Mayo.... . 4:10 A. M. 5:00 A. M. Matias 5:40 A. M. Mathison 6:16 A. M. Mayorga 9:00 A. M. Pescadores 1:05 P M. Bar i:4oP. M 10 feet. Hicacos.. 2:30 P. M. Port of Spain 9:55 P. M. [82] On Sunday at 4:10 A. M., we sighted the steamer "23 de Mayo" aground in the Cano Macareo. She hailed us and sent a boat to say that she had been aground since 10 o'clock, and requested Captain Perez to tow her off. We were consequently delayed nearly one hour, but succeeded in floating her. During this delay, a Mr. Figueroa came on board from the " 23 de Mayo," stating that he had been appointed to be Fiscal of the "Bolivar," and that Fiscal Uslar was appointed to command a battalion in Cd. Bolivar. He produced papers from Caracas to prove his statements, and remained oh board. After some time Fiscal Uslar informed Fiscal Figueroa that he would not deliver the position to him until he had received his battalion. On arriving at Port of Spain we blew the whistle for the Harbour Master at 9:55 P. M. and were boarded at about 11 :30 P. M. M. Perez Navigator. A. Mathison Purser. 404 APPENDIX. San Fewx, 31 de Mayo, igo2. Presidencia Constitucional en Campana del Estado Bolivar. Ciudadano Gerente General de la Compania de Vapores del Orinoco. Ocupada Ciudad Bolivar, capital de este Estado por fuerzas revolucionarias contra el regimen [regimen] constitucional de la Nacion me he visto en la necesidad de trasladar el asiente del Gobierno, seglin expresa disposicion de la Constitucion [Constitu- ci6n], a [d,] este pueblo, y lo participa d V. para que, de aqui en adelante, hasta tanto se restablezca la paz publica [pliblica], se abstenga de despachar los vapores que departen [deperden] de esa Gerenc^a hacia aquel lugar ocupado por los enemigos, [83] porque me veria en el forzoso caso de impedir su seguida d, su destine. Dios y Federacion. (firmada) J. Sarria Hurtado. Mem. — See next page [below] for translation. [Translation.] San Fewx, jist May, igo2. Constitutional Predencia [Presidency], in Campaign, State of Bolivar. To the General Manager of The Orinoco Steamship Co.: Ciudad Bolivar, Capital of this State, being occupied by Revolu- tionary troops, in arms against the Constitutional Government of the Nation, I have been compelled to transfer the seat of Govern- ment, in accordance with the express dispositions of the Constitu- tion, to this town; and I notify you thereof in order that, from now onward, and until public peace shall have been re-established, you abstain from despatching the steamers at your command for the said port of Ciudad Bolivar, occupied by the enemy, as I shall be otherwise forcibly compelled to impede the said steamers proceeding to their destination. God and Federation. (Signed) J. Sarria Hurtado. Copy. Ca5jo Macareo Mayo 2g: igos. Ciud'ano Capiidn del vapor "Bolivar" Sirvase entregarle al vapor "Forzosa" en comisidn del servicio publico, y por cuenta del Gobierno Nacional, dos toneladas de carb6n. [84] Este documento constard como recibo de dicho carbdn. El Fiscal (firmado) Arturo Uslar. Mem. — See ante [infra] for translation. RECORD OF CI.AIM NO. 1 9. 405 [Translation.] Cano Macareo, May 2g, 1902. To the Captain of the Bolivar: Please deliver to the Steamer "Forzosa," under commission in the public service, and for account of the National Government, two tons of coal. This document shall serve as a receipt for said coal. The Fiscal, (Signed) Arturo Uslar. Copy. San FeIvIX Mayo 30 de igo2. C'dano Capitdn del vapor Nacional "Bolivar" Habidndome informado el Jefe Civil de esta Plaza de que Ciudad Bolivar se halla en poder de la Revoluci6n, y de que el General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente del Estado Bolivar, debe Uegar i. este puerto por momentos, en mi caracter de Fiscal Nacional d horde [bordo] del vapi de su mando, y en resguardo de los intereses del Gobierno Nacional, ordeno a Vd fondearse aqui en este puerto hasta segunda drden. Dios y Federacidn. El Fiscal (Firmado) ArTuro Usi^ar. [85] Translation. San Felix, May 30, 1902. To the Captain of the National S. S. Bolivar: Having been informed by the Civil Chief of this place that Ciudad Bolivar is in the hands of the revolution, and that General Julio Sarria Hurtado, President of the State of Bolivar, is momen- tarily expected at this port, in my capacity as National Fiscal, on board the Steamer under your command, and safeguarding the interests of the National Government, I order you to anchor here in this port until further orders. God and Federacion. The Fiscal, (Signed) Arturo Uslar. 406 APPENDIX. Copy. R. E. U. U. DE VENEZUEI/A. Presidencia Constitucional del Estado Bolivar. San Fewx, 31 de Mayo de 1902. Ciudadano Capitdn del Vapor National "Bolivar," En la rada: Siendeme indispensable arbiter recurses para el sestenimiente de las fuerzas de mi mando, dada la circumstancia de haber sido ocupada la Capital del Estado por fuerzas revolucionarias, ocurro d Vd d fin de que, se sirva poner d disposicion de este Gobierno, los viveres que tomard mi Secretario General, y por lo cual le otorgard el correspondiente recibo; d fin de dejar d, cubierto la responsa- bilidad de Vd [86] para con la Compania de que es Ud. empleado. Dichos viveres serdn tornados de la carga que tras [trae] el buque. Dios y Federacidn. (firmado) J. Sarria Hurtado. UNITED STATES OF VENEZUEI^A. [Translation.] Constitutional Presidency, of the State of Bolivar. San Feux, May 31, 1902. To the Captain of National S. S. Bolivar, In port. As it is necessary for me to provide means for the sustenance of the troops imder my command, in view of the fact that the Capital of the State has been occupied by revolutionary forces, I apply to you to the end that you will please place at the disposal of the Government the provisions that my Secretary General shall take, and for which he will issue the corresponding receipt; so as to safeguard your responsibility to the Company of which you are an employe. Said provisions shall be taken from the cargo the vessel is bringing. God and Federation. (Signed) J. Sarria Hurtado. Copy He recibido del Contador del vapor Nacl. " Bolivar," cumpliendo drdenes del Cdano Presidente Constitucional del del Estado Bolivar los articules [articulos] anotados d continuacidn y destinados al sostenimiento de las Fuerzas acampadas en este puerto; cuyos bultos corresponden al cargamento que dicho buque conduda d Cd. Bolivar. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 407 [87] J A 20. Veinte sacos arroz No. 17. 75. 91. 107. 74. 85. 96. 114. 109. 122. 97. 87. 112. 77. 78. 88. 93." 119. 76. loi. M ID Diez Sacos papas No. — 4 i — 4 3 — 2. 8 Ocho Sacos Cebollas — 4. 6. 8. 4 6. 8. 6. 8. A 2 Dos Sacos Cebollas No. 2. 2. P.C. 16. latas de 25 lbs. manteca. No. 8. — 9 — 10 — 11 — 12 — 13 — 14 N 3522211 San Felix 31 de Mayo de 1902. El Secretario General. (firmado) Carlos GufA. [Translation.] I have received from the Purser of the National Steamer Bolivar in compliance with the orders of the Constitutional President of the State of Bolivar the articles mentioned herein, to be used for the support of the troops encamped at this port; the packages correspond to the cargo that said vessel was taking to Ciudad Bolivar. JA 20 Bags Rice, tt 17, 75, 91, 107, 74, 85, 96, 44, 109, 122, 97, 87, 112, 77, 78, 88, 98, 49, 76, loi. M 10 Bags Potatoes, # 1/2, 1/4, -3/2 8 Bags Onions # 4, 6, 8, 4, 6, 8, 6, 8. A 2 Bags Onions # 4/2. PC N 16 Tins 25 lbs. ca. Lard, # 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. San Felix, May 31, 1902. The Secretary General. (Signed) Carlos Gxjia. [Enclosure.] June 6th, 1902. [88] Alvin Smith, Esq., United States Consul, Trinidad. Sir: On behalf of The Orinoco Steamship Company, which, as you are doubtless aware, is an American Company, duly incor- porated in accordance with the laws of the State of New Jersey, I beg to hand you copy of an official communication from the President of the State of Guayana notifying me that the said Company's steamers would not be allowed to proceed to Ciudad Bolivar, that port having been taken by the Revolutionists, and the President and his Staff compelled to retire to the town of San FeHx, where the President has estabHshed provisionally [The document filed in the Department of State has the figure "98." — Agent's note.] 408 APPENDIX. his seat of Government "in campaign." I understand that two Venezuelan gunboats — the "Crespo" and the "23 de Mayo" — are at San Felix, and their presence there constitutes an effective blockade of the Orinoco. The President of the State has taken forcible possession of and detains at San Felix two of my Company's steamers, the "Socorro" and the "Masparro," of the value respectively of $15,000 and $10,500. The detention of these steamers at San Felix constitutes a serious menace to the Company's interests as, in the very probable case of an attack upon San FeUx by the Revolutionists, they would inevitably be put in a position of danger, as they would be used for purposes of defence, the conveyance of troops and munitions of war, etc. Moreover, the Company being thereby deprived of the use of the steamers in question is losing revenue to the extent of at least $2,000 per month. Furthermore, the company possesses an office and store in the port of Ciudad Bolivar, which are likewise menaced and in danger. I also beg to enclose [89] a copy of the Log of the steamship "Bolivar," in which you will find recorded in detail the incidents connected with the interception of the said steamer " BoUvar " at San Felix by the President of the State of Guayana, who ordered her back to Trinidad, with her mails, passengers and cargo, and prohibits the navigation of this or any other steamer belonging to the Company until the restoration of peace. My Company is bound by contract with the Venezuelan Govern- ment to maintain a fortnightly mail service between Trinidad and the aforesaid port of Ciudad Bolivar; and the prohibition above-mentioned prevents the Company from carrying out that contract, and exposes the Company to other serious consequences. The "Bolivar" is the only source of revenue which the Company possess[es] at the moment and the aforesaid suspension of the mail and passenger service performed by her implies a consequent total loss of revenue during such suspension. I call your atten- tion to the fact recorded in the L,og that the President of the State of Guyana compelled the breaching of part of the cargo as detailed in the Log, and for which the Company will be held immediately responsible, as also for its inabiUty to comply with the bills of lading as to the delivery of the cargo. Under the circumstances enumerated, I desire on behalf of my Company that you will have the goodness to communicate by cable with your Government at Washington, with a view to RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 4O9 their affording such protection for the rights, contracts and inter- ests of The Orinoco Steamship Company as they may consider justifiable. I am, Sir, Your obedient servant, [Thos. a. Turner, Mgr."] [90] Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street N. W. Washington, D. C. August 29, 1902. Honorable A. A. AdEE, Acting Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir: — ^As Attorney for the Orinoco Steamship Company, whose vessels as you are aware, ply between Port of Spain, Trinidad, and ports in Venezuela, I have the honor to request that you will instruct the American Consul at Port of Spain, Trinidad, to clear the Company's steamship "Manzanares" either in ballast or with innocent cargo for Carupano in the event that the Vene- zuelan Consul at that place refuses to grant such clearance, or to certify the ship's manifest. As precedent for such action I would refer to the Department's cable message of August 13, 1902, to Consul Smith directing him to clear the "Manzanares" for Ciudad Bolivar under similar conditions. In this connection I am advised that Consul Smith seemed unwilling to clear the "Manzanares" for Bolivar unless he should first receive "a written advice from the Venezuelan Consul," that he would not clear the vessel. As in the event of refusing to clear the vessel, the Venezuelan Consul might also be expected to refuse to give us any written advices to that effect I have to request that Consul Smith be instructed not to insist upon such requirement. In view of the fact that the Venezuelan Government is reported as refusing to recognize the conclusion of the Powers that the proclaimed blockade of Carupano is ineffective I have the honor to request that an American Man-of-War be [91] instructed to proceed to that port and render to the "Manzanares" such pro- tection as circumstances may require. Respectfully, F. D. McKenney, Attorney for the Orinoco S. S. Co. "> [Signature omitted ; supplied from original, which is at the disposal of the court. — Agent's Note.] 4IO APPENDIX. [Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street N. W. Washington, D. C] August 29, 1902. Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir: On behalf of the Orinoco Steamship Company, a corpora- tion under the laws of the State of New Jersey, owning and oper- ating vessels between Port of Spain, Trinidad, and various ports and places in Venezuela, particularly in the region of the Orinoco River, as will more fully appear by reference to the various papers and documents heretofore lodged in the Department by the Company; I now have to inform you that notwithstanding the blockade of the Orinoco as proclaimed by the Venezuelan Government some little time since, the Acting Venezuelan Consul at Port of Spain on the 2d instant cleared the steamship "Rescue" belonging to the Messrs. Ellis Grell & Company, of Port of Spain, Trinidad, for " Guanta via San Felix." This vessel sailed with a full cargo of provisions and other articles direct to San Felix, a port on the Orinoco River of some commercial consequence, but not recog- nized as a port of entry, commerce with said port being ordi- narity required to be done through the port of Ciudad Bolivar. The "Rescue" having discharged her cargo at San Felix took on board y86 packages of produce consisting of hides, cocoa, and other articles, and returned with the same direct to Port of Spain. [92] Under date of the 19th instant we are informed that the same ship was again loading with general cargo for San Felix. The absurdity of the clearance for "Guanta via San Felix" is apparent when it is noted that Guanta is a port on the north coast of Venezuela, west of Carupano, and in the vicinity of Barcelona, while San Felix is in an entirely different direction. The "Rescue" in making the trip from Port of Spain to San Felix proceeded up through either the Macareo or Pedernalles Channels of the Orinoco, both of which channels are closed to general commerce and for the use of which the Orinoco Steamship Company has a subsisting valid concession founded upon valuable consideration from the Venezuelan Government. The operations of the "Rescue," therefore, being apparently connived at by the Venezuelan authorities, are a distinct and direct violation of our contractual rights in the premises and must necessarily result in great damage to ourselves. I, therefore, have the honor to request RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 4 II that you will communicate with the American Minister at Caracas with a view of having the matter brought to the attention of the Central Government in order that our Company's rights in the premises may be fully protected and that reparation shall be made for the damage which has been occasioned by the breach of con- tract already committed. I enclose herewith an original protest made on behalf of the Orinoco Steamship Company by Thomas A. Turner, its Manager at Trinidad, B. W. I., on the 13th of August, 1902, said protest having been subscribed and sworn to before the [93] American Consul at that port on the i6th day of the present month. Respectfully, F. D. McKennby, Attorney for the Orinoco S S Co. [Enclositre.] Copy. The Orinoco Steamship Company, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, (B. W. I.) 13th August, igo2. On the 8th of June, 1894, the Congress of Venezuela approved of a Contract celebrated between the Government and Manuel A. Sanchez for the exclusive navigation of the Orinoco River by the Macareo and Pedernalles Channels, and the said Contract was pub- lished in the Official Gazette of the loth of the said month of June, 1894, and thereupon became a Law of the Republic. On the loth day of May, 1900, the Chief of the Executive extended the above- mentioned Contract for a further period of 6 years. The S. S. " Rescue" belonging to Messrs Ellis Grell & Co. of this port was cleared on the 2nd of August, 1902, for " Guanta TAT via San Felix" with a full cargo of provisions, 80 tons Patent Fuel and [2] " Passengers, and returned direct from San Felix to Port-of-Spain on the loth August with 786 packages of produce consisting of Hides, Cocoa, and Balata and 21,600 Plantains. The "Rescue," which carried the English flag, was despatched by Mr. Ellis Grell, Venezuelan Vice-Consul in this port, acting as Consul in the absence of the titular Consul. We do therefore hereby protest against the clearing of the [94] S. S "Rescue" for the carrying of any cargo by way of either of the Canos Macareo or Pedemales, and shall take such means as "[The figure "i" appears in the letter filed with the Department of State. — Agent's note.] 412 APPENDIX. we may be advised by our Attorneys to obtain a redress for the violation of the above-mentioned Laws. The Orinoco Steamship Company. [seal.] Thomas A. Turner, Manager. Sworn and subscribed to before me this i6th day of August 1902. Alvin Smith U. S. Consul. No. 78. Department of State, Washington, September 5, 1902. Herbert W. Bowen, Esquire, Etc., etc., etc., Cardcas. Sir: I enclose copy of a letter from Mr. F. D. McKenney, the attorney of the Orinoco Steamship Company, complaining of a violation of their contract with the Venezuelan Government by which they were guaranteed the exclusive navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales Channels of the Orinoco. The English Steamship Rescue was cleared by the Venezuelan Vice Consul at Port of Spain for Quanta, via San Felix, using either the Macareo or Pedernales channels, the navigation of which was reserved to the Orinoco Steamship Company. Especial attention is called to the remarkable action of [95] the Vice-Consul in clearing the vessel for Quanta via San Felix ; by the map Quanta appears to be about 250 miles west of Port of Spain on the Venezuelan seacoast, while San Felix is apparently about the same distance south of Port of Spain and on the inland waters of the Orinoco. You will bring the case to the attention of the Venezuelan Qovernment and ask that the rights of the American Company in the premises be fully protected. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, Alvey a. Adee, Acting Secretary. Enclosiu-e: From F. D. McKenney, August 29, 1902." a [This enclosure is printed on page 410. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 413 No. 125. ■ Legation of the United States, Caracas, Sept. 21, igo2. To the Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington. Sir: Referring to your No. 78 of Sept. 3d, in regard to an alleged violation of the Venezuelan Government's contract with the Orinoco Steamship Company, I have the honor to enclose a copy of my note to the Foreign Office on the subject, and a trans- lation of the Foreign Minister's reply thereto. On the 5th of October, 1900 the Venezuelan Government issued a decree opening the Macareo and Pedemales channels of the Orinoco to navigation. The privilege of navigating these channels had up to that date been enjoyed only by the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company Limited, a British corporation. When the opening decree in [96] question was passed protest was made to this Legation, and the action of the Legation was con- fined to using its good offices to protect the large American inter- ests involved in the case. It would seem from your despatch that the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited has recently become an American corporation, and changed its name to the Orinoco Steamship Company. As all sorts of questions may arise in regard to its rights, past and present, I respectfully suggest that you inquire carefully into the regularity of the act of incorporation, and determine whether the claims of the British corporation must now be supported by this Legation. I have the honor to be. Sir, Your obedient servant, Herbert W. Bowen. [Enclosure .1 Copy. Legation of the United States, Caracas, September i^, igo2. Mr. Minister: — The Orinoco Steamship Company reports to Washington that it is, an American corporation under the laws of the State of New Jersey, owning and operating vessels between Port of Spain, Trinidad, and various ports and places in Venezuela, particularly n the region of the Orinoco River, and complains to the Depart- 414 APPENDIX. ment of State of a violation of its contract with the Venezuelan Government by which it was guaranteed the exclusive navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales channels of the Orinoco. The complaint is [97] based on the fact that the English Steamship Rescue was cleared on the 2d of August last by the Venezuelan Consul at Port of Spain for Quanta via San Felix, using either the Macareo or Pedernales channels, the navigation of which was reserved to the Orinoco Steamship Company. This remarkable action of the Venezuelan Vice-Consul in clearing the Rescue for Quanta via San Felix appears to be inexplicable, for Quanta is about 300 miles west of Port of Spain on the Venezuelan seacoast, while San Felix is apparently about the same distance south of Port of Spain and on the inland waters of the Orinoco. I respectfully request Your Excellency to bring this case to the attention of your Government to the end that the American Company in question be fully protected in its rights. I take this occasion to renew, &c., &c., (Signed) Herbert W. Bowen. To His Excellency R. Lopez Baralt, Minister for Foreign Affairs. [Copy. [MiNISTERIO DE RELACIONES ExTERIORES DE LOS ESTADOS Unidos DE Venezuela. D. P. E. No. 1132. [Caracas: 19 de Setiembre de igo2. [Senor Ministro. [Al referirme d la atenta nota de V. E. de 15 del presente, debo manifestar muy respetuosamente d esa Legaci6n toda la sorpresa produci[d]a por la solicitud de la llamada Compania de Vapores del Orinoco, puesto que en ella se habla de una garantia exclusiva de navegacidn respecto de canos 6 raudales abiertos al trdfico medi- ante Decreto de hace ya dos anos, despu^s de una clausura admi- nistrativa derogada entdnces por aquel en toda forma y hoy man- tenida de manera temporaria por virtud del bloqueo de 28 de junio. Tal vez los solicitantes hayan querido aludir d un punto de que este Ministerio tiene conocimiento, por haberlo hecho materia de una nota el predecesor de V. E. el 15 de enero de 1901. Alii ^1, despues de advertir que no lo movia propdsito alguno de discutir el principio de navegacidn, pidid que se considerasen las perdidas que los sohcitantes alegaban haber padecido por el RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 415 Decreto mencionado; d lo cual se respondio el 29 de aquel mismo mes, en nota nlimero 134, con la exposicidn de las circunstancias legales y juridicas que vedaban al Gobierno admitir las solicitudes de ese linaje en el sentido d que parecla aspirarse; circunstancias relacionadas con la le^lacidn interior, donde estd, prevista la manera de encaminar cualquiera pretensidn 6 demanda, basada en titulos presuntos 6 efectivos. [H6nrome asi de recordar £ V. E. la correspondencia de aquella ^poca como antecedente aplicable al asunto, y renovar lo mani- festado por este Ministerio en la respuesta d la Legaci6n. [Con respecto d otra aspiracidn de los mismos solicitantes de entonces, dirigi6 V. E. el 11 de diciembre de 1901 una nota d este Ministerio, que tambien fue oportunamente contestada con el concurso inmediato del Departamento de Relaciones Interiores, por tratarse de un ramo 6 asunto en que venia entendiendo dicha Oficina Ministerial. [Acepte V. E. las reiteradas protestas de mi consideracidn mas alta y distinguida. [(signed) R. Lopez Baralt. [Excelentisimo Senor Herbert W. Bowen, [Enviado Extraordinario y Ministro Plenipotenciorio de los Estados Unidos.] Translation . Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United States of Venezuela. Mr. Minister: Referring to Your Excellency's courteous note of the 15th of the present month, I must very respectfully express to your Legation the surprise produced at the claim of the so-called Orinoco Steamship Company, for in your note mention is made of an exclusive privilege for the navigation of [98] channels or branches which have been opened for navigation in accordance with a decree issued more than two years ago, said decree annulling a former decree by which the channels referred to had been closed, and which at present are kept closed temporarily by the blockade decree of the 28th of last June. Perhaps the claimants may have wished to refer to a question referred to by Your Excellency's predecessor in his note of January 15, 190 1. In this note it was 41 6 APPENDIX. stated that, while there was no desire to enter into a discussion as to the principle of free navigation of the Orinoco, yet the Gov- ernment was asked to take into consideration the losses alleged to have been caused the claimants by the closing decree in ques- tion ; to which note reply was made on the 29th of the same month with a statement of the legal and judicial circumstances which prevented the Government from admitting claims -of that nature, and pointed out the remedy for all claimants for damages based on presumptive or effective titles. I have the honor to refer Your Excellency to the correspondence above referred to, and I hereby reaffirm the position then taken by this Ministry. As regards the other question presented by the claimants at that time Your Excellency directed a note to this Ministry on the nth of December, 1901, which was also answered through the Ministry of Internal Affairs, as the question was one for the con- sideration of that Ministry. Accept Your Excellency, &c., &c., (Signed) R. Lopez Baralt. To His Excellency Herbert W. Bowen, E. E. & M. P. of the U.S. 99] Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street N. W. Washington, D. C. In Re Orinoco Steamship Company. September 22, 1902. Honorable AlvEy A. Adee, Acting Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir : Referring to my letter to you of the 1 8th instant advising you of the reported captiure by the revolutionists in Venezuela of my Company's steamers "Socarro" and "Masparro" and asking such assistance as the Department could afford in such connec- tion under the principles of international law; I now have to advise you that I am to-day in receipt of a further cable from Trinidad via New York to the effect that the Com- pany's steamer "Masparro," above referred to, has been returned to the Company's agents — her condition was not reported. The same cable also informs us that the fort on the Orinoco is not effective. It is understood that this refers to the Government fort in the vicinity of Barancas, which has been relied upon to effect- ively prohibit the navigation of the Orinoco. This confirms a RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 417 rumor heretofore current to the effect that the guns of this fort had been removed by the revolutionists. We are also advised by the same cable that the " river is open," by which it is understood that no Venezuelan gunboats are now in the river and that there is no effective means, at least in the possession of the titular government, by which the navigation of the river is likely to be interfered with. [100] The Company's steamer "Manzanares" flying the Ameri- can flag is moored at her dock in Trinidad loaded with innocent cargo and mails consigned to Ciudad Bolivar. As before stated the Company is exceedingly anxious to dispatch this vessel to her destination. In view of the fact that the " Marietta " and her of&cers are reported to have been enthusiastically and cordially received by the revolutionary officials on the occasion of her former trip up the Orinoco, I would inquire whether it would not be convenient, as the region is now reported to be entirely in the hands of the revolutionists, to direct that either the "Marietta" or some other American warship make a further voyage in such waters, primarily to report to the Department the exact condi- tions there existing, and incidentally, if necessary, to lend such protection to American citizens as the occasion might seem to require. The knowledge that an American warship was in the vicinity of Bolivar would lend a sense of comfort and assurance to Americans domiciled, or doing business, in that region. Respectfully Yours, F. D. McKenney. Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street N. W. Washington, D. C. In Re: Orinoco Steamship Company vs. Republic of Venezuela. December 8th, 1902. Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir: — On August 29th, 1902, I had the honor to invite your attention to the fact "that notwithstanding the blockade [loi] of the Orinoco as proclaimed by the Venezuelan Government some little time since, the Acting Venezuelan Consul at Port of Spain on August 2d cleared the steamship 'Rescue' saihng under the British flag and belonging to the Messrs. Ellis Grell & Company of Port of Spain, Trinidad, for Quanta via San FeUx." In my letter it was further stated that this vessel, laden with general 17301 — 10 27 4l8 APPENDIX. cargo, had proceeded direct to San Felix, a port or place on the Orinoco River between its mouth and the port of Ciudad Bolivar, notwithstanding all navigation in the waters of the Orinoco River had been prohibited by the decree of the Venezuelan Executive of June 28, 1902. Having discharged cargo at San Felix the "Res- cue," laden with ^86 packages of produce consisting of hides, cocoa balata and 21,000 plantains, returned direct to Port of Spain where she discharged such cargo without having been at any time in the vicinity of Guanta. On August 19th, 1902, this same steamer was again cleared by the Venezuelan Acting Consul for San Felix with general cargo and food stuffs including tobacco, oil, fish, potatoes, onions, salt, sugar, coffee, rice, lard, brandy, malt liquor, soap, flour and butter. Having partly discharged her cargo she returned to Port of Spain on August 27th, 1902, with part of outgoing cargo and a quantity of dried hides, balata and a mule. October 29th or 30th, 1902, the same vessel, still sailing under the British flag, was cleared by the Venezuelan Consul for Los Castillos in the immediate neighborhood of San Felix with a cargo of tobacco, whiskey, brandy, gin, rice, flour, oil, lard, soap, pota- toes, onions, sago, coffee and sugar. She returned to Port of Spain November 5th, 1902, laden [102] with ^08 bales of balata, 102 hides, 'J ,000 plaintains, / bag of corn and i mule. November i8th, 1902, the "Rescue" again cleared through the Venezuelan Consulate at Port of Spain for San Felix with ' cargo similar to outgoing cargoes above noted. October 25th, 1902, two schooners the "Royal Sovereign" and the "Darling," nationalities unknown, left Port of Spain for San Felix under a special "permiso" from General Castro, having on board general cargo, part of which is is understood was destined for Venezuelan Government troops at Los Castillos. We are informed that both the American Consul at Trinidad, Mr. Smith, and at Ciudad Bolivar, Mr. Henderson, have heretofore advised the Department of all or portions of the above state of facts. Notwithstanding the above state of facts repeated applications by the Agent of the Orinoco Steamship Company, an American concern both in so far as its organization and the capital invested in it are concerned, for clearance for its vessels laden with innocent cargo, destined for the Orinoco have been either peremptorily refused or pigeonholed and no answer given. Such clearances RECORD OF CI/AIM NO. 1 9. 4J9 have been asked both in respect of the Company's steamer " Man- zanares " which sails under the flag of the United States of America and for other vessels of the Company which navigate the waters of the Orinoco under a special concession from the Venezuelan Government and accordingly fly the Venezuelan flag. As an example, October 14th, 1902, the Company's Manager at Port of Spain applied in writing to the Venezuelan Consul for a clear- ance for the Company's steamer "Heroe" (sailing [103] under Venezuelan flag) for " Carpupano vio Los Castillos de Guayana." No reply to this communication having been received, on Octo- ber 2ist the Manager again in writing asked for such reply. Re- ceiving no response thereto, on October 27th two gentlemen, em- ployees of the Company, called at the Venezuelan Consulate, and in response to their application for a reply to the Company's letters as above the Consul himself, Mr. Figuerado, replied as follows: (i.) That it was not his intention to answer the letter because if he did so, he would be compelled to use intemperate language. (2.) That the Orinoco River was blockaded by order of his Government, and to issue the clearance applied for in the Com- pany's letter of the 14th of October, would be an infringement of the blockade decree. (3.) That he had never cleared Merchant vessels for the Orinoco since the blockade. (4.) That he would probably despatch the steamship " Rescue " on the 27th of October for the purpose of carrying provisions and despatches for account of his Government, all of which will more fully appear from the sworn statements attached hereto. That the Venezuelan Consulate at Trinidad either with or with- out the knowledge and acquiescence of the Central Government at Caracas is illegally discriminating against the Orinoco Steam- ship Company would seem to be plain, and the liability of the Venezuelan Government to respond in damages for all direct losses suffered by the Company on [104] such account scarcely requires argument. In the meantime, however, the Company insists that a stop should be put to the discrimination which is being waged against it and that as other vessels are being permitted to navigate the Orinoco River and do business in and on its waters that the vessels of this Company both those flying the Venezuelan flag as well as that one flying the flag of the United States should be per- mitted to resume their accustomed voyages. 420 APPENDIX. To this end therefore I have the honor to request that you will instruct the American Minister near Caracas, by cable, to bring the above matter to the attention of the Venezuelan Government and to request from that Government an instruction to its repre- sentatives at Port of Spain and the ports of the Orinoco to clear the Company's vessels laden with innocent cargo upon compliance by the Company with the customary prerequisites. As delay would be disastrous, we would greatly appreciate a request for an immediate reply and an instruction to Mr. Bowen to report by cable. In the event of the refusal of the Venezuelan Government to afford the desired relief, we would request that the American Consul at Trinidad be instructed to clear the Company's vessels and that an armed vessel of the United States be instructed to afford to them full protection while in Venezuelan water. I am. Sir, with great respect, yoiur obedient servant, F. D. McKenney, Attorney for the Orinoco Steamship Company. 105] Law offices of Wayne MacVeagh, Frederic D. McKenney, John Spalding Flannery, 1317 F Street N. W. Washington, D. C. Orinoco Steamship Co. vs. Government of Venezuela. December 9, 1902. Hon. John Hay, Secretary of State, City. Sir: I have the honor to hand you herewith letter from Mr. R. Morgan Olcott, President of the Orinoco Steamship Company, together with the Exhibits A and B therein referred to, all pertain- ing to the claims of the above-mentioned Steamship Company against the Government of Venezuela. I have the honor to request that the accompanying documents may have your early consideration and action. Respectfully yours, F. D. McKenney. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. I9. 42 1 [Enclosure.] The Orinoco Steamship Company, Port of Spain, Trinidad; Ciudad Bolivar. 32 Broadway, New York, [New York, N. Y., Dec. 6, 1902.^ Cable address: ■' Venezolana." Xew York, London, Trinidad. A. I. and A. B. C. Codes Used. Telephone, 4501 Broad. Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington,, D. C. Sir: — The Orinoco Steamship Company, a corporation under the laws of the State of New Jersey, (certified copies [106] of its Articles of Incorporation having been heretofore filed in the Depart- ment of State) respectfully invokes the aid of the Government of the United States of America to enable it to collect of and from the Government of the Republic of Venezuela various sums of money due and owing to it from said government for services rendered and losses sustained by reason of the acts and doings of said government, its officers and agents, as hereinafter specifically set forth. As your Department is well advised The Orinoco Steamship Company and its predecessor in interest The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, have been for a number of years last past engaged in the business of a common carrier, operating steamboats between Port of Spain, Trinidad, B. W. I., and various ports and places in Venezuela, and particularly with ports and places on the Orinoco River, as will more 'particularly appear from an inspection of the various papers and documents bearing upon the matter heretofore filed in the State Department. Between November, 1898 and May, 1900, the Government of the Republic of Venezuela became indebted to The Orinoco Steamship Company, or its predecessor and assignor, in the sum of five hundred and fifty-four thousand five hundred and fifty and 53/100 dollars ($554,550.53) as per the itemized schedule and statement filed herewith marked "Exhibit A" and hereby made a part of this communication as fully as though set forth at large herein. On account of said items, aggregating $554,550.53 as a [Place and date did not appear in the copy filed with the Mixed Commission, but do appear in the copy in the files of the Department of State. — Agent's note.] 422 APPENDIX. aforesaid, there was paid prior to May lo, 1900 certain sums aggregating $21,553.86 on account, leaving a balance due as of said May loth of $532,996.67. Prior to said May loth negotiations for a settlement of the Company's claims were in progress between the then Man-[io7]aging Director of said Company, Mr. R. Morgan Olcott, and President Castro, acting by and through Dr. Felix Quintero, then Minister of the Interior, for Venezuela and on said May loth, 1900 an agreement of settlement was executed by the contracting parties whereby it was agreed on the part of the Company ' to consider as settled all claims, debts and demands whatsoever which the Company may have against the Government of Vene- zuela for services rendered by the steamers, employees and agents of the Company to the General Government or to the Government of the States for the loss, deterioration or other injury to said steamers for damages, injuries or losses of any description which the Company may have suffered and which may have been occa- sioned by the forces of the Government, by Revolutionary forces, or by any other cause whatsoever, up to the date of this contract as well as for all services which the Company may continue to render to the General Government or to the Governments of the States up to the first day of July next." In consideration of the foregoing said contract of settlement provided that : "The Government of Venezuela gives to the said Company * * * by way of payment for the causes above specified the sum of two hundred thousand bolivares (200,000) in coined money and in the following form: (a) one hundred thousand (100,000) bolivares in cash which the said Mr. Richard Morgan Olcott acknowledges to have stated [received] to-day to his satis- faction; (6) one hundred thousand (100,000) bolivares which shall be paid in accordance with such arrangement as the parties hereto may agree upon on the date [108] stipulated in the decree of 23 April ultimo relative to claims arising from damages caused dur- ing the war, or by other causes whatsoever." The sum of one hundred thousand bolivares (B 100,000) spe- cified under "a" was paid in cash at the time of signing said agreement, but the remaining sum of one hundred thousand bolivares (B 100,000) has not yet been paid nor has the Govern- ment of Venezuela entered into any agreement [arrangement] with this Company or its agents thereabouts although it has often been pressed so to do. In this connection, I would refer to the letter from Mr. Russell to yourself under date of June 30, 1901, (For. Rels. of the United RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. I9. 423 States, 1901, p. 550) wherein, after referring to the commission appointed by General Castro "to examine and pass upon claims for damages arising from the revolution, he says; "In the list of foreign claimants appear the names of Richard Morgan Olcott * * * Mr. Olcott's claim is stated to be 100,000 bolivares, all of which is recognized. The 100,000 bolivares due Mr. Olcott is not in the nature of a claim to be passed upon by the Commission, but is the second payment due in accordance with an agreement entered into by Mr. Olcott with the Venezuelan Government on the 12th day of December {May 16) 1900 and it would appear that this is an attempt to pay it with the scrip to be issued for the debts recognized by this Commission." Since the date of this communication it seems that no further steps looking to payment of this second instalment have been taken by the Venezuelan Government. At the time of effecting the above-mentioned agreement of settlement on May 10, 1900, and as part consideration therefor, [109] although declared in a separate paper, the Navigation Con- tract made by the Venezuelan Ministry with Manuel A. Sanchez January 17, 1894, and approved by the Federal Legislative (and) Executive "and of which the said 'Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Ltd.' is the actual concessionaire" was prolonged for six years to be "reckoned from the date upon which the term of years fixed by Article 13 of the said contract expires." The Navigation Contract referred to is the contract for the ex- clusive navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales mouths of the Orinoco River. Copies of both agreements of May loth, 1900 and also of the contract of January 17, 1894 have heretofore been filed in the State Department and are now specifically referred to. On October 5th, 1900 President Castro in a most arbitrary manner declared the second agreement of May 10, 1900 abrogated and has on various occasions since that date through his consular officers and otherwise permitted and authorized vessels not owned by this Company to navigate the Orinoco River by means of the Macareo and Pedernales channels. Such breach of contract will be made the subject of a separate communication. It seems proper to suggest however that as the agreement by the Company, acting through Mr. Olcott, to consider its claims for services and losses aggregating as above stated $532,996.67, reduced by the cash payment of $19,200, leaving balance of $513,796.67 as of May loth, 1900, was in consideration among other things of the 424 APPENDIX. prolongation of the life of the existing contract for six (6) addi- tional years, any abrogation of such prolongation must necessarily result in the revival of the claims of the Company as originally presented to and recognized [no] by the Venezuelan Government. It is submitted, therefore, that Venezuela should be required either to pay the sum of $19,200 with interest from May 10, 1900 and rescind its abrogation of October 5th, 1900, thereby reestab- lishing the prolongation of the original Contract of Navigation or to pay the sum of $513,796.67 as of May 10, 1900 together with interest thereon at the rate recognized by law since said date. Since July ist, 1900, The Orinoco Steamship Company has ren- dered services to the Government of Venezuela in the use of the Company's vessels and the like, as per itemized schedule herewith marked Exhibit " B," in the aggregate sum of $59,441.88, to which should be added the cost of repairing damages sustained by the vessel Socorro while in the possession of the officers of the Vene- zuelan Government, amounting to $3,000, or a total between July I, 1900 and November i, 1902 of $62,441.88. We respectfully request that the above claims be brought to the attention of the Venezuelan Government with a request for the prompt settlement thereof. Respectfully yours. The Orinoco Steamship Company, By R. Morgan Oi,cott President. [Ill] [Sub-enclosure.] [in] RSsumi of claims of the Orinoco Steamship Company, successors to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd., from November, 1898, to May, igoo. 1898 Nov. 20. No. 1900. March 10. Apr. 4. 5. 6. 17- 24- Credits: Amount of Salt Bonds Received from the Government of General Castro (igoo). Received May 10, 1900 Balance . $147,530-89 376,21s. 81 1, 874. 16 ios,s86.o8 55. 320. 13 5,850.00 25, 080. 40 3.458.22 8720,915.69 $20. 400. 00 I, 153. 86 19, 200. 00 Dollars. $113,485.30 289,396. 78 1, 441.66 81, 220. 06 42,553-94 4, 500. 00 19, 292. 62 2, 660. 17 8554,550.53 40.753-86 Ssi3. 796.47 [671 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 425 Re Orinoco Steamship Co. "Exhibit A" to accompany letter to Hon. John Hay of December 5th, 1902. [112] The Government of Venezuela to the Orinoco Steamship Company, Siiccessors to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. Pesos Venezolanos. 1 A/cs of the now extinct Company "Orinoco Red Star Line," (of which this Company is the successor by purchase already com- pleted), — up to December 31st, 1897 $71, 899. 06 2 A/cs of the aforesaid Red Star Company, up to December, 1898, as per annexed copy, marked No. 2, amounting to 29,264.42 N. B. — All these bills and their vouchers have been presented, ap proved, and passed for payment by the Government ?ioi, 163.42 3 This year's a/cs up to May 3rd, as per enclosed Copy No. 3, vouchers whereof have been sent to Caracas 20, 949. 25 4 A/cs from May 3rd until August nth, 1899, as per vouchers attached to the originals of said a/cs when sent to Caracas. Enclosed copy No. 4 2, 678.50 5 A/cs from the nth August to the 9th November, 1899, as per vouch- ers attached thereto — Enclosure marked No. 5 25, 501. 94 6 Special service rendered by S/S "Heroe" in the Gulf of Paria per order of the President of the Republic, in Feb'y, 1899, as per an- nexed copy No. 6 737. 78 $151,030.89 To be deducted: — Amounts paid by the Government to our Agents in Caracas, on account of these accounts: — On the 2d June, 1899 64,000 24th August,. 1899 4,000 26th September, 1899 6, 000 B14, 000 Equal to 3, 500. 00 Nett total (Pesos) $147,530.89 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $113,485. 30 Equal in Bolivars B590, 123. 56 Port-op-Spain, Trinidad, November 20, i8gg. [113] The Government of Venezuela to the Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. Pesos Venezolanos. S. S. "Heroe." Compensation claimed for her detention by the author- ities of San Fernando de Apure, during over two months, as per an- nexed certificate of General Inacio Avendano $6, 000. 00 Freights lost by the Company for such detention 15, 000. 00 Dr. Bovallius' claim for damages caused to the Company by the unjus- tifiable detention of the S. S. "Guanare" at Caicara in March, 1899. Six days at £5,000 per day=£30,ooo 189, 375. 00 Provisions belonging to the Company and forcibly appropriated by General Silveiro during the month of March, 1899: Cost in Trinidad as per Invoice No. 10 $1,394.92 Duties paid in Ciudad Bolivar 1,085. 89 Freight to Caicara and other expenses on same 360. 00 2,840.81 426 APPENDIX. Pesos Venezolanos, Attack upon S. S. " Masparro" at Santa Barbara, on the Upper Orinoco, on the 8th day of October, 1899, when Ramon Ensenat, American Citizen, was fired upon and ordered to return and not to carry out the orders of the Company's Manager $13, 000.00 Damages caused to the Company's properties; goods, merchandise, cat- tle stolen; houses destroyed, and steamer "Morganito" seized, etc., in the Amazonas Territory 150, 000. 00 (Pesos) $375,215.81 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $289, 396. 78 Equal to Bolivares Bi, 504, 863. 24 Port-op-Spain, Trinidad, November 20, iSgg. [114] The Government of Venezuela to the Orinoco Shipping Company, Successors to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. To Balance of Charter of the Steamer "Guanare" as per voucher No. 40, dated Nov. 29, 1899 B2,ooo.oo To Balance of Charter of the Steamer " Heroe" from Nov. 24 to Nov. 30, 1899, as per voucher No. 41, of Nov. 29th_ B2, 000. 00 To Extensions of Charter Contract of the S. S. "Heroe" from Dec. i to Dec. 4, 1899, as per certified account of the 7th of the same month i, 600. 00 3, 600. 00 To passage to Trinidad, issued to Mr. Angel Diaz Castro, as per voucher dated Dec. 5, 1899 40.00 To Passage to Trinidad issued to Mr. Rafael Reyes, as per voucher dated Dec. 5, 1899 40.00 To passage to Trinidad issued to Mr. Pedro Jose Fernan- dez, as per voucher dated Dec. 5, 1899 40.00 To passage to Barrancas, issued to Jose Sarmineto, Jesus Ma. Aleman, an assistant and an animal, as per voucher dated Dec. 5th, 1899 66. 00 To passage to Los Castillos issued to Jos^ de Jesus Castro Planchard, voucher of Dec. 19,1899 12. 00 To passage to Trinidad issued to Jose Vallenilla Marcano, voucher Dec. 19, 1899 40.00 To passage to Trinidad issued to Jose Jesus Diaz, as per voucher of Dec. 19, 1899 40.00 To passage to Barrancas issued to Luis Perez Carrera, with 13 officers and 50 soldiers, as per voucher dated Jan. 16, 1900 624. 00 Forward 902.00 5,600.00 Brought forward 902.00 5,600.00 To passage to Trinidad issued to Fernando Olavarria and return, as per voucher dated Jan. 16, 1900 72.00 To passage to Trinidad issued to Jos6 M. Zerpa, as per voucher dated Feb. 6, 1 900 40. 00 [115] To passage to Trinidad issued to General Jos^ Lyon, as per voucher dated Feb. 6, 1900 40.00 To passage to Barrancas issued to Emilio Naranjo and assistant, and two animals, as per voucher dated Feb. 6, 1900 48. 00 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 427 To passage from San Felix to Bolivar issued to Gen. Luis Lanza and Manuel de Jesus Bojas, as per voucher No. 39 of Jan. 25, 1900 B20.00 To passage from Los Castillos to Bolivar issued to Col. J. J. Castro, as per voucher dated Jan. 25, 1900 12. 00 To passage from Barrancas to Bolivar issued to Cols. Donato Simosa, Pedro Carrizalos, Torres and Marcos C. 2ambrana, as per voucher dated Jan. 25, 1900. (One half passage 8 dollars) 124. 80 To passage to San Felix issued to Manuel Behrens and to Barrancas for Federico Lopez and 9 companions, as per voucher dated Feb. 13, 1900 170.00 To passage to Trinidad issued to Ramon Alvins Agrenta, as per voucher dated Feb. 13, 1900 40.00 To passage to Trinidad issued to Gen. R. Y. Amundaray, as per voucher dated Feb. 27, 1900 40. 00 To passage from Barrancas to Cd. Bolivar, issued to Gen. Jos6 Anto. Paez, and from San Felix a Chief and 24 soldiers, as per voucher dated Feb. 27, 1900 171. 60 Forward 1,680.40 B5, 600. 00 Brought forward 1,680.40 5,600.00 To passage to Trinidad issued to Gen. Celestini Barroso, as per voucher dated Feb. 27, igoo 40.00 To passage to Trinidad issued to Gen. Juan Navarrete Romero, as per voucher dated Feb. 27, 1900 40. 00 1,760.40 To passage to Los Castillos for Gen. Guadelupe Boreges, as per voucher dated Feb. 27, 1900 12.00 To passage to Trinidad for Col. Emilio Fuentes 40. 00 [116] To passage to Los Castillos issued to Col. Jose Castro and an officer 24. 00 To frei'ght for an animal 8. 00 To freight on various packages of provisions, as per voucher dated Feb. 27, 1900 . 10. 00 94. 00 To passage from Port of Spain to Bolivar issued to Mr Ignacio Diaz Matos, Collector of Customs at Rio Negro, as per voucher of the Venezuelan Consul at this Island, dated March 6, igoo 42. 24 B7, 496. 64 Equal to (Pesos) $1,874. 16 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $1, 441. 66 E. & O. E. March 10, 1900. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For services of the Steamer " Nutrias," taken by force by the authorities of the State of Guayana on the 6th of December, 1899, and held in their possession until the i ith of February, 1900, on which day she wast lost on the reefs of Pueblo-Viejo, near Moitaco, 68 days at (Pesos) $200, (Bi,040.) per day B70, 720.00 428 APPENDIX. Value of the Steamer "Nutrias," ofScially appraised by the experts ap- pointed for the purpose, as approved by the National Judge of the Treasury at Ciudad Bolivar, and by the Fiscal Inspector of Customs of the same port, as per accompanying documents, 90-94/380 Tons, at the rate of 32,744 each B247, 838. 80 Equipment of same (Furniture, etc., etc.), as per annexed list 3, 985. 54 [117] Loss of income of one year (minimum time required to replace the "Nutrias") calculated on the basis of previous years in which said vessel was specially employed in the important navigation of the River Arauca 100, 000. 00 Total in favor of the Company B442, 344. 34 Equal to (Pesos) $105,586.08 Equal at exchange 1.30 per dollar ■ $81, 220. 06 The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For services of the steamer " Vencedor" taken by force at Porlamar on the 19th of October, 1899, and held in the possession of the Government until the loth of Febru- ary, 1900, 114 days at $175 per day $19,950.00 6103,740.00 Loss of income, calculated for one year, time necessary to repair the steamer 12, 200. 00 63, 440. 00 Damage to the machinery and to the hull of the vessel, as per survey made by the Captain of this port and the Engineer of the Government of this Colony 9.771-35 5°, 811. 07 Taking apart and opening machinery and boilers so that the experts above mentioned could make their exam- ination 103.05 535-86 Fees paid to the experts 64.00 332.80 Fees paid to the Venezuelan Consul 4.00 20.80 Expenses to place the vessel in the dock to make the necessary repairs 2,000. 00 10,400.00 $44,092.40 8229,280.53 Credit. By amount received on account by our agent at Caracas. i , 538. 46 8, 000. 00 Balance in favor of this Company (Dollars) $42, 553. 94 B221, 280. 53 E. & O. E. Apr. 5, 1900. [118] The Government of Venezuela to the Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For services of the Steamer " Bolivar" taken by force while making one of her regular schedule trips, with mail and cargo, at the mouth of the Macareo River on the 22d of March last, at d.awn, as per voucher annexed, signed by General Ezpejo, Com- mander of the garrison troops that embarked from this port the day before, said vessel having remained subject to the orders of General Domingo Castro, and per- forming sever^il commissions of the Government and giving assistance on several occasions to the war vessel " General Crespo," during the days of the 22nd to the 30th of March, inclusive : 9 days at 500 dollars per day B23, 400. 00 Equal (Pesos) $5, 850. 00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $4, 500.00 Port op Spain, April 11, 1900. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 429 The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For capture by force and detention of the Steamer " Heroe" in the possession of th^ authorities of the State of Guay- ana, from the 28th of December, 1899, to the ist of March, 1900, inclusive, 64 days at $260 peso^ per day $16,640.00 $12,800.00 Payment to crew to bring the vessel to Trinidad to be repaired 273. 00 210. 00 31 loads of wood consumed during the voyage 161. 20 124.00 3 tons coal for the pump 25.35 i9- 5° Pay roll of workmen engaged for the repairs, 3 weeks 1 13. 04 86. 95 Government dock expenses 276.12 212.40 Steel plates, as per invoice of Grell &Co 49- 20 37-85 Cost of paint and putties 58.29 44-84 Expenses for crew to send her back to Ciudad Bolivar for the return voyage 273.00 210.00 Fuel for the return voyage 161. 20 124. 00 [119] Loss of income from istof March to April 16, 1900 — the time absolutely necessary for these repairs — 47 days at $150 per day 7,050.00 5, 423. 08 $25,080.40 $19,292.62 Equal to the sum of (Bolivares) 1 Bioo,32i.6o Port of Spain, Trinidad, April 17, 1900. The Governm.ent of Venezuela, to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. To the following legal expenses and costs in the suits brought against this company by the Engineer Wilson and the employes McClean, Sam y Bryant, all belonging to the Steamer Vencedor, to collect their wages for the time the vessel was in the service of the Government of Venezuela, and which this Company was condemned to pay, with other expenses of the respective judgments, as follows: (Dollars.) Expenses and costs in the suit of McClean $65 . 78 Sam y Bryant 18.80 Wilson 388.440 Testimony of Farr, Government Engineer 15.12 $438. 14 (Bolivares.) B342 05 97 76 i.759 90 78 62 62,278 33 Pay-roll of the crew of the Vencedor during the time she was in the service of the Government of Venezuela — from the igth of October, 1899, to the loth of February, 1900, and which this Company had to pay out imme- diately, in consequence of the suits brought against it by the crew above mentioned, as per annexed list: (This amount was included in the Account of the Vencedor, dated 4th instant, rendered to the Government) 2, 222. 03 11, 554. 55 $2,660.17 6x3,832.: (Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos to the dollar, $3,458.22 pesos.) Port op Spain, Trinidad, Apr. 24, igoo. E. & O. E. "[Original on file in the Department of State reads "$338.44." — Agent's note.] 430 APPENDIX. [Sub-enclosure.] [i2o] RSsumS of Claims of The Orinoco Steamship Company against the Government of Venezuela from January ist, igoi. Pesos. DoUars. 1901. Jau. — . 24. May 23. Sept. Oct. 12. 13- Nov. 21. 1902. Jan. 17. 21. Feb. s-- 28. Jan. 31. Mar. 31. Apr. 28. Nov. No. 9__ 90. lo_. I2_. 13- 14- IS- I6-. 17- 18.. 19- 20__ 2I__ 2 2__ 23- 24— 2S- S9.5So.oo 4, 200. 00 121. 00 146. 75 4.394.22 3, 000. 00 I, 650. 00 846.0s i, 630. SO 300. 00 30. 00 880.00 loi. 00 120. 00 109. so 46, soo. 00 418.78 3, 276.6s $7,346.15 3,230. 76 93.08 112.88 3.380.17 2.307. 70 1, 269. 23 650.80 '.254.23 230.77 23.08 676.92 77.69 92.30 84.26 35,769.22 322.14 2, 250.50 77,274-45 $59,441. Re — Orinoco Steamship Co. "Exhibit B" to accompany letter to Hon. John Hay of December 5th 1902. 121] The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For detention of the Steamer "Delta" by order of the Provisional President of the State of Guayana, from the i8th of December, 1900, to the 31st of January, 1901, as per voucher annexed: 44 days at $200 pesos $8, 800.00 For services rendered by the Steamer "Socorro" sent in commission to Caicara, 5 days, as per annexed certificate, at $150 750.00 $9, 550. 00 Bolivares B38, 200. 00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $7, 346. 15 E. & O. E. Trinidad, April 18, igoi. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. Services rendered by the S S "Socorro," detained by order of the Government from the 28th January to the 24th February, 1901, as per voucher attached to H, dated the i6th March, 1901 — 28 days at $150 $4, 200. 00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $3, 230. 76 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 43 1 [122] The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. 1900. Aug. 30. To cabin passage issued to Col. Antonio Villegas S. per Apure to San Fernando, omitted in the previous accounts $35. 00 Nov. 6. To cabin passage per Bolivar, issued to Mr. Br. Satur- nino Arreaza to San Felix $5. 00 M. P. Reveron to Trinidad and return 36. 00 12. To cabin passage per Apure to General Esteban Marquez L. to Caicara 20. 00 Juan M. Garcia to Moitaco - 10. 00 A companion, 2d class 5- 00 Cabin passage per "Delta," Luis F. Medina, from San Felix 5- 00 Luis F. Silva from San Felix 5- 00 20. To cabin passage per Bolivar Br. J. M. Ortega to Trinidad 20. 00 27. To cabin passage per "Socorro," General Juan Rivas to Moitaco 10. 00 A servant, second class 5- 00 121. 00 Dec. 17. To cabin passages per "Bolivar," M. A. Guevara to Trinidad and return 36. 00 18. E. Lopez Rojas to Trinidad ^_ 20.00 R. Quiros Olivera to Trinidad 20. 00 29. Cabin passage per "Bolivar," J. M. Key to Barrancas 10.00 86. 00 $242.00 Less 50 fo as per contract with the National Government 121.00 $121.00 Bolivares B484. 00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $93. 08 E. &0. E. January 24, 1901. [123] The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. 1900. June 25. For the following passages from San Fernando to Apu- rito, ist class, issued to Mr. Juan de Baron $10. 00 Nov. 15. From Ciudad Bolivar to Los Castillos, ist class, Mr. Nicholas Velasquez •_ 6. 00 Dec. 3. From Ciudad Bolivar to Barrancas, ist class, Mr. Fer- nando Leon 6. 00 4. From Cd. Bolivar to Barrancas, ist class, Mr. Lino Bossio' Marquez 10. 00 Same, Mr. Pedro M. Quiros 10. 00 From Cd. Bolivar to San Felix, ist class, Mr. Pedro J. Esperados" 5. 00 27. From Barrancas to Cd. Bolivar, ist class, Mr. Alfredo Bibrock 10. 00 $57- 00 "[Spelled "Emperador" in the copy on file in the Department of State — Agent's note.] 432 ' APPENDIX. 1901. Jan. I. From Cd. Bolivar to San Felix, 1st class, Mr. J. Rodriguez B $5.00 " Narciso Grillet A 5.00 " L. Abreu 5.00 " Isidro Acosta 5-oo From Cd. Bolivar to Barrancas, ist class, Mr. P. M. Quiros 10. 00 11. From San Felix to Barrancas, ist class: Mr. Pedro M. Quiros 5. 00 " Domingo Gomez 5.00 From San Felix to Cd. Bolivar, ist class, Mr. Torreo R. Bigott , 5- 00 [124] Feb. 7. From San Felix to Cd. Bolivar, ist class: Mr. Esidoro G. Acosta 5 00 " Maximiliano Guevara 5.00 ' ' Pedro Leon 5. 00 " Colonel Martinez 500 Five soldiers on deck 12. 50 12. From Cd. Bolivar to Los Castillos, ist class, Mr. Fer- nando Leon 6. 00 May 12. From Cd. Bolivar to San Felix, ist class, Mr. Rosendo Sierra 5- 00 Mr. Natalio Alvarez 5. 00 26. From Cd. Bolivar to San Felix, ist class, Mr. Jose Rodrigo B 5. 00 " Rodolpho Bigott 5.00 " J. B. Roldan 5.00 From Cd. Bolivar to Barrancas, ist class, Mr. Rosendo Sierra 10.00 " Cleto Silva 10.00 Apr. 3. " Silveira 10.00 4. From San Felix to Cd. Bolivar, ist class, Mr. Alberto Alf onzo 5. 00 g. From Barrancas to Cd. Bolivar, ist class, Mr. P. M. Silveira 10. 00 $153-50 Carried forward $210. 50 Brought forward $210. 50 April 9. From San Felix to Barrancas, ist class, Mr. Rodolfo Bigott 5. 00 From Cd. Bolivar to Trinidad, ist class, Mr. Gerardo Monagas 20.00 18. From Barrancas to Cd. Bolivar, ist class, Mr. Braulio Gonzales 10. 00 Mr. Pedro Fuentes 10. 00 [125] April 18. From San Felix to Cd. Bolivar, ist class, Mr. Narcisco Gril- let 5.00 ' [Spelled " Jorge " in the copy on file in the Department of State — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 433 1901. May 21. From Cd. Bolivar to Barrancas, ist class, Mr. Esteban Gon- zales L $10. 00 From Cd. Bolivar to Los Castillos, ist class, Mr. E. J. Montes V. and two companions 18. 00 30. From San Felix to Cd . Bolivar, i st class, Mr. Rodolfo Bigott . 5 . 00 $293 Less 50% as per contract with the National Government 146. 50 75 $146- 75 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $112. 88 E. & O. E. Cd. Bolivar, June i, igoi. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. 1 901. Jan. 22. For charter of the steamer "Socorro" to Las Bonitas from Jan. 23d to Jan. 28th, 6 days at $100 per day $600. 00 Apr. 6. For charter of the steamer "Socorro" to San Felix, from the 6th to the loth of April, 5 days at $100 per day $500. 00 II. Cabin passage for Mr. Rafel H. Hermoso to San Felix. 5. 00 505.00 May 7. For Cabin passage to Messrs: M. Silva Medina to Trinidad 20. oo M.A.Guevara " " 20.00 J.V.Guevara " " 20.00 17. 3 criminal prisoners from Barrancas 30.00 [126] June 3. For the following cabin passengers: Dr. G. Calatrava to San Felix 5. 00 23, Eduardo Sanchez, San Fernando to Nutrias 20.00 J. M. Oliveros and assistant, San Fernando to Nutrias 35. 00 27. Juan Rivas G. to Moitaco 10.00 Narciso Grillet A. from San Felix 5- 00 28. Ernesto Ruiz from Los Castillos 6.00 V. Romero, from San Fernando 25. 00 R. Bravo, from San Fernando 25. 00 90. 00 July 10. For the following cabin passages : M. F. Reveron, round trip, to Nutrias 79- 20 II. B. Arreaza and son to San Felix 10.00 15. D. Arreaza M. round trip to Trinidad 36.00 17. L. A. Talhardat and an animal, to San Felix 10. 00 26. Rodolfo Bogott [Bigott (?)], from San Felix 5. 00 30. Pedro Ramos to Trinidad 20.00 A. Lujan from Caicara 15. 00 Luis F. Acosta to Barrancas 5. 00 Rafael Diaz to Barrancas : 5. 00 Fco. Martinez to Barrancas 5. 00 Miguel Arisraendi 1 J. E. Benites [to Trinidad and return 108. 00 L. Castillo J 1730 1 — 10 28 131. 00 434 APPENDIX. 1901. July 30. For the following cabin passages — Continued. Board and lodging on board at $2.50 per day each, 8 days $60. 00 For detention of steamer "Socorro" from July 30th to Aug. 9th, II days at $100 per day 1, 100. 00 $1,458.20 Aug. 4. For the detention of the steamer "Masparro" at El Amparo, from the 4th to the 14th of August, 11 days at $100 per day $1, 100. 00 8. For the following cabin passages: Narciso Grillet A., from San Felix 5- 00 12. T. J. Ontiveros, San Fernando to Nutrias 20.00 13. J. E. Benitesl C.Gomez [-Trinidad and return 100.00 L. Castillo J Board and lodging on board, 8 days at Si. 50 per day each 60. 00 Board and lodging for Mr. Jorge Herrera, 6 days, and servant 6 days 30. 00 Pedro Ojeda to Trinidad 20. 00 14. Freight on all's packages from Trinidad, 54 cubic feet at i6c 1 1. 23 19. Passages to Antonio Villegas S. from San Fernando. _ 25. 00 22. B. Arreaza, from San Felix S-oo 24. A. Sarria H., round trip to Trinidad 36.00 J. G. Perez G. from San Felix 5. 00 i, 417- 23 Carried forward $4, 201 . 43 Aug. 25. Trifon Landasta, Curiapo to El Toro 15 00 Martin Kohler, " " 15.00 Ceast Griller and 2 police officers, Curiapo to El Toro 25. 00 26. Cesar Grillet, El Toro to Santa Catalina 5. 00 28. Fco. Gonzales, C. From San Felix 500 Leonardo Ranseo " " " 5- 00 Jacinto Ranseo " " " 5- 00 Adon Navarro 2d class from Barrancas 5 00 80. 00 [128] Sept. 5. For the following cabin passages: Rafael Montilla from Barrancas 16. 00 Bartolome Monroy from Barrancas 10. 00 L. F. Rojas C. from San Fernando 25. 00 6. B. Salmon from Caicara 15.00 10. Clodomiro Sanchez from San Fernando to Nu- trias 20, 00 6 officers from San Fernando to Nutrias 120. 00 67 soldiers, 2d class, from San Fernando to Nu- trias 670. 00 o [The copy filed with the Department of State reads, "11" instead of all. — Agent's note.l RECORD OP ClyAIM NO. 1 9. 435 1901. ept. 10. For the following cabin passages — Continued. J. T. Calatrava to Trinidad $20. 00 L. A. Tailhardat to Trinidad 20. 00 C. Cotira, round trip to Barrancas 20. 00 1 5 . Bernabe Ardila, from San Fernando 25. 00 27. Luis A. Delgresse to Mapire 12.00 J. T. Baso Jugo to Barrancas 10. 00 1 6 soldiers, 2d class to Barrancas 80. 00 $1,057.00 $5,338.43 Less soft, on $1,888.43 value of the passages, according to the contract with the National Government 944. 2 1 (Pesos.) $4, 394. 22 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar (Dollars) $3,380.17 E. & O. E. September 30, 1901. [129] The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For services rendered by the undermentioned Steamers detained by order of the Government, as per voucher dated 19th May, 1-902 : S/S "Guanare" to Caicara, from 13 Sept. to Oct. i 1901 9 days at $150 $1,350.00 S/S "Socorro" to Barrancas from 26 Sept. to Oct. i, 1901 6 days at $100 600. 00 S/S "Masparro" to Caicara from 4 Oct. to 9 Oct. 1901 5 days at $100 600. 00 S/S "Heroe" to Soledad from 21 Sept. i day 150.00 S/S "Masparro" to Barrancas from 10 Oct. to 12 Oct. 1901 3 days at $100 300. 00 $3, 000. 00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $2, 307. 70 E. & O. E. I2TH October iqoi. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For services rendered by the steamer "Guanare" detained by order of the Govern- ment as per Voucher dated 13th October, 1901. From 13th to 23d Oct. 1901, 11 days at $150 per day $1, 650.00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $1, 269. 23 E. & O. E. 13TH October igoi 436 APPENDIX. [130] The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, Dr. 1901. June 25. For the following cabin passengers: General Luis Grafe Calatra to San Felix $5. 00 Oct. 4, Mr. Jose Romero, Barrancas to Bolivar 10.00 Gen, Juan Rivas G. to Moitaco 10. 00 Gen. Manuel Delepiani to Caicara 20. 00 And 2 Chiefs and 8 Officers 200. 00 40 soldiers on deck , 400. 00 7. Mr. Manuel P. Duarte to San Felix 5.00 Mr. Ernest Mota " " " 5.00 Mr. Manuel J. Arreaza to San Felix 5. 00 8. Mr. Carlos Olavarria to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. Salvador Hernandez to Trinidad 20. 00 Rev. Jose C. Quintana R. to San Fernando 35- 00 Chr. Santiago Machado to Las Bonitas 15. 00 2 2 . Mr. Jose R. Avila to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. Carlos Guia, round trip to Trinidad 36. 00 Mr. Antonio Ochoa and son " " 40.00 27. Mr. Salmon o from Caicara 15. 00 40 soldiers on deck, from San Felix to Barrancas 200. 00 Mr. P. Africano and i officer from San Felix to Barrancas 10.00 30. Domingo A. Polanco from Trinidad 20.80 Mr. Fernando Gonzales " 20.80 3 1 . Antonio Biaggi, from Barrancas 10. 00 P. Africano and i officer, from Barrancas to San Felix 10.00 45 soldiers on deck. Barrancas to San Felix 225.00 Mr. Juan B. Mathison, from San Felix 5.00 Nov. 5. Olegario Quero to San Felix 5.00 Mr. Santiago Moreno on deck to San Felix 2. 50 Mr. Juan B . Torres to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. D. Serrano and wife, on deck, to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. Carlos R. Coll, to Caicara 20. 00 Mr. Rafael Ochoa to Caicara 20. 00 [131] g. Mr. Estaquio Guerra, on deck to Caicara 10.00 Mr. Justo Barcaza " " " " 10.00 Mr. Jose E. Perez " " " " 10.00 14. Mr. J. B. Gonzales, from San Fernando to Camaguana 6. 00 Mr. A. Heredia " " " " " 6.00 Mr. F. M. Scott " " " " " 6.00 3 assistants on deck ■■ " " " " 9.00 15. Mr. Rafael M. Carabaiio from San Fernando 25. 00 A Secretary " " " 25.00 An Assistant " " " 25.00 19. Mr. Trifon Landaeta to Trinidad 20. 00 Mr. R. Nuiiez Cacares " " 20.00 Mr. Rafael M. Carabaiio " 20.00 Dr. Augusto Figueredo " 20.00 "[The copy on file in the Department of State reads "Saloni." — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 19. . 437 1901. Nov. 19. For the following cabin passengers — Continued. Mr. Leon Carabano to Trinidad $20, 00 21. Mr. Pedro M. Caiias " 10.00 $1, 692. 10 Less 50 fc as per contract 846. 05 [$846. 05] Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar 650. 80 E. &0. E. Cd, Bolivar, Nov. jo, 1901. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr For Hire of steamer "Socorro" on a trip to San. Felix, from the gth to the 15th of Jan. 1901, 7 days at $100 $700. 00 For Passages issued for account of the Government from ist Nov., 1901, to 14th Jan., 1902, as per vouchers filed in Trinidad Office $1,861.00 Less 50 % on passages as per Contract with the Government _ _ 930. 50 930- 50 1,630.50 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $1, 254. 23 E. & O. E. 17TH January, 1902. [132] The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For services rendered by steamer "Socorro" detained by order of the Government as per Voucher dated 21st January, 1902, from 3d to 5th of January, 1902: 3 days at 1 00 $300. 00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $230. 77 E. &0E. 2 1 ST January, 1902. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For passages issued to Sr. M. Silva Medina from Trinidad to Cd. Bolivar, as per voucher dated 5th January, 1902 $30. 00 Equal at exchange i .30 pesos per dollar $23. 08 E. & O. E. 5TH February, 1902. 438 APPENDIX. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For services rendered by the undermentioned steamers detained by order of the Government as per Voucher dated 28th February, 1902 : S/S "Socorro" to San Felix 5th to loth January 1902 5 days at 100 $500. 00 S/S "Masparro," Guarampo 26th to 27th January 1902 2 daysat $ioo__ 200.00 S/S "Masparro" Corrientoso nth February 1902 i day 100. 00 Passages per " Bolivar" of 2 officers and 6 men to San Felix on the 23rd of January 1902 (half passages) 80. 00 $880. 00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $676. 92 E. &0. E. 28TH February, 1902. [133] The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. 1902. Jan. 8. For the following cabin passages : Mr. Mario Garcia P. , from Trinidad $20. 00 " J. Mayobre " " 20.00 " P. Pinto, on deck " " 10.00 23. " M. de J. Rojas, to San Felix 5.00 27. " D. Arreaza M., round trip to Trinidad 36.00 " M. Mariani, " " " " 36.00 28. " Carlos Guia, to Barrancas 10.00 " M. Martinez A. to Trinidad 20.00 $157.00 To payment to the crew of the steamer "Masparro" on trip in the service of the Government 22. 50 $179-50 Less 50 % on ]$]i57.oo, value of the passages, as per contract with the Gov- ernment 78. 50 $101. 00 B404. 00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $77. 69 The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steainship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. 1902. Feb. 8. To cabin passages issued to the following gentlemen : Carlos M. Romdn to Los Castillos $6 J. Rodrigo B. " 6 Carlos Drey er " 6 g. E. Quintero Trinidad 20 17. F.A.Lamar San Felix 5 18. J. Rauseo " 5 21. ID recruits, 2d class from Los Castillos 30 23. J. M. Travieso Caicara 15 R. E. Guerra " 15 RECORD OP CLAIM NO. I9. 439 1902. [134] Feb. 25. J. Rauseo to San Felix $5 F. A. Marmol " 5 M. F. Reveron, round trip Trinidad 36 Visso Mata " 20 $174- "o Mar. 13. Alberto Ponce " 20 L. Laforye, 2d class " 10 25. M. Arisrnondi S., round trip " 36 66. 00 ¥240. 00 Less 50 fc as per contract with the Government 120.00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $92. 30 E. & O. E. March 31, 1902. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Sncceisors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. 1902. Apr. 8. For the following cabin passages: Salvador Hernandez from Trinidad $20 M, Silva M. round trip to " 36 Andres A. Silva " " 10 Baldomero Benitez, rd. tp. " 36 Salvador Sanchez to " 20 17. Carlos Garcia R, from Barrancas 10 Pedro M. Castro " 10 An assistant, 2d class " 5 28. Carlos Guia round trip to Trinidad 36 Jaime Todd " " " " 36 $219 Less 50 % as per contract with the Government 109. 50 P109. 50] Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $84. 26 E. &0. E. April 28, 1902. [135] The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. -^ For services rendered by the under-mentioned steamers detained by order of the Government: S/S "Socorro" from 18 Feb. to 5 Nov. 261 days at $100 per day $26, 100. 00 S/S " Masparro" from 27 Feb. to 18 Sept. 204 days at $100 per day. 20, 400. 00 , 500. 00 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $35, 769. E. & O. E. 6th November, 1902. 44° APPENDIX. The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company, Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For extraordinary expenses incurred with steamer "Bolivar" through her detention at Cedros on the yth of March 1902 Coals at Cedros Telegrams Travelling expenses Sundries $418.78 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $322. 14 E. & O. E. 3 1 ST March, 1902. [136] The Government of Venezuela to The Orinoco Steamship Company', Successors to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, Dr. For repairs effected to steamer "Masparro" on her being handed over to the Company on the 19th September 1902 Slipway charges Materials for repairs Labour Supervision $3,276. 65 Equal at exchange 1.30 pesos per dollar $2, 520. 50 E. & O. E. 14TH October, 1902. United States of America, 1 State of New York, County of New York, \ss: City of New York, J On this 6th day of December, nineteen hundred and two, before me came R. Morgan Olcott, with whom I am personally acquainted, who being by me and first duly sworn, said: that he has read the letter herewith, also the exhibits "A" and "B" attached thereto, and knows the contents thereof, and that the same is a true statement of the account against the Venezuelan Government, and that the charges therein are reasonable. Florence I. Coombs, [seal.] Notary Public, Kings Co. Cert, filed in N. S. Co. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 44 1 J. Hampden Dougherty. J. Van Vechten Olcott. Levi S. Tenney. Telephone 2337 Broad. Cable Address, Japhet. [137] Law Offices of Dougherty, Olcott & Tenney, 27 William Street, New York, December 20, igo2. The President, Sir: — Referring to the very pleasant conversation recently had with you relative to my connection with the Orinoco Steamship Company which operates vessels between Trinidad, B. W. L, and ports on the Orinoco River in Venezuela, and to your kind sug- gestion that I should write to you in regard to the matter, if events seemed to make it necessary, I beg to say that, in the event of arbitration, the claims of the Company should be included therein, with the exception of the claim for $19,200 dated May loth, 1900, which claim the Venezuelan Minister of Foreign Affairs agreed should be paid. This claim, in my opinion, should not be sub- mitted to arbitration, but should be pressed for immediate settle- ment with Venezuela direct. All claims of the Company, including full and detailed state- ments, are now on file in the State Department. I beg to remain. Yours with [very] °' great respect, J. Van Vechten Olcott. [138] No. 143. Legation of the United States, Caracas, December 27, igo2. To the Honorable John Hay, Secretary of State, Washington. Sir: — Referring to your No. 87 of the 12th instant, I have the honor to enclose copies of correspondence as requested. I am. Sir, with great respect, Your obedient servant, Herbert W. Bowen. Enclosures : Mr. Loomis to Minister for Foreign Affairs — Jan. 15, 1901. Minister Foreign Affairs to Mr. Loomis — Jan. 29, 1901. Mr. Bowen to Minister for Foreign Affairs — Dec. 11,* 1901. a[The word "very" appears in the copy on file in the Department of State. — Agent's note.] 6[The copy on file in the Department of State gives the date as " 15," but the copy of the letter itself gives the date " 11." — Agent's note.] 442 APPENDIX. [Enclosure.] Copy. Legation of the United States, Caracas, January 75, igoi. Mr. Minister: — I have the honor to enclose parts of a letter from the Managing Director of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, respect- ing the relations of that corporation with the Government of Venezuela, and touching upon the question of damages sustained by it as a result of the decree of October 5th, promulgated by Your Excellency's Government. This decree appears to have had the effect of depriving the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company of certain privileges of great value. [139] I bring the matter to your attention not for the purpose of discussing the principle of free navigation, involved in the decree in question, but for the purpose of inviting Your Excel- lency to consider whether or not the American stockholders who own ninety per cent of the shares of this Company are not likely to suffer losses owing to the promulgation of this decree that should, in justice, entitle them to adequate compensation at the hands of the Venezuelan Government. I take this occasion, &c., &c., (Signed) Francis B. Loomis. To His Excellency Don Eduardo Blanco, Minister for Foreign Affairs. [Copy. [Ministerio de ReivAciones Exteriores — EsTADOs Unidos de [VENEZUEIvA. [D. P. E. No. 134. [Caracas: 29 de Enero de igoi. [Seilor MiNisTRO. [Con la atenta nota del 15 de los corrientes remitio V. E. a este Despacho copia de una carta suscrita por el Senor R. Morgan Olcott, en la cual se habla de perjuicios sufridos por la llamada " Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited," a causa del RECORD OP CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 443 Decreto de 5 de Octubre tiltimo que derog6 el de i de julio de 1893, prohibitivo de la libre navegaci6n del Macareo, del Peder- nales y de otros canos del Orinoco. Anlinciase al propio tiempo en la carta la presentacion de un reclamo, con la intervencion, que al efecto se piensa solicitar, del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos. [La consideracion que desde el punto de vista doctrinal y juridico pudiera caber en el asunto d que el Sefior Olcott se refiere, Uevaria d, las mas palmarias deducciones contra el prop6sito de introducir en la esfera diplomatica lo que por su origen y por su naturaleza no puede ventilarse, caso de ser contencioso, sino conforme a los procedimientos establecidos por las leyes interiores del Pais. Mas, por fortuna, para jugzar inaceptable en ese respecto la pre- tension del Senor Olcott, no se necesita entrar en el examen de circunstancia alguna de las que pudieran servir como argumento concluyente, ni apelar d los principios del Derecho que hubieran de ser aplicables al caso, puesto que la Constitucion de la Repu- blica, tanto en los articulos referentes i. la igualdad de derechos civiles entre nacionales y extranjeros (9 y 10), como en el que dedica a prevenir dificultades de cierto orden por raz6n de los contratos de interes piiblico (150), determina concretamente la manera de encaminar cualquiera; aspiracidn 6 demanda, basada en titulos presuntos 6 efectivos, 6 relacionada con hechos que por alglin particular 6 por cualquiera Corpofacion se consideren lesivos de otros intereses. De modo que, atento a tales observa- ciones de sentido general y sin entrar d discernir ninguno de los particulares del asunto, he de limitarme aqui, en cumplimiento de instrucciones del Jefe Supremo, a manifestar muy respetuosamente a V. E. la imposibilidad de ver las solicitudes de ese linaje bajo el concepto a que la honorable Legacion parece referirse en la parte conclusiva de la nota de 15 del presente. [Sirvase aceptar V. E. las renovadas protestas y seguridades de mi consideracion mas alta y distinguida. [(Signed) Eduardo BIvAnco. [Al Excelentisimo Seiior Francis B. Loomis, [Enviado Extraordinario y Ministro Plenipotenciario de los Estados Unidos.1 444 APPENDIX. [Enclosure. — Translation.) Ministry of Foreign Affairs OF THE United States of Venezuela, Caracas, January 2g, igoi. Mr. Minister: — With the courteous note sent by Your Excellency to this Min- istry on the 1 5th instant there was enclosed a copy of a note written by Mr. R. Morgan Olcott, in which mention is made of damages sustained by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited on account of a decree issued on the 5th of October last annulling the decree of July ist, 1893, which prohibited the free navigation of the Macareo, Pedernales, and other channels of the Orinoco. Mention is also made in your note of a claim that is likely to be presented with the intervention of the United States Government. [140] A consideration from a doctrinal and juridical point of view of the matter referred to by Mr. Olcott would be obviously opposed to the presentation through [the] diplomatic channels of a question, which from its origin and nature, as it is a case of litiga- tion, cannot be investigated except in conformity to the provisions of internal legislation. Fortunately, however, in order to prove the inadmissibility of the claim of Mr. Olcott it is not necessary to enter into an examination of any circumstance of those that could serve as conclusive arguments, nor to appeal to those prin- ciples of law which could be applied to the case, for the Constitu- tion of the Republic in the articles referring to the equality of civil rights between natives and foreigners (9 and 10), as well as in the article devoted to the manner of avoiding difficulties of a certain kind by reason of contracts of public interest (150), pro- vides concretely the way of proceeding with claims or demands based on presumptive or effective titles, or connected with acts by which any person or Corporation consider themselves injured in their interests. So that from the above general observations, and without entering into any of the details of the case, in con- formity to instructions from the Chief Executive, I have to respectfully inform Your Excellency that it is impossible to look at claims of that kind in the same manner as Your Excellency appears to do in the concluding part of your note of the 15th instant. Please accept, &c., &c., (Signed) Eduardo Blanco. To His Excellency Francis B. Loomis, E. E. & M. P. of the U. S RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 445 [■j.j"| [Enclosure.] Copy. Legation of the United States, Caracas, December 11, igoi. Mr. Minister: — In a settlement effected between the Venezuelan Govern- ment and the Managing Director of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited on the i6th of May, 1900, among other things it was stipulated that the above-mentioned Company should complete twelve trips between Trinidad and La Guayra before May 10, 1902. The first trip was completed during the month of April, last, when it became evident that the only available steamer the Company possessed or could acquire to navigate on that route was greatly in need of a new boiler, new parts of machinery, etc., etc. So it became necessary to send her to the original builders at Dundee, Scotland. These repairs will soon be completed at a cost of over forty thousand dollars, and the steamer the Manzanares, can resume the above-mentioned itinerary. Although the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited is an English corporation over ninety per cent, of its stock is held by citizens of the United States. I therefore beg that Your Excellency will kindly communicate to your Government this friendly representation of the United States in the interest of its citizens, and the hope expressed that the Manzanares, when it commences its itinerary, between Trinidad and La Guayra will not be impressed or otherwise molested by the Venezuelan authorities. I gladly avail myself, &c., &c., (Signed) Herbert W. Bowen. To His Excellency, General J. R. Pachano, Minister for Foreign Affairs. [142] 27 William Street. The President. Sir; I am one of the Directors of The Orinoco Steamship Company, a corporation which was organized under the laws of the State of New Jersey, and which has its principal office at No. 32 Broadway in this city. This Company operates a line of steamships between Port of Spain, Trinidad, and several ports in Venezuela. By reason of the disturbed condition of affairs in Venezuela for the last few years, claims have naturally arisen in 446 APPENDIX. favor of The Orinoco Steamship Company, against Venezuela. Of these claims, you may remember, I have both spoken to you and written to you. Some of the claims have been admitted by the Venezuelan Government, but have not been paid. A tran- script of the claims .has been filed in the Department of State, and I am informed has been approved of by the Solicitor of that Department as just and equitable. From the press, I have learned that United States Minister Bowen, lately accredited to Caracas, has come here as Venezuelan Representative, empow- ered to receive, consider and adjust on a fair and equitable basis, all claims, irrespective of nationality, which may be outstanding against that Government. From the press reports, it is evident that great activity has been shown by the representatives of Great Britain, Germany and Italy, with respect to the adjust- ment of the claims of citizens of their countries, but I have not seen in the press any statement that any mention has been made to Mr. Bowen of claims of American citizens for the like consid- eration. It has occurred to me that possibly the claims of our own citi- zens may have been lost sight of, and for that purpose, I [143] write to you to ask your good offices to see to it that claims which have been approved by the Office of our Secretary of State should not be in any way lost sight of, and would receive at least equal consideration with the claims of Great Britain and Germany. Yours respectfully, J. Van Vechten Olcott. New York, Jan. 27, 1903. J. Hampden Dougherty. J. Van Vechten Olcott. Levi S. Tenney. Law Offices of Dougherty, Olcott & Tenney, 27 William Street, New York, Jan. 28, 1903. Hon. Elihu Root, Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. My Dear Mr. Root: I think that I told you that I was interested in the Orinoco Steamship Company, which was incor- porated under the laws of the State of New Jersey and which runs a line of steamships between Port of Spain, Trinidad and various ports in Venezuela. Of course, I have been interested in reading the several press reports of the condition of affairs in Venezuela and entirely RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 447 approve of the action of our own Government in being practically the arbitrator of the claims of the German Government and the Government of Great Britain. I have not, however, seen any statement that the claims of our own Government will be considered by the Hague Tribunal, although the claims of the Orinoco Steamship Company have been filed in the office of the Secretary of [144] State and have been approved by the Solicitor of the State Department as just and equitable. I write to you to ask you to use your influence that the claims which are approved by our own Government should not be lost sight of. My cousin, Mr. R. Morgan Olcott, is about to go to Washington, and in case he should call upon you in regard to the matter, I hope you will know that any courtesy shown to him will be warmly appreciated by me. I beg to remain, Yours faithfully, J. Van Vechten OivCOTT. Filed June i6th. 1903. Rudolf Dolge, V. S. Secretary; J. Padron Uztariz, Scy. [1903 Exhibit G.]" [certificates and affidavits.] [Certificate of the Secretary-General N. Ricci as to the Detention of the Sorocco, Jan. 21, 1902.] [Translation.] Copy (seal) (seal) (seal) The undersigned, Secretary General ad interim of the Govern- ment, by order of the Constitutional President of the State of Bolivar, Certifies: That it is a fact that the steamer, "Socorro" of "The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, limited," was detained at this port, by direction and order of the Government, from the ninth of November to the twentieth of December of the past year; and that it is also a fact that the said steamer "Socorro" sailed from this port bound for that of San Felix and by order of the Government, on the third day of the current month and returned on the fifth day of the same month. Given and signed in Ciudad Bolivar the twenty-first day of January of the year nineteen hundred and two.' The 91st year of Independence and 43rd of the Federation. (seal) (stamps) (sgd) Natera Ricci. No. 19. Re Orinoco Steamship Co. [(seal) [Clase Octovia — Vale um Bolivar. [El suscrito, Secretario General de Gobierno, interino, de orden del ciudadano Presidente Constitucional del Estado Bolivar, Certifica: Que es cierto que el vapor "Socorro" perteneciente d "The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited" estuvo "[These "certificates and affidavits" were filed with the Memorial before the Mixed Commission of 1903, on June 16. They will be referred to in the present case as '■ 1903 Exhibit G." Owing to the fact that many of these certificates and affida- vits were secured only a short time before the meeting of the Mixed Commission of 1903, they were filed in typewritten form and only English translations of such docu- ments as were originally in Spanish were filed, the original documents being held at the American legation at Caracas subject to the call of the Commission as in the case of other exhibits. — Agent's note.] 448 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 449 fondeado en este puerto, por disposicidn y d la orden del Gobierno, desde el nueve de noviembre hasta el veinte de diciembre del ano proximo pasado, y en esta liltima fecha fue permitida su salida de este puerto por cuenta de la expresada compafiia; y que es igualmente cierto que el mencionado vapor "Socorro" zarpd de este puerto condestino al de San Felix y por orden del Gobierno el dia tres del presente mes y regresd el dia cinco del mismo mes. [Asi lo digo y firmo en Ciudad Bolivar a los veintiun dias del mes de enero de mil novecientos dos Ano 91° de la Independencia y 43° de la Federaci6n. [(sELiyO) (estampillos) (f.) Natera Ricci] [Certificate op General Julio Serria Hurtado, Provisional President of the State of Bolivar as to the Sailing of Certain Steamers on Government Business, Oct. 17, 1901.] [Translation.] Copy (seal) (seal) seal) (seal) General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Provisional President of the State of Bolivar. Present. We, the undersigned, sub managers of "The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co. Ltd.," with the object of rendering to the man- agement of the said Company a statement of the movement of its vessels in the service of the Government, have to request that you will certify at the foot hereof, in respect to the following particulars : ist. That it is a fact that on the 26th day of September of the current year, the national steamer "Guanare" sailed from this port on Government business and bound for Carcara, whence it returned on the first day of the present month. 2nd. That it is a fact that on the 26th day of September of the current year, the national steamer "Socorro" sailed from this port for Barrancas on government business and returned the 1st day of the present month. 3rd. That it is a fact that on the 4th day of the present month the national steamer "Masparro" sailed from this port on gov- ernment business and bound for Carcara, whence it returned on the 9th of the present month. 4th. That it is a fact that on the 21st day of the past month, the national steamer "Heroe" was occupied in towing a schooner 17301 — 10 29 45^ APPENDIX. from Solidad to this port, and afterwards in carrying troops to the former port ; and 5th. That it is a fact that on the loth day of the present month the national steamer "Masparro" sailed from this port for Bar- rancas on government business, and returned to this fort [port] the twelfth day of same month. It is justice which we expect to obtain in Ciudad Bolivar, on this fourteenth day of October of the year nineteen hundred and one. (stamp) (sgd) Soi^AZ Baiz (stamp) (sgd) C. Hammer Provisional Presidency of the State of Bouvar, Ciudad Bolivar, 17th October igoi, 91st & 43rd. Resolved : In view of the preceding petition, let the Secretary's Office issue the desired certification, with reference to the documents which may substantiate the particulars to which the petitioners confine themselves. (Signed) The Provisional President (seal) ' J. Sarria Hurtado. The Secretary General D. Arreaga Monagas. [Certificate of the Secretary-General de Arreaza Managas THAT THE USE OF THE STEAMER AS CERTIFIED AbOVE WAS Necessary for the Public Business, Oct. 17, 1901.°] Secretary General of the State of Bolivar, Certifies : That, according to the official notes which are copied in the archives of this Department, addressed by the Provisional Presi- dent of the State of the Orinoco Steamship Company, the use of the steamers of said Company was rendered necessary by urgent reasons of public order, on the dates named in the items contained in the petition to which the foregoing Resolution refers. In compliance with the directions of the Government, I issue the present in Ciudad Bolivar, this seventeenth of October nine- teen hundred and one. 91st and 43rd (stamps) (signed) D. Arreaza Monagas (seal) a [For Spanish, see p. 452. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 45 1 [Close Octava — Vale un bolivar. [(SEAL.) [Senor General Julio Sarria Hurtado, Presidente Provisional del Estado Bolivar Pte. [Los suscritos, sub-gerentes de "The Orinoco Shipping and Trading C° L"-, con el fin de rendir d la Direccion de la mencionada Compania una relacidn del movimiento de sus buques al servicio al del Gobierno, suplicdmos a Ud, se sirva certificar al pie respecto ^ los particulares siguientes: [1° Como es cierto que el dia 26 de Setiembre del corriente aiio, zarpo de este puerto el vapor nacional "Guanare" con destino a Caicara en comisi6n del Gobierno de d6nde regreso el dia [dia] i ° del coriente mes; [2° C6mo es cierto que el dia 26 de Setiembre del corriente afio, zarp6 de este puerto el vapor nacional "Socorro" con destino d. Barrancas en comision del Gobierno y regreso el dia i " del presente mes; [3° C6mo es cierto que el dia 4 de los corrientes zarpd de este puerto el vapor nacional "Masparro" con destino d Caicara en comisi6n del Gobierno de donde regres6 el 9 del presente mes [mes] ; [4" C6mo es cierto que el dia 21 del proximo pasado, estuvo remolcando el vapor nacional "Heroe" una goleta de Soledad d este puerto, y luego conduciendo fuerzas d aquel puerto ; y [5° Como es cierto que el dia 10 del presente mes [mes] zarpo de este puerto el vapor nacional " Masparro," con destino a Barrancas en comisidn del Gobierno y regres6 i. este puerto el 1 2 del mismo mes [mes] — [Es justicia que esperamos alcanzar en Ciudad Bolivar, i. los catorce dids del mes de octubre de mil novecientos uno. [(Estampilla). (P.) Solaz Baiz. (Estampilla) . (f.) C. Ham- mer.] [Presidencia Provisional del Estado Bolivar, Ciudad Bolivar ij de Ociubre de igoi. 9i°y 43°. [Resuelto : [Vista la solicitud que precede, expidase por Secretaria la cer- tificacion que se pide, con vista de los documentos que den fe a los particulares d que se contraen los peticionarios. [(SELLo) (f.) El Presidente provisional J. Sarria Hurtado. [El Secretario General, [D. Arreaga Monagas.] 452 APPENDIX. [GeneraIv Diego Arreaga Monagas. Secretario General del Estado Bolivar, Certifica : , [Que, segtin las notas oficid,les que existen copiadas en el Archivo de este Despacho, dirijidas por el ciudadano General Presidente provisional del Estado d, la Compania de vapores del Orinoco, se hizo necesario el empleo de los vapores de dicha compania por reclamarlo asi medidas urgentes de orden pliblico, en las fechas que expuesan los particulares que contiene la solicitud a que hace referencia la Resolucion anterior. [En cumplimiento de lo dispuesto por el Gobierno, expido la presente en Ciudad Bolivar i. diez y siete de Octubre de mil nove- cientos un. 91° 7 43° [(Estampillas.) (p.) D. Arreaza Monagas.] [(SeIvI.0.) [Affidavit of Cesar Vicentini, May 20, 1903, at Port of Spain, Trinidad, as to the settlement of May 10, 1900.] Copy. Trinidad. I, Cesar Vicentini, of Caracas, Venezuela, temporarily resi- dent in the Town of Port of Spain in the Island of Trinidad, do solemnly and sincerely declare and state for truth as follows: — 1 . On or before the ist day of June, 1899, I was in the employ of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, whose suc- cessor is The Orinoco Steamship Company. 2. Richard Morgan Olcott, the Managing Director of The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, whose successor is The Orinoco Steamship Company, together with myself presented to the Government of the United States of Venezuela a statement of account with vouchers corresponding thereto showing the sum of $554,550.53 due from the said Government to the said Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited. 3. The said accounts were adjusted with the said Government in my presence on the loth day of May, 1900, and the said Govern- ment agreed to pay to the said Company the sum of 200,000 boli- vares in coined money, one half of which was paid to the said Richard Morgan Olcott at the time of the adjustment of the said accounts and the remaining one-half the said Government agreed to pay to the said Company within a reasonable time thereafter. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 453 4. In addition to these amounts the said Government in consid- eration and further settlement of the above mentioned account did grant to the said Company a confirmation of the Macareo and Pedernales Rivers concession and extended and prolonged the said Concession for a period of six years, as published in the "Gaceta Oficial " of the loth day of May, 1900, and the 12th day of Decem- ber, 1900; and did also exempt the said Company from all obliga- tion to establish a steamer service between La Guaira and Mara- caibo. And I make this Declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true and according to the Statutory Declarations Ordinance 1879 and I am aware that if there is any statement in this Declara- tion which is false in fact which I know or believe to be false or do not believe to be true I am liable to fine and imprisonment. Thus declared at Port-of-Spain 1 in the Island of Trinidad this [ C. Vicentini 20th day of May, 1903. J Before me, (seal) John Dennis Seluer Notary Public Trinidad. [Affidavit of Cesar Vicentini at Port of Spain, dated May 20, 1903, Trinidad, as to a bill for $101,163.42, presented June I, 1899, TO Venezuelan government and payments of 614,000 THEREON.] Copy. I, Cesar Vicentini, of Caracas, Venezuela, temporarily resi- dent in the Town of Port of Spain in the Island of Trinidad, do solemnly and sincerely declare and state for truth as follows: — 1. On or before the ist day of June, 1899, I was in the employ of The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, whose suc- cessor is The Orinoco Steamship Company. 2. On or about the ist day of June, 1899, bills with corresponding vouchers thereto were presented to the Venezuelan Government for the sum of $71,899.00 and the sum of $29,264.42 making to- gether the sum of $101,163.42. 3. The said Bills were accepted by the Venezuelan Government, and the accounts verified by them and accepted as correct and the following payments made on account thereof: On the 2nd day of June, 1899, the sum of 4,000 bolivares; on the 24th day of August, 1899, the further sum of 4,000 bolivares and on the 26th day of 454 APPENDIX. September, 1899, the further sum of 6,000 boUvares, making to- gether the sum of 14,000 bohvares, equal to $2,800.00. And I make this Declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true and according to the Statutory Declarations Ordinance 1879 and I am aware that if there is any statement in this Declara- tion which is false, in fact which I know or believe to be false or do not believe to be true I am liable to fine and imprisonment. Thus declared at Port-of -Spain | in the Island of Trinidad this [ C. Vicentini 20th day of May, 1903. J Before me, (seal) John Dennis Seluer Notary Public. (Form No. 88.) Form for authentication of signature. Paragraphs i88 and 446. United States Consulate, Trinidad, B. W. I., 25th May 1903. I, Alvin Smith, Consul of the United States at Trinidad, B. W. I., do hereby certify that the signature of John Dennis Sel- LiER, (Notary Public at Trinidad) at the foot of the papers hereto annexed, is his true and genuine signature, acknowledged in my presence, and that the said John Dennis SelliER is personally known to me. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the Consulate at Trinidad, the day and year next above written, and of the Independence of the United States the One Hundred and Twenty-seventh. (seal) Alvin Smith Consul of the United States. [Certificate as to the departures from Port of Spain and arrivals from Orinoco River of steamship Rescue, August TO Nov. 1903. By the Harbor Master of Port of Spain, Trinidad, dated May 25, 1903.] Copy. I certify the following to be a correct return of the Departures from Port of Spain and Arrivals from the River Orinoco (via Cafio Macareo) of the Steamship Rescue from the 2d of August to the 23rd of November 1902. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 455 DEPARTURES 1902 August 2d from Port of Spain Do 27th do October 2gth do November 15th do ARRIVALS 1902 August 10th from San Felix. Do 27th from Los Castillos. November 5 th from San Felix. Do 23d from Los Castillos. Trinidad 25th may 1903 J. B. Saunders. Harbour Master. Harbour Masters Office Port of Spain Trinidad W. I. Checked Q. H. L. Ast. H. M. [Certificate as to departures and arrivals of steamship Ali- anza from Dec. 1902 to May 1903.] Copy. I certify the following to be a correct return of the Departures from Port of Spain and Arrivals from C. Bolivar (via Cano Macareo) of the Steamship " Alianza" from the 15th of December 1902 to the 1 6th of May 1903. DEPARTURES. 1902 December 15 th ARRIVALS. 1902 December 2 2d 1903 February 18th March 7th do 2ISt April 6th do 22nd May 7th do I 8th 1903 March 2d do I 6th do 30th April 1 6th May I St do 13th Trinidad 25th May 1903, J. B. Saunders Harbour Master Harbour Masters Office Port oi Checked ' Spain Trinidad W. "I. Q. H. h. Ast. H. M. 456 appendix. [Clearance op the Daring Oct. 25, 1902.] Copy Content — Outwards . PORT OF PORT OF SPAIN No. 95S 1902 Ship's Name. Tonnage and Number of Guns- 25 Number of Crew Name of Master Number of Passengers Port or Place of Destination 8 Cox 2 San Felix Warehoused Goods Draw Back and Restricted Goods. If any state Marks and Nos. Number of Packages and Description of Goods. If any state Marks and Nos., Number of Packages and Description of Goods. sXc 6 c/s Brandy *' 3 " Gin " 20 " Keros. oil H. C. &Co. 6c/sWhisky Transhipment a X c 13 pkgs. u. m. articles Drawback Goods H cask wine 2 kegs '* 2 cheeses 4 c s Gin 2900 feet Lumber , ' >=9o lbs. Gun Powder 2 kegs j Sugar, Molasses, Rum, Cocoa, and Coffee. Free Goods. Goods Liable to Export Duty. If any, State Marks and Nos. Number of Packages and Description of Goods and Name of Exporter. If any, state Marks and Nos. and Number of pkgs. If any. state Number of Pkgs and Quantity stores: i dog & sundry free & low duty Cleared by Schoener & Co. Dated 25th October. 1902. Examined, (sgd) James Notter Searcher. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 457 Clearance of Daring — Continued. I do declare that the above Content is a true account of all Goods Shipped, or intended to be Shipped on board the above named Ship and correct in all particulars, (sgd) J. Cox Master. Signed and declared, this 25th day of October, 1902. Before me (sgd) James Potter, Collector and Surveyor of Customs pro or Sub-Collector. I certify this to be a true copy of the clearance of the " Daring " of 25th October, 1902. R. H. McCarthy 6 Apl. 1903. Collector Customs Trinidad. [Clearance oe the Rescue, Nov. 15, 1902. J Copy Conien t — Outwards. No. 102 4 PORT OF PORT OF SPAIN '9o2 Ship's name Tonnage and Number of Guns If British, Port of Reg- istry; if Foreign, the Country Number of Crew S. S "Rescue" 91 Trinidad 16 Name of Master, Number of Passengers Port or Place of Desti- nation. Ortiz Los Castillos Warehoused Goods Draw Back and Restricted Goods If any state Marks and Nos. Number of Packages and Description of Goods. If any state Marks and Nos.. Number of Packages and Description of Goods. C. H. & Co. I c/s Brandy cXc 2 " Whiskey S. B.&Co. 2 brls. Cigarrettes sXh 3 " S. L. & Co. 21 pkgs machinery E. C.| 5 tins machine oil 333 i ID boxes tobacco. 331 1 50 brls. flour 15 c/s lard 75 bags rice I c/s sugar 2900 feet Lumber 57 pkgs Mdse The above packages (2957) taken from sloop "Dar- ing " at Tobago. 458 APPENDIX. Clearance of Rescue — Continued. PORT OF PORT OF SPAIN— Continued. Sugar, Molasses, Rum, Cocoa, and Coffee. Free Goods. Goods Liable to Export Duty. If any, state Marks and Nos, Num- ber of Packages and description of Goods and Name of Exporter If any. state Marks and Nos. and Number of Packages If any, state Number of pkgs and Quantity. 30 bags sugar H/Dues # 74 15.11. 02 10/2 bags Salt 50 boxes onions 20 " potatoes £1.6-8 s/Bill # 64 16/— (sgd) E. P. 15. II. 02 Stores: 2 dogs, i revolver, 6 guns, 500 cartridges, 6 flasks gin & free & low duty. Cleared by Ellis Grell & Co. Dated 15* November, 1902. Examined (sgd) Ed. VashlBy, Searcher. I do declare that the above Content is a true account of all Goods Shipped, or intended to be Shipped on board the above named Ship and correct in all particulars. (sgd) Elus GrelIv & Co. Agents. Signed and declared, this 15th day of November, 1902. Before me (sgd) F. BivACHER Eraser Collector and Surveyor of Customs pro ■ or Sub-Collector. (sgd) I. Black. I certify this to be a correct copy of the clearance of the S/S "Rescue" of 15th November, 1902. R. H. McCarthy 6 Apl. 1903. Collector Customs Trinidad RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9 459 [C1.EARANCE OK THE Rescue, Oct. 30, 1902.] Copy Content — outwards. PORT OP PORT OF SPAIN No. 96a 1902 Ship's Name. Tonnage and Number of Guns. If British, Port of Registry: if Foreign, the Country. s/s Rescue 91 Trinidad Number of Crew. Name of Master. Number of Passen- gers. Port or Place of Destination. 10 Ortiz 2 Los Castillos Warehoused Goods. Draw Back and Restricted Goods. If any, state Marks and Nos., Number of Pack- ages and Description of Goods. If any, state Marks and Nos., Number of Packages and Description of Goods. c/s Tobacco 100/2 bags rice 8 bags do 25 c/s lard 3 " " 25 brls flour 3 brls cigarrettes I basket of oil 5 5 brls bread I c/s Tobacco 10 bags rice I " brandy 8 brls flour I " gin I box soap I " whiskey I c/s lard 1 Sugar, Molasses, Rum, Cocoa, and Coffee. Free Goods. Goods Liable to Export Duty. If any, state Marks and Nos.. Num- ber of Packages and Description of Goods, and Name of Exporter. If any, state Marks and Nos. and Number of pkgs. If any, state Number of pkgs and Quantity. IS bags Sugar S/Bill No. 119 S/— 55 /2 bags salt 20 c/s Potatoes 35 " Onions 10 bags Garlic 2 bags cornstarch I pck. sago 5 bags Ven. coffee. 30. X .02 (sgd) W. H/Dues No. 161 £1.5-4. 30. X .02 (sgd) W. Stores: i dog, i revolver, 6 guns, 3 bots. rum. 600 cartridges Cleared by Ellis Grell & Co. Dated 30th October, 1902 (sgd) Examined James Potter, Searcher 460 APPENDIX. Clearance of Rescue — Continued. I do declare that the above Content is a true account of all Goods Shipped, or intended to be Shipped on board the above named Ship and correct in all particulars. (sgd) Ellis Grell & Co. Agents Signed and declared, this 30th day of October, 1902. Before me (sgd) F. Blacker Eraser Collector and Surveyor of Customs pro or Sub-Collector. (Sgd.) J Black I certify this to be a correct copy of the clearance of the s/s Rescue of 30th Oct. 1902. R. H. McCarthy Collector Customs Trinidad 6 Apl. 1903. [Clearance op the Rescue, Aug. 20, 1902.] Copy Content — outwards. PORT OF PORT OF SPAIN. No^^ 1902 Ship's Name. Tonnage and Number of Guns. If British, Port of Registry; if foreign, the Country, S. S. Rescue 91 Number of Crew. Name of Master. Number of Passen- gers. Port or Place of Destination Warehoused Goods. Draw Back and Restricted Goods. If any, state Marks and Nos. and Description Number of of Goods. Packages If any, state Marks and Nos., Number of Packages and Description of Goods. I Cask oil 20 bags Rice 4 c/s Gin 7 c/s Lard I brl cigarrettes 4 " Brandy 13 bags Tobacco 2 " Malt Liquor 40 " Soap 12 brls flour 10 boxes Sugar 5 c/s butter RECORD OF CtAIM NO. 19. Clearance of Rescue — Continued. 461 PORT OF PORT OF SPAIN— Continued Sugar, Molasses, Rum, Cocoa, and Coffee. Free Goods. Goods Liable to Export Duty. If any, state Marks and Nos., Num- ber of Packages and Description of Goods, and Name of Exporter. If any, state Marks and Nos. and Number of pkgs. If any, state Number of Pkgs and Quantity. 21 bags Sugar 24 do coffee H/Dues No. 112 of 2o/8/o2;£2.4.4 Im: Tax No. it6 idem 1.7.3 9 boxes Potatoes 31 do Onions 4 Trcs fish * 10 bags Peas 500/2 " Salt 60 tons coal Two (sgd) E. S. Stores I revolver, 8 guns, 600 cartridges and free and low duty stores. Cleared by Ellis Grell & Co. Dated 20th August, 1902. (sgd) Examined Edward Smith, Searcher I do declare that the above Content is a true account of all Goods Shipped, or intended to be Shipped on board the above named Ship and correct in all particulars. (sgd) E1.US GrbIvL & Co. Agents Signed and declared, this 20th day of August, 1902. Before me (sgd) F. BivACHER Eraser Collector and Surveyor of Customs pro or Sub-Collector. I certify this to be a correct copy of the clearance of the s/s Rescue of 20/8/02. R. H. McCarthy Collector Customs Trinidad 6 Apl. 1903. (Sgd) J. BI.ACK. 462 APPENDIX. [C1.EARANCE OF THE RoYAi^ Sovereign, October 25, 1902.J Copy. Content — outwards. PORT OF PORT OF SPAIN. No. 956 190 2 Ship's Name. ' Royal Sovereign" Tonnage and Number of Guns, 38 If British, Port of Registry; if Foreign, the Country. Grenada Number of Crew. Name of Master. Number of Passen- gers. Port or Place of Destina- tion. San Felix Warehoused Goods. Draw Back and Restricted Goods. If any, state Marks and Nos., Number of Pack- ages and Description of Goods. If any, state Marks and Nos., Number of Packages and Description of Goods. s Xc 6 flasks Mercury I E. C. I T Cask Engine oil Transhipment. 3 c/s Machinery 2 " " 20 " u. m. articles 22 " " " I brl " Drawback 10 brls cement 40/2 bags flour 30 " rice I cask engine oil 8 c/s lard 8 " oleo. 6 " brandy 10 " soap I " Sugar T " matches 4 ' ' butter 12 " Malt Liquor 10 " candies 3 c/s Vermouth 12 " Liquor (malt) 1 2 bkts of oil Sugar, Molasses, Rum, Cocoa, and Coffee. Free Goods. Goods Liable to Export Duty. If any, state Marks and Nos., Num- ber of Packages and description of Goods and Name of Exporter. If any, state Marks and Nos. and Number of Pkgs. If any, state Number of Pkgs and Quantity. Sundry pkgs. stores: Sundry free & low duty. Cleared by Schoener & Co. Dated 25th October 1902. (sgd) Examined James Potter, Searcher. RECORD OF ClvAIM NO. 19. 463 I do declare that the above Content is a true account of all Goods Shipped, or intended to be Shipped on board the above named Ship and correct in all particulars. (sgd) Alexander Martineau Master Signed and declared, this 25th day of October, 1902 Before me (sgd) James Potter, Collector and Surveyor of Customs pro. or Sub-Collector. I certify this to be a correct copy of the clearance of the " Royal Sovereign" of 25th Oct: 1902. R. H. McCarthy Collector Customs Trinidad 6 Apl. 1903. [Harbor Master's Certificate of Nov. 26, 1902, showing CLEARANCE UNDER VENEZUELA FLAG BETWEEN PORT OF SpAIN and certain Venezuelan ports between the first of July, 1902, and Nov. 26, 1902.] Port of Spain, Harbour Master's Office 26th November 1902. This is to certify that Thirteen hundred & seventy five (1375) vessels, including Boats, Sloops, and Schooners averaging from I to 20 Tons, all under the Venezuelan Flag and carrying Cargo, with few exceptions in Ballast; viz: — Cocoa, Balata, Gum, Rub- ber, Oxen, Mules, Horses, Asses, Goats, Pigs, Hides, &c. &c. have entered this Port from the undermentioned Ports of Venezuela, within the Gulf of Paria and the Orinoco River and practically the same number (viz: — 1375) left this Port for the undermen- tioned Ports of Venezuela with Provisions, including Corn, Butter, Lard, Flour, Oils, Salted Fish, Salted Beef & Meats, Onions, Potatoes, Dry Goods, Hardware Sz;c. &c.. Ammunition, Gunpowder. Ports: — Cano Colorado. Maturin Tucupito Yrapa Guiria Uracoa Pedernales San Felix 464 APPENDIX. Ports : — Cariaquite » Cd Bolivar (in Ballast) Don Pedro Macareo Yaguaraparo La Pena Point h Pierre Aricagua Rio Grande Tacarigua Uguire This extract is taken from the ist of July 1902 to this date. The number of vessels mentioned in this certificate does not include the British Ships "Rescue" and "Edward VII" nor the vessels of the Orinoco Asphalt Co., a German Company holding an asphalt concession at Pedernales. 26th November 1902. James B. Saunders Harbour Master. [Abbreviated statement oe capital expenditure of the Ori- noco Shipping and Trading Co.] The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co., Ltd. Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, (B. W. I.), 3rd June, 1903. Abbreviated Statement of Capital Expenditure. Figures taken from London Of&ce Balance Sheet dated 31st March, 1902. Share capital 20,000 Shares of £ I ea: fully called up £20,000. o. o. Less Calls unpaid 7. o. o. £19.993- o- °- Debentures Mr. Scott 35.700. o. o. " J. V. V. Olcott 8,400. o. o. " Centeno 3,500. o, o. Mrs. Lee 2,400. o. o. 50, 000. o. o. Cash capital advances (Loans) Mr. A. B. Scott 53.775- i9- i- Mr. R. M. Olcott 6,998. 8. 11. " J. V. V. Olcott- 10,377. 7- 7- " F. A. Neubauer 15,000. o. o, 86,151. 15- 7- RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 465 Bills payable Principally Capital Expenditure on s/s "Manzanares" £14.151- "• 4- Profits invested in the business To December 31st, 1900 £13,290. 4. 3. " March 31st, 1902 4.389- i3- 3- 17,679. 17. 6. Equal to U. S. $902,285.86 £187,976. 4. 5. We certify the above figures to be in exact accordance with the London Office Balance Sheet 31st March, 1902. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. Thos. a. Turner Manager A. S. Eckstein Accountant. [Certificate of accountant Eckstein as to the capital ex- penditure OF THE Orinoco Steamship Co. annexed here- with and marked A.J Trinidad I, Arthur Simmons Eckstein, of the Town of Port of Spain, in the Island of Trinidad, Accountant, do solemnly and sincerely declare and state for truth as follows: 1. I am in the employ of " The Orinoco Steamship Company." 2. The paper- writing hereunto annexed and marked "A" is a true and correct statement showing the Capital Expenditure of the said The Orinoco Steamship Company from the ist day of April 1902 to the 31st day of May 1903 as taken from the book of original entries. And I make this Declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true and according to the Statutory Declarations Ordinance 1879 and I am aware that if there is any statement in this Declara- tion which is false in fact which I know to be false or do not believe to be true I am liable to fine and imprisonment. Thus declared at St. Vincent Street in the Town of Port of Spain in the Island of Trinidad this 3rd day of June 1903. Before me, John Dennis SeluEr Notary Public. (seal) 17301— 10 30 A. S. Eckstein 466 APPENDIX. [Paper writing A mentioned above showing the capital Ex- penditure OP THE Orinoco Steamship Co.] This is the paper- writing "A" referred to in the foregoing Declaration of Arthur Simmons Eckstein dated 3rd June 1903. John Dennis Sei,i.ier (seal) Notary Public. The Orinoco Steamship Company, Port op Spain, Trinidad {B. W. I.) 3rd June, 1903. Statement showing Capital Expenditures from ist April, igo2 to 31st May, igoj. s/s "Bolivar " Improvements, new machinery etc 2, 597. 37 s/s "Manzanares" Do Do 3,082.22 Up-river steamers. Do Do 4,381.05 s/s "Delta" New boilers, new machinery and plant, improvements to hull etc., to 31st May, 1903 12, 758.06 $22,818.70 VESSELS PURCHASED s/s "Orinoco" Lighter "Epoca" [• 15,384.61 do "Avila" S3«, 203.31 [Affidavit of R. Morgan Olcott as to net earnings op the company's steamers, 1899-1901.J Before the United States and Venezuelan Mixed Commission. The United States of America, on behalf of The Orinoco Steamship Company. Vs. The Republic of Venezuela. City of Caracas,] \ss: Venezuela. J I, R. Morgan Olcott, being first duly sworn, do depose and say that I am the President of The Orinoco Steamship Company, and as such have personal knowledge of the Company's business as shown by its books, and that it appears therefrom that the net earnings of the Company's Steamers which ply between Trinidad RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 467 and Ciudad Bolivar, through the waters of Macareo and Peder- nales channels of the Orinoco River, for the years 1899, 1900, and 1 901 , were as follows : 1899 $66,719.80 1900 56, 157. 28 1901 46, 859. 78 $169, 736. 86 or a yearly average for the three years mentioned of $56,578.95. R. Morgan Olcott Subscribed and sworn to before me at the City of Caracas, Vene- zuela, this 1 6th day of June, 1903. (signed) WiIvWAM W. RusSEivi., (l. s.) U. S. Charge d' Affaires Filed June i6, 1903. Rudolf Dolge, U. S. Secretary; J. PadronUztariz.Scy. BEFORE THE MIXED COMMISSION ORGANIZED UNDER THE PROTOCOL OF FEBRUARY 17, 1903, BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA. THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE ORINOCO STEAMSHIP COMPANY, Claimant, ^pjo 19 vs. THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA. BRIEF ON BEHALF OF THE UNITED STATES. The United States presents in this case the claim of The Orinoco Steamship Company, to recover on various claims the total sum of $1,401,539.84, with interest to be calculated upon certain portions thereof. I. Statement of Facts. The claimant is a citizen of the United States, being a corpora- tion organized under the laws of the State of New Jersey. On the ist of April, 1902, the claimant, for and in considera- tion of its entire capital stock of $1,000,000 and the discharge of the outstanding debts and obligations of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, purchased and took over all the property, assets and claims of that Company, including the contract con- cession from the Government of Venezuela, for the exclusive navigation by steamships engaged in foreign trade of the Macareo and Pedemales channels of the Orinoco River, together with all claims of said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company against the Government of Venezuela for services rendered and other causes. The claims which are presented are three in number: First, a claim for a balance of one hundred thousand Bolivars overdue under an agreement of settlement made between the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company and the Government of Venezuela on the loth day of May A. D. 1900, and evidenced by instruments in writing of that date, copy of which written instruments is set forth in the Memorial (pp. 19-22)''. " [Pp. 136-138, this volume. — Agent's note.] 469 470 APPENDIX. Second, a claim for damages arising from the annulment by Executive Decree of October 5, 1900, subsequently ratified by the Legislative power, of the exclusive contract-concession above referred to. Third, a claim made up of charges for services rendered in carrying passengers and freights, and other amounts due under the terms of the contract-concession, and for imposts illegally exacted, for loss of earnings from June to November 1902 by reason of illegal and improper discriminations against the claim- ant Company's vessels by government agents and representatives, and for use and detention of and damages to the claimant's vessels. The facts out of which those claims arise are, briefly, that in 1893 the Government of Venezuela had by an executive decree reserved the Macareo and Pedernales channels of the Orinoco River for coastal service only, and thereafter, on the 8th of June, 1894, by an act of the Congress of Venezuela, a contract was made, which by various duly recognized and lawful transfers became the property of the claimant, same being set out in full in the Memorial (pp. 8-12)", whereby the claimant and its prede- cessor became possessed of the exclusive right of navigation of those channels upon and in consideration of certain terms and conditions as to the carrying of freight and passengers and the rendition of other services for the Government as therein specified. This concession contract was to be good for the full period of fifteen years, to expire on the 8th of June, 1909. Various services to the Venezuelan Government having been rendered by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company and its assignor, under said contract, claims against that Government arose in favor of said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, and such claims and the vouchers in support thereof presented from time to time to the proper officials amounted, on the loth day of May 1900, to the total sum of $532,996.85. On said May 10, 190a, a full settlement of all of such claims was made between the said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company and the Govern- ment of Venezuela, whereby, in consideration of the extinguish- ment and cancellation of said claims, there was paid to said Com- pany the sum of one hundred thousand Bolivars in cash, with an agreement to pay a further like sum thereafter, and a further agreement to extend the effective period of said contract-conces- sion for six (6) years, to expire on the 8th day of June, 1915. "^[Pp. 129-132, this volume. — ^Agent's note.] RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 19. 47I Notwithstanding the exclusive rights so granted to and being the property of said Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company under said concession, and in consideration of the extension of which for the further period of six (6) years as aforesaid claims of such magnitude, due as above, had been surrendered, the Govern- ment of Venezuela, on the 5th day of October, 1900, promulgated and published a decree opening said channels of the Orinoco River to free navigation by all persons whatsoever, thereby violating and annulling the solemn compact between the Government and the Company, on the faith of which more than $940,000 had been invested in preparing for and building up the business. Since said October 5, 1900, the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company up to April ist, 1902, and since then the claimant herein, have continued to operate the vessels and to perform the terms of the contract-concession upon their part to be kept, by reason whereof there have accrued due in favor of said Com- panies various claims for passages, freights, and use of steamers under the contract, and other claims specified in the Memorial but not covered by the settlement of May loth, 1900, all of which are owned by the claimant here. The total of these claims, including the claim for damages, but exclusive of interest properly allowable on the contract claims, amounts to $1,376,539.84, to which is added a claim of $25,000 for counsel fees and expenses incurred by claimant in endeavoring to obtain satisfaction thereof. It being the desire of the United States Government to urge before this Commission only such claims and items as appear to be well founded, certain items forming part of this claim as originally presented to the United States Department of State have been erased and are not now insisted upon. II. This Commission Has Fuli. and Ample Power to Hear AND Determine These Claims. The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Utd., was an English corporation, whose stock, however, to the extent of about 99 % thereof was owned by citizens of the United States. The claimant company, The Orinoco Steamship Company, was organized by said stockholders for the purpose of taking over and conducting the business of the former concern. The transfer of the properties and of the accrued claims to the claimant Company, which is a citizen of the United States as aforesaid, was made on April ist, 1902, after most of the claims had accrued due. 472 APPENDIX. The entire capital stock of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Ltd., with the exception of seven (7) shares of £1 each, was and from the organization of said Company had been owned by individuals who were citizens of the United States, and thereafter, on January 31, 1902, such American shareholders caused to be organized under the laws of the State of New Jersey, The Orinoco Steamship Company, your claimant, the American individuals referred to becoming and now being the owners of more than 90 % of the capital stock thereof. By virtue of the transfer or assignment for value, by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Ltd., to the Orinoco Steamship Company, of all of the assets and properties, franchises and credits of the former Company, including book accounts and pending claims against the Government of Venezuela, the latter Company, a juridical person and a citizen of the United States of America, became and is now the legal and sole owner of the claims here presented. Article i of the Protocol of Agreement establishing this High Commission expressly declares that — "All claims owned by citizens of the United States of America against the Republic of Venezuela * * * and which shall have been presented to the Commission hereinafter named by the Department of State of the United States or its Legation at Cara- cas, shall be examined and decided by a mixed commission, which shall sit at Caracas." * * * This provision is plain, and would seem to permit of no question as to the jurisdiction of this Commission to examine and decide these claims " according to justice " and " upon a basis of absolute equity without regard to objections of a technical nature or of the provisions of local legislation." It is certain that the claimant is a citizen of the United States of America, and that the claims now here presented to this Com- mission by the Department of State of the United States are owned by it and by it alone. III. The Various Ci^aims op the Ci^aimant Are FulIvY Sup- ported BY THE Evidence. As far as the first claim for the sum of $19,200 is concerned, it being the claim for the balance of cash due upon the settlement made May 10, 1900, and evidenced by the written agreement of settlement with the Government of Venezuela itself, there can be no ground for dispute. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. I9. 473 The facts, moreover, as to the action of the Venezuelan Gov- ernment in first granting, then extending, and finally annulling the contract for the exclusive navigation of the interior water- ways by opening the. same to free navigation, are amply shown by documentary evidence, and there would seem to be no question either as to the facts in this respect or as to the liabihty of the Venezuelan Government to respond in damages for its breach of contract in such connection, the only question pertaining to this item likely to provoke discussion seemingly being as to the amount of the damages flowing from such breach. The evidence, furthermore, amply supports the various items of the third claim. The claims for passage and freight money are due strictly in accordance with the terms of the contract and the tariffs long ago fixed thereunder. The claims for the detention and use of various vessels of the company by the Venezuelan Gov- ernment are proved by the official orders and certificates covering the same, and the necessary expenses of re-fitting the ships, owing to injuries received while in the hands of the Venezuelan authori- ties, are likewise amply proven by vouchers, affidavits and other documentary evidence. IV. There Can be No Question as to the Liability op the Venezuelan Government for the Acts Complained of. With respect to the first item or claim for $19,200, being the second installment of cash agreed to be paid in furtherance of the settlement of May 10, 1900, the same being an express agree-, ment of the Government itself to pay a sum certain within a reasonable time thereafter, and now long overdue, the liability of the respondent government to pay the same with interest would seem to be established beyond dispute. In addition to the provisions of the written agreement of May 10, 1900, itself (Memorial p. 19)'*, the liability to pay such sum in gold has also been admitted diplomatically (Diplomatic Corre- spondence p. 36) ''- In the case of Metzger & Co. against the republic of Haiti, (Foreign Relations of the United States, 1901,) submitted -to arbitration by agreement between the United States and Haiti, where the respondent government before the arbitrator sought to evade the effect of certain representations and admissions thereabouts made by its duly accredited representative, the o [P. 136, this volume. — Agent's note.] b [p. 3yg^ this volume. — Agent's note.] 474 APPENDIX. Arbitrator Honorable William R. Day disposed of the matter in the following language (p. 270) : "I am of opinion that this arrangement agreeing to settle Metzger and Co.'s grievances, promptly accepted by the secretary of state for foreign relations of Haiti, followed by the assurance of the secretary, conveyed by the Minister to the State Depart- ment at Washington, that the matter had been settled within twenty -four hours, constituted a diplomatic agreement between the two countries which, upon settled principles of international law, should have been carried into effect. It is claimed on the part of Haiti, that this correspondence amounted only to an agreement on the part of Haiti to use its good offices with the commune of Port au Prince. I am of opinion that it amounted to much more than that. * * * jt cannot be that good faith is less obligatory upon nations than upon individuals in carrying out agreements. * * * I do not understand that the limita- tions upon official authority, undisclosed at the time to the other government, prevent the enforcement of diplomatic agreements. The question came before the Chilian claims commission created by the convention of August 7, 1892, between the United States and Chile, in which a claim was made upon a contract entered into by the United States Minister in Chile, in making which the Government of the United States claimed the minister had no authority and denied responsibility, claiming further that the agreement was in violation of the statutes of the United States and that the plaintiff had a remedy in the United States courts. The commission decided unanimously that it was immaterial whether the Minister had exceeded his authority or not, as he had made the promise as the representative of the United States in the name of his government, which, according to the rules of responsibility of governments for acts performed by their agents in foreign countries, cannot be repudiated. In the present case there is no claim that the minister was unauthorized to make the diplomatic representation stated. On the contrary, he was only carrying into effect the instructions of his government. The learned commission referred, in support of their decision, to Calvo Dictionaire de Droit International, volume II, page 170, and Calvo Dictionaire International, volume I, section 417; Moore's Digest International Arbitration, volume 4, pages 3569-3571- Nor is there any more avail in the argument that the remedy of Metzger and Company is to be sought in the courts of Haiti against the commune. Even had Metzger & Co. such a right, this would not affect the right to arbitrate the claim as has been done in this case. By the terms of the protocol the arbitrator is competent to take jurisdiction of the claim so far as the liability of the gov- ernment of Haiti is concerned (4 Moore International Arbitra- tions, p. 3571). * * * A diplomatic arrangement fairly and honorably entered into should, in my judgment, be carried into effect. * * *." RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 475 An admission of debt made in the course of diplomatic nego- tiations and reiterated in a subsequent offer to pay the amount admitted in certain installments (Diplomatic correspondence, p. 38) " is now no more to be denied or refuted by the nation which made it than any diplomatic agreement. The diplomatic admission of the debt in July 1901, and the ' subsequent offer to pay the amount thereof in installments, absurdly small though they were, was also in effect a diplomatic representation as to the validity and binding force internationally of the entire settlement evidenced by the agreements in writing of May 10, 1900. As to the liability of Venezuela with respect. to the claim for compensation for damages suffered by reason of the annulment of the concession of navigation by the arbitrary decree of October 5th, 1900, there would seem to be no more doubt. That the concession contract for the exclusive navigation of the interior mouths of the Orinoco River by vessels engaged in foreign trade constituted a valuable property right would seem to be indisputable. That the contract was legal and mutually binding will hardly be controverted. Acting upon the faith of the grant, the claimant Company and its predecessors in interest had laid out over $940,000 in United States currency in acquiring ships and preparing to do and perform the various services inci- dent to the business of a common carrier in those waters. In addition to promoting the commerce of the country and providing for the convenient movement of its inhabitants and their goods, and for the transportation of its troops and stores, the Venezuelan Government reserved to itself a distinct advantage, of which it has continuously availed itself, of having transported its officials, employees, troops and supplies at one-half of the ordinary tariff rates. That the concession was a valuable one is evidenced by the fact that during the years 1 899-1 901, although revolution was rife and the entire business of the country was much disturbed, the average net earnings of the Company's steamers plying the waters covered by said concession amounted to $56,578.95 per annum. That a sovereign nation is bound to indemnify foreigners for its failure to perform its contracts or to protect their property within its borders is settled in principle. Phillimore, Int. Law, vol. 2, p. 8. Martens, Droit des Gens, vol. 3, ch. 3, p. 299. " [P. 380, this volume. — Agent's note.] 476 APPENDIX. Wildman, Int. Law, 193. Woolsey, Int. Law, 38-112. Report United States and Venezuelan Mixed Commission, p. 297. Vattel, Book 2, ch. 8, sec. 104. Bluntschli, Int. Law Cod., sees. 386, 380. How much greater is the responsibiUty of a nation which de- liberately and without just cause destroys the property of such foreigners? That a contract right founded upon a consideration good in law to do a thing in the contract specified, is a property right is also settled — ^that a grant of a monopoly of navigation or of carriage for revenue or hire is a property right is equally clear. Article 691 of the Civil Code of Venezuela expressly recognizes and declares that a property right may rest in contract alone (por efecto de los contratos) , and as the concession or grant of a monopoly as here results from and rests in the contract of the parties to it, it seems certain that such a concession or grant is properly within the definition of Venezuelan municipal law, as it has repeatedly been declared to be by high tribunals administering International Law. See case of the Delagoa Bay Railway, 2 Moore Int. Arbitra- tions, pp. 1879 ^^ ^^1- "The Cheek Claim," Id., p. 1899. In the very recent case of the United States against the Re- public of San Salvador, respecting the claim of the Salvador Commercial Company usually referred to as the case of the "El Triunfo Company," the controversy had its origin in schemes to establish and devel^ a port on the Bay of Jiquilisco in the Re- public of San Salvador and the wrongful revocation by San Salvador of its concession for such purpose granted to the El Triunfo Company. The grantee's privileges were exclusive as to steam navigation of the port and the transhipment of passengers and merchandise exported through the port for the period of twenty-four years. The contract concession in that case contained many provisions similar to those of the contract concession in the . case here under consideration. The concessionaire Company en- tered upon the performance of its obligations as fixed by the terms of the concession, and conducted the business during the years 1895, 1896, and 1897, without however deriving any profit therefrom. During the first six months of 1898 the Company's receipts exceeded all losses and expenses of every kind by the sum RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. 477 of $17,000.00. Early in 1899 the President of San Salvador issued an edict closing the port against all importations, thus striking down and practically canceling and destroying the concession which that Government had theretofore granted. In the opinion of the umpire, Sir Henry Strong, concurred in by the American Commissioner Mr. Don M. Dickinson, it is said, that— "It is not the denial of justice by the courts alone which may form the basis for reclamation against a nation, according to the rules of international law. ' There can be no doubt,' says Halleck, ' that a state is responsible for the acts of its rulers, whether they belong to the legislative, executive, or judicial department of the government, so far as the acts are done in their official capacity.' "Said Mr. Fish to Minister Foster: 'Ji^stice may as much be denied when it would be absurd to seek it by judicial process as if denied after being so sought.' "Again, this is not a case of the despoliation of an American citizen by a private citizen of Salvador, on which, on appeal to the courts of Salvador, justice has been denied the American national, nor is it a case where the rules applying to that class of reclama- tions, so numerous in international controversies, have to do. This is a case where the parties are the American nationals, and the Government of Salvador itself as a party to the contract; and in this case, in dealing with the other party to the contract, the Government of Salvador is charged with having violated its premises [promises] and agreements by destroying what it agreed to give, what it did give, and what it was solemnly bound to protect. "So one of the most respected authorities in international law, l/cwis Cass, has laid down the undoubted rule and its exception, as broad as the rule, when he says that 'When citizens of the United States go to a foreign country, they go with an implied understanding ■ that they are to obey its laws and submit them- selves in good faith to its established tribunals. When they do business with its citizens, or make private contracts there, it is not to be expected that either their own or the foreign govern- ment is to be made a party to this business or these contracts, or will undertake to determine any dispute to which they give rise. * * * "'The case is widely different when the foreign government becomes itself a party to important contracts, and then not only fails to fulfill them, but capriciously annuls them, to the great loss of those who have invested their time, labor and capital in their reliance upon its good faith and justice.' "In any case, by the rule of natural justice obtaining univer- sally throughout the world wherever a legal system exists, 'the obligation of parties to a contract to appeal for judicial relief is reciprocal. If the Republic of Salvador, a party to the contract -■iff .^:. 478 APPENDIX. which involved the franchise to El Triunfo Company, had just ground for complaint that under its organic law the grantees had, by misuser or nonuser of the franchise granted, brought upon themselves the penalty of forfeiture of their rights under it, then the course of that Government should have been to have itself appealed to the courts against the company and there, by the due process of judicial proceedings, involving notice, full opportunity to be heard, consideration, and solemn judgment, have invoked and secured the remedy sought. "It is abhorrent to the sense of justice to say that one party to a contract, whether such party be a private individual, a mon- arch, or a government of any kind,, may arbitrarily, without hearing, and without impartial procedure of any sort, arrogate the right to condemn the other party to the contract, to pass judgment upon him and his acts, and to impose upon him the extreme penalty of forfeiture of all his rights under it, including his property, and his investment of capital made on the faith of that contract. "Before the arbitrament of natural justice all parties to a contract, as to their reciprocal rights and their reciprocal remedies, are of equal dignity and are equally entitled to invoke for their redress and for their defense the hearing and the judgment of an impartial and disinterested tribunal. "It follows that the Salvador Commercial Company and the other nationals of the United States who were shareholders in Bl Triunfo Company, as hereinbefore named, are entitled to com- pensation for the result of the destruction of the concession .and for the appropriation of such property as belonged to that com- pany * * *." The annulment by the Government of Venezuela of the con- cession contract in the case at bar, without notice to the other party to the contract and without affording it an opportunity to be heard, puts that government in the position of having destroyed the property of the claimant Company, and entitles it to receive by way of compensation therefor substantial damages. There can, we think, be but little question as to the amount of the damages suffered by the claimant in such respect. Whether we regard as a basis of computation the value assigned to the con- tract concession in the settlement of the Company's claims on May ID, 1900 whereby the extension of six years further time was secured, or whether we regard the evidence as to the earning capacity of the Company, in either event the amount claimed in the Memorial, viz: $1,209,701.05, is shown to be a fair and reason- able""estimate of the loss accruing to this Company by the unwar- ranted destruction of its property rights. In this connection, it RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 479 is interesting to observe that in the Bl Triunfo case above cited the umpire awarded to the claimant the sum of $750,000 as dam- ages for the annulment of its concession, although its invested capital approximated but a fourth of that outlaid by the present claimant, and its business, with the exception of a single period of a few months, had been done at a loss, while in the case at bar net earnings are shown averaging more than $56,000.00 per annum. As to the items of the third claim, we think there can also be no question as to the liability of the Venezuelan Government. Such of the items as are for passage, freight, etc. are expressly due under the terms of the contract, in accordance with the rate of tariff as fixed under that contract. That the Venezuelan Government is liable for the use of the vessels of the Company taken by it for its own use, and for damages to the vessels while in its possession, and for the necessary repairs which had to be made upon them in consequence thereof, and for stores and supplies taken from the company's ships by the military officers, and that it is equally liable for national imposts illegally levied, there can it would seem be no question. The amounts of the various items of claims on such accounts are fully and particularly set forth in the proofs in support thereof. In regard to the item of $61,336.20 claimed for wrongful dis- crimination against the Company by the consuls of the Venezuelan government in refusing to clear the Company's vessels for the Orinoco ports during the months of June to November 1902, inclu- sive, attention is invited to the typewritten copies of certificates of the Harbormaster at Port of Spain, Trinidad, from which it appears that notwithstanding the then existence of the so-called blockade of the Orinoco River and ports which was made the basis of the consuls' refusals to clear the claimant Company's steamers, said official or his vice-consul did clear for such ports on several oc- casions ships laden with general cargo belonging to other owners, viz., the " Ahanza" and the "Rescue," and further that thirteen hundred and seventy-five vessels of various sizes, all fiying the Venezuelan flag, and with a few exceptions in ballast all carrying general cargo, viz: cocoa, balata, gum, rubber, oxen, mules, horses, asses, goats, pigs, hides, and the like, entered the port of Port-of-Spain from various ports in Venezuela, including the Orinoco River ports, and practically the same number of said vessels left said port during said period laden with general pro- visions, hardware, drygoods, &c. &c. 48o APPENDIX. Unlawful discrimination by governments in the affairs of neutrals resulting in interruption of business and consequent loss of profits and receipts, affords a basis of reclamation and correspond- ing liability to answer for damages equally with other positive torts. There can be, from the facts of this case, no question that the Government of Venezuela is liable to the claimant upon each of the claims presented, and in the full amount claimed. Respectfully submitted, (Signed.) Robert C. Morris, Agent of the United States. Filed July 7th, 1903 Rudolph Dolge, Secretary on the Part of the U. S. BEFORE THE MIXED COMMISSION ORGANIZED UNDER THE PROTOCOL OF FEBRUARY 17, 1903, BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA. NO. 19. THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE ORINOCO STEAMSHIP COMPANY, CLAIMANT. VS. THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA. MOTION TO AMEND MEMORIAL. Now comes the United States on behalf of the Orinoco Steam- ship Company, claimant, by Robert C. Morris, their agent, and moves leave of this Honorable Commission to amend the Me- morial heretofore filed in the above-entitled claim in the fol- lowing particulars: # (i) On page six (6), in section numbered six (6), after the word "value" strike out the words "so acquired by your memori- alist," and insert in place thereof the words "theretofore owned by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited;" so that the same shall read as follows : — "6. Among other franchises and property rights of value there- tofore owned by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, was the exclusive right" &c. &c. (2) On page 25, in section 15, line 3, after the word "Limited" insert the following words "having theretofore fully performed the obUgations on its part required to be performed by and under said contract of June 8, 1894, and;" so that the same shall read as follows: — "15. Notwithstanding the promulgation of said executive decree of October 5, A. D. 1900, the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co., Limited, having theretofore fully performed the obligations on its part required to be performed by and under said contract of June 8, 1894, and with the object and purpose of" &c. &c. Robert C. Morris. Agent of the United States. 17301— 10 ^31 481 [ANSWER OF THE UNITED STATES OF VENEZUELA.] Piled July 14th 1903 Rudolf Dolge Secretary on the part of the U. S., J. Padron Uztariz. RECIvAMO NO. 19. THE ORINOCO STEAMSHIP CY. Honor ables Miembros d& la Comisidn Mixta Americano- Venezolana: El suscrito, Agente del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela, ha estudiado con la debida atencidn el expediente de la reclamacion de The Orinoco Steamship Company, y expone : Fiindase la reclamacion de The Orinoco Steamship Company en los derechos y acciones que le fueron traspasados por otra com- pania, inglesa, intitulada The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Com- pany Limited, compania esta que pretendia tener derecho d reclamar del Gobierno de Venezuela, por violacidn de contratos de que ella era cesionaria. Mis adelante expondremos lo que sea procedente respecto d ese traspaso y acerca de la calidad de ciudadano americano que quiere abrogarse la compania reclamante. En primer termino la simple admision de una reclamaci6n como la de que nos ocupamos, por la Comisidn, para ser decidida por ella, es un hecho que en si mismo choca abierta y ostensiblemente con las reglas que establece el Protocolo firmado en Washington el 17 de febrero de este ano, en virtud-del cual ha sido creada la Comision — En efecto, se estatuye en el referido Protocolo que las cuestiones que se sometan al Tribunal Internacional seran resueltas bajo las bases y de acuerdo con la mds absoluta equidad, y los Comisionados jiu-an decidir seglin esa regla; pues bien, de ese fundamento de equidad prescindiria por completo esta Comisidn al admitir, para decidirla, una cuestidn nacida entre partes ligadas por contratos celebrados con todas las formalidades de ley, oyendo s61o los alegatos y argumentos de una sola de las partes con- tratantes y privando d la otra de todos sus medios de defensa y de todas sus excepciones; y, no de otro modo procederia la Comisidn en el caso de admitir d decisidn el reclamo de la citada compania, puesto que, Venezuela, una de las partes contratantes y con los mismos derechos y acciones de su contraparte, no podria defenderse ante la Comisidn como podria hacerlo ante tm tribunal de derecho; y tanto es esto asi, que aun cuando Venezuela tiene 483 484 APPENDIX. muy procedentes reclamaciones que hacer a la Compania no puede hacerlas valer ante la Comisi6n que carece de jurisdicci6n para decidir esas cuestiones. Asi, pues, se favoreceria abierta y grandemente d una sola de las partes con menoscabo y perjuicio de los derechos de la otra : se acordaria previamente y sin conoci- miento de causa un mejor derecho y una situacion ventajosa a una sola de las partes privando a la otra de todos sus legitimes medios de defensa; y como se ve de la simple enunciacion de esas consideraciones, sin necesidad de ulterior demonstracion, tal situaci6n respectiva de las dos partes esta en abierta oposici6n ton los mds triviales principios de la equidad: para una de las partes facilidades, medios privilegiados de probanza y otras muchas ventajas, mientras que para la otra parte, privacidn de todos sus recursos legales ordinarios, desconocimiento previo de sus derechos e imposibilidad para hacer valer sus reconvenciones : Venezuela no puede reclamar ante la Comision Mixta los danos y perjuicios que pudiera acarrearle la falta de cumplimiento de los contratos que tenga celebrado con ciudadanos americanos. Asi, pues, bajo ese punto de vista la Comisi6n, procediendo de acuerdo con su regla fundamental, que es la mds estricta equidad, debe desechar esa reclamacion. Y, debe desechar tambien la reclamacidn aludida porque como los reclamantes fundan su reclamacion en contratos, que tienen celebrados con Venezuela, mejor dicho, contratos en los que ellos se han sustituido voluntaria y deliberadamente d ciudadanos venezolanos, hay que dejar sentado previamente si esos contratos son o no son vdlidos, y si lo son, pues lo son, en efecto, deben ser igualmente validas y obligatorias todas y cada una de su cMusulas : no se podrd desechar ninguna de esas cMusulas ni atribuir m& valor legal d unas que d otras; y por eso, asi como se atribuye pleno valor legal d las clausulas que invoca la compania reclamante para fundamentar su reclamacidn, asi mismo debe atribuirse pleno valor legal d las cldusulas de esos contratos en que el contratista — que ha sido sustituido hoy por terceros que han aceptado esos contratos en todas sus partes y conveUciones, voluntaria y delib- eradamente — se obliga d ocurrir d las autoridades de Venezuela para dirimir toda cuesti6n que se suscite entre las partes y d que esas cuestiones nunca podrdn ser motivo 6 causa de reclamaciones diplomaticas 6 internacionales. Asi, pues, si es vdlida la cMusula en que se apoya el reclamante y por la cual Venezuela se obliga d conceder al contratista el derecho de establecer una linea de RECORD OP CI,AIM NO. 1 9. 485 vapores entre Ciudad Bolivar y Maracaibo y A permitir al con- tratista el esclusivo uso de ella por determinado lapso de tiempo, es de todo punto eminetitemente justo, equitativo racional, que tambien tenga valor y sea obligatoria para las dos partes la con- vencidn que contiene la cMusula relativa d la autoridad que debe dirimir las cuestiones entre las partes; y entonces, es tambien eminentemente justo, equitativo, racional, indiscutible, que si ese contratista falta d, esa cMusula y pretenda dar d sus reclama- ciones un cardcter iriternacional y diplomdtico, si le obligue en virtud del mismo fundamento que el invoca, d que ocurra d las autoridades que ^1 mismo voluntaria y deliberadamente designd para dirimir las contraversias entre las partes contratantes. Asi pues, la Honorable Comisi6n faltarla d su base fundamental de absoluta equidad desde el momento en que aceptase que una de las partes contratantes violase de tan ostensible y arbitraria manera el contrato en que fundamenta sus pretensiones : la Co- misi6n, sin ning^in motivo racional, sin ningdn fundamento legal, prescindiria por completo de la equidad, si estimase como vdlidas s61o aquellas cMusulas del contrato que favorecen d la parte reclamante y anulase las otras que sirven de garantla d las dos partes, pues todas las convenciones contenidas en el contrato, que es la ley de las partes, son igualmente vdlidas y obligatorias para los dos contratantes. Por estas razones, que estdn al alcance del mds burdo entendimiento, razones que no solamente estdn en acuerdo perfecto con las legislaciones sancionadas en todos los paises cultos y civilizados, sino tambien con los principios mds elementales de la equidad y la justicia, la Honorable Comisidn debe desechar la reclamacidn de que se trata, pues con el solo hecho de la introduccion de ella, la parte reclamante viola de la manera mas flagrante el contrato en que pretende basar sus pre- tenciones. Seglin el Honorable Senor Agente del Gobierno de los Kstados Unidos de America, la reclamaci6n de The Orinoco Steamship Company contiene tres puntos, d saber: 1° El saldo de cien mil bolivares (B 100,000) que adeuda Vene- zuela d The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company Limited, por virtud de la transacci6n que en diez de mayo de 1.900 celebraron ambas partes contratantes y en la cual el Gobierno de Venezuela con doscientos mil bolivares (B 200,000) que debia recibir aquella compania pagd todos los reclamos que hasta aquella fecha y por todos respectos tenia la compaiiia contra el Gobierno; incluydn- dose en esa suma el pago de todos los servicios que la compania 486 APPENDIX. tuviera que prestar al Gobierno hasta el primero de julio de aquel ano. La compaiiia recibi6 en aquel acto cien mil bolivares (B 100,000) y los cien mil bolivares (B 100,000) restantes son los que ahora reclama la nueva companfa The Orinoco Steamship Company. Esta parte del reclamo es bastante objetable: en primer tdrmino, porque se ha sustituido un nuevo acreedor al anterior sin aviso y sin consentimiento del deudor y en crdditos que no scan a la orden su traspaso requiere la notificacion del deudor, requisito que aqioi se ha omitido porque Venezuela por esos cien mil bolivares no suscribio ninguna obligaci6n d la orden de su primitivo acreedor. Y, por otra parte, aunque ese credito de la primitiva compania consta de un documento que tiene pleno valor legal, no por eso esta extinguido ni renunciado el derecho que tenga Venezuela para cobrar las sumas que la primitiva com- pania le adeuda y oponerle la correspondiente compensaci6n; y ademds, la compania cesionaria se comprometid en el propio documento en que funda esa parte de su reclamacion 6. que toda cuestidn que pudiera suscitarse con ocasidn de ese convenio seria resuelta precisamente por los Tribunales de Venezuela y nunca podria dar margen a reclamaciones internacionales. Segfin lo expuesto esa parte del reclamo es improcedente, primero porque el Gobierno de Venezuela nada debe a The Orinoco Steamship Company; segundo, porque si el Gobierno adeuda algo por el respecto dicho d The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company hd. esta compania debe tambien a Venezuela sumas liquidas por otros varios respectos y es precise establecer la compensacidn d fin de saber, en definitiva, qui en es el acreedor y qui en el deudor; y tercero porque la compaiiia al celebrar aquella transaccidn se comprometi6 expresamente d someter toda diferencia d los Tribu- nales de Venezuela y desde el momento que ella desconoce esa convencidn capital, Venezuela tiene tambidn derecho d desconocer sus obHgaciones ya que se le niegan sus derechos. Tal resolucidn, es decir, la de que la Honorable Comisidn deseche esa parte de la reclamaci6n (caso de que apesar de las razones arriba expuestas, opte por conocer de ella) por las poderosas circunstancias alegadas todas ellas basadas en la equidad mds absoluta y evidente — se impone formalmente: 2° En segundo lugar funda la compania reclamante una parte de su reclamacidn en el hecho de que el Gobierno Nacional, por Resolucion de cinco de octubre de 1900 al abrir d la libre navega- ci6n los caiios Marcareo y Pedernales, anul6 de hecho la concesi6n que dice la compaiiia haber obtenido para la esclusiva nave- RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 487 gacidn por esos cafios. Tal fundamento es tambi^n improcedente en absolute, por que la resolucidn del Gobierno no ha danado, ni pudo danar en manera alguna, la concesi6n de la compania, pues, como 16 dicen los contratos fundamentales — y Mcilmente puede verse:j-es con fines por completo distintos y agenos i. las pretenciones actuales de la compania: los contratos dicen que la concesidn es para establecer una linea de vapores entre Ciudad Bolivar y Maracaibo, y el hecho de que el Gobierno de Venezuela, posteriormente, abra d la navegaci6n dos bocas del Orinoco antes cerradas (desde el ano de 1893), no puede perjudicar en manera alguna aquella concesi6n: la navegacidn del Orinoco es libre y no perjudica esa circunstancia a ninguna linea de vapores, ni a ningfin particular, antes bien, favorece d todas. — Las preten- ciones del reclamante, dl respecto de que nos ocupamos, son de todo punto inaceptables y absurdas e infundas: la concesidn de que trata el contrato es para el establecimiento de una linea de vapores entre Ciudad Bolivar y Maracaibo, lo que no implica, que solo quien tenga esa concesi6n tendrd el esclusivo derecho de navegar por el rio Orinoco: tal pretencion es un absurdo insostenible; y tanto mas, cuanto que la compania no ha tenido en actividad sus vapores. Al contratista, cuyos derechos fueron trasmitidos 6. The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Cy. Ld., Jamds se concedi6 la escljisiva navegacion por los canos Macareo y Pedernales, nada de eso: esos canos estaban cerrados para evitar el contrabando, desde el ano de 1893, y cuando se firm6 el contrato, en 1894, SE PERMIT16, . simplemente SE PERMIT16, al contratista, la navegacidn por ellos, y un permiso estd sumamente distante de ser lo mismo que lo que pretende hoy la compania que es el privilegio de navegacion exclusiva por los canos Macareo y Pedernales — Si basada en ese simple permiso pretende la compania tener privilegio exclusive de navegaci6n en el rIo Orinoco, tambi^n podria pretender la exclusiva nave- gacidn en la parte de mar que existe en el itinerario de Ciudad Bolivar i. Maracaibo: tan absurdo es lo uno como lo otro. Ese privilegio de navegacion exclusiva jamas lo ha concedido el Gobi- erno de Venezuela; no consta en el contrato ni nada en el lo hace presumir; es un absurdo en si mismo. Asl, por lo tanto, ese fundamento de la reclamacion debe ser desechado y testar lo relative d. el que contenga la reclamacion. 3 ° En cuanto al tercer fundamento de la reclamacion la compania The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company Limited, no la The Orinoco Steamship Company, tiene derecho al page de los ser- vicies que ha prestade al Gobierno de Venezuela; pere de acuerde 488 APPENDIX. con las tarifas especiales que entre ambos contratantes tienen acordadas. Dice la companla reclamante, para fundar su reclamo, que cuando en mayo de 1900 reclamd al Gobierno de Venezuela $532,996,85, se contentd con reducir esa suma a d*)scientos mil bolivares (B 200.000) porque se le prdrroga por seis anos mds su contrato de navegacidn, es decir, seis anos que comenzarian d correr el ocho de junio de 1909. En una palabra, la compania pretende que ella pag6 al Gobierno de Venezuela una suma, que se dedujo del monto de su reclamacidn, por la concesidn de la prdrroga por seis anos. Tal fundamento es absolutamente falso, pues como muy bien puede verse del documento de la transacci6n de diez de mayo de 1900, no figura en el apreciada la prdrroga en cantidad alguna ni en ninguna otra forma, y siendo el documento de la transacci6n el que contiene los fundamentos y resultas de aquel pacto, es claro que no debio omitirse un factor tan impor- tante; y asi, no puede alegar el reclamante esa consideracidn que no consta en parte alguna, ni es presumible que haya existido. No puede tampoco fundarse en la fortuita circunstancia de que la concesion de la prdrroga y la transaccidn tengan la misma fecha, pues basdndose en esa circunstancia, enteramente fortuita, podria tambien alegar que todos los actos del Gobierno en aquel dia estdn conexionados con la transaccion. ha resolucidn Ejecutiva que accordo la prdrroga de seis anos, tampoco contiene la circim- stancia que invoca la companla, ni hay en esa Resolucidn una palabra siquiera que haga presumir que la Compania pagd esa prdrroga, como ella lo pretende, ante bien la sujeta i. ciertas con- diciones que la Companla no ha cumplido. Asi pues, entre la transaccidn y la prdrroga no hay conexidn de ninguna especie y asi no puede la compania invocar como fundamento de su reclama- cidn que ella pagd al Gobierno una suma dada con el fin de que le fuese acordada esa prdrroga — La Resolucidn y la transaccidn no tienen conexidn alguna y no se les puede considerar ligados por el simple dicho de una parte interesada: en la transaccidn no hubo otras prestaciones que las que reza el documento que iu€ suscrito por las partes con ese motivo, y d ese documento que hace plena prueba entre las partes no puede ddrsele una extensidn mayor de la que en si mismo tenga. Es tambien absolutamente falso, como ya se deja demostrado, que los intereses de la compania hayan sufrido menoscabo por virtud de la Resolucidn Ejecutiva de cinco de octubre de 1900, pues, como se ha dicho, la libre navegacidn de los canos Macareo y RECORD OF ClyAIM NO. I9. 489 Pedernales en nada afecta sus derechos porque su concesidn no es para la exclusiva navegacion de dichos canos como ella lo pre- tende, si no para el establecimiento de una linea de vapores entre Civdad Bolivar y Maracaibo y simplemente SE ivE pErmite que navegue por los dichos canos. I^a circunstancia de que la compania concesionaria haya invertido, seglin afirma ella misma, la suma de $940,000 en sus buques y preparatives, no puede afectar en manera alguna al Gobierno de Venezuela, porque tales gastos los hizo la compania no por imposicidn del Gobierno sino porque seglin ella misma crey6 le convenia hacerlos, y los necesitaba para asegurar en lo posible el dxito de su empresa. Pueden muy bien haber sido hechos, esos gastos, por mal calculo; y,'seria entera- mente absurdo pretender que Venezuela, fuese A responder por las malas operaciones de terceros. Ahora, si llama bastante la atenci6n que esa inversion de fondos haya tenido lugar en 1900, cuando el contrato tenia ya seis anos de fecha, desde 1894; y eso quiere decir, cuando menos, que durante todo ese tiempo anterior el contratista no habia cumplido sus compromisos. l/SL compania pretende tambien haber dado exacto compli- miento d sus obligaciones y eso es absolutamente falso, pues hasta la fecha, como muy bien puede comprobarlo el Gobierno de Vene- zuela, jamas ha dado exacto y cabal cumplimiento d, sus obliga- ciones la citada Compania. Tambien se rechaza, de la manera mas formal y concluyente, la partida de $25,000 que dice la compania haber gastado en gestiones practicadas d, fin de obtener justicia, pues el Gobierno de Venezuela jamds se ha negado d cumplir sus obligaciones, aunque si es cierto que no ha debido ni podido en manera alguna aceptar como leyes para el, las absurdas pretenciones de la com- pania d la que siempre ha tratado de favorecer en todo lo posible. Tengo tambien que hacer una observacion que estimo muy procedente y es : que se pi tfenten originales todos los documentos d que se refiere la compania reclamante, pues las publicaciones que de ellos ha hecho la compania, no pueden ser aceptadas, desde el momento que Venezuela no ha intervenido en ella; esos docu- mentos deben presentarse originales para poder hacer todas las objeciones que su estudio amerite, pues las publicaciones que se han presentado d, la Comision no pueden equivaler a los documentos mismos; y, una vez por todas, Venezuela objeta esas publica- ciones y desconoce los documentos que en ella figuran como emana- dos de ella. Ahora bien; si se presentan los documentos originales los estudiard, y rechazara 6 acojerd los que deba rechazar 6 acojer. 490 APPENDIX. Si el Gobierno de los Estados Unidos hubiese, antes de acojar, esa reclamaci6n, tornado en cuenta todos y cada uno de los docu- mentos y antecedentes de ella, quizd habria rechazado totalmente la reclamacidn, como manifiesta haberlo hecho con alguno de las partidas que ella contenia. Ahora, en cuanto d lo que el Gobierno de Venezuela adeude a The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company Limited, por pasajes y otros servicios hay, en primer termino, que arreglarse entre ambas partes acerca de los precios de ciertos servicios que no estdn estipulados en las tarifas convenidas; por ejemplo, alquiler oflete de un vapor, porque desde luego se rechaza la estimacidn que hace el reclamante d razon de cien pesos diarios, porque esa es una fija- cion arbitraria, hecha por el, sin acuerdo de la otra parte, por si y ante si; y luego fijar cuales son los servicios que el Gobierno estd obligado d pagar. Luego que este todo eso acordado, determinado y fijado, hay que tomar en cuenta lo que la Companfa adeuda al Gobierno por diversos respectos d fin de hacer la compensacidn a ver quien, en definitiva, es acreedor y quien deudor. Hay tambien que advertir que en la partida del reclamo relativa a impuestos indebidamente pagados por la compania, seglin ella afirma, cuya partida monta d $19,571.34, en ella, es decir, en esa partida, hay comprendidos pagos que, seglin la misma compania, corresponden a los aiios 1898, 1899 y 1900; y, seglin la trans- accidn celebrada entre el Gobierno de Venezuela y la compania, esta, mediante aquel arreglo, nada, absolutamente nada, podria reclamar de Venezuela por causas anteriores a esa fecha, 10 de mayo de 1900, y, por consiguiente en la transaccion de esa fecha quedaron comprendidas algunas de las partidas que ahora reclama nuevemente, y, por tanto, esas partidas deben ser rechazadas. Ademds, es de oportunidad dejar sentado que Venezuela rechaza solemnemente, una vez por todas, las partidas de la reclamacidn que sean de un tiempo anterior al dlyz de mayo de 1900, pues todas las que la compania tenia 6 pudiera tener contra Venezuela quedaron cubiertas con esa citada transaccidn. Tambien es de oportunidad poner en conocimiento de la Honor- able Comisi6n que Venezuela tiene, de acuerdo con sus contratos, instaurado un juicio contra la compania por pago de danos y perjuicios provenientes de la falta de cumplimiento de los con- tratos, y como Venezuela tiene superabundancia de pruebas, es probable que la citada compania resulte debiendo d Venezuela mucho mds de lo que ella le reclama hoy tan injustamente. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 49 1 I/OS traspasos que The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, I/imited haya podido hacer d The Orinoco Steamship Company 6 d, cuales quiera otras personas en nada afectan d Venezuela, pues no han sido hechos de acuerdo con los contratos que dicha compania estd obUgada d cumpUr; y tambien, sin llenar las prescripciones de la ley. Ademds, en el supuesto negado de que fuesen vdlidos esos traspasos, tampoco afectarian d Venezuela, pues para el tiempo en que ocurrieron los hechos invocados como fundamento del reclamo The Orinoco Steamship Company no existia y no puede haber tenido derechos antes de haber existido ; para que fuera hoy patrocinada por los Estados Unidos de America serla precise, de acuerdo con las estipulaciones del Protocolo, que los perjuicios, caso de ser ciertos, hubieran sido sufridos por un ciudadano americano, no que los hubiera sufrido un tercero de nacionalidad distinta y luego los hubiera traspasado d un ciudadano americano: tal sistema es completamente opuesto d la equidad y al espiritu del Protocolo. Y no se valga que la antiqua compania haya manifestado al Gobierno de los Estados Unidos que las acciones que la cortiponian estaban poseidas en su mayor parte por ciudadanos americanos, pues la personalidad de la compania y la de los accionistas son completamente distintas y asi como los accionistas no pueden hacer valer las excepciones que se des- prendan de la personalidad juridica de la compania, tampoco esta puede prevalerse de las que se desprendan de la personalidad de los accionistas. Asl pues, ni antes ni despues puede ser con- siderada la compaflla The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company I/imited como una personahdad americana y por tanto debe ser rechazado el reclamo. Una gran parte de la enorme suma reclamada proviene de que la compania estima en $82,432,78 el rendimiento Hquido anual que dice ella deja de percibir durante los ocho afios, ocho meses y tres dias que faltan d su contrato para vencerse, pues ella dice que ese contrato fue anulado de hecho por la Resolucion Ejecutiva de cinco de octubre de 1900. A esto hay que objetar, en primer termino, que como ya se ha demostrado la Resolucion citada no ha anulado de hecho el contrato, pues en este jamds se ha con- cedido el privilegio exclusivo de navegacidn por los cafios Macareo y Pedernales, sino simplemente se permitio; y luego, que esa estimaci6n es enteramente arbitraria. Tambien reclama los seis anos de pr6rroga acordados por la resolucidn de 10 de mayo de 1900 d la misma rata de $82,432,78 y d este respeto, aun en el supuesto de que fuese aceptable la rata anual que se fija, la com- 492 APPENDIX. pania carece de derecho para cobrar esos seis afios, pues el Gobierno concedi6 esa pr6rroga sin prestacion alguna por parte de la cotti- pania, y si sometiendola A condiciones que la compaiiia no cumpli6, y por tanto retird esa concesion el dia en que se convencio de que la compania no cumplia; y, d, tal proceder tenia perfecto derecho, porque era una concesidn gratuita de su parte que en manera alguna podia obligarlo, y, menos aun, no habiendose cumplido las condiciones que impuso a su liberalidad. Asi pues, en ningfin caso podria reclamar la Compania por esos seis anos que le fueron retirados, pues el Gobierno hizo el retiro en la misma forma en que hizo la concesion, por si y ante si, el catorce de diciembre de 1 90 1, por Resolucidn Ejecutiva en que se enumeran las causas que la motivaron. Asi pues, esa parte del reclamo, es decir, la parte de el relativa a lo que la compania dice que dejard de ganar en los anos que le faltan, es completamente impertinente : De lo expuesto se deduce: 1° Que la simple admision del reclamo de The Orinoco Steamship Company, como cesionaria de The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company Limited, por virtud de un traspaso nulo, que no ha sido notificado ni aceptado por el Gobierno de Venezuela y hecho en contravencidn expresa con los contratos fundamentales — la simple admision del reclamo para ser decidido por la Honorable Comisidn Mixta Americano-Venezolana, ese simple hecho, es enteramente opuesto d la equidad, pues se trata de reclamaciones entre dos partes contratantes y se daria a una sola de ellas facilidades y favores de que se priva d la otra d quien se priva de sus legitimes medios de defensa, cuando seg^in la equidad ambas partes con- tratantes deben ser exactamente iguales en sus derechos y acciones y tener id^nticos medios de defensa; 2° Que si basdndose en sus contratos es que el reclamante funda- menta su reclamaci6n, como, seglin la equidad y las legislaciones de todos los paises, las cldusulas de un contrato celebrado con todas las formalidades de ley no pueden ser vdlidas unas y nulas otras, y como, el reclamante se basa en unas cldusulas de esos contratos y en ellos existen otras por las que estd obligado d ocurrir d los Tribunales de Venezuela para dirimir todas sus diferencias, es de equidad, de equidad absoluta, que no se deje d una de las partes violar abiertamente sus convenciones ; y por tanto, como ese reclamante al obtener el traspaso de esos contratos se oblig6 voluntaria y deliberadamente d someterse d los Tribunales de Venezuela, y d no ocurrir nunca d la via diplomdtica, debe, en RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 19. 493 equidad, y en justicia, obligdrsele a que cumpla lo pactado, y asi, debe ser desechada esa reclamaci6n cuya presentacion envuelve en si la mds flagrante violaci6n de los contratos en que se pretende apoyarla ; 3° Que los $19200 que reclamen la compania per saldo de la trans- acci6n de diez de mayo de 1900 deben compensarse con las sumas Uquidas que la compania adeuda 'd Venezuela por otros respectos ; y que mientras no se avengan las partes respectos de esas cuentas y mientras no se haga la debida compensacidn es imposible decidir qui^n es el acreedor y qui en es el deudor; 4° Que el fundamento que invoca el reclamante, diciendo que el Gobierno de Venezuela por Resolucidn Ejecutiva de cinco de octubre de 1900 rompio de hecho los contratos celebrados y menoscabd los derechos del reclamante, es un fundamento abso- lutamente falso e improcedente, pues el Gobierno de Venezuela jamds ha concedido a nadie el privilegio de exclusiva navegacion de los canos Macareo y Pedernales, sino que estando cerrados al ser- vicios esos canos desde 1893 permitid simplemente por el contrato de 1894 que se navegase por esos caiios que declar6 abiertos para todo el mundo en cinco de octubre de 1900. Asi pues, la com- pania nada ha podido sufrir por esa declaratoria, pues sus con- tratos no versan sobre privilegio de navegacidn por dichos canos sino para establecimiento de una linea de vapores entre Ciudad Bolivar y La Guaira; 5° Que la prdrroga de seis anos acordada a la compaiiia The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company I/imited, no fue concedida a esta compania mediante la prestacidn que ella dice haber hecho de rebajar una parte del reclamo que en mayo de 1900 habia introducido contra el Gobierno de Venezuela, sino le fue acordada sin prestacidn alguna de su parte, imponi^ndole si ciertas condi- ciones que al no ser cumplidas pusieron d Venezuela en el caso de suspender la concesidn, como lo hizo ; y en la misma forma en que: la otorgd, por Resolucidn Ejecutiva de 14 de diciembre de 1901. Asi pues, la compaiiia no puede reclamar absolutamente nada por el retiro de esa concesion, puesto que por culpa de ella le fue sus- pendida; y aunque asi no hubiese sucedido, el Gobierno tenia plenlsimo derecho para retirar esa concesidn que habia sido un acto de liberalidad de su parte. Ademds, aun en el caso de que estuviese vigente la prorroga de seis anos, la compaiiia The Orinoco Steamship Company nada podria reclamar por ese respecto, pues al hac^rsele la concesidn d, la compafiia The Orinoco Shipping & 494 APPENDIX. Trading Cy Ld., no se le confiri6 la facultad de traspasarla y par tanto es una concesidn inalienable ; 6° Que el Gobierno de 'Venezuela no puede tener responsabilidad de ninguna especie porque la compania haya hecho una inversidn de $940,000, pues tal hecho tuvo lugar sin intervencion de ningfin genero por parte de Venezuela, quien no debe responder en ningfin caso de semejante inversidn que pudo obedecer d, cdlculos md.s 6 menos fundados de la compaiiia; 7° Que si es de notar que semejante inversidn haya tenido lugar despues de siete anos de estar en vigencia los contratos, y que ello prueba que esos contratos no habian sido cumplidos en manera alguna; 8° Que respecto de la suma que cobra el reclamante por pasajes y otros servicios hay que acordarse primero respecto d los pasajes que realmente debe pagar el Gobierno, y luego, entrar en la com- pensaci6n de que antes se habl6; haciendo tatnbien notar que los cien pesos diarios que cobra el reclamante como alquiler de sus buques al servicio del Gobierno, es una fijacion enteramente arbi- traria, pues esa fijacion debe hacerse de mdtuo acuerdo. 9° Que entre la transaccidn de 10 de mayo de 1900 y la Resolu- ci6n Ejecutiva de aquella misma fecha no hay conexi6n de nin- guna especie como lo pretende el reclamante alegando que la pr6- rroga fue acordada porque siendo su reclamo para aquella fecha de $532,996,85, lo redujo d B200.000 porque se t6m6 en cuenta que la empresa debia producir en cada aiio cierta ^cantidad y se establecio entonces una compensaci6n; que tal convencidn ha debido figurar en la transacci6n y no figura; y que la conexidn de esa naturaleza que dice existir el reclamante entre ambos actos del Gobierno no puede deducirse de una simple coincidencia en le fecha de ambos documentos; 10° Que la estimaci6n que el reclamante hace de los anos que le faltan al contrato para su t^rmino y por los que cobra una suma dada al Gobierno en cada afio, es completamente improcedente 6 infundada porque el Gobierno no ha faltado en manera alguna d sus compromisos y por consiguiente no tiene obligacidn de responder d la Compania por el respecto indicado; y que, en el caso negado, de que tuviera que responder la fijaci6n de esos per- juicios no corresponde en manera alguna d la parte interesada; que el Gobierno rechaza desde luego esa estimacidn en si misma por ser completamente infundada, y luego por ser arbitraria la fijacidn; y en cuanto d lo que por el mismo respecto reclama con relacidn d los seis anos de la prdrroga los rechaza en absolute. RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 1 9. 495 tanto porque la reclatnacidn en si misma es infundada e improse- dente por las mismas razones porque lo es la relativa i. los anos que faltdn para el termino natural del contrato, cuanto porque esa pr6rroga, en todo caso, fue retirada por el Gobierno de Vene- zuela en debida forma y con sobrado fundamento ; 11° Que los traspasos que la compania The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company Limited dice haber hecho d. The Orinoco Steamship Company son completamente nulos y Venezuela los rechaza desde luego, porque estdn hechos en contraposicidn con las convenciones que la primera companla ateptd voluntaria y deliberadamente ; porque no han sido oportunamente notificados y porque carecen de todas las formalidades que, en general requie- ren actos semej antes; 12° Que los documentos deben ser presentados originales para poder hacer el estudio que ellos merecen, pues las publicaciones producidas han sido hechas por la parte interesada sin el control y vigilancia de autoridad alguna; y que d este respecto Venezuela se reserva rechazar 6 admitir, despties del examen de los docu- mentos originales, los que consider e procedentes; 13 Que aunque fuese vdlido el traspaso invocado como los per- juicios tuvieron lugar, caso de ser cierto', antes de haber estado constituida la Companla, no pudo sufrirlo un ciudadano ameri- cano, y asi, la reclamacidn no esta dentro de los terminos estable- cidos en el Protocolo ; y, por otra parte, que tampoco puede invo- carse que el 99% de las acciones estaba poseido por ciudadanos americanos, porque la personalidad juridica de los accionistas para nada influye en la personalidad juridica de la companla, que es un ente moral aparte, ni viceversa, y por tanto esa circumstancia no puede ser invocada y tanto mds cuanto que es inverificable; 14° Que la partida de $25,000 por gastos para obtener justicia es tambien Techazada en absolute por ser infundada € improcedente, pues Venezuela jamas se ha negado a satisfacer sua compromisos, aunque si es cierto que no ha aceptado, ni acepta, como leyes las imposiciones y pretenciones de los que han contratado con ella; 15° Que en la transaccidn de diez de mayo de 1900 quedaron incluidos todos los reclamos que la companla pudiera tener contra Venezuela, porque cualquier respecto anteriores [anterior] a aquella fecha; y que en el reclame actual aparecen partidas, entre otras la de por "impuestos y contribuciones indebidamente pagados," que son anteriores i. esa fecha; 16° Que Venezuela tiene tambien reclamaciones contra la com- panla y que con ese motivo cursa ante el Tribunal competente un juicio contra la Compania 496 APPENDIX. En sintesis, el Gobierno de Venezuela rechaza en todo y cada una de sus partes por las razones expuestas y por otras que se pro- mete exponer y hacer valer en su oportunidad, el reclamo de The Orinoco Steamship Company, de cuya existencia ha venido a tener una noticia indirecta en el mes de mayo de este ano, por una pub- licacion informe en la Gaceta Municipal. Y, quiere poner tambien en conocimiento de la Honorable Comision Mixta que esa com- pania The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company I^imited ha tomado participacion en los asuntos internos de la Nacion, como se comprueba del justificativo que produzco junto con algunas pub- licaciones; anadiendo que esa compania hasta la fecha, i. pesar de haber tenido la protecci6n mds decidida y eficaz, jamds ha cum- plido sus compromisos para con el Gobierno de Venezuela. Por todos los fundamentos alegados pido respetuosamente a la Hon- orable Comision Mixta Americano-Venezolana, se sirva desechar por injusto, ilegal e infundado el reclamo de The Orinoco Steamship Company, que se presenta como cesionaria de los derechos y acciones The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company Limited a quien quedan expedites los Tribunales de la Nacion para deducir sus derechos y a lo cual esta obligada por los contratos en que funda sus reclamaciones, los cuales acepto y se comprometio A observar voluntaria y deliberadamente. Caracas: 13 de Julio de 1.903. (firmado) F. Arroyo Parejo. [Translation.] [Claim no. 19. the Orinoco steamship company." [Honorable Members of the American-Venezuelan Mixed Commis- sion: [I, the undersigned, agent of the Government of the United States of Venezuela, have studied with due care the documents in the claim of the Orinoco Steamship Company and make the following statement: [The claim of the Orinoco Steamship Company is based on the rights and actions which were transferred to it by another, an English Company, styled The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, which latter Company assumed to have the right to claim against the Venezuelan Government for breach of o [No English translation was filed before the Mixed Commission. The translation appearing in the report of Mr. Morris, agent of the United States before the Mixed Commission of 1903, has been recast owing to inaccuracies. — Agent's note.] RECORD OP CIvAIM NO. 19. 497 contracts of which it was the cessionary. We shall set forth here- inafter whatever may be relevant in respect to that transfer and in regard to the American citizenship which the claimant Com- pany seeks to claim for itself. [In the first place, the mere admission by the Commission, for its decision, of a claim like that with which we are dealing is an act which in itself clashes openly and flagrantly with the rules established by the Protocol signed in Washington the 17th of February of this year, by virtue of which the Commission was created. As a matter of fact, the Protocol referred to stipulates that the questions to be submitted to the International Tribunal shall be decided on the basis of and in accordance with the most absolute equity, and the Commissioners swear to decide accord- ing to this rule; now, the Commission would be departing entirely from that basis of equity if it should admit for its decision a ques- tion arising between parties bound by contracts concluded with all the formalities of law, hearing only the allegations and argu- ments of a single one of the contracting parties and depriving the other of all its means of defense and of all its pleas; and in no other way would the Commission be proceeding if it should admit for decision the claim of the said Company, because Vene- zuela, one of the contracting parties, having the same rights and actions as its adversary, could not defend itself before the Com- mission as it could before a Court of Law; and so much is this a fact, that although Venezuela has very valid claims to make against the Company, it can not substantiate them before the Commission, which lacks jurisdiction to determine these questions. Therefore, a single one of the parties would be favored openly and greatly to the detriment and injury of the rights of the other; there would be granted in advance, without trial of the case, a better right and a more advantageous situation to one only of the parties, depriving the other of all its legitimate means of defense; and as may be seen by the mere presentation of these considerations, without the need of further demonstration, such a respective situation of the two parties is in open opposition to the most simple principles of equity; for one of the parties there would be facilities, privileged means of furnishing evidence, and many other advantages, while for the other party there would be a deprivation of all its ordinary legal remedies, disregard of its rights in advance, and the impossibihty of supporting its charges : Venezuela can not claim damages before the Mixed Commission for losses and injuries which may be caused her by lack of com- 1730'— 10 32 49^ APPENDIX. pliance with contracts which she has concluded with American citizens. Thus, from this point of view the Commission, proceed- ing in accordance with its fundamental rule, which is the strictest equity, should reject this claim. [And the said claim should also be set aside because, as the claimants base their claim on contracts which they have con- cluded with Venezuela, or rather, contracts in which they have substituted themselves voluntarily and deliberately for Vene- zuelan citizens, it must be determined in advance whether those contracts are valid or not, and if they are valid, as in fact they are, all and every one of their clauses must be equally valid and binding: none of these clauses can be set aside nor greater legal force be attributed to one than to another; and therefore, just as full legal force is attributed to the clauses which the claimant Company invokes on which to base its claim, so also should full legal force be attributed to the clauses of those contracts in which the contractor — who has now been superseded by third parties who have accepted those contracts in all their parts and provisions, voluntarily and deliberately — obligates himself to have recourse to the Venezuelan authorities for the adjustment of every question which may arise between the parties, and agrees that these questions can never be the motive or occasion of diplomatic or international claims. Therefore, if the clause is vaUd on which the claimant supports himself and by which Vene- zuela obhgates herself to grant to the contractor the right to estab- lish a Kne of steamers between Ciudad BoUvar and Maracaibo and to allow the contractor the exclusive use thereof for a fixed period of time, it is in all respects eminently just, equitable, and reasonable that the provision contained in the clause relative to the authority who is to adjust questions between the parties should also be valid and binding with respect to both parties ; and then, it is also eminently just, equitable, reasonable, and indis- putable that if said contractor violates this clause and seeks to give an international and diplomatic character to his claims, he should be obliged, by virtue of the same grounds which he in- vokes, to have recourse to the authorities whom he himself volun- tarily and deliberately designated for the adjustment of contro- versies between the contracting parties. Therefore, the Honor- able Commission would be departing from its fundamental basis of absolute equity the moment it permitted one of the contract- ing parties to violate in so flagrant and arbitrary a manner the contract on which it bases its contentions; the Commission, with RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 499 no reasonable motive, with no legal grounds, would be cotnpletely departing from equity if it should consider valid only those clauses of the contract which favor the claimant party and annul those which serve as a guaranty to both parties, since all the provisions contained in the contract, which is the law of the parties, are equally valid and binding with respect to both the contracting parties. For these reasons, which are within the grasp of the most ordinary intelligence and are not only in perfect accord with the legislation in force in all cultured and civilized countries but also with the most elementary principles of equity and jus- tice, the Honorable Commission should reject the claim in ques- tion, for by the mere act of presenting it the claimant party violates in the most flagrant manner the contract on which he seeks to base his contention. [According to the Honorable Agent of the Government of the United States of America, the claim of the Orinoco Steamship Company consists of three items or arguments, to wit: [i. A balance of 100,000 bolivars which Venezuela owes to the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, I^imited, b}?^ virtue of the compromise concluded between the two contracting parties on May 10, 1900, under which the Venezuelan Government was to pay 200,000 bolivars as the amount which said Company was to receive in settlement of all the claims which it had against the Government up to that date on any account, this amount includ- ing payment for all services which the Company might have to render to the Government up to July i of that year. The Com- pany received on that occasion one hundred thousand bolivars (B. 100,000), and the remaining one hundred thousand bolivars (B.I 00 ,000) are those which the new Company, the Orinoco Steam- ship Company, now demands. This part of the claim is very objectionable, in the first place, because a new creditor has been substituted for the former one without notice to and without the consent of the debtor, and in claims which are not payable to order, notification to the debtor is necessary for their transfer, which requisite has here been omitted, because Venezuela did not subscribe to any obligation to the order of its original creditor for those one hundred thousand bolivars. And, on the other hand, although this claim of the original Company is evidenced by a document which has full legal force, nevertheless the right which Venezuela has to collect the amounts which the original Company owes her and to find the proper balance is neither extinguished nor renounced; and furthermore, the cessionary Company agreed 500 APPENDIX. in the very document on which it bases this part of its claim that every question which might arise in connection with said com- promise should be decided by the Courts of Venezuela and could never give rise to international claims. According to what has been set forth, this part of the claim is not admissible, firstly because the Government owes nothing to the Orinoco Steamship Company; secondly because, if the Government owes anything on said account to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd., the latter also owes sums of money to Venezuela on various other accounts and it is necessary to strike a balance in order to ascer- tain definitely which is creditor and which debtor; and thirdly because .the Company, in concluding the aforesaid compromise, expressly agreed to submit all differences to the courts of Vene- zuela, and the moment it ignores this important agreement Vene- zuela also has a right to ignore her obligations, since her rights are denied. Such a decision, that is, a decision that the Honor- able Commission should reject this part of the claim (in the event that it should decide to take cognizance thereof in spite of the reasons above set forth) is absolutely imperative owing to the weighty circumstances alleged, all of which are based on the most absolute and evident equity. [2. In the second place, the claimant Company bases a part of its claim on the fact that the National Government, by Resolution of October 5, 1900, in opening up the Macareo and Pedernales channels to free navigation, really annulled the Concession which the Company claims to have obtained for the exclusive navigation of those channels. This argument is also absolutely inadmissible, because the Resolution of the Government has not injured and could not injure in any manner the Concession of the Company, for, as set forth in the fundamental contracts — and as may readily be seen — the purposes of that Concession are entirely distinct and foreign to the present claims of the Company : the contracts state that the concession is for the establishment of a line of steamers between Ciudad Bolivar and Maracaibo, and the fact that the Gov- ernment of Venezuela should subsequently open up to navigation two mouths of the Orinoco previously closed (since the year 1 893) , can not injure that Concession in any manner: the navigation of the Orinoco is free and that circumstance does not injure any line of steamers nor any individual, but rather favors all. The con- tentions of the claimant in this regard are in every way inadmissible, absurd, and unfounded: the Concession of which the contract treats is for the establishment of a line of steamers between Ciudad Bolivar RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 5OI and Maracaibo, which does not imply that only the holder of that Concession shall have the exclusive right to navigate in the Orinoco River: such a pretension is an untenable absurdity; and all the more so because the Company has not had its steamers in service. The contractor, whose rights were transferred to The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd., was never granted the exclusive navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales channels, nor anything of the sort: these channels had been closed since 1893 in order to prevent smuggling, and when the contract was signed in 1894 the contractor was permitted, simply permitted, to navigate them, and a permission is very far from being the same as what the Company now claims, viz, the privilege of exclusive navigation by the Macareo and Pedernales channels. If, on the basis of this simple permission, the Company claims to have the exclusive privilege of navigation in the Orinoco River, it might also claim the exclusive navigation in that part of the sea which lies in the route from Ciudad Bolivar to Maracaibo : one thing is as absurd as the other. The privilege of exclusive navigation was never granted by the Government of Venezuela; it is not mentioned in the contract nor does anything therein cause it to be inferred; it is an absurdity in itself. There- fore, this argument in support of the claim should be rejected and everything contained in the latter relative thereto should be stricken out. [3. As' regards the third argument in support of the claim, it is the Orinoco Shipping Sz; Trading Co. Ltd. and not the Orinoco Steamship Company that is entitled to payment for the services which it rendered to the Government of Venezuela, and this in accordance with the special schedules of rates which were agreed upon between the two contracting parties. [The claimant Company states, in support of its claim, that when it demanded $532,996.85 from the Venezuelan Government in May, 1900, it acquiesced in reducing this amount to two hundred thousand bolivars (B. 200,000) because its navigation contract was extended for six years more, that is to say, for six years beginning June 8, 1909. In a word, the Company claims that it paid the Venezuelan Government a sum, which was deducted from the amount of its claim, in consideration of the granting of the six years' extension. This contention is absolutely false, for, as may be very well seen from the compromise of May 10, 1900, the ex- tension does not figure therein as being estimated at any amount or in any other manner, and as all the premises and conclusions of said compromise were embodied in the document in which it was 502 APPENDIX. (kawn up, it is obvious that so important a factor could not have been omitted; therefore, the claimant can not invoke this circum- stance, which is nowhere substantiated and which can not be presumed to have existed. Neither can he rely on the casual in- cident that the date of the granting of the extension and that of the compromise coincide, for if he were to invoke this entirely fortuitous circumstance he might also allege that all the acts performed by the Government on that day were connected with the compromise. The Executive Resolution which granted the 6-year extension also fails to substantiate the circumstance which the Company invokes, nor does it contain even a word from which it might be inferred that the Company paid for the extension, as it pretends, but on the contrary it makes the extension subject to certain conditions which the Company has not fulfilled. Therefore, there is no connection of any sort between the compromise and the extension, and so the Company can not assert, in support of its claim that it paid the Government a sum of money for the pur- pose of having said extension granted to it. There is no connection whatever between the Resolution and the compromise, and they can not be considered as being connected by reason of the mere statement of one of the interested parties: in the compromise there were no other grants than those recited by the document subscribed to by the parties on that occasion, and that document which constitutes perfect evidence between the parties, can not be given a broader purport than that which it has in itself. [It is also absolutely false, as has already been demonstrated, that the interests of the Company have suffered detriment in conse- quence of the Executive Resolution of October 5, 1900, for, as has been said, the free navigation of the Macareo and Pedemales channels does not in any way affect its rights, because its Con- cession is not for the exclusive navigation of said channels, as it pretends, but for the establishment of a line of steamers between Ciudad Bolivar and Maracaibo, and it is simply permitted to navigate in the said channels. The circumstance that the cessionary Company has invested, as it affirms itself, the sum of $940,000 in its vessels and preliminary works, can not in any manner affect the Government of Venezuela, because the Company did not make these expenditmes by order of the Government, but because it deemed it advisable itself to do so, and because it had to make them in order to insure as far as possible the success of its enterprise. These expenditures may very likely have been made by miscalculation, and it would be wholly absurd to pre- RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 503 tend that Venezuela should be held responsible for the bad trans- actions of third parties. Now, it is certainly a noteworthy fact that this investment of funds took place in 1900, when the con- tract had already existed six years, that is, since 1894, and this shows at least that the contractor had failed to fulfill his obUga- tions during the whole time previous. The Company also claims to have strictly performed its obliga- tions, and this is absolutely false, for up to date, as the Govern- ment of Venezuela can very well prove, the said Company has never exactly and fully complied with its obligations. [The item of $25,000 which the Company claims to have expended in efforts made for the purpose of obtaining justice, is also most positively and conclusively rejected for the Government of Vene- zuela has never refused to fulfill its obligations, although it is true that it was not in duty bound and could not by any means accept as laws for its guidance the absurd claims of the Company, which it has always sought to favor in every possible way. [I have also to make an observation which I consider very much in order, and that is that all the documents to which the claimant Company refers should be presented in the originals, since the printed copies which the Company has made of them can not be accepted for the reason that Venezuela took no part in publishing them. These documents should be presented in the originals in order that all objections may be made to which an examination thereof may give rise, for the printed copies which have been pre- sented to the Commission can not be equivalent to documents themselves; and, once for all, Venezuela objects to these publica- tions, and disavows the documents which appear therein as ema- nating from her. If the documents are presented in the originals Venezuela will investigate them and reject or accept those which should be rejected or accepted. [If the Government of the United States had taken into account all and every one of the documents and facts before taking up this claim, perhaps it would have rejected the claim totally, as it de- clares to have done with respect to certain of the items which it contained. Now, in regard to what the Government of Venezuela may be owing to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. for passages and other services, it is necessary in the first place that an agreement be reached between both parties as to the prices for certain services which are not stipulated in the schedules agreed upon ; for example, the lease or charter of a steamer, for the com- putation which the claimant makes on the basis of one htmdred 504 APPENDIX. pesos per diem is rejected right now for the reason that it is an arbitrary valuation made by himself alone without the consent of the other party; and then it must be determined what are the services which the Government is obliged to pay for. When all this shall have been agreed upon, determined, and established, it will still remain to take into account what the Company owes to the Government on various accounts, in order to strike a balance and to determine definitely which is creditor and which debtor. [It is also to be observed that, in the item of the claim relative to imposts alleged by the Company to have been unduly paid by it (which item amounts to $19,571.34), there are included 'pay- ments which, according to the Company itself, belong to the years 1898, 1899, 3-^^ 1900; and according to the compromise concluded between the Government of Venezuela and the Company, the latter could claim nothing, absolutely nothing from Venezuela, by virtue of that arrangement on account of events prior to its date, viz, May 10, 1900; and inasmuch as these were included in the compromise of that date certain of the items which it now claims anew, these items should be rejected. Moreover, it is opportune to state that Venezuela solemnly rejects, once for all, all items of the claim which belong to a period prior to May 10, 1900, because all those which the Company had or could have had against Venezuela were covered by the said compromise. [It is also a fitting time to bring to the knowledge of the Hon- orable Commission that Venezuela has, in accordance with her contracts, entered an action against the Company for the pay- ment of damages for losses and injuries arising from the failure to comply with the contracts, and as Venezuela has a superabundance of proofs, it is probable that the said Company will be found to be owing Venezuela much more than that which it so unjustly claims today. [The transfers which the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Ltd. may have made to the Orinoco Steamship Company or to any other persons do not affect Venezuela in any way, for they were not made in accordance with the contracts which said Company is obUged to carry out; furthermore, (they were made) without having fulfilled the requirements of law. Moreover, under the supposition (which is denied) that those transfers were valid, they would also not affect Venezuela, as at the time when the acts occurred which are invoked as a basis of the claim the' Orinoco Steamship Company did not exist and it could not have had any rights before coming into existence: in order that it might be pro- RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. 19. 505 tected today by the United States of America it would be necessary in accordance with the stipulations of the Protocol, that the in- juries, in the event of being real, should have been suffered by an American citizen, not that they should have been suffered by a third party of different Nationality who later transferred them to an American citizen: such a proceeding is completely opposed to equity and to the spirit of the Protocol. And it avails nothing that the former Company should have stated to the Government of the United States that the stock of the Company was held for the most part by American citizens, because the personality of the Company and that of the stockholders are entirely distinct, and just as the stockholders can not avail themselves of pleas derived from the juridical personality of the Company, so also can the latter not avail itself of those which may be deduced from the personality of the stockholders. Thus, therefore, neither first nor last can the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. be regarded as an American personality, and consequently the claim should be rejected. [A great part of the enormous sum claimed arises from the fact that the Company estimates at $82,432.78 the net annual income which it claims to have failed to receive during the eight years, eight months, and three days which remain before its contract ex- pires, because it says that this contract was annulled in fact by the Executive Resolution of October 5, 1900. To this it must be ob- jected, in the first place, that, as has already been shown, the said Resolution did not in fact annul the contract, because the exclusive privilege of navigation in the Marcareo and Pedernales channels was never granted therein, this having been merely permitted; and further, that the estimate is entirely arbitrary. It also claims at the same rate of $82,432.78 for the six years extension granted by the Resolution of May 10, 1900, and in this respect, even under the supposition that the annual rate which it fixes should be accepted, the Company lacks the right to charge for those six years, because the Government granted that extension without any corresponding compensation on the part of the Company, but subjecting the latter to conditions which it did not fulfill, and consequently it withdrew that extension on the day when it became convinced that the Com- pany was not fulfilUng the conditions: and it had a perfect right to do this because it was a gratuitous grant on its part which could in no way bind it, and much less when the conditions under which it bestowed its liberality were not complied with. Therefore, the Company could in no case claim for those six years which were 506 APPENDIX. withdrawn from it, because the Government revoked the exten- sion in the same manner in which it had granted it, viz, of its own accord, on the fourteenth of December, 1900, by Executive Reso- lution in which are enumerated the reasons which actuated it. Thus, then, that part of the claim, that is to say, the part relative to that which the Company claims to have failed to earn during the years which remain to it, is entirely irrelevant. [From what has been set forth it may be deduced : [i. That the mere admission of the claim of the Orinoco Steam- ship Company, as cessionary of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company Ltd. by virtue of a void transfer which has not been notified to nor accepted by the Government of Venezuela and which was made in express contravention of the fundamental con- tracts — the mere admission of the claim for decision by the Hon- orable American- Venezuelan Mixed Commission, — this mere act is entirely opposed to equity, for it is a question of claims between two contracting parties, and this would be giving to a single one of them facilities and favors which are denied the other, which is de- prived of its lawful means of defense, when according to equity both contracting parties should be exactly equal in their rights and actions and have identical means of defense; [2. That if it is on the basis of his contracts that the claimant founds his claim, then, inasmuch as the clauses of a contract con- cluded with all the formalities of law can not, according to equity and the legislation of all countries, be some of them valid and others void, and inasmuch as the claimant bases himself on cer- tain clauses of the contracts while there are other clauses of the contracts by which he is obliged to have recourse to the Courts of Venezuela for the adjustment of all his differences, it is abso- lutely equitable that it should not be left to one of the parties openly to violate his agreement, and therefore, as this claimant on obtaining the transfer of said contracts voluntarily and deUb- erately bound himself to submit to the Courts of Venezuela and never to have recourse to diplomatic channels, he should in equity and in justice be compelled to comply with the compact, and consequently the aforesaid claim should be set aside, for the presen- tation thereof involves in itself the most flagrant violation of the contracts on which it is claimed to be based; [3. That the $19,200 which the Company claims as the balance due under the compromise of May 10, 1900, should have set against them the sums which the Company owes to Venezuela on RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9 507 other accounts and that as long as the parties do not agree in regard to these accounts and as long as the proper balancing thereof is not effected, it is impossible to determine which is the creditor and which is the debtor; [4. That the grounds which the claimant invokes, in saying that the Government of Venezuela, by Executive Resolution of Octo- ber 5, 1900, in fact broke the contracts concluded and impaired the rights of the claimant, are absolutely false and inadmissible, because the Government of Venezuela has never conceded to anybody the privilege of exclusive navigation by the Macareo and Pedernales channels, but on the contrary, those channels having been closed since 1893, it simply permitted by the contract of 1894 that navigation might be carried on through those channels, which it declared open to all the world on October 5, 1900. There- fore, the Company can not have suffered in any way from that declaration, because its contracts do not relate to privileges of navigation through said channels, but to the establishment of a line of steamers between Ciudad Bolivar and La Guaira; [5. That the extension of six years granted to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. was not granted to said Company in consideration of the payment which it claims to have made by deducting a part of the claim which it had filed against the Vene- zuelan Government in May, 1900, but the extension was granted to it without any payment on its part, while imposing upon it certain conditions the failure to fulfill which warranted Venezuela in suspending the extension, as it did, in the same manner in which it had granted it, viz, by Executive Resolution of Decem- ber 14, 1 90 1. Therefore the Company can claim absolutely nothing on account of the withdrawal of that Concession, since it was through its own fault that it was suspended; and even if this had not been the case, the Government had the fullest right to withdraw that Concession, which had been an act of liberality on its part. Moreover, even if the 6-year extension were in force, the Orinoco Steamship Company could not claim anything on this account, for in granting the Concession to the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co. Ltd. the privilege to transfer it was not granted to the Company and consequently it is an inalienable Concession; [6. That the Government of Venezuela can not be responsible in any way because the Company may have made an investment of $940,000, since such action took place without any participation whatever on the part of Venezuela, which should not be liable in 508 APPENDIX. any case for such an investment, as the latter was probably based on more or less well grounded calculations of the Company; [7. That it is to be noted that this investment took place after the contract had been in force for seven years, which proves that the contracts had not been fulfilled by any means; [8. That in respect to the amount which the claimant charges for passages and other services, it will be first necessary to come to an agreement in regard to the passages for which the Govern- ment really should pay, and afterwards, to strike the balance that has already been spoken of; at the same time taking note that the hundred pesos per diem which the claimant charges for the lease of its vessels in the service of the Government is an entirely arbitrary valuation, since that valuation should be made by mutual agreement; [9. That there is no connection whatever between the transac- tion of May 10, 1900, and the Executive Resolution of the same date, as is contended by the claimant, who alleges that the exten- sion was granted because his claim, which amounted to $532,996.85 on that date, was reduced by him to 200,000 boHvars in view of the fact that the Company ought to produce a certain amount each year, an equivalent having been then and there determined upon; that this agreement should appear in the compromise, which it does not; and that a connection of this natiure which the claimant alleges to exist between the two acts of the Government can not be deduced from a simple coincidence in the date of the two documents; [10. That the estimate which the claimant makes for the years which still remain before the termination of the contract and for which he charges the Government a given sum per aimum, is entirely out of order and unfounded, because the Government has not failed in any manner to fulfill its agreements, and conse- quently is under no obUgation to answer to the Company in the particular indicated; and that in the event, which is denied, that it should so have to answer, the appraisement of these damages is not in any manner the province of the interested party; that the Government rejects that estimate in itself right now as being entirely unfounded, and further because the appraisement is arbitrary; and in regard to what is claimed in the same way with respect to the six years of the extension, it rejects it absolutely, not only because the claim is in itself unfounded and out of order for the same reasons that are advanced relative to the years which are to elapse before the natural termination of the contract. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 509 but because that extension was at all events withdrawn by the Government of Venezuela in due form and for more than suffi- cient cause; [11. That the transfers which the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. claims to have made to the Orinoco Steamship Company are completely void, and Venezuela rejects them right now be- cause they were made in violation of the agreements which the first Company accepted voluntarily and deliberately ; because they have not been opportunely notified, and because they lack all the formalities which in general similar acts require; [12. That the documents should be presented in the originals in order that the proper examination might be made of them, since the printed copies produced were made by the interested party without the verification and supervision of any authority; and that in this respect Venezuela reserves the right to reject or to admit, after an examination of the original documents, those which it may consider deserving of such action ; [13. That even if the transfer invoked were valid, nevertheless, as the injuries, even if they actually exist, occurred before the Company was created, they could not have been suffered by an American citizen, and consequently the claim is not within the provisions of the Protocol; and, on the other hand, neither can the fact be invoked that 99% of the capital stock was held by American citizens, because the juridical personality of the share- holders does not influence in any way the juridical personality of the Company, which is a separate moral entity, nor vice versa, and therefore that circumstance can not be invoked and so much the less in that it is unverifiable; [14. That the item of $25,000 for expenses in seeking justice is also rejected absolutely as being unfounded and out of order, because Venezuela has never refused to satisfy her obligations, although it is indeed true that she has not accepted, and does not accept, as laws the impositions and pretensions of those who have entered into contracts with her ; [15. That in the Compromise of May 10, 1900, all the claims were included which the Company might have had against Vene- zuela on any account prior to that date; and that items appear in the present claim which are prior to that date, among others being that of "imposts and taxes unduly paid. " [16. That Venezuela also has claims against the Company and that an action is pending on this account before the competent court against the Company. 5IO APPENDIX. [To sum up, the Government of Venezuela rejects in all and every one of its parts, for the reasons set forth and for others which it promises to set forth and substantiate at the proper time, the claim of the Orinoco Steamship Company, of whose existence it received indirect notice, in the month of May of this year, through an informal publication in the Gaceta Municipal. It also wishes to bring to the knowledge of the Honorable Mixed Commission that the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. has taken part in the internal affairs of the Nation, as is proven by the evidence which I produce together with sundry publications; and I will add that this Company up to date, in spite of having received the most decided and efficacious protection, has never fulfilled its obligations to the Government of Venezuela. On all the grounds alleged I respectfully ask of the Honorable Amer- ican-Venezuelan Mixed Commission that it may be pleased to set aside as unjust, illegal, and unfounded the claim of the Orinoco Steamship Company, which presents itself as cessionary of the rights and actions of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd., to which the Courts of the Nation are open for the allegation of its rights, and to which procedure it is obligated by the contracts on which it bases its claims, which contracts it accepted and bound itself to observe voluntarily and deliberately. [Caracas: thirteenth of July, 1903. [(signed) Fr. Arroyo Parbjo.] [1903 Exhibit H.]° piled July 14th, 1903. Rudolf Dolge secretary on the part of the U. S. ; J. Padr6n Uztdriz. [Estampilla] JDSTIFICATIVOS EVACUADOS POR EL JUZGADO DE 1" INSTANCIA EN LO CIVIL DEL DISTRITO FEDERAL Y POR EL CONSUL DE VENEZUELA EN TMNIDAD, REFERENTES A LA COMPAKIA "THE ORINOCO STEAM- SHIP COMPANY." b HAY CUATRO SELLOS. Ciudadano Juez de I'' Instancia en lo Civil. — Doctor Francisco Arroyo Parejo, Procurador General de la Naci6n y Obrando en tal cardcter, d, Ud. me dirijo para que interrogue d los testigos que presentare, sobre los siguientes particulares. — Primero. — Si es cierto y les consta que Ramdn C. Farreras, Jefe del movimiento revolucionario de Ciudad Bolivar, nombrd Fiscales para los vapores que hacen la navegacidn del Orinoco y que pertenecen d la com- pafiia "The Orinoco Steamship Company " anteriormente denomi- nada "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, I/imited." — Segundo. — Si es cierto y les consta que dichos fiscales fueron aceptados por la expresada compafiia y que ejercierot; sus funciones de tales durante cierto tiempo. — Suplico d, Ud. que una vez evacua- das estas declaraciones se me devuelvan originales. — Caracas, veinte y cautro de junio de mil novecientos tres. — F. Arroyo Parejo. — (Hay una estampilla). — Juzgado de I"' Instancia en lo Civil del Distrito Federal. Caracas: venticuatro de junio de 1903. — 92" y 45°. — Evdcuese y devuelvase. — Tomds Garbiras. — Vicente E Velutini. [Deposition of Luis Felipe R6jas Ferndndez.] En la misma fecha fue presentado un testigo que jtiramentado en forma dijo Uamarse Luis Felipe R6jas Ferndndez, mayor de edad, vecino de Ciudad Bolivar y de trdnsito en esta ciudad, casado, agricultor y sin impedimento legal para declarar. Im- puesto del escrito anterior al primer particular expuso : si es cierto "■ [Evidence submitted by the Venezuelan agent to prove unneutral conduct of Orinoco Steamship Co. — Agent's note.] 6 [For English translations of these documents, see pp. 520-532, post. — Agent's note.] 512 APPENDIX. y me consta que el expresado Farreras nombrd los fiscales d que se se hace referenda pues estando en Trinidad he visto llegar los vapores de la citada compafiia y d bordo de ^llos, desempenando el cargo de fiscal, por nombramientos hechos por aquel d los ciudadanos Antonio Villegas, Manuel Garcia, Julian Aponte y Eujenio Calzadilla. Al 2° particular expuso: es cierto y me consta que dichos fiscales fueron aceptados sin ninguna protesta ni objecion por parte de la compania y durante un tiempo que no puedo determinar, desempeiiaron tales funciones. Termin6, se le ley6 y conforme firma. — Tomds Garbiras. — Luis F. R6jas Fer- ndndez. — Vicente E. Velutini. — Sc°. ^Deposition of Juan Manuel Ruiz.] En seguida fue presentado otro testigo que juramentado en forma dijo llamarse Juan Manuel Ruiz, mayor de edad, vecino de Ciudad Bolivar y de trdnsito en esta ciudad, casado, comerciante y sin impedimento legal para declarar seglin la ley de que fu^ impuesto. Interrogado acerca del escrito anterior, al primer par- ticular expuso; que si es cierto y le consta que el expresado Farreras, Jefe del movimiento revolucionario de Ciudad Bolivar nombr6 en los vapores pertenecientes d la citada Compania, fiscales y entre otros recuerdo d los ciudadanos Antonio Villegas, Manuel Garcia, Julian Aponte, Eujenio Calzadilla, Guillermo Lange € Hilario Melo. Al segundo particular expuso : que si es cierto y me consta, que dichos fiscales fueron aceptados sin objecion alguna y sin protesta por la expresada Compafiia y que desempenaron sus funciones durante cierto tiempo. Termind se le ley6 y conforme firma. — Tomds Garbiras. — J. Ml. Ruiz. — Vicente E. Velutini. [Deposition of Alejandro Plaza Ponte.] Seguidamente fu6 presentado otro testigo que juramentado en forma dijo llamarse Alejandro Plaza Ponte, mayor de edad, vecino de Ciudad Bolivar, de trdnsito en esta ciudad, casado, militar y sin impedimento legal para declarar. Interrogado acerca del primer particular del escrito anterior, expuso : que si es cierto y me consta que Ram6n C. Farreras, Jefe del movimiento revolucionario de Ciudad Bolivar, nombrd d los ciudadanos Manuel Garcia, (primo de Farreras) Antonio Vallegas, Eujenio Calzadilla, (tambi^n primo de Farreras) Julian Aponte, Guillermo Lange, Hilario Melo y . Pablo Le6n y otros que no recuerdo, como fiscales en los vapores que hacen la navegacion en "El Orinoco" y que pertenecen d la Compania a que se refiere la pregunta. Al segundo particular, RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9 513 expuso: que tambien es cierto y me consta que dichos fiscales fueron aceptados por la expresada Compafiia, sin hacer ella ningdn g^nero de protesta y ninguna observacidn y que ejercieron las funciones de su cargo durante todo este tiempo. Termind se le leyo y conforme firma. — Tomds Garbiras. — Alejandro Plaza Ponte. — El Secretario. — Vicente E. Velutini. — En la misma fecha se devuelve con tres folios litiles. — Velutini. — Hay un sello. Hay cuatro sellos. — Ciudadano Juez de i^ Instancia en lo Civil de este Distrito. — F. Arroyo Parejo, Procurador General de la Naci6n y procediendo con tal cardcter, ante Ud. con la considera- cidn de estilo, expongo: — Necesito acreditar ciertos hechos atri- buidos d la Empresa extranjera denominada "The Orinoco Steam- ship Company" que anteriormente se llamd "The Orinoco Ship- ping and Trading Company Limited," hechos ejecutados contra el actual orden politico y en abierta contravencidn d todos los deberes de neutralidad que deben observar los extranjeros durante las guerras civiles, d cuyo efecto pido a Ud. se sirva examinar los testigos que presentar^, previo juramento y demds requisites legales, por los particulares siguientes: — Primero. — Si es cierto y les consta por haberlo presenciado que la Compafiia prenombrada retird de Ciudad Bolivar, finalizando el mes de marzo y al comienzo de abril del ano de mil novecientos dos, todos los vapores mayores de su propiedad, con el pretexto de que iban d repararse en la Isla de Trinidad, donde permanecieron hasta la fecha del bloqueo de los puertos venezolanos por las Potencias aliadas, causando con la dicha medida graves perjuicios al Gobierno, por cuanto impidid la movilizaci6n oportuna de las fuerzas que obraban contra la revoluci6n denominada " Libertadora, " — Segundo. — Si tambien saben y de les consta que los vapores de la citada Compafiia, despues de declarado el bloqueo, renovaron el trdfico con Ciudad Bolivar, enarbolando bandera extranjera y condujeron, en varias ocasiones, d dicho puerto, parque y elementos de guerra destinados d aquella Revolucidn. — Tercero. — Los testigos expondrdn la raz6n de sus dichos y lo demds que les conste sobre la materia de este interroga- torio. Hecho lo cual, el Ciudadano Juez se sirvira ordenar se me devuelva original la actuaci6n. Caracas, veinte y tres de junio de mil novecientos tres. — Hay una estampilla de un bolivar. — F. Arroyo Parejo. — Juzgado de i'" Instancia en lo Civil del Distrito Federal. Caracas: veintitres de junio de mil novecientos tres. — 92° y 45°. — Por presentado. Evdcuese y devudlvase. — Tomds Garbiras. — Vicente E. Velutini. — Sc? — Hay un sello. 17301— 10 33 514 APPENDIX. [Deposition of Timoteo Carvajal.] En la misma audiencia fue presentado un testigo que juramen- tado en forma dijo llamarse Timoteo Carvajal, mayor de edad, vecino de Ciudad Bolivar y de tr^nsito en esta ciudad, casado, militar y sin impedimento para declarar segdn la ley de que fue impuesto. Interrogado acerca del primer particular del escrito an- terior, expuso: cuando yo regrese en mayo de mil novecientos dos para Ciudad Bolivar, encontre en la Isla de Trinidad todos los va- pores mayores pertenecientes a la Empresa The Orinoco Steam- ship Company, y se me dijo en este puerto que estaban alli con el pretexto de repararse, pero que no irian d Ciudad Bolivar hasta que la Revolucidn Libertadora no entrara d Caracas. Es lo cierto que permanecieron en aquel puerto hasta la fecha del bloqueo de los puertos venezolanos por las Potencias aliadas y me consta que con dicha medida se causaron graves perjuicios y males al Gobierno Nacional, puesto: que tal actitud de la expresada Compania de vapores, impidio que aquel pudiera moviUzar las tropas que tenia en Barrancas, Los Castillos y San Felix, para sofocar el movimiento de veintitres de mayo de mil novecientos dos por cuya causa se perdid la Plaza de Ciudad Bolivar. Al segundo particular, contestd: tambien es cierto; me consta que los vapores de la ex- presada Compania, una vez declarado el bloqueo de los puertos venezolanos, renovaron el tr^fico con ciudad Bolivar, enarbolando bandera extranjera y que en varias ocasiones Uevaron & dicho puerto parque, canones y demds elementos de guerra destinados ^ la Revolucion. Por cartas recibidas tiltimamente de personas re- spetables de aquella ciudad, se que Farreras, Jefe revolucionario, recibio d mediados de mayo del presente ano en el vapor " Guanare " de doscientas d quinientas mil capsulas de mauser que fueron de- sembarcadas piiblicamente en Ciudad Bolivar. Todo lo que dejo expuesto me consta ya porque he sido testigo presencial de muchos de los hechos d que he hecho referenda, como porque los que no he presenciado, me los han comunicado personas que me merecen toda f^. Antes de terminar quiero hacer constar que en el aiio de mil novecientos uno, siendo yo Jefe Civil del Distrito Heres, se apres6 una correspondencia dirigida por el General NicoMs Rolando, desde Trinidad al Coronel Cleotilde Cotua y d otros, la cual con- ducla el Sefior Rodriguez, segundo capitan del vapor Bohvar, per- teneciente d la citada Compaiiia. Al tercer particular, expuso: ya he expuesto las razones en que fundo mi declaracidn. Termind se le leyd y conforme firma. — Tomds Garbiras. — Timoteo Carvajal. — El Secretario. — Vicente E. Velutini. RECORD OK CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 515 [Deposition of Alejandro- Plaza Ponte.] De seguidas fud presentado otro testigo, que juramentado en forma dijo llamarse Alejandro Plaza Ponte, mayor de edad, vecino de Ciudad Bolivar y de trdnsito en esta ciudad, casado, militar y sin impedimento para declarar segtin la ley de que fud impuesto. Inte- rrogado acerca del primer particular del escrito precedente, con- test6 : Si es cierto y me consta que la Compania The Orinoco Steam- ship Company llev6 de Ciudad Bolivar d Trinidad finalizando el mes de marzo y al comienzo de abril, los vapores mayores que hacen la navegaci6n del alto Orinoco, con el pretexto de repararlos. Pero era sabido que esto no obedecia sino d una manifiesta hostili- dad de aquella Compania contra el "Gobierno Nacional." Asi se lo manifiesta al Presidente del Estado con el objeto de que se previ- niera, en obsequio de la paz de la localidad. Tal suspensi6n de trdfico por los vapores mayores pertenecientes d la citada Empresa, produjo incalculables perjuicios y males d los intereses del Gobierno, puesto que teniendo fuerzas suficientes en Barrancas, Los Castillos y San Eelix no pudo movilizarlas d su debido tiempo, para sofocar el movimiento revolucionario de Ciudad Bolivar, lo que hizo que se perdiera esta importante plaza. Tambien me consta que dichos vapores permanecieron en el puerto de Trinidad, hasta que comenzd el bloqueo de nuestras costas por las Potencias aliadas. Al segundo contesto: me consta que el quince de diciembre, ya declarado y ejecutado el Bloqueo, Uegaron d, Ciudad Bolivar cargados de mercancias los vapores "Bolivar," "Guanare," "Apure," "Socorro" y "Masparro", pertenecientes hoy d la Compania The Orinoco Steamship Company y en aquella epoca llamada The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited y que enarbolaban bandera extranjera. Me consta que d bordo del Bolivar en este viaje, se di6 a Ramon C. Farreras, cabecilla del movimiento revolucionario de Ciudad Bolivar, un banquete que ofreci6 Federico Vicentini, d nombre de la Compania, asi como tambien que dichos vapores se pusieron al servicio de aquel Jefe revolucionario para el desempeiio de comisiones, y que en varias ocasiones llevaron parque y elementos de guerra para la revolu- cidn. Al tercero respondid: fundo mi declaraci6n en que he sido testigo presencial de la mayor parte delos hechos d que en ella me he referido, tanto en Ciudad Bolivar como en Trinidad, y los que no he presenciado los conozco per correspondencia que he recibido de personas honorables que me merecen toda confianza. Termin6 se le ley6 y conforme firma. — Tomas Garbiras. — Alejandro Plaza Ponte.— Vicente E. Velutini.— Sc". 5 1 6 APPENDIX. [Deposition of Luis F. Rdjas Ferndndez.] Seguidamente fue presentado otro testigo que juramentado en forma dijo Uamarse Luis Felipe Rojas Ferndndez, mayor de edad, vecino de Ciudad Bolivar, de trdnsito en esta ciudad, casado, agricultor y sin impedimento para declarar segfin la ley de que fu6 impuesto. Interrogado acerca del primer particular del escrito precedente, contestd: si es cierto y me consta que a fines de marzo y comienzos de abril de mil novencientos dos, la Gom- pania The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company Limited, hoy llamada The Orinoco Steamship Company, retird de Ciudad Bolivar para Trinidad, todos los vapores mayores de su pro- piedad, que hacian la navegacidn del alto Orinoco, con el pretext© de hacerles reparaciones en el liltimo puerto, pero como se dejo comprender por todos los vecinos de aquella ciudad, era con el tinico objeto de ejercer actos de hostilidad contra el Gobierno Nacional, y protejer asi los intereses de la Revolucion que ya habia estallado en el Oriente de la Repliblica. Esta fue la causa por la cual el Gobierno no pudo movilizar en oportunidad, las fuerzas que tenia para entonces en Barrancas, Los Castillos y San Felix y eran mds que suficientes para recuperar la plaza de Ciudad Bolivar. Al segundo particular contestd: cuando se verified el bloqueo, me encontraba en Trinidad y alii vi que estaban todos los vapores pertenecientes d la expresada Compania. A los pocos dias, y d. mediados de diciembre, salieron para Ciudad Bolivar, cargados de mercancias los vapores "Bolivar," "Guanare," "Apure," "Socorro," "-Masparro" y el " Manzanares. " Este liltimo Uego hasta Barrancas, por no tener el rio Orinoco sufi- ciente agua para su calado. Los expresados vapores continuaron viajando de esta epoca en adelante sin interrupcion, Ilevando en todos los viajes bandera extranjera, y conduciendo en varias oca- siones elementos de guerra para la Revolucidn. Tambi^n me consta que en Ciudad Bolivar quedaron algunos de estos vapores al servicio de la Revolucidn, para desempeno de comisiones, y segtin tuve informes fidedignos en Trinidad dichos vapores habian sido ofrecidos al cabecilla Farreras por la Compania expresada y que d bordo de uno de ellos se habia dado d este Jefe revolucionario un banquete, ofrecidndoselo en nombre de la Compania, Federico Vicentini, empleado importante y principal de ella. Al tercero, contestd: mi declaracidn la fundamento en que los hechos e incidencias d que en ella me rifiero, 6 los he pre- senciado 6 me han sido relatados por testigos tambien presenciales, RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. 517 dignos de ser creidos. Sobre estos puntos y otros mds pueden ser citados tambi^n como testigos Firmo Pulgar y Bartolom^ Tavera Acosta, residentes hoy en Trinidad. Termin6 se le leyo y •conforme firma. — Tomds Garbiras. — Luis F. Rdjas Fernandez. — Vicente B. Velutini. — Sc°. — En la misma fecha se devuelve con seis folios Miles. — Velutini. — Hay un Sello. Hay un Sello. Filed July i4tli 1903. — J. Padrdn Ustaris. — Rudolf Dolge. — Sec- retary on the part of the U. S. — Consulado de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela en Trinidad. — Puerto Espaiia: 24 de junio de 1903. Interesando al Gobierno Nacional el esclarecimiento de la intro- duccidn de elementos de guerra, para los revolucionarios del Estado Bolivar, por los vapores de "The Orinoco Steamship Company", dbrase la averiguaci6n correspondiente y citense al efecto d las personas vecinas de Ciudad Bolivar, sabedoras del hecho, actualmente de trdnsito en esta Antilla. — El Consul. — Feliciano Requena. — El Secretario. — J. M. Rodriguez Gonzalez. — Hoy veinticuatro de junio de mil novecientos tres, se libraron las citaciones siguientes: d los ciudadanos Agustln Suegart, Diego Pesquera Leon, J. M. Vargas Millan, Doctor Antonio Maria Delgado y Bias J. Arismendi Bracho. — Lo certifico: — El Secretario. — J. M. Rodriguez Gonzalez. [Deposition of Augustin Suegart.] Hoy, veinticinco de junio de mil novecientos tres, i. las nueve de la manana, comparecid ante este Consulado un ciudadano que juramentado en la forma de ley dijo llamarse Agustin Suegart, de cincuenta y tres afios de edad, tipdgrafo, casado, domiciliado en Ciudad Bolivar y de transito en esta ciudad y sin impedimento legal para declarar. Impuesto del motivo de su citaci6n por la lectura de la resoluci6n que encabeza estas diligencias, expuso: Tengo conocimiento de que en los primeros dlas del mes de marzo de este aiio y en el vapor americano "Apure", perteneciente d "The Orinoco Steamship Company ", fue Uevado d Ciudad Bolivar un parque, 6 scan elementos de guerra, compuestos de Winchesters y cdpsulas, el cual fue depositado en los almacenes de la Aduana y de estos Uevados al cuartel del Capitolio, bajo custodia de soldados armados. Igrioro tanto la cantidad de armas como la de las capsulas y hago constar que estas ultimas iban en cajas forradas en genero. Tambien fueron introducidos unos elementos de guerra por el vapor "Guanare", de la misma Compaiiia, que lleg6 d Ciudad Bolivar en la noche del trece de mayo liltimo; ele^ 5l8 APPENDIX. mentos que fueron trasportados en carros y bajo custodia de tropa armada al cuartel del Capitolio. Termino, se le ley6 la presente declaracidn al testigo, la hall6 conforme y firma.; — A. Suegart. — El Cdnsul. — Feliciano Requena. — El Secretario. — J. M.. Rodriguez Gonzdlez. [Deposition of Diego Pesquera Ledn.] Hoy veinticinco de junio de mil novecientos tres, a las diez de la mafiana, compareci6 ante este Consulado un ciudadano que juramentado en la forma de ley, dijo llamarse Diego Pesquera I^edn, mayor de veintiun aiios, soltero, comerciante, domiciliado en Ciudad Bolivar y de transito en esta ciudad y sin impedimento legal para declarar. Impuesto del motivo de su citacidn por la lectura de la resolucidn que encabeza estas diligencias, expuso: Me consta por haberlo visto, que en el vapor "Apure" que llegd d. Ciudad Bolivar en los primeros dias del mes de marzo del presente aiio, fueron introducidos unos elementos de guerra que llevaron bajo custodia de soldados armados desde la Aduana hasta el cuartel del Capitolio. Ignoro la cantidad defusiles y cdpsulas introducidas. Termind, se le leyo la presente declara- cidn al testigo la halld conforme y firma. — Diego Pesquera Ledn. — El Consul. — Feliciano Requena. — El Secretario. — J. M. Rodriguez Gonzdlez. [Deposition of Jose Manuel Vargas Milldn.] En la misma fecha y a las dos de la tarde, comparecid ante este Consulado un ciudadano que juramentado en la forma de ley dijo llamarse Jose Manuel Vargas Milldn, mayor de veintiun afios, soltero, comerciaiite, domiciliado en Ciudad Bolivar y de trdnsito en esta ciudad y sin impedimento legal para declarar. Impuesto del motivo de su citacidn por la lectura de la resolucidn que en- cabeza estas diligencias, expuso: En los primeros dias del mes de marzo del arlo en curso, me encontraba en Ciudad Bolivar y presencie el desembarque de un parque que Uevd el vapor ameri- cano "Apure" de "The Orinoco Steamship Company" el cual fu^ custodiado por soldados armados de la Revolucidn, desde la Aduana hasta el cuartel del Capitolio. Dicho parque iba en cajas forradas en genero. Termind, se le leyd la presente declaracion al testigo, la halld conforme y firma. — J. M. Vargas Milldn. — EI Cdnsul. — Feliciano Requena. — El Secretario. — J. M. Rodriguez Gonzdlez. RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 519 [Deposition of Antonio Maria Delgado.] Hoy, veintiseis de junio de mil novecientos tres, d las diez de la manana, comparecid ante este Consulado un ciudadano que juramentado en la forma de ley dijo llamarse Antonio Maria Delgado, de treinta y tres anos de edad, abogado en ejer- cicio, domiciliado en Ciudad Bolivar y de trdnsito en esta ciudad y sin impedimento legal para declarar. Impuesto del motivo de su citacidn por la lectura de la resoluci6n que encabeza estas dili- gencias, expuso: Me consta por haberlo presenciado, que en los primeros dias del mes de marzo del presente afio, lleg6 d Ciudad Bolivar el vapor "Apure" y de a bordo desembacaron muchas cajas de cdpsulas las cuales fueron depositadas en los Almacenes de la Aduana Maritima. Dichas cajas estaban forradas en tela de cdnamo y habiendo preguntado yo que clase de cdpsulas eran esas, se me dijo que eran para Winchesters, que alcanzaban a ciento cincuenta mil y que eran para el cuartel del Capitolio. Tambi^n supe que ademds de las referidas cajas de cdpsulas, habia Uevado el mismo vapor sesenta Winchesters para el mismo cuartel. Halldndome en la puerta del hotel del Senor Napoledn Decori, vi d varies soldados que sacaban las cajas de cdpsulas de los Almacenes de la Aduana y las conducian en carros escoltados hacia el referido cuartel. Me consta igualmente que el vapor "Guanare'' llego d, Ciudad Bolivar en la noche del trece de mayo iiltimo 6 inmediatamente principid el Gobierno Revolucionario d celebrar su arribo con gran profusi6n de cohetes con motivo de haberle Uevado dicho vapor el parque que esperaban. Al siguiente dia, catorce, desembacaron del mismo buque ciento cuarenta y seis cajas de capsulas de mil tiros cada una, las cuales supe eran de maussers. Dichas cajas fueron cargadas en carros custodiados por soldados armados y conducidas al mismo cuartel del Capitolio. Esto es lo que me consta acerca del motivo de la citaci6n que se me ha hecho. Termind, se le leyd la presente declaracidn al testigo, la halld conforme y firma. — Antonio M. Delgado. — Bl Cdnsul. — Feliciano Requena. — El Secretario. — J. M. Rodriguez Gonzalez. [Deposition of Bias Ignacio Arismendi Bracho.] En la misma fecha y d las once de la manana comparecid ante este Consulado un ciudadano que juramentado en la forma de ley dijo llamarse Bias Ignacio Arismendi Bracho, mayor de edad, casado, criador, domiciliado en Ciudad Bolivar y de trdnsito en esta ciudad y sin impedimento legal para declarar. Impuesto del 520 APPENDIX. motivo de su citacion por la lectura de la resolucion que encabeza estas diligencias, expuso: Me consta por haberlo presenciado, que en los primeros dias del mes de marzo del corriente ano, Uego al puerto de Ciudad Bolivar el vapor "Apure", perteneciente A "The Orinoco Steamship Company" y desembarc6 una gran cantidad de cajas conteniendo elementos de guerra para los revo- lucionarios; estas cajas estaban forradas en genero y fueron depositadas en los Almacenes de la Aduana y de aqui llevadas en carros custodiados por soldados armados para el cuartel de El Capitolio. No se la cantidad de capsulas ni de fusiles. Termind, se le leyo la presente declaracidn al testigo, la hall6 conforme y firma. — B. I. Arismendi B. — El Consul. — Feliciano Requena. — El Secretario. — J. M. Rodriguez Gonzalez. Constante de diez folios escritos y sellados con el sello de esta Oficina se cierra este expediente y se remite hoy al ciudadano Presidente de la Reptiblica de Venezuela. — Puerto Espana: junio veintiseis de mil ochocientos noventa y tres." — El Secretario. — J. M. Rodriguez Gonzalez. — Hay un sello. ESTADOS UNIDOS de VENEZUELA, (Seli^o) Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores, DiREcciON de Derecho Publico Exterior. Caracas: 3 de Agosto de 1909. El que suscribe, Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores, certifica: que el documento anterior, cons- tante de diez folios Utiles, es copia fiel del manuscrito original que reposa en este Ministerio. (Sello) F. Gonzalez Guinan. [Translation. ]6 [DEPOSITIONS TAKEN BY THE CIVIL COURT OF FIRST INSTANCE OF THE FEDERAL DISTRICT ANB BY THE CONSUL OF VENEZUELA AT TRINIDAD, REFERRING TO THE ORINOCO STEAMSHIP COMPANY.]* [(Stamp) (Stamp) [Citizen Judge of the Civil Branch of the Primary Court of Claims. [I, Doctor Francisco Arroya Parejo, Attorney General of the Nation and acting in that character, address, myself to you to the end that you may question the witnesses that I shall present in regard to the following particulars. oNota: En la certificacion — anterior hay un error de fecha: donde dice mil ocho- cientos noventa y tres, l^ase mil novecientos tres. — Caracas: dos de agosto de mil novecientos nueve. — El Director de Derecho Pliblico Exterior. — Luis Churi6n. b [This English translation was not filed with the Mixed Commission of 1903- — Agent's Note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 52 1 FIRST. [Whether it is a fact and is known to them that Ramon C. Far- reras, Chief of the revolutionary movement at Ciudad Bolivar, appointed fiscal agents for the steamers which navigate in the Orinoco and which belong to "The Orinoco Steamship Company" formerly styled "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited." SECOND. [Whether it is a fact and is known to them that said fiscal agents where accepted by the Company mentioned and that they exercised their functions as such during a certain time. I ask that once these declarations have been taken they may be returned to me in original. Caracas, June twenty-fourth one thousand nine hundred three. [(Stamp.) Fr. Arroyo Pare jo [Civil Branch of the Primary Court of Claims of the Federal District. Caracas: June twenty -fourth 1903. [92nd and 45th. [Execute and return. [ToMAS Garbiras [Vicente Velutini [Deposition of Luis Felipe Rajas Fernandez. [On the same date a witness was presented who being sworn in due form, said he was Luis Felipe Rojas Fernandez, of full age, a resident of Ciudad Bolivar, and transient in this city, married, farmer, and without legal impediment to deposing. Being made acquainted with the preceding application, he declared: It is a fact and is known to me that the said Farreras appointed the fiscal agents to whom reference is made, because when I was in Trinidad I saw the steamers of the said Company arrive, and on board of them, discharging the office of fiscal agent, on appoint- ments made by him, the citizens Antonio Villegas, Manuel Garcia, Julian Aponte and Eugenio Calzadilla. In regard to the 2nd par- ticular he declared : it is a fact and is known to me that said fiscal agents were accepted without any protest or objection on the part of the Company, and for a period which I cannot determine dis- charged such functions. On concluding the foregoing was read to him, and he signs in agreement therewith. [ToMAS Garbiras [Luis F. Rojas Fernandez. [Vicente Velutini Sec. 522 APPENDIX. [Deposition of Juan Mamiel Ruiz. [Another witness was immediately presented, who being sworn in due form, said he was Juan Manuel Ruiz, of full age, a resident of Ciudad Bolivar and a transient in this city, married, merchant, and without impediment to deposing according to the law, of which he was informed. Being interrogated in regard to the pre- ceding application, he declared as to the first particular: it is a fact and is known to me that the said Farreras, Chief of the revo- lutionary movement in Ciudad Bolivar, appointed fiscal agents for the steamers belonging to the said Company, and among others I recall the citizens Antonio Villegas, Manuel Garcia, Julian Aponte, Eugenio Calzadilla, Guillermo Lange and Hilario Melo. In regard to the second particular he declared : it is a fact and is known to me, that said fiscal agents were accepted without any objection and without protest by the said Company and that they discharged their functions for a certain time. On concluding, the foregoing was read to him, and he signs in agreement therewith. [ToMAS Garbiras [J. M' Ruiz [Vicente Vei^utini. [Deposition of Alejandro Plaza Ponte. [Another witness was immediately presented, who being sworn in due form, said he was Alejandro Plaza Ponte, of full age, a resident of Ciudad Bolivar, a transient in this city, married, a soldier, and without legal impediment to deposing. Being inter- rogated in regard to the first particular of the preceding applica- tion, he declared: it is a fact and is known to me that Ramon C. Farreras, Chief of the revolutionary movement in Ciudad Bolivar, appointed the citizens Manuel Garcia (cousin to Farreras) , Antonio Villegas, Eujinio Calzadilla (also cousin to Farreras), Julian Aponte, Guillermo I^ange, Hilario Melo and Pablo Leon, and others whom I do not recall, as fiscal agents on the steamers which sail in "The Orinoco" and which belong to the Company to which the question refers. In regard to the second particular, he declared: it is also a fact and is known to me that said fiscal agents were accepted by the said Company, without making any sort of protest or any observation, and that they exercised the RECORD OF CI,AIM NO. 1 9. 523 functions of their office during all this time. On concluding, the foregoing were read to him, and he signs in agreement therewith. [ToMAS Garbiras [Alejandro Plaza Ponte [The Secretary, [Vicente Velutini [On the same date, this is returned in three utilized folios. (Stamp) [Velutini.] [(Stamp) (Stamp) [Citizen Judge of the Civil Branch of the Primary Court of Claims of this district : [I, F. Arroyo Parejo, Attorney General of the Nation, and act- ing in that character, with customary consideration submit to you : [I require to prove certain acts ascribed to the foreign concern styled "The Orinoco Steamship Company," which was formerly called "The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited," acts performed against the present political order and in open contravention to all the duties of neutraUty which foreigners should observe during civil wars, to which end I ask that you may be pleased to examine the witnesses whom I shall present, after swearing them and fulfilling the other legal requisites, in regard to the following particulars : [first. [Whether it is a fact and is known to them from witnessing it, that the before-named Company withdrew from Ciudad Bolivar, at the end of March and at the beginning of April of the year one thousand nine hundred two, all the larger steamers belonging to them, under the pretext that they were to be repaired at the Island of Trinidad, where they remained until the date of the blockade of the Venezuelan ports by the allied Powers, occasion- ing by this measure grave injuries to the, Government, by reason of preventing the timely mobilization of the forces that were oper- ating against the revolution styled "Libertadora." [second. [Whether they also know and can affirm that the steamers of the said Company, after the blockade had been declared, renewed * the service with Ciudad Bolivar, flying a foreign flag, and carried to that port on various occasions ammunition and war-materials intended for the said Revolution. 524 appendix. [third. [The witnesses shall set forth the resisoii for their statements and whatever else may be known to them on the subject-matter of this interrogatory, which being done, the Citizen Judge will kindly direct that the actuation be returned to me in the original. Caracas, June twenty -third, one thousand nine hundred three. [(Stamp) Fr. Arroyo Parejo. [Civil Branch of the Primary Court of Claims of the Federal District. Caracas: June twenty-third, one thousand nine hun- dred three. 92nd and 45th. Receipt acknowledged. Execute and return. [ToMAS Garbiras. [Vicente VeivUTini [Sec. [Deposition of Timoteo Carvajal. [At the same sitting a witness was presented, who being sworn in due form, said that he was Timoteo Carvajal, of full age, a resi- dent of Ciudad Bolivar and a transient in this city, married, a soldier, and without impediment, to deposing according to law, of which he was informed. Being interrogated in regard to the first particular of the preceding application, he declared: When I was returning to Ciudad BoUvar in May one thousand nine hun- dred two, I found at the Island of Trinidad all the larger steamers belonging to the Orinoco Steamship Company, and I was told in the latter port that they were there under the pretext of being repaired, but that they would not go to Ciudad Bolivar until the " libertadora " Revolution should have entered Caracas. It is certain that they remained in that port until the date of the blockade of the Venezuelan ports by the allied Powers, and it is known to me that by said measure grave injuries and harm were caused the National Government, because that attitude on the part of the said Steamship Company prevented the former from mobilizing the troops which it had in Barrancas, Los Castillos and San Felix, in order to quell the movement of May twenty-third, one thousand nine hundred two, for which reason the place of Ciudad Bolivar was lost. In regard to the second particular, he rephed: it is also certain and is known to me that the steamers of the said Company, once the blockade of the Venezuelan ports was declared, renewed the service with Ciudad Bolivar, flying a for- RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 525 eign flag, and that on various occasions they carried to said port ammunition, cannon and other war-materials intended for the Revolution. From letters recently received from respectable persons in that city, I know that Farreras, revolutionary chief, about the middle of May of the present year received by the steamer "Guanare" between two hundred and five hundred thousand Mauser cartridges, which were unloaded publicly at Ciudad Bolivar. All that I have stated is known to me, as well because I have been an eye-witness to many of the events to which I have referred, as because those which I did not witness have been communicated to me by persons who merit entire faith. Before concluding, I wish to state that in the year of one thousand nine hundred and one, I being then Civil Chief of the District of Heres, correspondence was captured, addressed by General Nicolas Rolando from Trinidad, to Colonel Cleotilde Cotua and to others, which was carried by Mr. Rodriguez, second captain of the steamer "Bolivar," belonging to the said Com- pany. In regard to the third particular, he declared: I have already stated the reasons on which I found my deposition. On concluding, the foregoing was read to him, and he signs in agree- ment therewith. [ToMAS Garbiras TiMOTEO Carvajal [The Secretary, [Vicente Vei^utini. [Deposition of Alejandro Plaza Ponte. [Thereupon another witness was presented, who being sworn in due form, said he was Alejandro Plaza Ponte, of full age, a resident of Ciudad Bolivar and a transient in this city, married, a soldier, and without impediment to deposing in accordance with the law, of which he was informed. Being interrogated in regard to the first particular of the preceding applicati4|| he replied : it is a fact and is known to me that the Orinoco Steamship Company conveyed from Ciudad Boliver to Trinidad, at the end of the month of March and the beginning of April, the larger steamers which make the voyage to the upper Orinoco, under the pretext of having them repaired. But it was known that this was not directed by anything but a manifest hostility of that Company to the "National Government." I thus represented the action to the President of the State, to the end that it might be prevented 526 APPENDIX. for the sake of the peace of the locaUty. This suspension of serv- ice by the larger steamers belonging to the said Company, pro- duced incalculable injury and harm to the interests of the Gov- ernment; because having sufficient forces in Barrancas, Los Cas- tillos and San Felix, it was unable to mobilize them at the proper time to quell the revolutionary movement at Ciudad Bolivar, for which reason this important place was lost. It is also known to me that the said steamers remained in the port of Trinidad until the commencement of the blockade of our coasts by the alUed Powers. In regard to the second particular, he replied: it is known to me that on the fifteenth of December, the blockade being already declared and in force, there arrived at Ciudad Bolivar, laden with merchandise, the steamers "Bolivar," "Gua- nare," "Apure," "Socorro" and "Masparro," belonging today to the Orinoco Steamship Company, at that time called the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, and flying a foreign flag. It is known to me that on board the "Bolivar" on this trip a banquet was given by Federico Vicentini, in the name of the Company, to Ramon C. Farreras, leader of the revolu- tionary movement in Ciudad Bolivar, as also that said steamers were placed at the service of that revolutionary chief for the dis- charge of commissions, and that on various occasions they car- ried ammunition and war-materials for the revolution. In regard to the third particular, he replied: I found my deposition on the fact that I have been an eye-witness to the greater part of the events to which I have referred in same, as well in Ciudad Bolivar as in Trinidad, and those which I did not witness, I know from correspondence which I have received from honorable persons who merit my entire confidence. On concluding, the foregoing was read to him, and he signs in agreement therewith. [Alejandro Plaza Ponte [Tomas Garbiras [Vicente Velutini 1^ Sec. [Deposition of Luis Felipe Rejas Fernandez. [Next was presented another witness, who being sworn in due form, said he was Luis Felipe Rejas Fernandez, of full age, a resi- dent of Ciudad Bolivar, a transient in this city, married, farmer, and without impediment to deposing in accordance with the law, of which he was informed. Being interrogated in regard to the first particular of the preceding application, he replied : It is a fact and is known to me that at the end of March and the beginning of April of one thousand nine hundred two. The Orinoco Shipping RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 527 and Trading Company, Ivimited, now called The Orinoco Steam- ship Company, withdrew from Ciudad Bolivar to Trinidad all the larger steamers belonging to it, which made the voyage to the upper Orinoco, under the pretext of having them repaired at the latter port, but as was understood by all the residents of that city, with the sole object of committing acts of hostility against the National Government, and thus to protect the interests of the Revolution which had already broken out in the East of the Republic. It was because of this that the Government was unable to mobilize in due season the forces which it then had in Barrancas, l/os Castillos and San Felix, and which were sufficient to recover the place of Ciudad Bolivar. In regard to the second particular, he replied: when the blockade took place, I happened to be in Trinidad, and saw that all the steamers belonging to the said Com- pany were lying there. Within a few days, and about the middle of December, there sailed for Ciudad Bolivar, laden with merchan- dise, the steamers "Bolivar," "Guanare," "Apure," "Socorro," "Masparro," and the "Manzanares." This last did not reach Barrancas, the Orinoco river not having water enough for her draft. The said steamers continued their sailings from this time on without interruption, flying on all their trips a foreign flag, and carrying on various occasions war-materials for the Revolu- tion. It is also known to me that some of the steamers remained at Ciudad Bolivar in the service of the Revolution, for the dis- charge of commissions, and according to trustworthy information which I received in Trinidad, said steamers had been offered to the rebel leader, Farreras, by the said Company; and on board of one of them a banquet had been given to this revolutionary chief, in the name of the Company, by Federico Vicentini, an important and principal clerk of same. In regard to the third particular, he replied: I found my deposition on the fact that I was either an eye-witness to the events and incidents to which I refer in same, or else they have been related to me by other eye-witnesses, who are worthy of belief. In regard to these points and others besides, there may be cited as witnesses Firmo Pulgar and Bartolome Tavera Acosta, now resident in Trinidad. On concluding, the foregoing was read to him, and he signs in agreement therewith. [ToMAS Garbiras. [Luis F. .Rojas Fernandez [Vicente Velutini [Sec. [On the same date this is returned in six utilized folios. [Velutini.I [(Stamp)] 528 APPENDIX. [Filed July 14, 1903. Rudolf Dolge, Secretary on the part of the U. S.] [(Stamp) [J. Padron Uztariz. [Consulate of the United States [of Venezuela in Trinidad. [Port of Spain, June 24, 1903. [The National Government being interested in clearing up the matter of the introduction of war materials for the Revolutionists of the State of Bolivar, by the Steamers of the Orinoco Steam- ship Company, — let the corresponding investigation be begun and to that end let there be cited the persons residents of Ciudad Bolivar, acquainted with the facts, at present transients in this Island. [The Consul, [Feliciano Requena [The Secretary, [J. M. Rodriguez Gonzalez. [Today, the 24th of June one thousand nine hundred and three, the following citations were issued: to citizens Agustin Suegart, Diego Pesquera Leon, J. M. Vargas Millan, Dr. Antonio Maria Delgado, and Bias I. Ansmendi Bracho. [I certify the same; [The Secretary, [J. M. Rodriguez Gonzales. [Deposition of Agustin Suegart. [Today, twenty-fifth of June one thousand nine hundred three, at nine o'clock in the morning, there appeared before this Consu- late a citizen who being sworn in legal form, said he was Agustin Suegart, 53 years of age, printer, married, domiciled in Ciudad Bolivar and a transient in this city, and without legal impedi- ment to deposing, being informed of the motive for his citation by the reading of the resolution which heads this document, he declared: I have knowledge that early in the month of March of this year and on the American Steamer "Apure" belonging to the Orinoco Steamship Co., there was carried to Ciudad Bolivar a park, or say war-materials, consisting of Winchesters and Car- tridges, which was deposited in the customs warehouses and from there conveyed to the Capitol Barracks, under the custody of armed soldiers. I do not know either the quantity of arms or of cartridges, and I-have to state that these last were in boxes cov- RECORD OP CI.AIM NO. 1 9. 529 ered with cloth. War suppHes were also introduced by the Steamer "Guanare, " of the same Company, which arrived at Ciudad Bolivar in the night of the 13th of May last; which sup- plies were conveyed in wagons and under the custody of armed troops to the Capitol Barracks. On concluding, the present deposition was read to the witness, he found it correct, and signs. [A. SUEGART. [The Consul [Feuciano Requena [The Secretary [J. M. Rodriguez Gonzales. [Deposition of Diego Pesquera Leon. [Today, twenty-fifth of June one thousand nine hundred three, at ten o'clock in the morning, there appeared before this Consulate a citizen who being sworn in legal form, said he was Diego Pes- quera Leon, over 21 years of age, single, merchant, domiciled in Ciudad Bolivar and a transient in this city, and without legal impediment to deposing. Being informed of the motive for his citation by the reading of the resolution which heads this docu- ment, he declared: It is known to me from having witnessed it, that on the steamer "Apure" which arrived at Ciudad Bolivar early in the month of March of the present year, certain war- materials were introduced, which were conveyed under the cus- tody of armed soldiers from the custom house to the Capitol Bar- racks. I do not know the quantity of guns and cartridges intro- duced. On concluding, the present deposition was read to the witness, he found it correct and signs. [DiEGo Pesquera Leon. [The Consul [Feuciano Requena. [The Secretary [J. M. Rodriguez Gonzai,es. [Deposition of Jose Manuel Vargas Millan. [On the same date and at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, there ap- peared before this Consulate a citizen who being sworn in legal form, said he was Jose Manuel Vargas Millan, over 21 years of age, single, merchant, domiciled in Ciudad Bolivar and a transient in this city, and without legal impediment to deposing. Being informed of the motive for his citation by the reading of the reso- 17301— 10 34 530 APPENDIX. lution which heads this document, he declared: Early in the month of March of the present year, I found myself in Ciudad Bolivar and I witnessed the unloading of war supplies which had been brought by the American Steamer "Apure" of the Orinoco Steamship Company, which were guarded by armed soldiers of the Revolution from the custom house to the Capitol Barracks. Said war-supplies were packed in boxes covered with cloth.. On concluding, the present deposition was read to the witness, he found it correct and signs. [J. M. Vargas Millan [The Consul [Feliciano Requena [The Secretary [J. M. Rodriguez Gonzales. [Deposition of Antonio Maria Delgado. [Today, twenty -sixth of June one thousand nine hundred three, at ten o'clock in the morning, there appeared before this Consu- late a citizen who being sworn in legal form, said he was Antonio Maria Delgado, thirty-three years of age, practicing lawyer, domi- ciled in Ciudad Bolivar and transient in this city, and without legal impediment to deposing. Being informed of the motive for his citation by the reading of the resolution which heads this docu- ment, he declared: [It is known to me, through having witnessed it, that early in the month of March of the present year the Steamer "Apure" arrived at Ciudad Bolivar, and from on board many boxes of cartridges were unloaded, which were deposited in the warehouses of the • Maritime Customhouse. Said boxes were covered with hemp cloth, and on asking what kind of cartridges were these, I was told that they were for Winchesters, that their number reached 150,000 and that they were for the Capitol Barracks. I also learned that in addition to the boxes of cartridges referred to, the said Steamer had brought 60 Winchesters for the same Barracks. Whilst standing in the door of Napoleon Decori's Hotel, I saw various soldiers take the boxes of cartridges out of the custom- house and convey them in guarded wagons in the direction of the Barracks referred to. It is also known to me that the Steamer " Guanare " arrived at Ciudad Bolivar in the night of May 13th last and the Revolutionary Government immediately began to cele- RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. 1 9. 53 1 brate its arrival with a great profusion of sky rockets on account of said Steamer having brought them the war supplies which they had been expecting. On the following day, the 14th, there were unloaded from the same vessel one hundred forty-six boxes of cartridges of one thousand rounds each, which I learned were for Mausers. Said boxes were loaded in wagons guarded by armed soldiers and were conveyed to the same Capitol Barracks. This is what is known to me in relation to the motive of the citation that has been served- upon me. On concluding, the present depo- sition was read to the witness, he found it correct and signs. [Antonio M. Delgado. [The Consul [Fewciano Requena [The Secretary [J. M. Rodriguez Gonzalez. [Deposition of Bias Ignacio Arismendi Bracho. [On the same date and at 11 o'clock in the morning, there appeared before this Consul a citizen who being sworn in legal form, said he was Bias Ignacio Arismendi Bracho, of full age, married, breeder, domiciled in Ciudad Bolivar and a transient in this city, and without legal impediment to deposing. Being informed of the motive for his citation by the reading of the Reso- lution which heads this document, he declared: [It is known to me through having witnessed it, that early in the month of March of the present year, the Steamer "Apure," belonging to the Orinoco Steamship Company, arrived at the Port of Ciudad Bolivar, and unloaded a large number of boxes containing war supplies for the Revolutionists; these boxes were covered with cloth and were deposited in the customs warehouses and thence were conveyed in wagons guarded by armed soldiers to the Capitol Barracks. I do not know the quantity of cartridges nor of guns. On concluding the present deposition was read to the witness, he found it correct, and signs. [B. Y. Arismendi B. [The Consul [Fewciano Requena. [The Secretary [J. M. Rodriguez Gonzalez 532 APPENDIX. [Consisting of ten written folios and sealed with the seal of this Office, this document is closed and is forwarded today to the Citi- zen President of the Republic — Port of Spain: June twenty-sixth one thousand eight hundred ninety-three (sic)." [The Secretary [(seal,) J. M. Rodriguez Gonzai^ez] o Note: in the foregoing certificate there is an error in the date; where it says one thousand eight hundred and ninety-three, read one thousand nine hundred and three. — Caracas, August 2, 1909. — ^The Director of Foreign Public Law. — Luis CHtrRi6N. Filed July 25"". 1903. Rudolf Dolge secretary on the part o( the U. S. J. Padron Uztaiiz. BEFORE THE MIXED COMMISSION ORGANIZED UNDER THE PROTOCOL OF FEBRUARY 17, 1903, BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA. THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ON BEHALF OF THE ORINOCO STEAMSHIP COMPANY, CLAIMANT. VS. THE REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA. NO. 19. REPLICATION ON BEHALF OF THE UNITED STATES. In addition to objections involving the merits of this claim in general and specified items thereof in particular, the respondent Government has suggested three several reasons why this High Commission should not "admit" or "consider" the claim at all, — which reasons or objections with change of order in which they appear in the answer may be stated as follows : I St. The damages, if any there have been, were not sustained by the claimant itself, but were sustained, if at all, by the claimant's assignor The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, an English corporation. Therefore, such damages "have not been suffered by an American citizen, and consequently the reclamation is not within the terms established in the protocol. " In connec- tion with this objection, and as incidental to it, it is also objected that the fact that 99% of the capital stock of said English corpora- tion was owned at the time the damages accrued by American citizens is of no consequence "because the juridical personality of the stockholders has no effect on the juridical personality of the Company, which has a separate moral entity. " 2nd. Because all clauses of the contract are "equally valid and obligatory, " and the claimant should be required to conform to that provision of the contract which relegates all disputes arising between the parties to the Venezuelan Courts, without recourse to Diplomatic intervention. 3rd. As the Venezuelan Government has claims of good origin against the Company which she "cannot substantiate before the Commission, which is without jurisdiction to determine them, " and therefore she cannot defend herself as she could before a court of law, to hear and determine the claim of the Company under such circumstances would be "in open opposition to the most simple principles of equity; " and, therefore, the "Commission, proceeding in accordance with its fundamental rule, which is (that of the) strictest equity, should reject this claim. " 533 534 APPENDIX. These three objections are, so to speak, fundamental in character and general in scope. If either one of them be in law and truth well founded, the claim should be dismissed. Objections first and second attack the jurisdiction of this Com- mission to hear and determine the merits of the claim at all. Ob- jection number three, while seemingly admitting the existence of jurisdiction in the Commission to hear and determine the claim as presented by the United States, demands that it be dismissed be- cause imder the terms of the protocol the Commission is without jurisdiction to hear and determine by way of offset or counterclaim certain unliquidated and unascertained claims for damages on the part of the Government against the claimant and its assignor. Such claims appear never to have been thought of, and certainly not to have been asserted in writing or other form calculated to lend them permanency, until after the presentation of this case to this Commission. We are confronted at the very threshold of the discussion then with the question of the jurisdiction of the Commission in the premises, and it seems well in the discussion of it to follow the question as outlined in the first and second objections above. Jurisdiction. Article i of the protocol under which this tribunal has been organized and is acting provides that — "All claims owned by citizens of the United States of America against the Republic of Venezuela * * * which shall have been presented to the Commission * * * ^y the Department of State of the United States or its Legation at Caracas, shall be examined and decided by a (the) mixed commission, which shall sit at Caracas, * * * ." " Before assuming the functions of their office, the commissions and the umpire shall take solemn oath carefully to examine and impartially to decide according to justice and the provisions of this convention, all claims submitted to them * * * . Xhe commissions, or in case of their disagreement, the umpire, shall decide all claims upon a basis of absolute equity, without regard to objections of a technical nature, or of the provisions of local legislation." From the express words of the protocol, therefore, it appears that with respect to the jurisdictional power of this High Com- mission to hear and determine claims against the RepubUc of Venezuela, but two conditions are prescribed as prerequisites: RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 535 I St. That the claim shall be owned (poseidas) by citizens of the United States of America, and 2nd. That the claim shall have been presented to the com- mission by the Department of State of the United States or its legation at Caracas. Every claim so owned and presented the Commissioners are, or in case of their disagreement the Umpire is, (Article 2 of Protocol) in duty bound carefully to examine and impartially to decide." If upon examination of any claim so presented to the Com- mission, and every claim presented by the Agent of the United States must be conclusively presumed to have been presented "by the Department of State of the United States or its Legation at Caracas," it shall appear that the claim is owned (poseidas) by a citizen of the United States, it would seem beyond dispute that the Commission was possessed of full jurisdiction to hear the claim, consider the proofs, and adjudge the controversy. The significance of the word "owned" is too well understood to render quotations of its definitions worth while, but no definition of it could be more apt than the primary definition given in Neuvo Diccionario de la Lengua Castellana of its treaty equivalent poseidas (poseer) viz: Tener una cosa en su poder,i. e., Owned, to hold in possession, no matter how acquired. But it is said that these words of possession must be construed in accord with established principles of general international law and as the general rule is that international claims must be national in origin as well as at the time of submission the special words of possession used in this treaty must be held to include only such claims as were American in origin and not to include claims which, though not American in origin, have since in due course of business come by assignment or otherwise into the possession of American citizens. This suggestion ignores entirely the fact that High Contracting parties, sovereign in name and power, are possessed of the fullest liberty of contract, and that it is entirely competent for such parties by express agreement to waive or overrule as between themselves any or all general principles or technical rules of law. There is no general prohibition of law, international or municipal, against the assignment of claims such as have for instance been submitted to this august tribunal for adjudication. This subject was much discussed in Camy's case before the United States and French Mixed Commission under the conven- tion of January 16, 1880. In that case it appeared from the 536 APPENDIX. memorial itself that the claimant Camy, a French subject, had assigned his interest in the claim to an American citizen, but for reasons best known to himself he asserted that the assignment was void and that he was therefore entitled to urge the claim in his own behalf before the Commission. The Agent for the United States contended that the assignment was valid and demurred to the claim. The demurrer was sustained, the Commissioners in disposing of the matter saying: ' ' The convention under which we act is silent upon the question whether the original claimant may or may not assign his claim to another. The Commissions heretofore established by treaty between the United States and other powers for the settlement of such claims have recognized the right of the original claimant to transfer his claim to another. The rules of the British and American, the Mexican and the Spanish Commissions recognize the right and require the transfer to be set forth in the memorial. The rules of this Commission also recognize the right. Several cases of awards to assignees may be found among the decisions of the British and American Claims Commission. We think the claim existed and vested in the claimant a right to relief and com- pensation when the acts of taking the cotton and converting it to the use of the United States were committed. True, there was no court or tribunal to which the claimant could present his claim and obtain judgment and compensation, but his moral right ex- isted, and the establishment of this tribunal recognized it and gave him a legal remedy for his right because no other ex- isted." * * * (2 Moore Int. Arb., p. 2398-2400.) Conceding then the general rule with respect to national claims to be as contended for by the Honorable Agent for Venezuela, viz. that they must be national in origin as well as national at the time of submission to the Arbitral Tribunal, this rule, as was said in the case of Abbiatti against Venezuela (3 Moore Int. Arb. 2347) is "subject of course to treaty terms." In that case, the Commissioners agreed that in the absence of treaty terms to the contrary the touchstone of jurisdiction was whether the State seeking redress was the State that had been injured by a wrong done to one who at the time of the doing thereof was its own citizen. A striking example of an exceptiop from the general principle is found in the repeated rulings of the so-called Court of Alabama Claims, which was organized pursuant to the Act of June 23, 1874 (United States of America) for the distribution of the so- called Geneva Award. RECORD OP ClyAIM NO. 1 9. 537 The treaty upon which said award was founded recites, that — "Art. I. Whereas differences have arisen between the Govern- ment of the United States and the Government of Her Brittanic Majesty, and still exist, growing out of the acts committed by the several vessels which have given rise to the claims generically known as the Alabama Claims; * * * Now, in order to remove and adjust all complaints and claims on the part of the United States, and to provide for the speedy settlement of such claims, which are not admitted by Her Brittanic Majesty's Gov- ernment, the High Contracting parties agree that all the said claims * * * shall be referred to a Tribunal of Arbitration Art. 7. * * * In case the Tribunal find that Great Brit- ain has failed to fulfill any duty or duties as aforesaid, it may, if it think proper, proceed to award a sum in gross to be paid by Great Britain to the United States for all the claims referred to j^. * * * Art. 10. Provided that in case the Tribunal found Great Brit- ain to be in fault but did 'not award 'a sum in gross,' a Board of Assessors should be appointed to ascertain and determine 'what claims are valid, and what amount or amounts shall be paid by Great Britain to the United States on account of the liability arising from such failure' and also that the members of said Board 'should impartially and carefully examine and decide, to the best of their judgment and according to justice and equity, all matters submitted to them, and shall forthwith proceed * * * to the investigation of the claims which shall be presented to them by the Government of the United States." The Arbitrators having carefully examined the evidence and documents submitted by the respective parties for their considera- tion, making use of the authority conferred upon it (them) by Article VII of the said treaty, "awarded to the United States a sum of $15,500,000 in gold, as the indemnity to be paid by Great Britain to the United States, for the satisfaction of all of the claims referred to the consideration of the tribunal." (i Moore Int. Arb. p. 658-9.) It thus appears that the award was made in full settlement of all the "claims on the part of the United States" referred, under the stipulations of the treaty, to the consideration of the Arbitrators. The amount so awarded in gross having come into the posses- sion of the United States, the Act of June 23, 1874 (above referred to), providing for the creation of a court to distribute the same, was enacted. 538 APPENDIX. Section 1 2 of said Act provided : "And no claim shall be admissible or allowed by said court, arising in favor of any person not entitled, at the time of his loss, to the protection of the United States in the premises," but, notwithstanding the contention of the representatives of the United States to the contrary, the Court held that the Act ren- dered admissible the claims of all persons, native born or natural- ized, and even unnaturalized, who were at the time of their loss or injury entitled, in respect of such loss or injury, to the protec- tion of the flag of the United States on the high seas, excepting only British subjects, who were held to be excluded on the ground that they could not be entitled to the protection or intervention of the United States as against their own government. The learned judge, who prepared the leading opinion on the point, among other conclusions declared that — " It was a great principle for which our government had con- tended from its origin, a principle identified with the freedom of the seas, viz: that the flag protected the ship and every person and thing thereon not contraband," * * * "Therefore, on the ground of abstract justice and propriety and upon the ground of legal right, we decide that foreigners entitled to the protection of our flag in the premises, whether nat- uralized or not, have a right to share in the distribution of this fund." The Court passed upon a large number of claims in which the claimants were persons of foreign birth, not naturalized, and entered judgment in their favor whenever they showed a loss under the provisions of the Act, except in the cases of native born subjects of Great Britain. (3 Moore Int. Arb., pp. 2350- 2354-) It is to be noted that these claims of aliens which were allowed by that Court were the very claims which the United States sub- mitted to and urged before the Arbitrators appointed by and acting under the terms of the treaty between the United States and Great Britain, and were in part "the claims on the part of the United States" which the gross award of $15,500,000 was intended to satisfy. The case of the "Texan Star" is also instructive in this connec- tion. The vessel was built in Boston, and in 1863 her managing owners were Stevens & Co., American citizens, who on the break- ing out of the War of the Rebellion transferred her to a British subject, so as to prevent her capture by Confederate Cruisers. RECORD OF CI/AIM NO. 1 9. 539 On the transfer her name was changed to the "Montaban," but she was left by her nominal vendees in the absolute charge and control of her former master. Having set out on her voyage, she was captured and with her cargo burnt by the Confederate Cruiser Alabama. The counsel for the United States contended that the vessel having been sold to a British subject and put under the British Flag, said vessel was British property, and, therefore, not being entitled to the protection of the United States in the premises, the claimants could not recover; but, after an elaborate review of precedents and authorities, it was held by the Court that, not- withstanding the "Texan Star" was sailing under the English flag at the time of her capture and destruction, nevertheless, the American claimants, whether continuing to be the absolute owners of the ship in consequence of the invalidity of the fictitious sale, or whether as mortgagees in possession with unlimited authority, whether with or without any registration, owned property in the Texan Star (Montaban) ; that that property, notwithstanding the change of flag, was under the protection of the United States; that the property was lost from damage directly resulting from the act of the Confederate Cruiser, and that, therefore, the claim- ants came within the provisions of the Act providing for the dis- tribution of the Geneva Award. (3 Moore Int. Arb. p. 2360, 2379) It is very plain from this opinion that the Court in determining its jurisdiction looked through the bill of sale and change of flag, and, seeing that notwithstanding the apparent English ownership, the real ownership was American, and that America and American citizens had suffered the damage and wrong complained of, swept aside all technical difficulties that stood in the path of justice and awarded compensation where damage had been done. The reason for the conceded rule that, in the absence of special provision to the contrary in the treaty or articles of convention, the claim to merit consideration at the hands of an International Commission must be national in origin as well as at the time of its presentation to the Commission for adjudication lies in that prin- ciple of public policy which forbids speculation in national claims and prevents the drumming up and purchase by citizens of a powerful state of claims against a foreign nation which have accrued to citizens of an unpotent state. But, the reason for the rule being absent, the rule itself falls, and, even in the absence of a treaty stipulation to that effect, there 540 APPENDIX. would seem to be no room for its application in a case such as here at bar where the element of speculation is entirely wanting and the beneficial ownership of the claim at the time of origin and ever since has remained the same, for although the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, was a British corporation and the Orinoco Steamship Company is an American corporation, the owners of the respective companies, that is, the stockholders, were, with unimportant exceptions, the same in each (Sworn Memorial, p. 4.).'^ The beneficial interest in the Company having been at all times American, any injury done the Company or its properties was a direct injury to American citizens and consequently a wrong to the United States which it was the purpose of the protocol and the parties to it to have righted. The fact that at the date of the main wrongs complained of, the predecessor in interest of the present claimant was an English registered company is of no great moment, for there is respectable precedent for national intervention in behalf of national stock- holders in a foreign corporation and of shareholders in a ship sailing under a foreign register and flag. The Delagoa Bay Railway Arbitration between the United States and Portugal is directly in point. 2 Moore Int. Arb. 1865 et seq. The facts of that case were as follows : In 1883 Edward McMurdo obtained a concession from the Portuguese Government to construct and operate a railroad from lyourenco Marquez to the frontier of the transvaal. It was stipu- lated in the concession that he should form a company for this purpose under the laws of Portugal, and such company, called the Lourenco Marquez and Transvaal Railway Company, was organized in accordance therewith. In May, 1884, Colonel Mc- Murdo assigned his concession to the Lourenco Marquez and Trans- vaal Railway Company, and received as consideration therefor 498,940 out of 500,000 shares of the stock of the said Portuguese company. B)^ the same instrument Colonel McMurdo agreed to construct the railroad, in consideration of the transfer to him of the whole of the debenture bonds of the company, amounting to £425,000. For several years, McMurdo was unsuccessful in his efforts to float these bonds. Finally, in 1887, he obtained the assistance of English capitalists, who, however, stipulated that their interests a [P. 127, this volume.— Agent's note.] RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. I9. 54 1 should be represented by the bonds and shares of a company to be incorporated under BngUsh laws. In this way the Delagoa Bay and Bast African Railway was formed, with a capital of £500,000 in shares. McMurdo then assigned to this English com- pany his shares in and bonds of the Portuguese company, and the benefit of his contract with said Portuguese company of May, 1884; the English company undertaking to indemnify him in re- spect to the obligations of his contract, to pay him £115,500, and to give him their entire issue of stock. The company then issued debenture bonds to pay McMurdo and raise money to build the road. In July, 1887, the Portuguese Government intimated that it would require an extension of the line of the railway. Meantime the railway was completed in accordance with the original plans and accepted by the Portuguese Government, with a reservation of the question as to the further extension of the line. Contro- versies over this extension led to the confiscation of the road in June, 1889, by Portugal. The first step of the United States toward intervention was taken May 9, 1889, when Mr. Blaine instructed Minister Lewis, at Lisbon, to send the Department all the documents relating to the McMurdo concession. On June 19, Mr. Blaine further instructed Mr. Lewis that it was reported that the Portuguese Government intended to take possession of the railway on the 24th of June, and he expressed the hope that no decisive action might be taken until the Government of the United States could investigate the case and make known any objections it might desire to express. At the same time he reserved all the rights of the United States in the matter. When it was reported that the concession had been canceled, Mr. Lewis was instructed to make a formal protest, reserving all rights the heirs of McMurdo, who had died meanwhile, or other American citizens might have in the concession; and on October 12, 1889, Mr. Loring, who had succeeded Mr. Lewis as our minister at Lisbon, was directed to " inform Portuguese Minister for Foreign Affairs that this Govern- ment, after careful investigation, views the forfeiture of Delagoa Railway concession and confiscation of the property of American citizens as unwarrantable and unjust, and that it will demand and expect the restoration of property or indemnity for losing, inflicted by Portuguese Government at the time of threatened forfeiture." 542 APPENDIX. On November 8, 1889, in the course of a long instruction to Mr. Loring, reviewing the facts in the case, Secretary Blaine says: "Upon full consideration of the circumstances of the case, this Government is forced to the conclusion that the violent seizure of the railway by the Portuguese Government was an act of con- fiscation which renders it the duty of the Government of the United States to ask that compensation should be made to such citizens of this country as may be involved. * * * The Portuguese company being without remedy and having now prac- tically ceased to exist, the only recourse of those whose property has been confiscated is the intervention of their respective govern- ments." Independently of this action on the part of the United States, which it is to be noted was taken on behalf of an American stock- holder in a Portuguese Company, the British Government had also intervened on behalf of its citizens who were bondholders in the English corporation, the Delagoa Bay and East African Rail- way, the sole connection of the latter company with the contro- versy being as above stated, viz. that by transfer from .McMurdo it had become the assignee or holding company of the shares in and bonds of the Portuguese company given to McMurdo in con- sideration of the construction of the railway. On September 10, 1889, Lord Salisbury instructed Mr. Petre (the English repre- sentative in Portugal) that — "Her Majesty's Government are of opinion that the Portuguese Government had no right to cancel the concession, nor to forfeit the line already constructed. They hold the actioij of the Portu- guese Government to have been wrongful and to have violated the clear rights and injured the interests of the British company, which was powerless to prevent it, and which, as the Portuguese company is practically defunct (this suggestion was vigorously denied by Senhor Barros Gomes, Portuguese Minister of Foreign Affairs) has no remedy except through the intervention of its own Government. In their judgment the British investors have suffered a grievous wrong in consequence of the forcible confisca- tion by the Portuguese Government of the line and the materials belonging to the British company and of the seciu-ity on which the debentures of the British Company had been advanced; and that for that wrong Her Majesty's Government are bound to ask for compensation from the Government of Portugal." We thus have the case of both the United States and Great Britain asserting the propriety and exercising the right to inter- vene as against Portugal on behalf of their respective nationals, stockholders or bondholders in a ' Portuguese corporation. An RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 543 agreement to arbitrate having been reached, the arbitrators were named by the President of the Swiss Republic, and after an ex- haustive review of the matters connected with the claim recently rendered an award in favor of the claimants for a large sum. An even more striking instance of national intervention on behalf of a national stockholder in a foreign corporation is to be found in the case of the claim of the Salvador Commercial Com- pany, an American Corporation, and other citizens of the United States all being stockholders in the "El Triunpho Company, Limited," a San Salvadoranean corporation. This controversy had its origin in a scheme to establish and develop a new port on the Pacific coast of Central America in the Republic of Salvador. In that case a concession for the navigation of the port in ques- tion had been granted to the Salvadoranean corporation, fifty-one per cent of the stock of which was owned by the American cor- poration first above named. The concession having been arbi- trarily withdrawn by the Salvadoranean Government, the Ameri- can citizens interested appealed to their Government for protec- tion and reclamation. The Government of San Salvador denied •the right of the Government of the United States to intervene in the matter, insisting that the government could only deal with the claims of the San Salvador corporation which, as a citizen of that country, should seek its redress if any it had in the San Salva- dor courts. After prolonged diplomatic negotiations, the entire matter was submitted to arbitration. Before the arbitrators it was again asserted that the United States could not in that case make reclamations for its nationals, the shareholders in El Triunfo Company, for the reason that such citizens, having invested their money in the Republic of San Sal- vador, must abide by the lavv^s of that country and seek their remedy if any they have in its courts, and that before reclamations can be successfully urged in their behalf by the United States it must be shown that such courts having been appealed to a denial of justice had resulted. While not denying the general propo- sition of law as thus stated, the Commission (the Umpire, Sir Henry Strong, and the American Commission concurring) sus- tained the right of the United States to intervene under the cir- cumstances on behalf of its nationals, mere stockholders though they were, and rendered an award in claimant's favor for a large sum. (A full copy of the decision of the Commissioners in that case is submitted herewith;" see also extract and remarks in rela- "[See [1903, Exhibit I] infra, p. 579.] — Agent's note.] 544 APPENDIX. tion thereto contained in brief on behalf of the United States heretofore filed herein.) It thus appears that, even had -there not been any transfer of rights from the English corporation, the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd., to the American corporation, the Orinoco Steamship Company, it would still have been entirely competent and in accord with established precedents for the United States to have intervened as against Venezuela and to have demanded on behalf of its nationals, although stockholders in an English Company, compensation for losses and damages suffered by such nationals as the result of arbitrary interference with the Com- pany's business or its property by Venezuela. A foundation for such action was in fact laid by the American Diplomatic representative in Caracas when in conjunction with the English minister he called upon the Venezuelan Minister of Foreign Affairs and, showing him the Company's protest against the Decree of October 5, 1900, opening the Macareo and Pedernales Channels to free navigation, asked for a modification of it "in some way, as the carrying out of it would certainly very greatly injure the interests of Company in question." (Diplomatic Cor- respondence, p. 9-10.)'^ Another view of this subject is also interesting. There is in session at the present time in this capital in addition to the United States and Venezuelan Mixed Commission also a British and Venezuelan Mixed Commission. The former has jurisdiction of all claims owned by American citizens which shall have been pre- sented to it for decision by the United States Department of State. The latter has jurisdiction of all British claims not otherwise settled that may be brought before it. As in any view one or the other of these commissions would have had jurisdiction to hear and determine such portion of this claim as accrued to the English Company, it would seem to be a matter of small concern which one was called upon to decide it. If it be true that Venezuela has arbitrarily destroyed property rights of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. and thereby inflicted injuries upon that Company, which, as necessarily follows, must ultimately fall upon its stockholders who were American citizens, it would seem that the wrong that was done was always a wrong against the United States and its citizens. " [P. 360, this volume. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 545 The basis of intervention having been estabUshed, it is of small consequence either in principle or practice whether such inter- vention takes place on behalf of the individual stockholders wha had been wronged or on behalf of a corporation to whom their rights whatever they were had been transferred.. On October 21, 1899, the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co. Ltd. invoked "the aid and protection of the American Govern- ment for the interests of American citizens involved therein," (Dip. Cor. p. i)" representing that ninety -nine per cent of its capital stock was owned by Alfred B. Scott, J. Van Vechten Olcott, and R. Morgan Olcott, three American citizens. That this appli- cation for protection met with a prompt response and produced satisfactory results appears from the letter to the Secretary of State of the United States under date of June 19, 1900, forwarding copies of the papers pertaining to the settlement of May 10, 1900, and expressing the thanks of the Company "for the good offices so promptly extended in its behalf." (Dip. Cor., p. 4.) '' March 13, 1902, the United States Department of State was informed of the incorporation of the Orinoco Steamship Company and also of the fact that on the loth of the same month a resolu- tion had been duly passed "authorizing the transfer of all of the property and assets of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co. to the Orinoco Steamship Co." (Dip. Cor., p. 58.) " September 15, 1902, Minister Bowen called the attention of the Venezuelan Government to the complaint of the "Orinoco Steam- ship Company," "an American corporation" that "its contract with the Venezuelan Government by which it was guaranteed the exclusive navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales Channels of the Orinoco " had been violated and requested His Excellency, the Minister for Foreign Affairs "to bring the case to the attention of your government to the end that the American Company in ques- tion be fully protected in its rights." (Dip. Cor., p. 96-97. )<* Receipt of this communication was acknowledged by Senor Baralt, Minister for Foreign Affairs, with an expression of the sur- prise "produced at the claim of the so-called Orinoco Steamship Company, and suggesting that "the claimants may have wished to refer to a question " theretofore raised by Mr. Bowen's prede- cessor in' course of which the Venezuelan Government "was asked to take into consideration the losses alleged to have been caused " [P- 358, this volume.] c [p. jg^^ this volume.] ' [Pp- 359-360, this volume.] d [p. 414^ this volume.] 17301— 10 35 546 APPENDIX. the claimants by the closing decree in question; " to which request the Venezuelan Government had replied stating "the legal and judicial circumstances which prevented the Government from admitting claims of that nature, and pointed out the remedy for all claimants for damages based on presumptive or effective titles," and reference was made to the correspondence in question, Senor Baralt stating that he reaffirmed "the position then taken by this Ministry." (Dip. Cor., p. 98.)° The correspondence referred to appears on pages 138-140 of the Diplomatic Correspondence'' in this case, and, -after referring to the damages sustained by the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company as a result of the decree of October 5, 1900, disclaims any intention of discussing the principle of free navigation in- volved therein, but invites attention to matter for the purpose of considering "whether or not the American stockholders who own ninety per cent, of the shares of this Company are not likely to suffer losses, owing to the promulgation of this decree, that should in justice entitle them to adequate compensation at the hands of the Venezuelan Government." To this the then Min- ister of Foreign Affairs, Senor Eduardo Blanco, replied, referring to the mention made " of a claim that is likely to be presented with the intervention of the United States Government," that the question presented "from its origin and nature, as it is a case of litigation, can not be investigated except in conformity to the provisions of internal legislation," and, " in conformity to instruc- tions from the Chief Executive, I have to respectfully inform your Excellency that it is impossible to look at claims of that kind in the same manner as your Excellency appears to do in the conclud- ing part of your note." (Dip. Cor., p. 139-140.) " It thus plainly appears that as early as January 29, 1901 the Venezuelan Government was advised through Diplomatic Chan- nels of the existence of the claims against said Government in favor of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company and of the dis- position of the United States to intervene in behalf of the American stockholders in said corporation, and later of the fact that the American corporation, the Orinoco Steamship Company, had taken over the assets of the former Company, including the claims in question, and that the United States Government was still dis- posed to intervene in such behalf on account of the damages occa- sioned as aforesaid. a[V. 416, this volume.] ()[Pp. 442-444, this volume.] c[p, 444^ this volume.] RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. 19. 547 It can not, therefore, be reasonably argued that the two Govern- ments, acting through their respective plenipotentiaries, when effecting the protocol under which this Commission is acting, were not fully cognizant of the existence and pendency of this very claim, or that they did not intend affirmatively by the word "owned" (poseidas), specially selected as it was, for its use in this protocol is unique, to cover this very case whose continued pend- ency unsettled was calculated to vex sorely both governments. The purpose was undoubtedly to dispose forever of all outstanding differences between the countries, and the words used in the pro- tocol to effect that end are so clear as to leave no room for con- struction. The pendency of the claims in question was known by both Goyernments. That they had been transferred to and were con- sequently owned by the Orinoco Steamship Company, a citizen of the United States, was equally well known. Equally possessed of such knowledge, the high contracting parties agreed to submit to the determination of arbitrators "all claims owned by citizens of the United States." That the high contracting parties were competent to so stipulate must be admitted by every one who asserts that they possess the attributes of sovereignty. Having evidenced their agreement by the use of the most apt words to be found in the English and the Spanish languages to express the desired end, it would seem to be idle to attack the jurisdiction of this Commission by invoking a general principle which, while applicable where the treaty is silent, all agree must yield when the treaty by words specially selected speaks otherwise. 2nd. But it is also said that as all clauses of the contract are equally obligatory the claimant should be required to conform to that provision of the contract which relegates all disputes between the parties to the Venezuelan courts without recourse to Diplo- matic intervention. Article 14 of the contract of navigation which is undoubtedly referred to in this connection provides (Memorial p. 4)" that "Disputes and controversies which may arise with regard to the interpretation or execution of this contract shall be resolved by the tribunals of the Republic in accordance with the laws of the nation and shall not in any case be considered as a motive for interna- tional reclamations. It is to be remarked in the first place that no dispute has arisen between the parties concerning either the interpretation or execu- o[P. 131, this volume.] 548 APPENDIX. tion of said contract. The Venezuelan Government having seen fit by its decree of October 5th, 1900 to put an end to the entire value of the concession by granting to other steamers plying be- tween Trinidad and Ciudad Bolivar the right to ply through the Macareo and Pedernales channels, contrary as we assert to the provisions of article 6 of the contract by which the Government undertook to concede to no other line of steamers "any of the benefits, concessions and exemptions contained in the present con- tract," a claim arose in favor of the parties interested for the destruction of the property rights embodied in the contract. The Government having in fact annulled the concession by destroying its only value could not reasonably assert that it was still in force either for the purpose of availing itself of the stipulations in its favor therein contained, or for any purpose whatever. Besides, the High Contracting powers having agreed to submit this claim together with others arising out of contracts containing a similar clause to this Commission for adjudication, it is idle for the Agent of Venezuela to dispute the express terms of the protocol which ad hoc is the supreme law of the land. This claim having been submitted to the Commission for ad- judication, the protocol declares that it shall be decided "without regard to objections of a technical nature or of the provisions of local legislation." To oppose the jurisdiction of this Commission to assess and award to the claimant compensation for services rendered to the Govern- ment and for damages suffered at the hands of the Government by its capricious destruction of the property value of the concession because the contract of concession under which the Company was acting contained a provision that all disputes arising out of its interpretation or execution should be referred to local tribunals, would seem to be nothing more than to submit for the considera- tion of the Commission a mere technical objection. Considering the terms of the protocol, it would seem impossible to question the jurisdiction of the Commission on this ground. It is well settled that — "When citizens of the United States go to a foreign country, they go with an impUed understanding that they are to obey its laws and submit themselves in good faith to its established tri- bunals. When they do business with its citizens, or make private contracts there, it is not to be expected that either their own or the foreign government is to be made a party to this business or these contracts, or will undertake to determine any dispute to RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 549 which they give rise. * * * The case is widely different when the foreign government becomes itself a party to important con- tracts, and then not only fails to fulfill them, but capriciously an- nuls them, to the great loss of those who have invested their time, labor, and capital " in their rehance upon its good faith and justice." (Mr. Cass, Sec. of State to Mr. Dimitry, May 3, i860; 2 Wharton's Digest § 230, p. 615.) But, "in any case, by the rule of natural justice obtaining universally throughout the world, wherever a legal system exists, the obliga- tion of parties to a contract to appeal for judicial relief is reciprocal. If the Repubhc of Salvador, a party to the contract which in- volved the franchise to El Triunfo Company, had just ground for complaint that under its organic law the grantees had, by misuser or non-user of the franchise granted, brought upon themselves the penalty of forfeiture of their rights under it, then the course of that Government should have been to have itself appealed to the courts against the company and there, by the due process of judi- cial proceedings, involving notice, full opportunity to be heard, consideration, and solemn judgment, have invoked and secured the remedy sought. " " It is abhorrent to the sense of justice to say that one party to a contract, whether such party be a private individual, a monarch or a government of any kind, may arbitrarily, without hearing, and without impartial procedure of any sort, arrogate the right to con- demn the other party to the contract, to pass judgment upon him and his acts, and to impose upon him the extreme penalty of for- feiture of all his rights under it, including his property and his in- vestment of capital made on the faith of that contract. "Before the arbitrament of natural justice all parties to a con- tract, as to their reciprocal rights and their reciprocal remedies, are of equal dignity and are equally entitled to invoke for their redress and for their defense the hearing and the judgment of an impartial and disinterested tribunal. " (Opinion of Umpire, Sir Henry Strong, and Commissioner Dickinson, in El Triunfo Company, Ltd., case.) Assuming for the moment, as seems to be the contention of the Agent for the respondent government, that clause 14 of the con- tract of June 8, 1894 had a bearing upon the matters in controversy between Venezuela and the Company, it must be apparent that the obligations of that clause bore equally and reciprocally upon both parties thereto, and when Venezuela, without resort to the tri- bunals of the Republic destroyed the value of the concession by the decree of October 5, 1900, and further showed her own disregard o [The original reads: "from a reliance upon its own good faith and justice." Agent's Note.] 550 APPENDIX. f of the requirement in question which had been repeated in the settlement agreement of May lo, 1900, by proclaiming on December 14, 1 901 the forfeiture and annulment of the extension itself, it is certain that the Company, the other party to the contract, was thereby absolved from all obligation if any had theretofore existed on such score. In any event, Venezuela was competent to waive the restrictive clause referred to and to submit the disputed matters to the judg- ment of an independent tribunal and this she has done — beyond cavil. 3rd. It is further objected that it would be inequitable for this International Tribunal to consider the claim of the claimant company and to render an award in its favor, because the respon- dent government has claims of good origin to make against the claimant which she cannot substantiate before the Commission. It is to be noticed that it is not asserted that the respondent is in possession of any liquidated claim against the company which it desires to urge by way of a setoff. If such Uquidated claim actually existed it would not be contended for one instant that under the general principles governing submissions to arbi- tration for settlement in accordance with equity it could not be urged by way of setoflt or counterclaim, for to determine a claim according to equity and justice would be but to award in favor of the claimant what was actually his due, and it could not be contended that there was in such case actually due more than the difference between the claim and the off-set. But here it is to be noted that Venezuela sets up a mere unliquidated demand which upon investigation may be found, as it doubtless will be, to be without any foundation either in fact or law. And it is particularly to be noted in this connection that never during the negotiations resulting in the settlement of May 10, 1900 nor at any time subsequent thereto until after the presentation of the claimant company's claim to this tribunal was it ever intimated that the respondent government possessed counterclaims against the Company. The afterthought comes too late, and, if this Com- mission should give heed to it, it is easily to be perceived that by resorting to a similar plea in other cases presented on behalf of American citizens the Commission would readily be stripped of all its functions under the protocol. If the counterclaim or offset now asserted for the first time had in fact existed, it should have been suggested at least not later than during the negotiations RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 55I which resulted in the protocol and it cannot be doubted that ample provision would have been made therein for its considera- tion and adjustment. It is certain, however, that the Commission should not refuse to consider and decide the claim which it has jurisdiction of because it cannot take into account a possible offset which has no existence in fact. 4th. With respect to the item of B. 100,000 due as the second instalment of cash agreed to be paid under the terms of the settle- ment of May 10, 1900, it is urged on behalf of Venezuela that same should be rejected, because — (a) A new creditor has been substituted for the former one without the consent of or notice to the debtor ; (6) Because Venezuela has the right and should be afforded the opportunity to offset against the same amounts which the original debtor owes to her; and (c) Because by the terms of the contract itself, the concessionary company agreed that "every question that might arise by reason of that agreement should be submitted to the tribunals of Venezuela for decision and could never be open to international reclamations. ' ' Referring to the last of these objections first, it is but neces- sary to call attention to the fact that the clause of the settlement contract referred to is not so broad as is there stated, but that the agreement for submission to the Venezuelan Courts is strictly limited to " doubts and controversies which may arise with respect to the interpretation and execution of this contract." And it would seem that in no fair or equitable sense has any controversy arisen either with respect to such "interpretation or execution" of the contract, but on the contrary it being conceded that the sum mentioned is due by the express terms of the settlement contract, it is sought to avoid payment thereof by asserting an offset or counterclaim which in law was finally settled by the "transaction" itself, and which at least in Hquidated form has never had any existence in fact. The agreement of settlement was executed May 10, 1900. On July 14, 1901, Mr. Russell reported to Mr. Hay that he " had a long interview with the Foreign Minister on this subject {i. e., the pay- ment, of the second instalment of B. 100,000) and he admitted that the whole of the 200,000 bolivars had to be paid in gold, and the only reason that Mr. Olcott's name appeared as one of the claimants before the late claims commission was that in accord- 552 APPENDIX. ance with article 2 of the contract the Commission has to fix the date for paying the second 100,000 bolivars. " (Dip. Cor., p. 36.)* And again, on July 31, 1901, Mr. Russell cabled the Secretary of State at Washington that the " Government of Venezuela made the proposal to pay (one) thousand bolivars a month. " Ibid. p. ^S.'' From this it is plain that as late as the last mentioned date (July 31, 1 901), no thought of the existence of a setoff had arisen in the minds of the Executive officials of the respondent Govern- ment, nor had there been any suggestion that the above amount was not wholly due and payable. Nor does it seem necessary to answer objection b further than to refer to the argument heretofore submitted under point num- ber three. With respect to objection a, it would seem that the Agent for Venezuela must have had in mind some provision of local legislation, regard for which is expressly excluded by the terms of the protocol. As the item is a liquidated one and the right to recover it had vested, it would seem by all principles of recognized commercial dealing to have been assignable, and was so at least under the peculiar circumstances governing the rela- tion of the assignor and assignee in this caje. All that Venezuela can care for or reasonably demand in re- spect to such item is that she shall be siure that a payment to the claimant of such amount under the award of this Commis- sion will operate as an acquittance with respect to any and all other claimants whatsoever, and of this there can be no well founded or reasonable doubt, for by the articles of assignment from the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. to the claimant, set forth as Exhibit C (Memorial p. 5i),<^ the former Company would ever be estopped from asserting any claim, and the receipt of claimant, or its assigns if any, would be a full acquittance. With respect to the objections made to the claim for damages resulting from the effects of the decree of October 5, 1900, it seems well for the purpose of avoiding certain misapprehensions which seem to have fastened themselves in the mind of the Hon- orable Agent for Venezuela to review briefly the legislative history of recent years concerning the navigation of the Orinoco River, and also to analyze the terms of the Company's concession and the claims now asserted for its breach. In the first place, the claimant wishes it to be clearly understood that neither it nor its predecessors in interest at any time have " [P' 379i this volume.] 6 [P. 3S0, this volume.] c[See [1903 Exhibit No. 3], ante p. 157. — Agent's Note.] RECORD OP CLAIM NO. I9. 553 laid claim to a grant of the exclusive navigation of the Orinoco River. An inspection of any good map of Venezuela will disclose the fact that the vast volume of water forming the Orinoco River is discharged into the sea through several mouths, certain of which, particularly the boca grande debouche directly into the Atlantic ocean, while certain of the lesser mouths, and particularly what are known as the Macareo and Pedernales channels or mouths debouche into the inland sea called* the Gulf of Paria. Of the many mouths flowing into the Gulf of Paria, only the two last above named are at all practicable for steamboats of any reason- able capacity. While the boca grande is navigable at all seasons of the year by ocean going craft, during the dry season the water in the river itself and particularly between San Felix and Bolivar becomes so low as to render the navigation of the river by such craft dangerous if not quite impossible. It is, therefore, apparent that navigation of the River by boats capable of plying through the Boca Grande might, and in fact would be, interrupted at cer- tain seasons of the year because of low river; nevertheless, smaller boats of light draft though incapable of navigating the Boca Grande and its sea approaches, if entrance by the river be had otherwise, could find therein sufficient water to enable them to navigate all the year round. The protected waters of the Gulf of Paria in combination with the Macareo and Pedernales channels or mouths afford just such an opportunity. In addition to the above, it will also be noted that these mouths or channels afford the shortest route for communication between Port of Spain, Trinidad, and the City of Ciudad Bolivar. The value of the right to navigate such channels or mouths has long been recognized. On May 14, 1869 the Congress of Venezuela threw " open to merchant steam- vessels under foreign flags that undertake the inland navigation, the navigation of the river Orinoco and its affluents." The Venezuela Steam Transportation Company, an American corporation, built and equipped three steamers with special reference to the navigation of these inland waters, and despatched them in sections to "\^enezuela, where they were put together and began service. The subsequent history of that venture is not important here, but may be found in the report of the case of the Venezuela Steam Transportation Com- pany in 2 Moore's Int. Arb., p. 1693, et seq. Subsequently, in November 1892, Mr. Scruggs then United States Minister to Venezuela, sent to the Minister of Foreign 554 APPENDIX. Affairs copy of a letter from John H. Dialogue & Son, of Camden, N. J., stating that they were contemplating the building of vessels with which to navigate the bayous of the Orinoco River, but before entering upon such expense they desired to know whether "these bayous as well as the main channel were open to all flags, and especially the American, and whether the condition would likely be permanent," to which Dr. Rojas, then Minister for For- eign Affairs replied to the effect that foreign vessels bound for Ciudad Bolivar were permitted to enter the Orinoco River by any of the mouths and return likewise by any of them. This assurance, such as it was, having been communicated through the Department of State at Washington to Dialogue & Son, they set about constructing a vessel "especially for the navigation of the Orinoco River through the mouths adjacent to Port of Spain," but unfitted for navigating through the principal mouth. (For- eign Relations of the U. S., 1893, p. 737 — ^Also Foreign Relations U. S., 1894.) Before the vessel was fully completed, on July ist, 1893, Presi- dent Crespo decreed that — "Vessels engaged in foreign trade with Ciudad Bolivar shall be allowed to proceed only by way of the Boca Grande of the River Orinoco; the Macareo and Pedernales channels being reserved for the coastal service; navigation by the other channels of the said river being absolutely prohibited," together with other matters not here important, and this decree was subsequently ratified and confirmed by the Congress of Venezuela (Memorial p. 6, 7)." The validity of such decree was also subsequently affirmed by the High Federal Court of Venezuela in the Matter of George F. Carpenter; copy of translations of the opinion of the special commission and the sentence of the court in that connection being submitted herewith. * The free navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales channels having thus been prohibited by law. President Crespo on the 17th of January 1894, for the various considerations therein recited, entered into the contract for the navigation of those channels which lies at the basis of the present claim, the contract itself as subsequently approved by the Venezuelan Congress being spread at large in the Memorial at pages 8 to 11 inclusive." o[P. 129, this volume.] 6 [See [1903 Exhibit J] infra, p. 595. — Agent's note. '[Pp. 130-132, this volume.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 555 By Article i of said contract, the concessionaire undertook to establish and maintain "navigation by steamers between Ciudad Bolivar and Maracaibo * * * in such manner that at least one journey ^er fortnight be made, touching, &c. &c. * * *." By Article 3 of the contract, the concessionaire agreed to trans- port, free of charge, the mails, and by Article 5 to receive on board of each steamer a government employee to look after the same and also to transport at reduced rates public employees, military men, troops, materials of war and freights shipped for account or by order of the national government. By Article 7, the Government of Venezuela bound itself to pay to the contractor (concessionaire) a monthly subsidy of 4000 B. "so long as the conditions of the present contract are duly carried out," and by Articles 8, 9, 10 and 11 the company was exonerated from payment of import duties on all machinery &c. imported for the use of the steamers; was permitted to cut wood from the national forests for construction purposes and fuel; the officers and crews of the steamers were exempted from military service and the steamers were granted in the ports of the Republic the freedom and preferences by law established and "enjoyed by steamers of lines established with fixed itinerary." By Article 12 it was provided that "any one of the steamers leaving Trinidad may also navigate by the channels of the Macareo and Pedernales of the River Orinoco in conformity with the for- malities which by special resolution may be imposed by the Minister of Finance in order to prevent contraband," and by Article 6 the Government bound itself not to concede to any "other line of steamers, any of the benefits, concessions and exemp- tions contained in the present contract (which are granted) as com- pensation for the services which the company undertakes to render." By Article 13 it was provided that the contract should remain in force for fifteen years from the date of its approbation. It will appear, .therefore, that all in the way of a monopoly of navigation which the concessionaire or so-called contractor was entitled to claim, and all in that respect that the claimant company has in fact ever claimed, was the exclusive right of navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales channels by vessels engaged in foreign trade, that is, plying between Trinidad and the Orinoco River ports. As Trinidad was at the date of the grant and ever since has continued to be a port of transhipment for foreign freights bound 556 APPENDIX. from or consigned to Bolivar and other Orinoco River ports, the great value of such an exclusive right is at once apparent. As required by the terms of the contract, the concessionaire established and his assigns maintained until brokA by superior force a Une of steamers between Ciudad Bolivar and La Guaira, the journey both ways being made via Port of Spain, Trinidad. The service from La Guairk to Maracaibo has never been estabUshed, the Government, after twice extending the time for the establishment of such service (Memorial p. 13, 14),'* on May 10, 1900 expressly exempted the concessionaire from the obligation to estabhsh the same, and the company on its part renounced its right to receive the subsidy of 4000 B. per month stipulated to be paid by Article 7 of the contract (Mem., p. 22),'' which subsidy never had been paid and on account of which no claim has ever been urged by the Company. (Dip. Cor., p. 29.)" Between Trinidad and Ciudad Bolivar the Company estab- lished and always maintained the required service of fortnightly trips until about May 31st, 1902 when the Company's steamer " Bolivar " while on her regular itinerary was stopped in the neighborhood of San Felix by national authority (J. Sarria Hurtado, President of State of Guayana) and after her cargo had been broached in part and other stores and supplies and sacks of mail had been taken from her, she was ordered to return to Trinidad with an order addressed to the General Manager of the Orinoco Steamship Company in the following terms: " Constitutional^ Predencia in Campaign, State of Bolivar, San Fewx, jist May 1902. Ciudad Bolivar, Capital of this State, being occupied by Revo- lutionary troops, in arms against the Constitutional Government of the Nation, I have been compelled to transfer the seat of Government in accordance with the express dispositions of the Constitution, to this town: and I notify you thereof in order that, from now onward, and until public peace shall have been re-established, you abstain from despatching the steamers at your command for said Port of Bolivar, occupied by the enemy, as I shall be otherwise forcibly compelled to impede the said steamers proceeding to their destination. God and the Federation. J. Sarria Hurtado." (Dip. Cor. 83.)"* "[P- 133. this volume.] c[p. 371^ this volume.] 6 [P. 138, this volume.] (J [P. 404, this volume.] RECORD OF CI.AIM NO. I9. 557 Against this order to cease despatching steamers to Bolivar, the General Manager of the Company, Mr. Turner, on June 6th, 1902, protested before the American Consul in Trinidad, expressly calling attention therein to the fact that — "My Company is bound by contract with the Venezuelan Gov- ernment to maintain a fortnightly mail service between Trinidad and the aforesaid port of Ciudad Bohvar ; and the prohibition above mentioned prevents the Company from carrying out that contract, and exposes the Company to other serious consequences * * *. " " Under the circumstances enumerated, I desire on behalf of my Company that you will have the goodness to communicate by cable with your Government at Washington, with a view of their affording such protection for the rights, contracts, and interests of the Orinoco Steamship Company as they may consider justifiable." (Dip. Cor. 88-89.)° Repeated applications for clearances of the Company's vessels for Bolivar having been refused by the Venezuelan Consul in Trinidad, the matter was on August 29, 1902 brought to the at- tention of the Secretary of State of the United States (August 29, 1902, Dip. Cor. 90; September 22, 1902, Dip. Cor. 99; and Decem- ber 8th, 1902, Dip. Cor. 100),* who from time to time communi- cated through the Legation in Caracas with the Venezuelan Gov- ernment on the subject without avail. As from the 31st of May 1902 to the 21st day of July, 1903, — Ciudad Bolivar has continuously remained in the hands of the Revolutionary troops and the Venezuelan consul in Trinidad has steadfastly refused clearances for the Company's vessels bound for Orinoco ports, and as the general navigation of the river has from time to time throughout the intervening period been inter- rupted by blockades both domestic and foreign and by prohibitory decrees backed with at least a desultory show of force, it would seem that any and all failures to maintain a regular fortnightly service since said 31st day of May 1902 must be passed without penalty even if since said date the Company was under any ob- ligation to the Venezuelan Government, contractual or otherwise, to maintain such service, it being here suggested that the Decree of the Supreme Chief of the Republic of October 5, 1900, which was subsequently ratified and confirmed on the 14th day of March 1901 by the Venezuelan Congress, destroying as it did the Com- pany's exclusive rights of navigation in the Macareo and Peder- nales channels, at the same time absolved the Company itself "- [P. 408, this volume.] & [Pp. 409, 416, 417, this volume.] 558 APPENDIX. from all necessity of compliance on its part with the contract terms. With respect to so much of the contract as required navigation to be regularly maintained between the Orinoco River and La Guaira (the service to Maracaibo being dropped as above stated), it is to be noted that the Company also performed its duty in that respect, as the records of the Venezuelan customs-house at La Guaira will show, until October 19th 1899, on which date the Company's steamer " Vencedor " with which that service was being performed was seized at the Port of Porlamar by "men armed with Winchester and Mauser rifles" who boarded the vessel "de- claring that they took the steamer for the purpose of placing it at the service of the Revolution, which was then in course of develop- ment in Venezuela, headed by General Cipriano Castro." The steamer was then despatched by General Asuncion Rodriguez, the chief of the then Revolutionary party in Margarita, to Carupano where she was used by General Castro's adherents as a transport ship for carrying troops and supplies. (See protest of Jose Vicente Rodriguez made October 30, 1899 at Port of Spain, copies of which are submitted herewith marked "Exhibit A.")" The vessel was retained in the possession of the forces of Gen- eral Castro until February 10, 1900, a period of 114 days, when she was restored to the possession of the Company in a badly damaged condition. (Dip. Cor., p. 117.)* The action of the revolutionists in seizing and making use of this vessel was approved by General Castro himself, as was evi- denced by the settlement made between Mr. Olcott and the Minister of the Interior May loth, 1900 (Memorial p. igoo),*- oneof the main items of the Company's claims then presented and set- tled covering the detention of and damage to this steamer. As a circumstance connecting the two official papers which covered the transaction of May 10, 1900, it is to be noted that at the time it was estimated that it would require one year to repair the steamer (Dip. Cor., 11 7);"* and by Article 2 of the paper pro- viding for the six years' extension of the contract of navigation the Company was allowed twelve months from its date within which to renew or "undertake" to make the "twelve voyages o [See [1903 Exhibit K], post, p. 604. — Agent's note.] 6 [P. 428, this volume. — Agent's note.] c [This page number is an evident misprint for "19;" seep. 136, this volume. — Agent's note.] <*[?. 428, this volume. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 559 annually between the Island of Trinidad and La Guaira, touching at the Venezuelan ports according to ^the itinerary of the East Coast." The evident, expectation of the parties at that time was that the service would be renewed with the same steamer that had fomerly performed it, and a year's time was permitted to the concessionary Company within which to make her necessary repairs. It is insisted, therefore, that not only by the express terms of the navigation contract of June 8th, 1894, did the concessionaire and his transferees obtain the exclusive right of navigation of the Macareo and Pedernales channels by vessels engaged in for- eign commerce, but also that until prevented by vis majeur exercised by, or on behalf of the present existing Government of Venezuela, it fully complied with every obligation imposed upon it by the contract concession in question. The suggestion, that the contract concession amounted merely to a permit to navigate said channels and did not constitute a grant of such right . exclusive of all competition on the part of other ships engaged in foreign trade seems to require no further comment or answer than a reference to the document itself whose terms rightly construed must put an end to all discussion on such score. Points 5 and 7 of the answer of the respondent Government, which consider the relation or want of it between the two sepa- rate documents which claimant contends taken together con- stitute the transaction of May 10, 1900, may well be considered together. It is first suggested by the respondent that the extension of the navigation contract did not figure in the settlement of the claims in any manner, because it is not referred to in the document in which the claims are mentioned, nor can the two papers be bound together by the simple statement of one of the interested parties. Second, that no allowance should be made for the withdrawal of so much of the concession as was covered by this six (6) years' extension, because the same having been made without consider- ation given therefor did not constitute a binding contract and was capable of being withdrawn by the grantor at any time. While it may be true that in a court of law administering justice according to hard and fast rules and adhering strictly to the pre- scribed rules of evidence there might be some difficulty in directly connecting the two instruments in question as constituting a single 56o APPENDIX. transaction, it is to be borne in mind that this High International tribunal is charged to decide all claims presented to it according to justice, upon a basis of absolute equity and without regard to objections of a technical nature. With a view of determining the objection so raised in connec- tion with the suggestion made on behalf of the respondent gov- ernment to the effect that the claimant's predecessor on May lo, 1900 agreed to settle and discharge accrued claims amounting to over $550,000, American money, in consideration of the receipt of B. 100,000 in cash and a promise to pay B. 100,000 more there- after, without any other consideration passing, let us examine the situation of both parties as it existed at the time of the trans- action. On June ist, 1899 bills and corresponding vouchers had been presented by the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co. Ltd. to the Venezuelan Government covering services rendered by the " Red Star Line " then owned by the former company amount- ing to $101,163.42. These bills and vouchers were accepted by the Venezuelan Government as correct and payments were made on account thereof as follows: 1 899 June 2 4,000 Bolivars. August 24 4,000 September 26 6,000 " October 6 $20,400 in salt bonds, amounting in the whole to about $22,800 paid on account, and leaving then due to the Company a balance of about $77,818.01 of undisputed and indisputable debt. (See Memorial, p. i^f Dip. Cor., p. 111-112,'' and affidavit of Cesar Vicentini "^ made at Port of Spain May 20, 1903.) Subsequent to the dates covered by the above-mentioned account, other services had been rendered by the Company to the Government and other sums had on account thereof and on other accounts such as the seizure and use of Company's ships by the Government and damages done thereto, accrued due to the Company, the whole including the balance above-mentioned amounting to more than a half of a million dollars. The Company, as was natural, was pressing for payment. General Castro's government but newly come into power was but illy-supplied with cash funds. The Company believed that a [P. 135, this volume. — Agent's note.] 6 [P. 425, this volume. — Agent's note.] (■[See [1903 Exhibit D], ante, p. 164. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 56 1 its concession of the monopoly of navigating the interior water ways of the Orinoco River was valuable and with approaching peace would become more so. The Government although poorly supplied with cash had the power to extend this concession and the Company was willing to accept such an extension in lieu of cash payment. Is it to be presumed for one instant that with an acknowledged balance of at least $77,800 in round numbers due and owing to the Company on the first accouht above referred to that any sane man would have agreed to settle even with a slow paying debtor for $20,000 cash and a promise to pay $20,000 at some indefinite' time in the future? Why should the government at the very time that a settlement of the claims on such terms was made agree to extend a monopoly of navigation held by its creditor unless the extension was to go in part payment? It is to be noted that both papers were drawn in the Ministry of Internal Affairs on the same day, that the negotiators were the same in each, that in addition to considering settled all back debts due from the Government to the Company, it was agreed by the Agent for the Company in the "transaction" document to also consider as paid "all services which the Company may continue to render to the general Government or to the Governments of the States up to the first of July next." In the "extension" document it is recited that "Richard Mor- gan Olcott, Attorney and Director of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Tt., having solicited from the National Gov- ernment an extension of six years of the contract of Navigation dated loth of June 1894 * * * the Supreme Chief of the Republic, considering the reasons on which said Company bases its petition to be justified, disposes as follows, &c." It is always open to parties to a contract to show by extraneous evidence the true consideration upon which a contract was founded. In the sworn memorial, it is stated by Mr. Olcott, one of the parties to the transaction itself, that — " It was agreed that in full settlement of the claims then accrued due and submitted, amounting as aforesaid to the sum of $554,- 550.51, there should be paid to The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co., Limited, the sum of 200,000 bolivars in coined money, and the above mentioned contract or concession of the exclusive right to navigate the Macareo and Pedernales Channels of the Orinoco River should be prolonged for the period of six years " * * * (Memorial p. 19)." «[P. 136, this volume.] 17301— 10 36 562 APPENDIX. Mr. Cesar Vicentini deposes that — "Richard Morgan Olcott, managing director &c., together with myself, presented to the Government of the United States of Venezuela, a statement of account with vouchers corresponding thereto showing the sum of $554,550.53 due from the said Govern- ment to said Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. "That said accounts were adjusted with the said Government in my presence on the loth day of May 1900, and the said Govern- ment agreed to pay to the said Company the sum of 200,000 bolivars in coined money * * * and "In addition to these, the said Government in consideration and further settlement of the above mentioned account did grant to the said Company a confirmation of the Macareo and Pedernales Rivers concession and extended and prolonged said concession for a period of six years * * * &c." (See affidavit heretofore submitted.)" On June 19, 1900 copies of the articles of settlement were filed in the United States State Department (see Dip. Cor. pp. 3-4).' October 21, 1900, Mr. Russell reported to the Department of State of the United States "that by an executive decree of the 5th of this month all of the mouths of the Orinoco River have been opened up to navigation " * * *. " On the 6th of October, the day after the passage of the decree, the representative of the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company came to me with a protest against the passage of such a decree as being a direct attack against the rights of his Company and a vir- tual annulment of the contract under which said Company is at present operating. A similar protest was made to the English Legation, as the Company is registered in London, and some of the stockholders are English. * * * i^ company with the English Minister I made an informal call on the Minister of Foreign Affairs. * * * The Minister promised to look into the matter, but up to the present I have heard nothing more from him. * * * Some time ago the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Com- pany presented a claim for the loss of two of its ships that had been destroyed while on Government service. This claim was settled last May when the Government paid 100,000 bolivars in cash and agreed to pay 100,000 bolivars more when the commission shall meet next January which is to consider claims for damages resulting from the last revolution; and as a further compensation extended the navigation" contract of 1894 six years, which contract "contained the special privilege of entering the Macareo and Pen- " dernales channels" (Dip. Cor. p. 10-11).° a [P. 452, this volume.] 6 [P. 359, this volume.] c[p. 361^ this volume.] RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 19. 563 February 22, 1901, Minister I/Oomis again reported to the Department of State that — "There is no doubt, however, that the Venezuelan Government is largely in the debt of the Company in a financial way as the result of losses inflicted upon its property and the interruption of its business by the arbitrary seizure of steamers from time to time. * * * In making this arrangement the claim of the company for a hundred thousand or more dollars was scaled down by consent to forty thousand dollars in consideration of the fact that its con- cession should he extended for six years. The extension of the concession was thought to be of very great value. A few months after the extension was granted the "value of the whole contract "was destroyed by the opening of the Macareo channel to navi- "gation. This was done without prior notice to the company "* * *." (Dip. Cor. p. 23-24.)" December 14, 1900, Mr. Olcott wrote to the British Minister resident in Caracas that — "On May 10, 1900 I concluded an arrangement with the Vene- zuelan Government for the settlement of our claims, which amounted to over £90,000. The Government agreed to satisfy that amount in the following manner. I. Cash, 100,000 Bolivars, received May loth last. ilf sk *Jc ^A ^ ^ ^Ic 3. The prolongation for 6 years of the contract of the 8th of June 1894. When agreeing to the above settlement, I took into account almost entirely, the value of the extension for six years which the Minister entrusted with these negotiations, frequently stated in conversation (before my agent here, Mr. C. Vicentini) was 'to the value of at least £100,000 alone.' " (Dip. Cor. p. 43.)* Thus the contemporaneous writings on the subject of this settlement, and the understanding of the diplomatic representa- tives of the United States seem to be in thorough accord as to the fact that the extension for 6 years was expressly made in part payment of the large claims which the Company held and was pressing against the Government at the time, and the surround- ing circumstances but corroborate such understanding. In view of this state of facts, the suggestion that the extension was without consideration, a mere gratuity, and consequently to be withdrawn at the caprice of the Government without thereby incurring any obligation to make reparation for the damages o [P. 370, this volume.] 6 [P. 383, this volume.] 564 APPENDIX. occasioned by such annulment of a valuable property right, would seem to require no further discussion. That the settlement of May 10, 1900 as evidenced by the two papers in question was made by competent parties seems not to be denied by the Honorable agent for Venezuela, nor indeed could the contrary be maintained. At the date of the transaction General Castro was Dictator holding in his hands the entire governmental power of the Republic. The "transaction" in question made with the Minister of the Interior recites that it was made by the authority of " the Supreme Chief of the Repub^ lie." The decree of October 5, 1900, which annuHed the decree of July ist, 1893 prohibiting "the free navigation of the Macareo, Pedernales and other navigable waterways of the River Orinoco," was promulgated by authority of "Cipriano Castro, General in Chief of the Army of Venezuela and Supreme Chief of the Republic." At the session of the first National Congress held thereafter, it was declared that — 1. The Citizen General Cipriano Castro, Chief and Supreme Director of the Liberal Reparing-Revolution, deserves the grati- tude of the Country. 2. The Citizen General Cipriano Castro, as Supreme Chief of the Nation, is creditor of public confidence. and it was decreed — 1. To grant, as it hereby does, its solemn approval of all and each of the acts that he has executed as Supreme Chief of the Liberal Reparing-Revolution, as well as Supreme Chief of the National Executive. 2. This Revolution [Resolution (?)], signed by all the members of the National Constituent Congress, shall be presented to the Honorable General Cipriano Castro by a special Commission. (Issued in the Legislative Federal Palace at Caracas, on the 6th of March, 1901. — 90th year of Independence and 43rd from the Federation. Official Gazette of March 14, 1901.) The transaction including as it did the extension of the con- tract of navigation, thus received the confirmation and approval of the National Congress, as did also the subsequent opening up of the prohibited waterways to free navigation. As bearing in a secondary manner upon the relative rights of the parties to the navigation contract, and also to the transaction of May 10, 1900, reference is respectfully made to the law of Vene- zuela relating to such matters, which while stripped of binding force by the terms of the protocol covering submission to this RECORD OP CI^AIM NO. I9. 565 tribunal, nevertheless — may at least be referred to as evidencing the duty of Venezuela in such respect. By Title IV, section i, paragraph 3, of the Venezuelan Civil Code of 1896, it is provided as follows: "Art. 1097. Contracts legally framed have the force of law between the parties. They can not be revoked except by mutual consent, or for the causes authorized by law. Art. 1098. Contracts must be executed in good faith and bind not only to the fulfillment of what is expressed therein, but also to all the consequences that flow from the contracts themselves, according to equity, usage or law. Art. 1099. In contracts which have for object the transfer of property or some other right, the property or right is transferred as a consequence of the consent legitimately manifested; and the subject of transfer remains at the risk and danger of the acquiring party, although the conveyance should not have been effected. Art. iioi. It is presumed that every one has contracted for himself and for his heirs and assigns, when the contrary has not been expressly agreed, or when it does not so result from the nature of the contract. " What more concise statement of mutual rights and obligations of parties to bilateral contracts could be found in the legislation of any nation, or in the principles of International Law, than is here expressed? And further with respect to the rescission of bilateral contracts in the event of default of one or the other of the parties it is de- clared by Article 1 1 3 1 that — ■ . "The rescissory condition is always implied in bilateral con- tracts in the event that one of the contracting parties should not comply with his obligation. In this event the contract is not dissolved by the default itself (de pleno derecho) . The party in respect to whom the obligation has not been fulfilled, has the choice either to compel the other party to carry out the contract, if that is possible, or to demand its dissolution, in addition to the payment of losses and damages in both cases. " This Article is concordant with Article 1184 of the Code of Napoleon, which reads: "The rescissory condition is always to be understood in sina- lagmatic contracts in the event that one of the parties should not fulfill his obligation. In such case the contract is not dissolved ipso jure. The party in relation to whom the agreement has not been fulfilled may elect to force the* other party to the performance of the contract, 566 APPENDIX. if possible, or to demand the rescission of same and the payment of damages and interest. The annulment of the contract must be demanded judicially and the defendant may be granted a period of time propor- tionate to the circumstances." and Article 1 1 65 of the Italian Civil Code, also concordant, reads ; "The condition of rescission is always to be understood in bilateral contracts in the event but one of the parties should not meet his obligation. In this case the contract is not dissolved ipso jure. The party in respect to whom the obligation has not been fulfilled has the choice between forcing the other party to the fulfillment of the contract, when this is possible, or demanding its annulment, and in addition compensation for damages in both cases. The dissolution of the contract must be demanded judicially and a period may be granted to the obligee according to the cir- cumstances." And to the like effect are the concordant Articles of the German Civil Code Article 1 60. Spanish Civil Code " 11 24. Mexican Civil Code " 1465-6. Holland Civil Code " 1302. Chilian Civil Code " 1489. Uruguayan " " " 1392. Guatemalan " " " 1467. Bolivian " " " 1169. Bach and every one of the Civil Codes founded upon the same system of justice and its administration contemplate and require that in the event of a default on the part of one party to a bilateral contract the other party thereto shall resort to the duly consti- tuted tribunals of the country for the appropriate redress. The Common Law of England is not otherwise. The National Constitution of Venezuela promulgated in 1901, by Title III, Sec. 2, Article 17, guarantees "the effectiveness of the following rights: ******* " 2d. Property, which shall be subject only to the contribu- tions decreed by legislative authority, in accordance with this Constitution, and shall be taken possession of for works of public utility (only) after indemnification and condemnation proceed- ings." The Executive Decree of December 10, 1892, still in force, prescribes the elaborate judicial proceedings incident to con- demnation proceedings. f|! RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 567 It being once conceded that a contract of navigation carrying special rights and privileges granted upon reserved conditions of value on account of which the grantee has either rendered serv-, ices or incurred any debt or detriment constitutes a property right, it is apparent that the grantor cannot even under the local law in force in Venezuela abrogate the same, even for pur- poses of public policy or public benefit, without resorting to the methods prescribed by law. It is suggested in the Answer of the respondent Government that, admitting the right of the claimant to recover with respect to the services rendered by way of use and detention of steam- ers, passages and the like, that such recovery can only be in accordance with tariffs or schedules agreed upon between the parties, the deduction being as we understand it that if no sched- ules or tariffs had been actually agreed upon between the parties in advance of the service, or perhaps afterwards, that no recov- ery could be had in this case therefor. In response to this, it seems necessary but to say that the services rendered in the way of carrying freights and passengers were rendered upon the deliberate orders of the government officials and in nearly all instances refer to the terms of the contract providing for the reduction from the regular tariffs on government account. The regular passenger and freight tariffs were public and notorious. They were or should have been as well known to the government officials as they were to the private traveller. The demand for services to be rendered in the presence of such existing tariffs must be taken as an acquiescence in the rates so established. With respect to the per diem charges for the detention and use of Company's steamers, it is to be noted that such detentions and use arose not out of any convention between the government officials and the Company's agents but were brought about by the arbitrary orders of and superior force at the disposal of the latter. Such detention and use of the steamers disarranged and seriously interfered with the orderly prosecution of the Company's business, and while it is at once conceded that the claimant is only entitled to recover reasonable compensation for such use, it is submitted that under the circumstances the burden is upon the respondent to show wherein the charges made on such account are unreason- able. In the accounts rendered to and settled by the Govern- ment by the transaction of May 10, 1900, similar charges were 568 APPENDIX. made for use and detention of the same or similar steamers, and the charges as then made were accepted and settled as above stated without objection, thus evidencing the acquiescence of the government in the reasonableness of such charges. (In this connection see Original Exhibit B.)" Referring to the item in the claim covering imposts illegally collected and to the reply of the Honorable Agent of Venezuela to the effect that as said items include payments which were made in the years 1898, 1899 and 1900, they were consequently included in the transaction of May 10, 1900, and therefore should be rejected, the conclusive effect of that settlement upon all claims or items in dispute or which might at the date mentioned have been brought in dispute between the parties is admitted, and this would seem to put an end to the alleged counterclaim of the respondent. While it is stated in the caption of Bill (Cuenta) No. 14 that such imposts "from the ist November 1898 to the 31st of March, 1902, amount in the aggregate to $19,571.34," it will be noted on inspection of the detailed accounts and accompanying affidavits that relate to this item that the "illegal charges " therein specified for which recovery is here sought all occurred in the year 1902. Being subsequent in date to the settlement of May 10, 1902, and not referred to in either paper writing evidencing the same, they would seem not to have been affected by it. It is further objected on the part of Venezuela that the transfer or assignment from the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. to the claimant Company is invalid because not made in accordance with the terms of the contract itself or with requirement of law. The second branch of this objection is answered by the protocol and has-been referred to above. The only reference in the con- tract of June 8, 1894, to the right of transfer occurs in Article 13 (Mem. p. 11)^ as follows: "This contract * * * niay be transferred by the con- tractor to another person or corporation upon previous notice to the Government. The transfer shall not be made to any foreign government." By the "contractor" so referred to is undoubtedly meant the original concessionaire Ellis Grell, who, after giving previous notice to the Government, transferred the contract to the Orinoco Shipping & Trading Co. Ltd. Subject only to the restriction [oSee Record p. 453, ante .—AgenV s note.] 6 [P. 131, this volume.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 569 that the contract should not be transferred to any foreign govern- ment, it would seem that this transferee might make such further transfers as it might think best without formally giving notice in advance. But, if the Commission should think otherwise, it is to be observed that this requirement as to notice of transfer relates only to the navigation concession itself, which it is above contended was annulled by the Decree of October 5, 1900, and the extension of May 10, 1900 was further especially annulled by the Decree of December 14, 1901, thus leaving at least on the latter date nothing of the concession itself in existence, while the assign- ment from the first named Company to the claimant Company was only executed on April ist, 1902. It would seem therefore that this objection is without force, as it is certain that as the franchise of navigation from the standpoint of the Venezuelan Government did not and could not pass the condition as to previous notice had no bearing. The requirement as to notice could have no effect upon the assignment from one Company to the other of assets, including book-accounts and claims. In regard to the damages for destruction of the concession contract, estimated at $82,432.78 per annum, it is objected by the respondent that the estimate "is entirely arbitrary." It would seem to be sufficient in reply to refer to the fact stated in the former brief that the estimate is based upon the settlement of May 10, 1900, when the Minister for Foreign Affairs acting in the interest of the Republic and serving its ends put the Govern- ment's valuation upon the extension of' the concession and the Company accepted it by canceling admitted debts for the total amount thereof. It is also substantiated by the demonstrated earning capacity of the franchise or concession even under adverse circumstances. When a wanton wrong has been committed by one party upon another, legal tribunals do not aim to minimize the damages which the injured party has suffered. If difficulties lie in the way of ascertaining with exactitude the amount of injur)^, they should be resolved against the wrongdoer and in favor of the person • wronged. If the wrong had not been committed, a mathematical computation of the injury would not have become necessary. It may well be that the value of the concession is even greater than is assumed in the above estimates. A monopoly ordinarily appreciates as business grows in importance and extent. 570 APPENDIX. The amount of capital invested in this business by the Company may be, as is stated in the answer, of no concern to Venezuela, she not having overseen nor advised the investment; but it is to be borne in mind that this large capital was outlaid in preparing for and conducting the Company's business in a proper manner and as the company understood it in accordance with the require- ments of the contract. The amount of the investment is given not as a rule by which to measure the award which may be given in favor of claimant, but merely as an element to be taken into consideration in estimating the damages which claimant suffered. With the destruction of the exclusive right to prosecute free from competition a lucrative trade, the capital invested therein largely ■ and necessarily depreciated in value. What is meant by the state- ment in the answer to the effect that this investment of capital only took place in 1900 "when the contract had already existed for six years, since 1894;" and "that during all that previous time the contracting party had not fulfilled his obligations," is not understood, as there does not appear to be any foundation in the documents heretofore submitted to support such a deduction, and the case shows that the investment was made as occasion required, much of the amount having been invested in the pur- chase of the "Red Star Company'' and the acquisition of the Grell plant, including the contract concession of June 8, 1894. As the honorable agent for Venezuela in the answer of the respondent has seen fit to refer to the fact that the Government has filed a suit in the local courts against this claimant to recover for damages alleged to have been suffered by it from the alleged failures on the part of the claimant to fulfill its obligations under this contract, it may not be amiss, by way of showing the value which the Government itself even now attaches to the business connected with the contract, to quote the following extract from the declaration filed in that suit, viz: "The losses and damages which the defendant Company suf- fered from the non-execution of the fundamental contracts, are computed at eighteen million bolivars (B. 18,000,000), calculat- ing at two million bolivars per annum, the returns which the Gov- ' ernment has failed (will fail) to receive, in each year, for customs revenues of the various ports which should have been joined by the line of steamers which the Company bound itself to estab- lish, and this during nine consecutive years; and in addition to this sum, nine hundred thousand bolivars (Bs. 900,000) in which are computed the sealed paper and stamps which the National Government has failed to sell for the clearance of vessels, ship- RECORD OP ClvAIM NO. 19. 571 merits of merchandise, exportation of products, and coasting trade at those various points of the itinerary of the line, during the nine years that have been spoken of, calculating the same at one hundred thousand bolivars per annum." Without at all touching upon the merits of that proceeding, it would seem to be in good order to remark that, when considered in the light of such an estimate and of the amount of business which must necessarily be done by the Company to produce such revenues, and of the freights to be derived therefrom, the esti- mate of value placed upon the annulled contract is most modest. Referring to the demand of the Honorable Agent for Vene- zuela for the production of the original documents and vouchers relating to this claim copies of which have heretofore been sub- mitted to the Commission, I need only say that all of such original documents are at this moment in the custody of the United States Legation in Caracas and can there be examined by the Honorable Agent for Venezuela at his convenience. These papers are also subject to the orders of this Commission, and the agent for the United States will cheerfully comply with any order that the Commission may make in regard thereto. It may be noted that although the contract concession of June 8, 1894 was broken by the decree of October 5, 1900, the claim- ant's predecessor, so far as performance on its part was concerned, elected to consider it still in force until it suffered an actual damage by the passage of an opposition ship laden with cargo through the Macareo channel. Such actual damage does not appear to have occurred until on 'or about August 2, 1902 (Dip. Cor. 91" et seq. and Certificate of Harbour Master Saunders ^) . Since that date, the passage of competing ships laden with cargo and sailing from a foreign port through the Macareo or Pedernales channels has occurred frequently and this too despite the proclamation on June 28th, 1902 of the domestic blockade of the Orinoco River ports (Harbour Master's Certificates''). It may be, considering that the claimant's predecessor practically enjoyed the exclusive right of navigation to which it was entitled under said contract, that the practical breach of the contract should be declared to have occurred only on August 2nd, 1902, when the "Rescue" made her first voyage carrying freights which properly should have been carried by the Orinoco Steamship Co. If so, then in computing damages for the breach of the concession, the unex- a[P. 410, this volume.] '6[P. 454, this volume.] c[p. 4^^^ this volume.] 572 APPENDIX. pired term should perhaps be computed from said date, rather than from October 5, 1900 as claimed. It would seem from the proofs submitted that the claimant and its predecessor elected to consider the concession in force until practical damage occurred. Neutrauty. In the answer of the respondent Government, it is stated that it— "wishes to bring to the knowledge of the Honorable Mixed Com- mission that the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Ltd. has taken part in the internal affairs of the Nation, as is proven by the evidence which I produce together with sundry publications." The so-called proof consists of some eleven ex parte affidavits all taken since the date of filing the claim before this tribunal. Although all of these affidavits were taken either in Caracas or at Port of Spain, in Trinidad, at both of which places the claimant was represented by officers or agents, no notice of intention to take the same was given to the Agent for the United States nor to any of the officers or agents of the claimant, and no opportunity was afforded to cross-examine the affiants. Bach of the affiants is represented as being of Ciudad Bolivar but temporarily resident in the places in which the respective affidavits were made, and no effort is made in the affidavits to afford any clue to their present whereabouts. In response to the first set of inquiries of the Honorable Agent for Venezuela, Timoteo Carvajal states that in May 1902 he found " at the Island of Trinidad all the larger steamers belonging to the Orinoco Steamship Company and / was told in the latter port" &c. &c. ; Also that — "All that I have stated is known to me, as well because I have been an eye witness to many of the events to which I have referred as because those which I did not witness have been communicated to me by persons who merit entire faith." Alejandro Plaza Ponte states that he was an eye witness to the greater part of the events to which he refers, " and as to those which I did not witness, I know from correspondence which I have received from honorable persons who merit my entire confidence." Luis Felipe Rojas Fernandez states that he fotmds his deposition "on the fact that I was either an eye witness to the events and incidents to which I refer in same, or else they have been related to me by other eye witnesses, who are worthy of belief." RECORD OK CLAIM NO. 19. 573 As none of these gentlemen takes any pains to distinguish the occurrences of which he was an eye witness from those which were merely reported to him by others, it would seem to place the whole of each of the affidavits, even if otherwise competent evi- dence, in the category of the baldest hearsay. In the caption of the depositions the Honorable Attorney General of the Nation who is also the Agent for Venezuela before this Commission, states that he wishes "to prove certain acts ascribed to the foreign concern styled "The Orinoco Steamship Company" which was formerly called "The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited," acts performed against the present political order and in open contravention to all the duties of neutrality which foreigners should observe during civil wars." As the claims of the Company against Venezuela are entirely composed either of itetns covering services rendered to the Gov- ernment or its officials, or of items of damages for injuries to property or the deliberate breach of a concession of navigation, and contains no item in the remotest degree connected with any supposed breach of the duty of a neutral, it is somewhat difficult to perceive the exact bearing of such proofs in this case. The specific acts of unneutral conduct sought to be proved seem to be : ist. That in March and April 1902 the Company withdrew from Ciudad Bolivar all the larger steamers belonging to it under the pretext that they were to be repaired at Trinidad, thereby occas- ioning grave injuries to the Government by reason of preventing the timely mobilization of the forces that were operating against the revolution styled "Tibertadora." and. That the steamers of the Company after the blockade had been declared renewed their trips to Ciudad Bolivar flying a for- eign flag and carried to that port on various occasions ammunition and war materials intended for the said Revolution. 3rd. That the steamers of the Company accepted without pro- test and carried on board fiscals (customs agents) appointed by Ramon C. Farreras, Chief of the Revolutionary movement at Ciudad Bolivar. 4th. That in the month of March 1903 the Company's steamer "Apure," and on the 13th of May 1903 the Company's steamer "Guanare" carried munitions of war to Ciudad Bolivar and that such suppUes passed into the hands of the Revolutionists. Assuming each and every one of these accusations to have been fully and satisfactorily proved and that the facts were material to any issue raised by this claim, still it is submitted the respondent Government has fallen far short of establishing any breach of neutral duty on the part of the claimant or its assignor. 574 APPENDIX. Bearing in mind that the claimant Company and its predecessor in interest were citizens of a foreign state engaged in the business of a common carrier by ships plying between an English crown colony and ports in Venezuela, owing no allegiance to the Gov- ernment of Venezuela and no duty save such as the laws of nations and of the ports at which their vessels called imposed upon them, it is necessary to set up and prove some specific breach of the law of nations before a breach of neutrality is made out. With respect to the alleged withdrawal of the ships from the Orinoco at a time when the Government officers desired to use them for mobiHzing troops, it is sufficient to remark that breaches of neutrality have usually been considered to rest in positive acts, not in negative actions. To have placed ships in the service of the revolutionists, by charter or otherwise, while not at all amount- ing to a breach of neutraHty, would nevertheless have rendered them liable to capture and condemnation, but there was no con- tract or charter relation between the Company and the Govern- ment of Venezuela which entitled the latter to use the Company's merchant ships as transports, and, if for the purpose of preserving them from the fate of the "Nutrias" and the "Vencedor" they were withdrawn from harm's way, such precautionary measures would hardly seem to resemble in a remote degree the acts neces- sary to constitute a breach of neutraUty. In connection with the charge of removing the steamers from the River, reference is made to the copies of protests and corre- spondence appearing in the volume of Diplomatic Correspondence at pages 12 to 23," inclusive, also pages 69'' and 75 to 83, "^inclusive. Charges 2 and 4 may be considered and answered together, the latter appearing to be merely a repetition of the former in more specific form. That the Company's steamers, flying the American flag as an evidence of their ownership and right of protection under consular registrations subsequent to June 28, 1901 (Venezuelan blockade), resumed their trips to and from Ciudad Bolivar carrying cargo whenever the circumstances would permit is not denied. It is fundamental that blockades to be respected must be ef- fective and continuously maintained. That the blockade in ques- tion was not being effectively maintained on the occasion of the trips complained of, all of which so far as is now known were made "[Pp. 362-370, this volume.] b [Pp. 394-399, this volume.] <^ [Pp. 396-404, this volume.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 575 after the assault upon the Venezuelan navy by Allied Powers, is evidenced by the fact that the voyages were made without sight- ing a Venezuelan national force of any kind. In this connection, it is notorious that from the 31st of May 1902 until the 21st of July 1903 Ciudad Bolivar was in the effective possession of the so- called Revolutionary forces, who had there set up a de facto gov- ernment. Because of this fact the United States of America in common with other powers refused to credit a decree of the Vene- zuelan Government prohibiting communication with that port, unless backed by sufficient force, as being an invasion of the law of blockade. As to the character of the Revolutionaries, whether belligerents or not, opinions may differ, but it is said by a publicist of high repute in discussing belligerency that, while a foreign state evi- dencing the recognition of belligerency must issue a formal notifi- cation of some kind, the most appropriate perhaps being a declara- tion of neutrality, — "a parent state stands in a different position. It cannot be ex- pected to volunteer direct recognition. The relation in which it conceives itself to stand to the insurgents must be inferred from its acts. Hence the question arises, what acts are sufficient to constitute indirect recognition. There can be no doubt as to the effect of acts, such as capture of vessels for breach of blockade or carriage of articles contraband of war, which affect the neutral directly, and in a manner permissible only in time of war." Hall's Int. I.aw, § 5, p. 38. At page 82 of the same work, the author, after distinguishing between the rules governing the relations of nations as belligerent and neutral and those governing the relations between a bel- ligerent nation and a neutral individual, says: "The only duty of the individual is to his own sovereign; and so distinctly is this the case, that acts done even with intent to injure a foreign state are only wrong in so far as they compromise the nation of which the individual is a member. * * * § 25. * * * It has been, and still is, usual (for publicists) to confuse neutral states and individuals in a common relation towards belligerent states; and in losing sight of the sound basis of the established practice they have necessarily failed to indicate any clear boundary of state responsibility. This want of precision is both theoretically unfortunate and not altogether without prac- tical importance. For it has enabled governments from time to time to put forward pretensions, which though they have never been admitted by neutral states, and have never been carried into effect, cannot be often made without endangering the stability of the principles they attack." 576 APPENDIX. "It will be found, whether by consulting usage or treaties, not that trade in articles contraband of war is a breach of neutrality, hut that the persons engaged in it are exposed to the confiscation of their goods." In response to a suggestion from England in 1793, Mr. Jefferson replied : "Our citizens have always been free to make, vend and export arms. It is the constant occupation and livelihood of some of them. To suppress their callings, the only means perhaps of their subsistence, because a war exists in foreign and distant countries, in which they have no concern, would scarcely be ex- pected. It would be hard in principle and impossible in practice. The law of nations, therefore, respecting the rights of those at peace does not require from them such an internal derangement of their occupations." And again in 1855, President Pierce, speaking of contraband of war, said — "that the laws of the United States do not forbid their citizens to sell to either of the belligerent powers articles contraband of war, or take munitions of war or soldiers on board their private ships for transportation ; and although in so doing the individual citizen exposes his property or person to some of the hazards of war his acts do not involve any breach of national neutrality, nor of them- selves implicate the Government." Hall Int. Law, p. 83-84. The carriage of contraband in neutral bottoms in event of cap- ture subjects the contraband alone to confiscation and not the ship. (Hall, p. 692.) "As a consequence of the doctrine that the goods are seized because of their noxious qualities, and not because of the act of the person carrying them, it is held that so soon as the forbidden merchandise is deposited, the liability which is its outgrowth is deposited also, and that neither the proceeds of its sales can be touched on the return voyage nor can the vessel, although pre- viously affected by her contents, be brought in for adjudication." The Imina, 3 Robinson's Rep. 168. Hall Int. Law, p. 696, and note. Wheaton (Laurence)" Int. Law, p. 819 et seq. Nor does the law of blockade or intercourse with an interdicted port or place differ in civil war from what it is in a foreign war. Lawrence's Wheaton (2d Ed. 1863) p. 846, note. So it would seem that even if the Companies or either of them in the ordinary course of its business as a common carrier received and transported to a port in possession of a de facto government contraband of war, it did not thereby commit any breach of a [Lawrence. — Agent's note.] RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 577 neutral duty and the voyages having long since ended and the contraband, if any such ever was carried, having long since been deposited, all liability which at no time amounted to more than a possible confiscation of the contraband itself has long since passed away. The claimant, acting in strict accord with the law of nations respecting the rights and duties of neutrals engaged in trade with the peoples of a foreign port, continued to transport to such port whenever its approaches were free from the danger incident to the presence of an armed force, such merchandise as was offered it for carriage. If any arms or munitions of war were carried, it does not appear that any officer of the Company was aware of the contents of the packages, and if such knowledge were shown it would only be necessary to say that the Company had the legal right to transport such materials if it chose to assume • the risk of detention incident to possible capture and the subse- quent confiscation of the contraband of war.. Repeating the incident of the capture of despatches in 1901 addressed by General Rolando to Colonel Cotua and others and carried on the steamer " Bolivar " by the second captain, Mr. Rod- riguez, it seems only necessary to say that such carriage was in direct contravention of rules 17, 18 and 19" of the Company's manual for the government of its employees (copy herewith), and that upon the arrival of Mr. Rodriguez in Trinidad he was at once discharged for his breach and President Castro was for- mally notified of the fact, the letter of notification being pub- lished, presumably with his acquiescence, in the public prints of Caracas at the time. (Copy of rules filed.) ^ As to the charge of receiving on board of the steamers without protest the fiscals (treasury agents) appointed by General Farreras at Ciudad Bolivar, it need only be said that the Company was. dealing with a de facto government at that port. The laws of Venezuela required the steamers plying in the Orinoco to receive and carry such fiscals. When they appeared with the credentials of the de facto government, it was not for the Company to question the sufiiciency or regularity of their appointment any more than it is the duty or business of a captain of a ship upon entering a customs port to question the regularity of the appointment of the health of customs officer who properly credentialed boards his vessel in ordinary course. 1^ [Pp. 645, 650, this volume. — Agent's note.] 6 [See [igo3 Exhibit M|, infra, p. 642. — Agent's note.] 17301— 10 37 578 APPENDIX. The instructive note of Mr. Lawrence found at page 526 of Lawrence's Wheaton (2d ed. 1863) is so directly in point that I may be pardoned for quoting from it in extenso: "Not only are private individuals exempt from penalties for acquiescing in a government de facto, which exercises undisputed sway, and when all protection is withdrawn, from necessity or otherwise, by the previous government; but it is obvious that some police regulations and the administration of justice in every country, even during a revolutionary struggle, are essential to prevent anarchy and its attendant consequences. As Grotius said: 'The acts of sovereignty which a usurper exercises, even before he has acquired an established right by long possession or convention, and while his possessory title is unjust, may be obligatory not in virtue of his right, — for he has none, — but because there is every reason to suppose that the legitimate sovereign, whether people, king, or senate, would prefer that the usurper should be temporarily obeyed, than that the administration of the laws and justice should be interrupted, and the State, exposed to all the disorders of anarchy.' De Jur. Bel. ac Pac. lib. i. cap. 4, § 15. "No exception was ever taken by the most scrupulous loyalist to the acceptance by Sir Matthew Hale of a seat on Cromwell's bench of judges; nor did it operate as a dis- quaUfication of his holding the same position on the return of Charles II." See also the case of the Montijo, 2 Moore Int. Arb. p. 1432 et seq. Also II Opinions Atty. Genl. U. S. 452, cited in case of United States V. Trumbull (48 Fed. Rep. 99; s. c. Scott's Cases on Inter- national Law, p. 731). Also the article on "Neutrality," Chap. 21 of Wharton's Digest Vol. 3, p. 497, §§ 389, 390 and 391. In conclusion, I repeat that irrespective of the law on the sub- ject, the suggested breaches of neutrality have no bearing what- ever upon this claim, as no recovery is sought for any loss or damage ■suffered as the result of any supposed breach of neutrality, nor is it desired to enforce any contract made under conditions of hostility to the general government; nor is it perceived how Venezuela can expect to escape a contract debt or other liability by showing that after the debt had accrued the debtor had carried on trade with her enemies. Respectfully submitted, Robert C. Morris Agent of the United States. F. D. McKenney Of Counsel for the Claimant Company. [1903 Exhibit I.]" IN THE MATTER OF THE ARBITRATION BETWEEN THE REPUBLICS OF THE UNITED STATES AND SALVADOR. IN RESPECT OF THE CLAIM OF THE SALVADOR COMMERCIAL COM- PANY AND OTHER CITIZENS OF THE UNITED STATES, STOCKHOLD- ERS IN THE CORPORATION WHICH WAS CREATED AND EXISTENT UNDER THE LAWS OF SALVADOR, UNDER THE NAME AND STYLE OF "EL TRIUNFO COMPANY, LIMITED." OPINION OF SIR HENRY STRONG AND DON M. DICKINSON. This controversy had its origin in schemes to estabUsh and develop a new port on the Pacific coast of Central America, in the Republic of Salvador, on the Bay of Jiquilisco. For years, as the greatness of the natural resources of Salvador had been discovered and understood, the attention of capital, both foreign and domestic, had been directed to the subject of founding another and, as was hoped, a better port for the purposes of commerce, and one to which the larger and richer resources of the RepubUc, both in agriculture, including cotton and tobacco, its rich woods, and its mineral wealth, might most economically be made tributary, and which should also be a port of distribution for imports. As early as 1850 the Bay of Jiquilisco, in connection with this * subject, had been brought to the attention of the investing world by well-known writers whose positions and residence in Central America made their statements impressive. In these statements the Rio Lempa, as "the most important natural feature of Sal- vador, " * in connection with its prbximity to estuaries of the Bay of Jiquilisco and the great advantages of a port which might be established on that bay, were pointed out. o [The opinion of the arbitrators in the El Triunfo case was before the Mixed Com- mission of 1903; see supra, p. 543. Only one copy was filed with the Commission, an official print of the Department of State. This copy has not been found, but the text here printed is taken from an identical official print of the Department of State, which has been compared with the signed original in the archives of the Department. — ■ Agent's note.] 6 Squiers Central America. 579 580 APPENDIX. Prior to the exploitation and development of the concession involved in this case substantially the only ports of the Republic for commercial purposes had been those of La Libertad Acajutla and ha Union, neither of which had certain commercial advan- tages that would appertain to a new port if established in Jiqui- lisco Bay, and all of which were subject to objections as seaports which at the new port would be obviated. As time went on and knowledge of the conditions and of the possibilities of the development of the country became more wide- spread, interest in the subject increased. The Government of Salvador, however, had never undertaken the improvement of the harbor within or the ship entrances to Jiquilisco Bay. In the late summer or fall of 1 894 contesting petitions were pre- sented to the Government of Salvador for a concession of the right, for a period of years, to establish steam navigation in the port of El Triunfo, setting forth the details fo the proposed enter- prise. One application was presented by Simon Sol, Luis Lopez, and Lorenzo Campos, and the other by Henry H. Burrell and George F. Thompson, citizens of the United States, and Gustavo Lozano and Emeterio S. Ruano, citizens of the Republic of Salva- dor. The proposals were published in the official journal of the Republic by the proper executive department of the Government, and bids were invited for the franchise so sought. These proceedings resulted in the awarding of the franchise or concession to the Burrell party, and on October 6, 1894, the Republic of Salvador granted them, for the period of twenty-five years, the exclusive right of steam navigation of the port, together with certain valuable privileges and as valuable exemptions. The grant was in the form of a bilateral contract, signed by the execu- tive officers in behalf of the Government of Salvador as party of the one part and by the grantees as party of the other part. On November 7, 1894, to forestall any possible misunderstand- ing or narrower construction in future as to the extent of the concession, the President of the Republic officially cons|;rued the contract as covering the entire Bay of Jaquilisco. The constitution of Salvador requiring that such a concession must be submitted to the supreme legislature for ratification,' it was so submitted and ratified by that body on April 15, 1895. There can be no doubt that the privileges conferred were of very great value; but in turn there were most onerous reciprocal obligations. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 581 The grantees' privileges were exclusive, as to steam navigation of the port, to connect with any line of steamers then in existence or which might thereafter be established and to transship passen- gers, products, and merchandise which should be exported through the port; to carry on the coasting trade with adjacent ports, to establish a line of steamers to connect with other ports of Central America, Colombia, Mexico, and California. And not only did the exclusive privilege apply to the port of El Triunfo, but they were attached to such other places on Jiqui- lisco Bay and its estuaries as the company might establish for embarkation and debarkation and for the export of the natural products of the country. The grantees were given the right to import, free of duties and taxes, all materials necessary for founding, constructing, and maintaining all works pertaining to the enterprise; exemption from taxes on all their property, franchises, and operations; exemption of their employees from military service; exemption from the use of stamped paper and revenue stamps in making contracts within the scope of the business, and the free use of the telegraph and telephone lines operated by the nation. The Gov- ernment further agreed to do its utmost to keep the roads open between the port of Kl Triunfo and the c*)ffee centers of the depart- ment of Usulutan — the department or municipal subdivision in which Jiquilisco Bay was situated. But the grantees of the concession or contract executed, as we have seen, on October 6, 1894, were required by its terms to have in readiness by March i, 1895, such facilities at the port of El Triunfo as would enable them to handle and ship through the port the coffee crop of the year 1895; and, furthermore, that dur- ing that year, unless prevented by unforeseen emergency or supe- rior force, they must have the traffic definitely established, together with the construction and furnishing of a building for a Government custom-house not less than 60 baras (165 feet) long, with offices for the customs collector and his employees, and for the telegraph and telephone line, to be constructed wholly by the grantees at their own expense, and that such building and its furniture were to belong to the Government as of its own prop- erty; together, also, during that year, with the construction of such other buildings and other works as the company might con- sider necessary for its own use; and the construction of a pier of iron and steel having the necessary conditions of strength and 582 APPENDIX. convenience for embarkation and disembarkation of freight and passengers, the construction of which was to be under the inspec- tion of the Government, in order to assure compliance with the conditions of strength and convenience. This pier also was to be the property of the Government, and the grantees were to provide steamers, steam tugs, launches, and such other boats as the traffic should require. The concession also required the procuring and placing at the expense of the grantees of such buoys as should be necessary to mark the entrance to the port, together with the erection of a light-house to indicate the entrance if the Government should deem it necessary. It was provided, too, that the company should carry without charge the high officials of the Government and all its employees when traveling by order of the Government; all materials of war and merchandise which the Government might embark by means of the company, if the property of the Government. The grantees were to carry correspondence by mail between the port and wherever they might have steamers plying, and were to give free pilotage to Government ships when entering or departing from Bl Triunfo, and were to pay $1,200 per year, silver of the country, in monthly payments during the entire twenty-five years. The tariffs to be imposed by the grantees, both for passengers and freight, for embarking and disembarking were also to be approved by the Government. The concession also required that the grantees should form a corporation to take and operate the concession. Thereupon, on October 25, 1894, that corporation was formed, and is called throughout the case Bl Triunfo Company, Limited. The capital stock of the corporation was divided into 1,000 shares. This capital stock was acquired and distributed as follows : The Salvador Commercial Company, a corporation created and existing under the laws of the State of California, which, as clearly appears by the record, was the moving projector and spirit in the enterprise of developing the port of Bl Triunfo and in acquiring the concession, took a majority of the stock, that is to say, 501 shares. Henry H. Burrell, who was made the president of Bl Triunfo Company, and who was an American citizen, acquired and held 5 shares. Julius H. Bllis, who became the secretary of Bl Triunfo Company, and who was an American citizen, acquired and held 3 shares; J. B. Hays, an American citizen, 2 shares; Luis Maslin, an American citizen, 10 shares, and George F. Thompson, an American citizen, 15 shares; so RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. I9. 583 that the total shares held by citizens of the United States in El Triunfo Company were 536 in number. It is apparent that upon the execution of its contract with the Salvador Government, through which the concession was acquired, and upon the formation of the corporation required by the con- cession, El Triunfo Company entered upon the preparation and development of the port, and the performance of the requirements imposed upon it with exceptional enterprise and vigor. The concession having been granted on October 6, 1894, and the corporation having been formed with its American represen- tation within nineteen days thereafter, there being no nucleus at the port or even the beginning for a dock, or a known ship ha[r]bor within Juquilisco Bay, it did nevertheless, within four months and four days from the date of its incorporation — that is to say, on March i, 1895 — through many difficulties and embar- rassments naturally incident to the initiation of such an enter- prise, have that port ready, with sufficient equipment of every description, to move and ship the coffee crop of 1895, and did ship that crop. It is worthy of comment and deserving of consideration, in view of subsequent events, that this work was done under such circumstances, when in addition to the difficulties attendant upon every entirely new enterprise, requiring conception and creation from the beginning, it was also done in the face of the fact that the supreme legislature of the Republic of Salvador, from the date of the concession until the port was equipped and ready for business on March i, 1895, had not ratified the concession or contract under which the work was done, and did not ratify it until April 19, 1895, so that the money was raised and the port practically created with no certainty that the grantees of the concession would ever receive the right to hold it or the value created by them by their work and expenditure in the port of El Triunfo. There can be no doubt on this record that the company pushed forward the work of permanent equipment from March i, 1895, with the same vigor and enterprise as had been displayed in the preparation for the shipment of the crop of the year 1895; for within one year and twenty-seven days from March i, 1895, ^^ find the president of the company reporting to the Government the entire completion of the permanent work and a full compliance with the contract on the part of those to whom the concession had been given. 584 APPENDIX. This report was true, and this statement does not rest in any degree upon the testimony of the President or that given by or in behalf of the claimants, but upon the reports of the proper officials of the Government of Salvador, viz, its inspector-general, its secretary of the treasury, and its secretary of public works, who all report the completion of the enterprise in accordance with the contract, and a full compliance with their obligations in that regard by the grantees of the concession. The grantees of the concession did much more. Beginning at once upon the grant of the concession, and even before its ratification by the . Supreme lyCgislature of Salvador, they brought about, by persistent efforts and powerful influence upon the Government of the United States, a hydrographic survey of the entrance and harbor at this port by the authorities and instrumentalities of that Government. The ships of the United States began to arrive at the port in the month of December, 1896, for this purpose, and their survey, prosecuted continuously thereafter at a cost, as claimed by the record, of $100,000 in gold, established the fact that the port of El Triunfo was one of the best and safest on the Pacific. The official chart of the entrance and of the whole bay was issued by the Hydrographic Office of the United States, the depth of water on the bar was shown at high and low tide, the ample width and the straightness of the channel were demonstrated, as well as the fact that the distance across the bar was but a few hundred feet, and that the water in the channel inside the bar and throughout the entire bay was of entirely sufficient depth for the largest vessels. As to establish the port it was essential that the safety of ves- sels entering and departing should be assured, there was probably nothing which could add so much to the advantage of the Gov- ernment of Salvador, a maritime country, in respect of its com- merce tributary to the interior as this survey by the United States. Clearly it was a permanent addition and increment to the resources and wealth of the nation, and this was brought about almost wholly by the enterprise and energy of the American citizens who entered upon the enterprise of developing the port of El Triunfo, and was so added without any legal obligation to do so resting upon them by the contract or concession of October 6, 1894, or otherwise. A very large amount of testimony has been presented to the arbitrators by the opposing sides in this controversy bearing upon the history of El Triunfo Company and its affairs and manage- RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 585 ment from the beginning of its operations to the closing of the port of El Triunfo by the executive authority of Salvador in February, 1899. It has been the effort of counsel for Salvador to show at this hearing that the company did not comply with the terms of the concession, either before or after the reports of the executive officers of the Government showing the completion of the preparation and equipment of the port for carrying on the business, as required by the concession. It is of course obvious that the Salvador Government should be estopped from going behind those reports of its own officers on the subject and from attacking their correctness without supple- mentary evidence tending to show that such reports were induced by mistake or were procured by fraud or undue influence. No evidence of this kind is introduced. But were it otherwise, after the most careful and painstaking consideration of the evidence we are unable to discover anything in the record having any proper tendency to show any substantial or material failure of the com- pany in this regard. Having expended the necessary capital, and having received the official approval of the Government of compliance with the con- cession, it is still contended by Salvador that in the details of the management of its affairs and of the port, and in carrying on the business committed to it with the means it had provided, the company did not fully and in good faith perform its duty in its administration of the affairs of the port under the powers and privileges granted, and in accordance with its liabilities under the concession. From the beginning of 1896 to the autumn of 1898 it is evident to us, from the entire record, that the volum^ of business which came to this port after it was equipped and opened by Bl Triunfo Company was even larger than anyone, the most sanguine of the investors and believers in the profitable future of the enterprise, had anticipated. They had expected success. This induced the investment, encouraged and spurred on the spirit of enterprise which accomplished so much under the circumstances as herein- before detailed within the short period from October, 1894, to March i, 1895, and in the year following, by the completion of the permanent improvements. But it is not to be wondered at that the rapid increase of busi- ness, necessarily unanticipated to a degree, should have strained to some extent the capacity of the first equipment and facilities provided to handle the business. As in all new ventures, the 586 APPENDIX. means and methods at first adopted were necessarily to a degree ■experimental. The distances from other and settled points of supply necessarily had to be met, and difficulties arose in getting skilled labor for the handling of the various kinds of products and merchandise, for additions and repairs to buildings, for the man- ning of ships, as well as in getting common laborers promptly, as the work increased beyond expectation. The correspondence in evidence shows many such embarrass- ments which were surmounted. Promptness and evenness in the transaction of the business of the port could hardly be expected under the circumstances. But with all this it can not be said, as now here claimed by the Government of Salvador, that there was any such failure in the performance of its obUgations in the cir- cumstances of the case as would have justified or sustained a com- plaint for a breach of contract in a court of justice if this franchise had been a contract between private parties. Much less was there any such breach of contract on the part of El Triunfo Company at any time as would have justified a forfeiture of a dollar in dam- ages against the company, or of a right granted it under the concession. The complaints, when examined and analyzed, were few and insignificant. That the company met and overcame such emer- gencies as necessarily arose is shown by the fact that although the business from the fall of 1895 to the middle of 1898, a period of less than three years, increased in the matter of shipments alone to the extraordinary amount of between four and five hundred per cent, yet the facilities and equipment, as supplemented, im- proved, and provided, were not overwhelmed by this increase and on the whole were substantial and well kept up. Naturally no profit was shown in the years 1895, 1896, and 1897; but the tendency to the meeting of both ends was certain from the beginning and increased with added momentum, demon- strating the future greatness of the enterprise until from the begin- ning of the year 1898 a steady balance of net profits was shown as long as the company operated, which was half the year, aggre- gating at the end of that time, according to the testimony' in- troduced on behalf of Salvador by that Government's official accountant, the sum of $17,000 over and above all losses and expenses of every kind, and according to the testimony introduced in behalf of the Salvador Commercial Company a much larger amount. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 587 There can be no doubt that the record proves to a demonstra- tion that the enterprise, which may properly have been considered an experiment up to the beginning of 1898, although it had shown an improving financial condition from the beginning of its business, was an assured financial success, equaHng if not exceeding the most sanguine expectations of its promoters by this showing of profits on the steadily increasing business at the close of the first half of that year. A careful examination of the voluminous evidence in the case shows that from March i, 1895, to the close of the first half of 1898 the percentage of gains on expenses and losses regularly increased at the rate of about 33 >^ per cent per annum. It is clear to our minds that as soon as the success of the enter- prise was so demonstrated, and its future as an exceptionally paying enterprise was assured, an intrigue commenced within the company, whose object was to oust the management and control of the American interests, and to wrest the concession from their hands and to appropriate it and the entire investment of the American shareholders for the benefit of the conspirators. There can be no other reasonable explanation of the events that now rapidly followed the stage of its affairs, where the showing of profits and the percentage of increase promised such large returns for the future. At the annual meeting of the shareholders held on June 10, 1898, a full board of directors was elected, including Burrell and Ellis and Simon Sol, who had been one of the competitors for the concession as against the Burrell interests when it was granted in 1894. On the same day the board of directors met and organ- ized, reelecting Burrell president, Sol as vice-president, and Ellis as treasurer. At the next general meeting of the shareholders, held on July 31, 1898, one of the Salvadorean directors resigned his office as director and secretary, and Luis Lopez was elected to fill the vacancy. It may be of significance in passing, that this is the same Luis Lopez who, joining with Sol, was a competitor for the franchise as aforesaid as against the American or Burrell party in 1894. At the meeting of directors held on this same day this same Luis Lopez was appointed 'secretary of the company. In September, -1898, while the president of the company was at the city of San Salvador on its business, Sol assumed the office of president by clear usurpation and without any authority whatever, and without notice to Burrell or Ellis assumed to hold 588 APPENDIX. a meeting of directors at his own house in Santiago de Maria, at which the only attendants besides himself were the said Lopez and one Cochella, and then and there passed a resolution removing Burrell from the position of president and putting himself in his place, and removing J. H. Ellis from the position of treasurer and putting Cochella in his place; so that the three, Sol, Lopez, and Cochella, the only attendants at the said alleged meeting, became by their own act the president, secretary, and treasurer of the company. Burrell received no notice of this meeting within time to reach it, and Ellis received no notice at all. These proceedings were clearly fraudulent and void, as shown by the record. On October 14, 1898, another so-called meeting of the board of directors was held, which was assumed to be an extraordinary or special meeting, according to the minutes. This meeting was attended by Burrell and Ellis, although they received no notice of it; but having casually heard of it, in an endeavor to protect the interests of the American investors whom they represented, presented themselves. Motions were offered by them in proper form at this meeting, and Sol, acting as president, refused to put the motions. Without detailing further the wholly illegal character of the meeting and of its proceedings, and the falsity of its minutes, the fact may be stated that under its proceedings a petition for adjudication of the bankruptcy of the company was authorized, and almost imme- diately filed, in the court of first instance at Santiago de Maria, under the authority of the said alleged directors. Promptly following, on October 19, five days after the so-called meeting was held, a form of adjudication of bankruptcy was made by the court, and one Meardi was appointed receiver and custodian of the property and effects of the company. This receiver at once possessed himself of all the books, papers, vouchers, and correspondence of the company and its officers, and these were withheld from the American investors and from their representatives. From that time free access to these papers was wholly denied them until after these proceedings were pending in Washington, and even then large quantities of such papers were never produced for their inspection. Immediately following this proceeding, Ellis and Burrell, the sole representatives of the American capital invested in the company, \srere driven from Salvador in fear of their lives. The Salvador Commercial Company and the other American investors in this enterprise, who had pushed it to its success, RECORD OF dLAIM NO. I9. 589 were far away in California, unaware of these proceedings or any of them, but at the earliest time after they received advice of them they took measures to undo the transactions of the conspirators. In the meantime a civil war broke out in Salvador, throwing everything into confusion. A successful revolution was inau- gurated, and by it the existing administration was overturned; but as soon as it was possible under the circumstances representa- tives of the Salvador Commercial Company came to the Republic and undertook to have the acts of the conspirators vacated, the company rehabilitated by the action of its stockholders, all to the end that the proceedings in bankruptcy might be set aside, and the directorate chosen by them reinstated in the management. The bankruptcy proceedings were, in our opinion, the result of a fraudulent conspiracy which successfully imposed upon the court in which the proceedings were taken. On February 12, 1899, in order to move in the only proper legal manner for the restoration of the company's rights and its rehabihtation by turning out the conspirators and installing a representative directorate to move in the matter, a meeting of the shareholders was called, to be held on February 28, to concert measures for these purposes. The call for the meeting was published in the Oflficial Journal of the Republic on February 13, 1899. On the day following the President of the Republic issued an edict closing the port of El Triunfo against all importations. Thus was the first step for relief met, thus was the concession stricken down and practically canceled and destroyed, and thus every effort of its owners and the American shareholders to extri- cate it from the results of the fraudulent manipulation of the conspiracy was paralyzed. The Salvador Commercial Company presented to the Govern- ment its solemn protest against this decree. Every effort was made by the representatives of the American shareholders to obtain its revocation., All were in vain, and on May 13 the Executive granted a concession to others, citizens of Salvador, of everything that had been covered by the franchise and concession of October 6, 1894. The owners of the American interests pre- sented their solemn protest to the Executive against this grant, but no attention was paid to it or to them. Then followed the appeal of the American citizens interested to their Government for its intervention for their protection and for reclamation. 590 APPENDIX. In view of this history it need hardly he said that the evidence discloses that at the time the proceedings in bankruptcy were taken by the false and fraudulent representatives of this company, no creditor had complained and no creditor had a just cause of complaint against it for nonpayment of its debts. On the con- trary, its complete financial success and the certainty of its pros- perous future had been but then completely assured. It is claimed that the United States can not in this case make reclamation for its nationals, the shareholders in El Triunfo Com- pany who had thus been despoiled, for the reason that such citizens as so invested their money in the Republic of Salvador must abide by the laws of that country, and seek their remedy, if any they have, in the courts of Salvador, and, moreover, that before reclamation can be successfully urged against Salvador in their behalf it must be shown that such citizens of the United States, having appealed to the courts of the Republic, have been denied justice by those courts. , The general proposition of international law as thus stated is not denied. If the Government of Salvador had not intervened to destroy the franchise and concession of El Triunfo Company, and thus despoiled the American shareholders of their interests in that enterprise, an appeal might have been, as it was evidently intended to be, made to the courts of Salvador for relief from the bank- ruptcy proceedings. The first step to that end would be the turning out of the conspiring directors and the installment of a proper directory by the supreme authority of the corporation, the shareholders' meeting. But by the executive decrees, rather than by the bankrutpcy proceedings, the property rights of the American citizens involved were irrevocably destroyed. Seeking redress through a called meeting of the shareholders of the company, the moment the call was issued, and it appeared that the proper remedy was to be sought, by the corporation itself, showing that the proceedings by its alleged representative directors, for bankruptcy, were fraudulent, and that the bank- ruptcy court had been imposed upon by their conspiracy, in fraud of the incorporators, whom they falsely pretended to represent, that moment the Government of Salvador came to the aid of the conspirators, and by executive act destroyed the only thing of value worth retrieving through the courts. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 59I It is not the denial of justice by the courts alone which may form the basis for reclamation against a nation, according to the rules of international law. "There can be no doubt," says Halleck, "that a state is responsible for the acts of its rulers, whether they belong to the legislative, executive, or judicial department of the government, so far as the acts are done in their official capacity." The law enacted by the Congress of Salvador in relation to foreigners provides (art. 39) , "Only in case of the denial of justice, or of a voluntary delay of its administration, can foreigners appeal to the diplomatic forum; but only after having exhausted in vain the ordinary remedies provided by the laws of the Republic." It is apparent in this case that an appeal to the courts for relief from the bankruptcy would have been in vain after the acts of the Executive had destroyed the franchise, and that such a proceeding would have been a vain thing is the sufficient answer to the argu- ment based upon this law of Salvador. What would it have profited these despoiled American citizens if they had successfully appealed to the courts for the setting aside of the bankruptcy proceedings, after the concession was destroyed by the closing of the port of El Triunfo and the grant of the fran- chise to strangers? Said Mr. Fish to Minister Foster: "Justice may as much be denied when it would be absurd to seek it by judicial process as if denied after being so sought." Again, this is not a case of the despoliation of an American citizen by a private citizen of Salvador, on which, on appeal to the courts of Salvador, justice has been denied the American national, nor is it a case where the rules applying to that class of reclamations, so numerous in international controversies, have to do. This is a case where the parties are the American nationals, and the Gov- ernment of Salvador itself as a party to the contract; and in this case, in dealing with the other party to the contract, the Gov- ernment of Salvador is charged with having violated its promises and agreements by destroying what it agreed to give, what it did give, and what it was solemnly bound to protect. So one of the most respected authorities in international law, Lewis Cass, has laid down the undoubted rule and its exception, as broad as the rule, when he says that — "When citizens of the United States go to a foreign country, they go with an implied understanding that they are to obey its laws and submit themselves in good faith to its established tribimals. When they do business with its citizens, or make private contracts 592 APPENDIX. there, it is not to be expected that either their own or the foreign government is to be made a party to this business or these con- tracts, or will undertake to determine any dispute to which they give rise. * * * "The case is widely different when the foreign government becomes itself a party to important contracts, and then not only fails to fulfill them, but capriciously annuls them, to the great loss of those who have invested their time, labor, and capital in their reliance upon its good faith and justice." " In any case, by the rule of natural justice obtaining universally throughout the world wherever a legal system exists, the obligation of parties to a contract to appeal for judicial relief is reciprocal. If the Republic of Salvador, a party to the contract which involved tlje franchise to El Triunfo Company, had just grounds for com- plaint that under its organic law the grantees had, by misuser or nonuser of the franchise granted, brought upon themselves the penalty of forfeiture of their rights under it, then the course of that Government should have been to have itself appealed to the courts against the company and there, by the due process of judicial pro- ceedings, involving notice, full opportunity to be heard, considera- tion, and solemn judgment, have invoked and secured the remedy sought. It is abhorrent to the sense of justice to say that one party to a contract, whether such party be a private individual, a monarch, or a government of any kind, may arbitrarily, without hearing and without impartial procedure of any sort, arrogate the right to condemn the other party to the contract, to pass judgment upon him and his acts, and to impose upon him the extreme penalty of forfeiture of all his rights under it, including his property and his investment of capital made on the faith of that contract. Before the arbitrament of natural justice all parties to a con- tract, as to their reciprocal rights and their reciprocal remedies, are of equal dignity and are equally entitled to invoke for their redress and for their defense the hearing and the judgment of an impartial and disinterested tribunal. It follows that the Salvador Commercial Company and the other nationals of the United States who were shareholders in El Triunfo Company, as hereinbefore named, are entitled to com- pensation for the result of the destruction of the concession and for the appropriation of such property as belonged to that com- pany, excepting such property as was accumulated and con- " 2 Wharton's Digest, section 230. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 593 structed under the terms of the concession, to be vested in and owned by the Republic, to the extent of the interests of such American citizens in said concession and such property. Under the terms of the protocol and by the accepted rules of international courts in such cases, nothing can be allowed as damages which has for its basis the probable future profits of the undertaking thus summarily brought to an end. Notwithstand- ing the evidence of the computable rate of increase of earnings and profits from the beginning until the end of the first half of 1898, and although the concession by its terms still had twenty- one years to run, yet we are precluded by the rule mentioned from assuming that the rate of profits would increase during the remainder of the term in the same ratio, or at all, or even that it would continue to earn at the rate actually shown by the evidence of Salvador itself heretofore cited. If, on the tangible evidence for the assessment of the valuation of the franchise, we give its value, in our view we can give nothing even for the cost of the buildings and structures erected by the capital of the company which, by the terms of the franchise, were to become the property of the Republic. Neither can we give any award for the expenditure made through the procure- ment of the company by the United States in the survey and charting of Jiquilisco Bay and its entrance, however much such structures and such survey may add to the permanent wealth of the Republic of Salvador. On the clear and certain evidence before us, without involving ourselves in speculation, but computable on the uncontradicted and direct evidence presented, we find the value of the franchise, computed without reference to futiu-e or speculative profits or any speculative or imaginary basis whatever, to be $750,000. We think also that damages should be awarded for the value of the steamer Celia less the balance of her ptu-chase price which remained unpaid at the closing of the business of the company. We find also that the value of the property of the company taken and left in Salvador, which was not the property of the Govern- ment, as before stated, but which was exclusively the property of the company, to be $45,000. We are of opinion that the claimants before this tribunal are entitled to recover costs and reasonable attorneys' fees. Attor- neys and counsel have been employed to obtain relief from the Government of Salvador before the intervention of the Govern- ment of the United States was invoked. Since intervention, eminent counsel have been employed, whose residence and places 1 7301— 10 38 594 APPENDIX. of business are in California, and these, since the latter part of 1899, have been almost constantly employed in this matter, both at Salvador and at Washington, at distances far remote from their places of residence and business. These expenses have been exclusively borne by the Salvador Commercial Company. Before intervention by the United States, they disbursed in that behalf, according to the evidence, irrespective of attorneys' fees, $2,671.31, in an effort to secure rehabilitation of El Triunfo Company. After intervention by the United States, the expenses of prosecuting this reclamation, borne by the Salvador Commercial Company, exclusive of all attorney and counsel fees, have been, according to the evidence, $18,864.77. We are of opinion that fair compensation for such attorneys and counsel employed after intervention, including their services rendered at the capital of Salvador and at Washington, is $60,000. Of the valuation of the franchise, of the damages for the Celia and the property taken as above stated, we think the Government of the United States is entitled to recover, for the behoof of its nationals involved in this matter, "each its or his proportion in accordance with the number of shares held in El Triunfo Com- pany, Limited; and as those shares were divided into one thousand of $100 each, each of the American citizens, including the Salva- dor Commercial Company, will be entitled, through the Govern- ment of the United States, to receive of this award for such prop- erty such proportion of the amounts as the number of shares held by each bears to the total number of shares of the company. Aside from its share in the damages last mentioned, which would be represented by its 501 shares in El Triunfo Company, the Salvador Commercial Company is entitled to receive as a part of its damages all of the said expenses paid out and the attorney and counsel fees, in which the other stockholders, having contributed nothing, have no share. We have not discussed the question of the right of the United States under international law to make reclamation for these shareholders in El Triunfo Company, a domestic corporation of Salvador, for the reason that the question of. such right is fully settled by the conclusions reached in the frequently cited and well-understood Delagoa Bay Railway Arbitration. The particulars and items of the damages found are definitely stated in the formal award and its schedules this day signed. Henry Strong Don M. Dickinson [1903 Exhibit J.] From the Annual Memorial of the High Federal Court to the Congress of Venezuela in 1895. RE— MACAREO CONCESSION.^ Translation of the (i) Opinion of the Special Commission Appointed by the Court to Study the Question, and of the (2) Sentence of the High Federal Court of the United States of Venezuela thereon. Translation from the Annual Memorial of the High Federal Court to the Congress of Venezuela in 1895. OPINION OF THE SPECIAL COMMISSION APPOINTED BY THE COURT. No. 10. Page 378. To the Citizen President of the High Federal Court: We, undersigned, commissioned by Your High Corporation to emit our opinion with regard to the denunciation for collision that has been laid against the Decrees issued by the National Executive, dated on the ist of July, this year, and the subsequent Decrees issued for the efficacy of the first one — such collision denounced as existing with number 8°, article 14 of the National Constitution and article 1° of Daw 14 of the Code of Finance — produced by the North-American Citizen Geo. Carpenter, do hereby fulfil our task in the following form and terms : — The denunciator Geo. F. Carpenter, a citizen of the United States of North- America, temporarily here, captain of the Steamer "Bolivar," whereof The General Steamship Company of Wilming- ton, Delaware, U. S. A. is the owner and of which he (Carpenter) is said to be the Agent, states "that the said Company, being authorized by the laws of Venezuela used to trade between Ciudad- Bolivar and the island of Trinidad," such trading being effected almost exclusively through Macareo and Pedernales channels, as the other mouths of the Orinoco River present great difficulties to all ships which, like the " Bolivar," owing to the nature of their traffic and their plying in the river, must be flat-bottomed boats "• [The Spanish text of the report of the Commission and opinion of the Court Re Macareo Concession, does not appear to have been filed before the Mixed Commission of 1903. See section on Laws, etc., relating to the navigation of the Orinoco River, inf/a, for Spanish text and English translation, believed to be preferable to the one filed before the Commission of 1903, and printed here. — Agent's note.] 595 596 APPENDIX. and cannot enter by the "Boca-Grande" (Grand Mouth) ; but by the Decree of July ist, 1893, the Executive determined: that the foreign trade should be carried on only through the Boca Grande; it reserved Macareo and Pedernales channels to the Coastal Trade and prohibited absolutely the navigation through the other passes or channels of the river, thus preventing the said Company to effect their trade through the above-mentioned channels for plying between Ciudad-Bolivar and Trinidad, allowing it, on the other hand, to Ellis Grell, by virtue of his contract entered into with the Government on the 17th January of this year, such contract constituting, in his opinion, a Monopoly of the trade between Ciudad-Bolivar and Trinidad granted to Grell because of the difficulties of the navigation through the Boca Grande, which are a great many for ships like the "Bolivar," whose seaworthiness allows them to run only through Macareo and Pedernales — liberty for industries being thereby attacked, although it is guaranteed by number 8, article 14 of the Constitu- tion in force, thus contradicting also article i of the Law 14 of the Code of Finance, "which habilitates Ciudad-Bolivar for import and export trade, without any restriction whatever." Carpenter closes his argument petitioning the declaration of the collision between the above-mentioned Decrees and Daws. Now, it is a principle universally recognized among all civilized countries of the world, that each nation, each sovereign entity may extend and exercise its own dominion and authority upon all its national territory, as well as upon all individuals either born or domiciled, either temporarily resident or in transit in it. So that the Nation, using its inherent sovereignty, permits or prohibits to foreigners the entry of the country, and likewise, either opens or closes its harbours and rivers to the foreign trade without affording thereby, to other nations or to any other foreign individuals, any perfect right to consider themselves entitled in any way to obtain the opening or closing of such rivers and harbours by virtue of damages to their own interests. — And with regard to interior seas and rivers, the doctrine that we are enunciating is the most gen- erally admitted by ancient and modern publicists, as only in the cases foreseen by the International Law, could it be possible to others to claim, by way of exception, the opening of certain rivers and seas to the trade of Fellow-States bounding with those rivers or to the universal navigation of all countries. — But, in this par- ticular case, Venezuela, exercising its own sovereignty as a nation able to live international life, has prohibited to the foreign trade RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 597 the traffic or navigation through Macareo and Pedernales channels, reserving to the national Coastal Trade both mouths; it has fixed the Boca Grande of the Orinoco for foreign navigation and trade and prohibited, absolutely, without any distinction of persons or nationalities, the passage through the other Mouths and Channels of that River. — Such a prohibition, on the other hand, does not close the Custom's Harbours to foreign trade, nor does it prevent the navigation through the Orinoco, but simply regulates it, with- out its being necessary for the nation to care whether the ships fit for it shalf have this or that shape, or about the sea- worthiness of such vessels for that service, as these points only concern the par- ties aspiring to trade with the country through the above men- tioned fluvial artery. It is true that the liberal spirit of the Century tends to enlarge and consecrate, with regard to rivers, the principle of the liberty of the seas ; but it is none the less true that, referring to mediter- ranean waters, lakes, &c., whose shores are under the exclusive dominion of the nation, nobody could allege a perfect right to navigate them, so much so, that the right for their navigation is always the result of conventions among countries, entered into for the furtherance of their mutual international interests, for their mutual convenience and for the benefit of their prosperity and civilization. The Government of the Republic, therefore, does not violate in any way the principles and practices of the International Law, but on the contrary, adheres to them and recognizes them by prohib- iting to foreigners the use of certain waters of the River Orinoco, determining the Mouths and Channels through which their traffic is interdicted, but fixing at same time the Boca Grande as the only one to be used by them and reserving the channels Macareo and Pedernales for the internal Coastal Trade. This is Venezuela's right from the point of view of private International Right. — And with regard to the right assisting it by force of the political and administrative laws that the Country has sanctioned exercising also its sovereignty, we observe: — The general administration of the Union, in all points not concerning another authority, accord- ing to the National Constitution in force, are entrusted to the National Executive Power, which is performed by the President of the Republic together with his Secretaries of State and the Government Counsel. Among the authorities or duties assigned to the President of the Republic, are to be reckoned those deter- mined by Nos. 17 and 18, article 76 of the National Con- 598 APPENDIX. stitution: "to fulfill the other functions assigned to him by the laws," and "to issue decrees and regulations for the better execu- tion of the laws whenever required or established by the same laws, care to be taken not to alter their spirit and principles; " so much so, that the law of 17th May 1873, still in force, authorizes the Executive Power to open for export trade those ports on the Lake of Maracaibo and on the rivers of the Republic that are con- sidered navigable, as well as its maritime coast, empowering them also to establish Terrestrial Customhouses, bodies of Custom's Officers on sea and on land, to suppress or to transfer Custom- houses from the habilitated ports for imports and exports to the places they may consider convenient, in order to prevent the abuses of smuggling or any other prejudicial cause against the Treasury, whenever they may deem as necessary to adopt such measures. — It is therefore evident, that the Executive was en- titled not only to restrain the foreign trade with Ciudad-Bolivar, but, furthermore, to close that port entirely to exterior trade: a course the Executive have been very far from pursuing when they sanctioned their Decree of the ist July 1893, as, according to its 3rd article, they confined themselves only to suppress the Mari- time Customhouse at Pedernales, and according to its ist and 2d article, they regulated the traffic through the different Mouths of the Orinoco, in compliance with article 4 of the mentioned Legis- lative Decree of May 17th, 1873. — It is therefore impossible to maintain that either No. 8 of article 14 of the National Constitu- tion, or Law 14 of the Code of Finance may have been infringed through the denounced Decrees of the Executive, for this reason: — if the States have agreed to entrust the General Power with the legislative and executive jurisdiction concerning maritime, coastal and fluvial navigation, it was in consideration of the nature itself of such ways and considering also the fiscal convenience and inter- ests, as well as the prompt and efl:ective vigilance for internal security. — So much so, that the State through its General Power and to-day the National Executive, by virtue of the above men- tioned Decree of Congress, could navigate, alone, by means of their Agents, these or those waters, without it being possible to say that they attack, by means of such restrictions, the liberty of industries; and with regard to the Law of Finance, which has been denounced as violated and which habilitates, without any restric- tion whatever, the port of Ciudad-Bolivar for import and export trade, a simple reading of the so-many-times mentioned Decree of Congress dated May 17th, 1873, is sufficient to come to the con- RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 599 elusion of non-collision between that Law and the Executive Decree of July ist of last year, as it is a fact that, among the duties of the President of the Union, one of them refers to modifying the character of the Customhouse at Ciudad-Bolivar, by restraining its functions or even suppressing that and others whatever in the Republic. In view of the reasons above explained, we finish by asking the High Federal Court the- approval of this report and, consequently, the declaration that the denounced collision does not exist between the Executive Decree of the ist of July 1893 and those dictated thereafter for the efficiency of the first one and the articles of the Constitution and the Law of Finance pointed out by the denunciator as having been infringed. Caracas: August 14th, 1893.'^ Alejandro Urbane ja. J0S16 Manuel Juliac. At the meeting held on the same day, the Court, being assem- bled in the Hall of Resolutions, approved of the foregoing report and began their conference for the dictation of their decision. Leon FebreS CordeRO T., Secretary. SENTENCE of the COURT, DATED 14TH AUGUST, 1895." The High Federal Court of the United States of Venezuela; assembled to consider the document in which George F. Carpen- ter, North- American citizen, denounces the collision which he says exists between the Decrees of the National Executive of ist of July of the present year and the later Decrees for its execution and number 8, article 14 of the National Constitution and article i of the Law 14 of the Code of Finance, based on the fact that " The General Steamship Company of Wilmington, Delaware, U. S. A.," of which company he declares himself the representative, "author- ized by the laws of Venezuela carried on the trade between Ciudad- Bolivar and the island of Trinidad, a trade done almost exclusively through the channels Macareo and Pedernales, as the other mouths of the Orinoco present great difficulties to the navigation of steam- ers which, as the "Bolivar" (owned by said company), by the nature of their trade in the river, must be vessels of small draught and, consequently, cannot effect an entry through the "Boca Grande," but that by decree of July ist, 1893, the National Execu- " [Should be " 1894." — Agent's note.] 600 APPENDIX. live established: that foreign trade should be carried on through the Boca Grande, reserving the channels Macareo and Pedernales to the Coastal Trade and absolutely prohibited the navigation by the other channels of the river, thereby making it impossible for the Company to effect their trade between Ciudad-Bolivar and Trinidad by the said channels, and also permitting such a trade to Ellis Grell, by virtue of his contract entered into with the Gov- ernment on the 17th of January of the present year, a contract which is, in his opinion, a Monopoly of the trade between Ciudad- Bolivar and Trinidad granted to Grell, because of the difficulties of the navigation by the Boca Grande, which are considerable to vessels constructed like the "Bolivar," whose sea-worthiness per- mits them to run only through the Macareo and Pedernales, vio- lating thereby the liberty of industries guaranteed by number 8, article 14 of the Constitution in force and also by article i" of the I/aw 14 of the Code of Finance, which habilitates the port of Ciudad-Bolivar for import and export trade — without any restric- tion" ; And whereas the Court is of opinion : — 1 . That it is a principle universally recognized amongst civilized nations of the world, that each one is empowered to extend and exercise its own dominion and authority upon all its national ter- ritory, as well as upon all individuals, either bom or domiciled, either temporarily resident or in transit in it. So that, the nation making use of its inherent sovereignty permits or prohibits to foreigners the entry of the country, and likewise, either opens or closes its ports and rivers to foreign trade, without affording thereby to any other nation or to any other foreign people any perfect right to consider themselves entitled in any way to obtain the opening or closing of such rivers and harbours by virtue of damages to their own interests. 2. That with regard to interior seas or rivers, the aforementioned doctrine is the one generally admitted by ancient and modern pubUcists, as only in the cases foreseen by the International Law could it be possible to others to claim, by way of exception, the opening of certain rivers and seas to the trade of the Fellow-States bounding with those rivers, or to the universal navigation of all countries. 3. That, in this particular case, Venezuela, in exercise of its own sovereignty as a nation able to live international life, has forbidden to foreign trade the traffic or navigation through Macareo and Pedernales channels, reserving these to the National Coastal Trade; RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 601 it has fixed the Boca Grande of the Orinoco for foreign navigation and trade and absolutely prohibited, without distinction as to persons or nationalities, the passage through other Mouths or Channels of that river. Such a prohibition on the other hand, does not close the Customs' Harbours to foreign trade, nor does it prevent the navigation through the Orinoco, but simply regu- lates it, without its being necessary for the nation to care whether the ships fit for it shall have this or that shape, or about the sea- worthiness of such vessels for that service, as these points only concern the parties aspiring to trade with the country through the above-mentioned fluvial artery. 4. That, whilst it is true that the liberal spirit of the century tends to enlarge and consecrate, with regard to rivers, the principle of the liberty of the seas, it is none the less true that, referring to mediterranean waters, lakes, &c., whose shores are under the exclusive dominion of the nation, nobody could allege a perfect right for navigating such waters; so much so, that the right for navigating them is always the result of conventions among countries, entered into for the furtherance of their mutual inter- tional interests, for their mutual convenience and for the benefit of their prosperity and civilization. 5. That the Government of the Republic does not violate in any way the principles and practices of the International Law, but on the contrary, adheres to them and recognizes them by prohibiting to foreigners the use of certain waters of the River Orinoco, determining the Mouths and Channels through which their traffic is interdicted, but fixing the Boca Grande as the only one to be used by them, and reserving the channels Macareo and Pedernales for the internal Coastal Trade. 6. That, from the point of view of private International Right, the National Executive has acted in accordance with these principles. 7. That, with regard to the rights assisting it by virtue of political and administrative laws that the country has sanctioned, also exercising its sovereignty, the General Administration of the Union, in all points not concerning another authority, according to the National Constitution in force, are entrusted to the National Executive Power; and amongst the authorities or duties assigned to the President of the Republic, and which are performed together with his Secretaries and the Government Counsel, are to be reckoned those determined Nos. 17 and 18, article 76 of the Constitution; namely: "to fulfill the other functions assigned to 602 APPENDIX. him by the laws," and "to issue decrees and regulations for the better execution of the laws whenever required or established by the same laws, care to be taken not to alter their spirit and principles." 8. That, it being a fact that the Law of 17th May 1873, still in force, authorizes the Executive Power to open for export trade those ports on the Lake of Maracaibo and on the rivers of the Republic that are considered as navigable, as well as its maritime coast, empowering them also to establish Terrestrial Custom- houses, bodies of Custom's Officers on sea and on land, to suppress or to transfer Customhouses from the habilitated ports for imports and exports to the places they may consider convenient, it is therefore evident that the Executive was entitled not only to restrain the foreign trade with Ciudad-Bolivar, but, furthermore, to close that port entirely to exterior trade, which course they were far from pursuing when they sanctioned their Decree of ist July 1893, as, according to its article 3, they confined them- selves only to suppress the Customhouse at Pedernales and by articles i and 2, they regulated the traffic by the Mouths of the Orinoco, in compliance with article 4 of the said Legislative Decree of May 17th, 1893. 9. That it cannot be maintained that either No. 8 of article 14 of the National Constitution or Law 14 of the Code of Finance may have been infringed through the already mentioned Executive Decrees, as, if the States have agreed to intrust the General Power with the legislative and executive jurisdiction concerning mari- time, coastal and fluvial navigation, it was in consideration of the nature itself of such ways and considering also the fiscal convenience and interests, as well as the prompt and effective vigilance and police for internal security; so much so, that the State through its General Power and to-day the National Execu- tive, by virtue of the above mentioned Decree of Congress, could navigate, alone, by means of their agents, these or those waters without attacking thereby the liberty of industry; and 10. That with regard to the Law of Finance, which is denounced as having been violated and which habilitates, without any restriction whatever, the port of Ciudad-Bolivar for import and export trade, a simple reading of the Legislative Decree dated May 17th, 1873, already mentioned, is sufficient proof that there is no collision between that and the Executive Decree of July ist, 1893, as it is out of question that among the duties of the RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. 603 President of the Union, one of them refers to modifying the character of the Customhouse at Ciudad-Bolivar, by restraining its functions or even suppressing that one and others whatever in the Republic. Therefore, in view of the reasons above explained the court decides : It is hereby declared that the collision denounced by George F. Carpenter as existing between the Executive Decree of the ist July, 1893, and those sanctioned later for its efficiency and No. 8, article 14 of the National Constitution and article ist of the Law 14 of the Code of Finance — does not exist. ■ Issued in the Hall of the High Federal Court in the Capitol in Caracas: August 14th, 1894 — 84th Year of Independence and 36th of Federation. M. Planchart Rojas. C. Yepes, Jr. Antonio Zarraga. M. Caballero. E. Balza Da VILA. JOSlS M. JULIAC. Alejandro Urbaneja. Jorge Pereyra. J.' A. Gando B. Leon Febrbs Cordero T., Secretary. [1903 Exhibit K] [PROTEST OF JOSfi VICENTE RODRfGUEZ.J "C0NSU1.ATE OF THE United States of "America, At Trinidad, B. W. I., "30th October, i8gg. "On this 30th day of October, in the year of our Lord, One 'thousand eight hundred and ninety-nine, before me, Alvin 'Smith Consul of the United States of America, at Trinidad, ' B. W. I., and the dependencies thereof, personally appeared Josd ' Vicente Rodriguez, a citizen of United States of Venezuela, em- ' ployed in the capacity of Purser of the Venezuelan ss. ' Vencedor,' ' of the Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited, being 'duly sworn deposes and says that the instrument in writing 'hereto attached marked "A" is the original of an instrument in ' writing which was registered at the Venezuelan Consulate at this ' Island whereby he protested against the act or acts of whom it ' may concern in seizing and delaying the ss. ' Vencedor ' while in ' Venezuelan waters said Jose Vicente Rodriguez also produces an 'instrument in writing marked "B" which said Jose Vicente ' Rodriguez says is a true and faithful translation of the original ' marked "A" and the said Jos6 Vicente Rodriguez now enters his ' note of protest against the acts of whom it may concern as set ' forth in the two instruments in writing hereto attached marked ' "A" " B " to serve and avail hereafter the said ' Orinoco Shipping 'and Trading Company, Limited,' of London, England, if found ' necessary. "Sworn to, subscribed and given under my hand and seal this " 30th day of October, 1899. "(Signed) Alvin Smith, "U. S. Consul. "seal." "A." "Jose; Vicente Rodriguez, mayor de edad, natural de Mar- turin, ReplibUca de Venezuela, en mi caracter de Contador del Vapor Venezolano 'Vencedor,' perteneciente d 'The Orinoco Ship- ping and Trading Company, Limited,' en ausencia del Capitan en Prolamar, Isla de Margarita, formulo ante el Consul de Vene- zuela en esta Antilla, la protesta siguiente, en resguardo de los 604 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 605 intereses de 'The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Lim- ited,' como tambien para poner i, salvo sus responsabihdades tanto respecto de los pasajeros que se encontraban abordo de dicho vapor, como de los embarcadores y consignatarios de la carga que aquel conducia: " Habiendo sido legalmente cargado y despachado el citado vapor 'Vencedor' en el puerto de La Guaira el dia dieziocho de Octubre de mil ochocientos noventa y nueve sali6 d las cuatro p. m. con destine a esta Isla y escala en Prolamar, con carga y pasajeros para aquel y este puerto, seglin lo comprueba la adjunta 'Licencia de Navegaci6n,' Uegamos d Prolamar el dia diezinueve de los corrientes i. las nueve p. m. y alM se nos pas6 la visita de sanidad a esa misma hora. Informados por algunos de los em- pleados de Aduana que ya conociamos, de que nada de anormal pasaba en aquella localidad, no tuvo inconveniente alguno el Capitdn en permitir que tanto el suscrito, Contador como el Fiscal y los pasajeros para aquel puerto, desembarcdramos immediata- mente, como lo hicimos, en la forma acostumbrada siempre. Pero al poner pie en tierra, fuimos declarados arrestados y enviados a la Jefatura Civil, donde se nos exigid la presentacion de la correspondencia que llevaramos. Mientras esto sucedia en tierra, dos grandes lanchas conteniendo gente armada de Winchesters y Mausers invadieron el vapor 'Vencedor' y se apoderaron de el desde ese momento declardndose al servicio de la Revoluci6n que acaudillaba en Venezuela el General Cipriano Castro. Mas tarde fueron puestos en libertad los pasajeros y se me concedio permiso para ir d bordo del Vapor. El Jefe del movimiento en Margarita era el Senor General Asuncion Rodriguez, quien embarc6 en el ' Vencedor' al General Manuel Vargas con seis oficiales mas y alganos [algunos] soldados con orden de levar anclas, lo cual se hizo, d las diez de la manana del dia veinte, para ir i. Carlipano y ponerse d disposicion del Doctor Luis Mata. Llegamos d Carupano d las cuatro p. m. del mismo veinte, y despues de conferenciar el Jefe Vargas con los empleados de Aduana del Gobierno que fueron d pasar visita y desembarcar dos pasajeros para el mencionado puerto, seguimos viaje a Rio Caribe, de donde esa misma noche d las diez, envid el General Vargas una comisidn para notificar al Dr. Luis Mata, quien se encontraba en los cerros cerca de Caru- pano, que tenia apresado el 'Vencedor' y a su disposicidn. El veinte y uno d las doce del dia dispuso el General Vargas que nos regresdramos d Carlipano, donde llegamos d las tres p. m. y alld permanecimos hasta el veinte y seis d las cuatro de la madrugada 6o6 APPENDIX. en que salimos' de Cariipano con el Doctor Luis Mata y una guar- nicion alrededor de tres cientos hombres armados, con rumbo a Puerto Escondido, en el prommontorio [promont6rio] de Paria, adonde llegamos a las diez a. m. y habiendo desembarcado alM parte de la guarnicion, se ordeno la traslacidn del Vapor a Tacua, en el Golfo de Paria. Anclamos en este tiltimo puerto en la madrugado [madrugdda] del veinte y siete, y de alM se me envid, tres horas mas tarde, a esta Isla con comunicaciones para el Sr. Geronimo Solis y el Sr. Thos. A. Turner, gerente de la Compania, con objeto de solicitar de este tiltimo Senor el envi6 inmediato de veinte toneladas de carbdn (por estar ya adotado el combustible que tenia el vapor de reserva ordinaria) a la vez que su contribu- cidn con todos los medios que esten d su alcance para ayudar la Revoluci6n triunfante. Por todo lo expuesto, en resguardo, repito, de los intereses de 'The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Limited,' y de sus responsabilidades para con los pasajeros y los duenos de la carga que conducia, consigno formal protesta contra quien 6 quienes haya lugar, reservando d la expresado Compania todos sus dere- chos para reclamar de quien 6 quienes haya lugar, los consi- guientes danos y perjuicios que se lo hay an ocasionado por la captura del Vapor ' Vencedor. ' Asi lo digo, otorgo y firmo por ante el Ciudadano Consul de Venezuela en Puerto Espafia, Trinidad, a los treinta dias del mes de Octubre de mil ochocientos noventa y nueve, pidiendole d la vez que se sirva protocolizar este instrumento en el Registro del Consulado, con todas las formalidades le Leiz [de ley]. (firmado), J. V. Rodriguez." "Consulado de i.os E- E. U. U. de' Venezuei^a, " Pto Espana 30 Octubre, i8gg." "Certifico: que el presente Documento me ha sido presentado, leido y firmado ante mi por el otorgante Senor Jose Vicente Rod- riguez, de cuyo testimonio doy fe. Quedia anotado en el Libro de Registro de este Consulado a los folios 156 vuelto, 157 y 157 vuelto bajo el numero 455. " El Vice-Consul encargado. (firmado), A. M. Sucre, "seal." "B." (Translated Copy of Protest of Jose Vicente Rodriguez.) "Jose Vicente Rodriguez, of full age, native of Maturin,- Republic of Venezuela, in my capacity as Purser of the Venezuelan RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 607 steamer 'Vencedor,' owned by 'The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited,' do hereby make the following Protest before the Venezuelan Consul in this Colony, and in the absence of the Captain of the said steamer (now detained on the coast of Paria by the persons who captured her at Porlamar, Island of Mar- garita,) ' and also in order to safeguard the responsibilities of the said Company, not only with regard to the passengers who were on board, but also as regards the shippers and consignees of the cargo, which the said steamer had on board at the time of her capture. "The said steamer 'Vencedor' having been loaded and legally cleared at the port of La Guaira on the eighteenth day of October, One thousand eight hundred and ninety-nine, sailed from that port at 4 p. m. for Trinidad, with liberty to call at Porlamar, and having passengers and cargo for that port and for Trinidad, as can be verified by the annexed 'License of Navigation,' arrived at Porlamar on the nineteenth day of said month at 9 p. m., and upon arrival the sanitary inspections were made in the customary form. Having been informed by several of the Customs' employes, with whom we were already acquainted, that nothing abnormal had occurred in that locality, the Captain raised no objection to allowing the undersigned, as well as the 'Fiscal' and the pas- sengers, to land immediately at the aforesaid port of Porlamar, which we did in the customary manner. As soon, however, as we reached the shore, we were put under arrest and conducted to the Town-hall, where the authorities* called upon us to produce and deliver up all the correspondence that we might have upon us. While this happened on shore, two large lighters containing men armed with Winchester and Mauser rifles, boarded the S. S. 'Vencedor,' and captured her in that selfsame moment, declaring that they took the steamer for the purpose of placing it at the service of the Revolution, which was then in course of develop- ment in Venezuela, headed by General Cipriano Castro. Shortly afterwards the passengers were liberated, and permission was granted to me to go on board the steamer. The chief of the revolutionary party in Margarita was General Asuncion Rodriguez, who dispatched to the 'Vencedor' General Manuel Vargas, together with six other officers and several soldiers, and gave orders to weigh anchor, which we did at ten o'clock on the follow- ing morning, the twentieth October. Our destination was Caru- pano, at which port we were ordered to place ourselves at the 6o8 APPENDIX. disposal of Dr. Mata. We reached Carupano at 4 p. m., on the same date (twentieth), and after General Vargas had conferred with the Customs Officials, who were adherents of the Govern- ment, and had come off to give the steamer her usual entry, and after landing two passengers for the said port, we were ordered to continue our voyage to Rio Caribe. On our arrival there. General Vargas sent a commission that same night at ten o'clock in order to notify Dr. Luis Mata, who was then on the hills in the neighbor- hood of Carupano, that he had captured the ' Vencedor ' and held her at his (Mata's) disposal. On the twenty-first, at noon. General Vargas ordered us to return to Carupano, where we arrived at 3 p. m., remaining there until the twenty-sixth at 4 a. m., at which hour we left Carupano again, having on board Dr. Mata with a force of about three hundred armed men, and were ordered to steer for Puerto Escondido, on the Northern Coast of the Gulf of Paria. At this point we landed a part of the force, after which the steamer was ordered to proceed to Tacna on the Southern Coast of the Gulf. We anchored off this last port early on the morning of the twenty-seventh October, and three hours later I was despatched to this Island in order to convey communications to Dr. Geronimo Solis and to Mr. Thomas A. Turner, Manager of 'The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co. Ltd.,' and with the object of requesting the latter gentleman to send immediately to Dr. Mata twenty tons of coal (the steamer's supply of fuel having been exhausted), and at the same time soliciting ' his assistance by every means at his command in order to assure the triumph of the Revolution.' "Therefore, I repeat, in order to safeguard the interests of 'The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co., Ltd.' and their responsi- bilities towards passengers and owners of the cargo which the said steamer conveyed, I do hereby make formal protest against whom- soever it may concern, reserving to the aforesaid Company all rights of claim against whomsoever may be responsible for the damages that may be occasioned by the unlawful seizure of the said steamer 'Vencedor.' . ".^11 which I do hereby declare and subscribe to before the above-mentioned Citizen, Consul of Venezuela, in Port-of -Spain, Trinidad, B. W. I., this thirtieth day of October, One thousand eight hundred and ninety -nine; and at the same time demand that this my Protest be protocolized in the Registry of the Venezuelan Consulate in due legal form. "(Signed) J. V. Rodriguez." [1903 Exhibit I,.] Filed July 2Sth, 1903. Rudolf Dolge, Secretary on the part of the U. S.; J. Padron Uztariz. [INSTRUCTIONS TO SUB-MANAGERS, AND TARIFFS, OF THE ORINOCO steamship company.] Trinidad. I, Thomas Augustus Turner, of the Town of Port of Spain, in the island of Trinidad, do solemnly and sincerely declare and state for truth as follows : — 1. I am the Manager of The Orinoco Steamship Company, the successors of The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited. 2. The paper-writing hereunto annexed and marked "A" is a true copy of my letter of instructions to the Sub-Managers of The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited, at Ciudad Bolivar with reference to the prices to be charged for the hire of the Company's Steamers at Bolivar to the Venezuelan Government. 3. The said instructions hold good for the Sub-Managers of the Orinoco Steamship Company. 4. The paper-writing hereunto annexed and marked "B" is a true translation into English of the said letter. 5. The paper- writings hereunto annexed and marked "C," "D," "E," "F" & "G" are printed copies of the various tariffs in force in the Orinoco Steamship Company for the working of the said Steamers. And I make this Declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true and according to the Statutory Declarations Ordinance 1879 3.nd I am aware that if there is any statement in this Declara- tion which is false in fact which I know or beUeve to be false or do not believe to be true I am liable to fine and imprisonment. DecIvAred at Port of Spain in the Island of Trinidad this signed) Thos. A. Turner. 2 1 st day of June 1 903 . Before me, (signed) John Dennis Sei^lier, Notary Public. (Seal.) 1 7301 — 10 39- 609 6lO APPENDIX. [A.] This is the paper-writing "A" referred to in the foregoing Declaration of Thomas Augustus Turner made before me this day of June 1903. (SeaIv) John Dennis Seluer, Notary Public. Copia. Senores Sub-Gerentes de "The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Limited," Ciudad-Bolivar. MuY Senores Nuestros: En cumplimiento de instrucciones que acabamos recibir por cable, de los Directores de esta Compania en Londres, tenemos que ordenar d ustedes la remisidn d este puerto de los vapores que navegan en el Orinoco. Al efecto, notificardn ustedes oficialmente d las primeras Auto- ridades del Estado que esta Compania, cuyo cardcter es esencial- mente mercantil, se ve en la necesidad de tomar esta determi- nacidn, por cuanto que los disturbios politicos que han venido desarrolMndose en Ven[e]zuela, no solamente han dado por resul- tado paralizar el trdfico con el Interior, de donde los vapores recaban sus ingresos para sostener el costosisimo tren de empleados, sino que, d mds de los fuertes gastos que hoy por hoy ocasiona su mantenimiento, no puede sino producir gran deterioro el use incesante que est^ haciendo de ellos el Gobierno, con exposicion d. p^rdida de alguno de ellos en cualquier momento, y sin que se reciba la justa compensacion monetaria d que tiene derecho la Compania, por los important es servicios que ha prestado al Gobierno, tanto seccional como de la Repiiblica. Esta Empresa ha venido mostrando, d, la vista de todos, sus buenos oficios en favor de las Autoridades del pais legalmente constituidas, y aun cuando su estructura sea, repetimos, de indole completamente comercial, contraria d adquirir la categorfa de sostenedora de alguno de los bandos politicos que se disputan la preponderancia del poder en Venezuela, no puede negar sus servicios en el radio de su organizaci6n mercantil, con la condicidn expresa 6 includible de que, para ello, se llenen en todo caso las formalidades que pongan d salvo asi las responsabilidades de los mandatarios en Venezuela, como las de los representantes de los intereses de los accionistas, que tienen inyertidos en esta Empresa capitales de consideracidn : — y por lo tanto. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 61I No podrdn ustedes permitir la salida de ningfin barco de la Compania sino al llenarse los requisites siguientes: — 1. La orden de alistar un buque ha de emanar del Primer Magistrado del Estado, y por escrito. 2. Antes de zarpar un barco deberdn ustedes firmar, con el Primer Magistrado del Estado 6 su legitimo representante, una carta-partida 6 contrato de fletamento. 3. En este Ultimo documento ban de ser claramente estipulados : a) El ntimero de dias que durard el viaje. b) El precia que se pacta con el Gobierno por cada uno de los dias que correrd el vapor por su cuenta y riesgo. c) El nfimero de oficiales que comeran en camera y el de los soldados que irdn en cubierta, y como se mantendrdn. d) La manera de pro veer el combustible. e) La cantidad por la cual el Gobierno se constituye responsable, d pagarse en casos de p^rdida total del buque, reglamentandose, los casos de averia parcial por medio de un peritaje. f) La mitad, por lo menos, del valor del fletamento debe ser satisfecho al contado, antes de zarpar el buque. g) La otra mitad del precio estipulado deberd ser satisfecha al vencerse la fecha en que deba regresar el vapor, y los dias que excedieren d, dicha fecha serdn computados a la vuelta del mismo buque. Unico. — Si el Gobierno no cumpliere con lo establecido para el fletamento de un buque, queda desde luego cortado todo negocio con el. Pasajes. — Esta Compania ha visto con sorpresa grande que, A pesar de estar terminantemente estipulado en sus dos contratos con el Gobierno, que se conceda pasajes a los Oficiales, militares y comisionados — cuando vengan con orden del Ministro de Hacienda 6 de los Presidentes de Estados — por la mitad de su valor, lo que significa claramente que la otra mitad deba ser satisfecha en efectivo al acto de tomar la cedula, esa Sub-Gerencia, indebida e inconsultamente, ha venido expediendo cedulas de pasaje sin haberse llenado tan importante condici6n, lo que ha dado por resultado d, esta Empresa, que no se le pague ni siquiera la comida que consumen i. bordo esos pasajeros. Tambien tenemos que llamarles la atencion sobre la necesidad de cortar muy seriamente este abuso, asl como la? de establecer, de modo fijo y que no d^ motivo d dudas, las condiciones en que el Gobierno tiene derecho d embarcar guarniciones de militares en nuestros vapores mercantes. Son las siguientes: — 6l2 APPENDIX. 1. Los soldados, 6 los que constituyan la guarnicidn, inclusives sus Jefes, para viajar libres de pasajes, han de ir siempre en cubierta y llevar sus correspondientes provisiones para el rancho. — Si algun 6 Jefes van en cdmara, tendr^n que pagar su correspondiente medio pasaje, cobrado por el Capitdn d bordo 6 por el Contador. 2. Bntendido que la guarnicidn de un buque es para defenderlo de alglin ataque imprevisto, deberd el Jefe de la guarnicion circun- scribir d ello solamente sus atribuciones ; por lo que no tiene derecho d intervenir en las disposiciones 6 el itinerario que tenga que seguir el Capitdn obedeciendo las 6rdenes que le sean comuni- cadas por la Compania. 3. El fiscal de un buque nombrado por el Gobierno, es s61o, como lo indica su nombramiento, para supervijilar las operaciones de los vapores en lo concerniente al Fisco Nacional; por lo que no puede tampoco, por no tener derecho d ello, intervenir en la navegacion del buque, ni en lo que toca d su organizacidn econ6- mica, que es del fuero interno de la Compania. Para gobierno de ustedes, debemos estipularles que los tipos d que se pueden fletar los vapores al Gobierno, no podrdn ser menores que los siguientes : — "Apure" Bs. 720 diarios "Guanare" " 600 " "Nutrias" " 600 " "H^roe" " 600 " "Socorro" " 400 " "Masparro" " 400 "Bolivar" " 2,000 " "Delta" " 1,000 " Para terminar, es de nuestro deber participar d ustedes, que se ha formulado ante el Gobierno Americano en Washington una n6mina de las propiedades de la Compania en Venezuela, y por lo tanto, si tuvieren ustedes algtin tropiezo 6 inconveniente en el cumplimiento de las instrucciones contenidas en esta carta y fueren tomados los vapores por la fuerza, deberdn ustedes levantar inmediatamente la protesta del caso, con las formalidades de las leyes del pais, y si hubeere [hubiere (?)] obstdculo para ello, la formalizardn ante el C6nsul Americano, d quien presentardn para su registro las jue [que (?)] extiendan dnte el Eegistrador [Regis- trador (?)]. Somos de ustedes atentos servidores pp The Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Ltd. (firmado) Th. A. Turner. RECORD OF CI^AIM NO. I9. 613 [B.] This is the paper-writing marked "B" referred to in the fore- going Declaration of Thomas Augustus Turner, made before me this day of June, 1903. (Signed) John Dennis Se^Lier, Notary Public. Translation of letter of instructions sent to the Bolivar office with reference to the hiring of the company's steamers by the Venezuelan authorities. Port of Spain, 30th October, iSgg. The Sub-Managers, Orinoco Shipping & Trading Company, Lim- ited, Ciudad Bolivar. Dear Sirs, In accordance with instructions just received by letter and cable from the Directors of this Company in London, we have to instruct you to send to this port all the Company steamers navigating the Orinoco. For this purpose you will please officially notify the chief Authorities of the State that this Company, whose character is essentially commercial, feels compelled to take this step, for the reason that the political disturbances which have been developing in Venezuela have not only had the result of paralizing traffic with the interior, upon which the Company's steamers have to depend for the revenue necessary to maintain the very costly roll of employees; but also in addition to the enormous expenses which the upkeep of the fleet demands day by day. The incessant use which the Government makes of the steamers cannot but be productive of serious injury and deterioration to the steamers, as well as exposing any one of them at any moment to loss or danger, for which the Company might never receive just monetary compensation to which it would be entitled, in view of the impor- tant services which the Company has rendered to the Govern- ment, not only to different parties, but also to the Republic. This Company has for some considerable time past displayed before all men its wish and readiness to support the Authorities of the country legally constituted; and even though its character is, as stated, completely mercantile and altogether opposed to acquire the reputation of sustaining either one of the poUtical parties who are disputing the supreme power in Venezuela; it cannot all the same refuse to render services to the Authorities within the radius of its mercantile organization and faculties. 6l4 APPENDIX. but with the express and unalterable condition that, in order to obtain such services, the Authorities of Venezuela must in all cases comply with the conditions and forms which shall save the Company's responsibilities both as regards its shareholders, who have a very large amount of capital invested in this enter- prise, and as regards the supreme powers of the Republic: — Wherefore you are not to permit the departure of any one of the Company's steamers until the following conditions have been complied with, viz: — 1. The order for the preparation for hire of a steamer must emanate from the first Magistrate of the State, and must be in writing with the signature of said Magistrate. 2. Before the steamer is allowed to leave your charge, you must draw up a charter-party or Contract of hire to be signed jointly by the first Magistrate of the State or his legal Repre- sentative. 3. In this document the following conditions must be clearly stipulated : — a) The number of days which the voyage is to last. b) The price agreed upon with the Government for each day that the steamer may be in their charge and at their risk. c) The number of officials who are to have Saloon accommoda- tion and food; and the number of soldiers who are to travel on deck, and the manner in which they are to be maintained. d) The manner in which fuel is to be provided for such steamer. e) The sum for which the Government agrees by the Charter- party to make itself responsible; and to pay in case of the total loss of the steamer — damage of any kind, partial, material or otherwise to be appraised by the Arbitration of experts. f) At least one half of the value of the Charter must be paid cash down in advance before the steamer is to be allowed to leave the port. g) The other half of the stipulated price must be paid on completion of the voyage, and the safe return of the steamer to port; and should the number of days that such voyage has lasted exceed the number of days stipulated in the Charter, the excess days shall be paid for at the same rate as those stipulated in the Charter. In case the Government should fail to comply with the stipula- tions of the Charter, the negotiations shall be declared null and void. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 615 Passages. — The Company has noticed with considerable surprise that, notwithstanding the very clear conditions stipulated in its two Contracts with the Government whereby the Company agrees to grant to ofi&cials, ofl&cers and persons in Government com- mission — provided they present a written order from the Minister of Finance or from the President of either of the States — passage by any of its steamers at half price, which intimates very clearly that the other half must be paid for in cash at the time gf applying for the passage ticket; — notwithstanding all this, we observe that the Bolivar Office has, without authorization and without consulting with this office, issued passage tickets without having observed the very important condition that at least half of the ticket must be paid for at the time of issue which has had the logical result that the Company has not been able to recover even the value of the food consumed on board by such person. We have to call your very serious attention to the necessity of at once stopping this very serious abuse, and also to establish immediately, in such a manner as shall leave no room whatever for doubt or misinterpretation, the conditions upon which the Government shall be permitted to embark troops on the Com- pany's steamers. Those conditions are the following, viz: — 1. The soldiers or those who constitute the "Guarnicion," including the officers in charge, in order to travel without pay- ment of their passage, must be conveyed on deck, and must carry their own provisions. Any officer or official who may desire Saloon accommodation must first pay a corresponding half fare, either at the office or to the Captain -or Purser of the steamer. 2. It being understood and established that the "Guarnicion" of a steamer is put on board for the purpose of defending the said steamer from possible attack, the officer or officers in charge of the said "Guarnicion" must limit their faculties and power exclusively to that purpose; wherefore they have no right whatso- ever to interfere either with the itinerary of the ship, or with any of its officers, or to in any way interrupt the fulfillment of the orders communicated to its officers by the Company. 3. The Fiscal (Mail Agent) appointed by the Government is, as his appointment indicates, allowed to travel solely for the purpose of supervising the operations of the steamers in all that concerns the interests of the Government and of the Mails; wherefore he is not to be allowed to interfere in any way with the navigation of the steamer, nor to interpose himself in any manner in anything 6r6 APPENDIX. touching the working of the steamer, which corresponds solely to the Company and its officers. For your guidance we subjoin the prices at which you are at liberty to hire out to the Government the Company's steamers, it being understood that in no case are these prices to be reduced, viz : " Apure" Bs 720 per diem. "Guanare" 600 " Nutrias" 600 "Heroe" 600 "Socorro" 400 "Masparro" 400 " Bolivar" 2,000 "Delta" 1,000 In conclusion we desire to inform you that a list of the Com- pany's properties has been filed in the Washington D. C. and the Government of the United States of America notified thereof; wherefore if you should encounter any difficulty or trouble in the carrying out of the instructions contained in this letter, and any one of the Company's steamers taken by force, you will imme- diately proceed to make formal protest in accordance with the laws of the country, and if there should be any opposition to your doing this, you will make your protest before the American Consular Agent. We are. Dear Sirs, Yours truly," [pp. The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Company, Ltd. [(Signed) Th. A. Turner.] [C] Paper-writing "C" referred to in the fo;regoing Declaration of Thomas Augustus Turner made before me this 23d day of June 1903. [seal] John Dennis Sellier, Notary Public. The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co., Ltd. Tarifa de Pasajes Cofnbinados Entre el "Bolivar" y el "Vencedor." PESOS SENCILLOS. Quanta. Cumand. Porlamar. Carupano. Trinidad. Ciudad Bolivar. $10 00 $12 00 4 00 $16 00 8 00 6 00 $17 00 10 00 7 00 3 00 $25 00 18 00 IS 00 10 00 8 00 $45 00 38 00 35 00 4 00 8 00 10 00 6 00 7 00 Cariipano ._ . - 3 00 28 00 «INo signature is attached to the translation filed before the Mixed Commission of 1903.- note.] -Agent's RECORD OP CLAIM NO. I9. 617 The Orinoco Shipping and Trading Co.. Ltd. — Continued. Tarifa de Pasajes Combinados Entre el " Bolivar" y el " Vencedor" — Continued. DOLLARS. Carupano Porlamar. Cumand. Quanta. La Guaira. Cd. Bolivar. ■ la 20 la 2 50 quintal Kerosene en cajas de 2 latas con 10 galones 75 una Kerosene en cajas de 10 latas con 10 galones i 00 una Ladrillos (embarcdndose y desembarcdndose por ciienta del duena — sin responsabilidad para el vapor) 10 00 miliar Liquidos y licores: en bocoyes, barricas 6 barriles 10 gal6n Liquidos y licores: en botellas, en sus respectivas cajas, barrilles 6 cestos 20 gal6n Liquidos y licores : en botijitelas, canas y latas 25 gal<5n Losas para enlosar (12 X 12, 18x18) . 20c. y 38c. una Loza en guacales y cajas ii otro embalaje J 20 pi^ ciibico Loza ordinaria, vidriada, en piezas pequenas y grandes {sin responsabilidad del vapor) I5d20c. una Machetes i 00 quintal Mangos 6 cabos para hachas, etc 25 docena Mdquinas para desmotar algod6n y otras por el estilo 20 pi6 ciibico Marmas en nidos pequeiios y grandes 8c. y 16 uno Medicinas 36pi6 ciibico Matas de flores, de hojas, etc. precio convencional 13c. d 75 una Mercancias en cualquier embalaje 36 pie cubico 630 APPENDIX. THE ORINOCO SHIPPING & TRADING COMPANY, UMITED — continued. VAPORES DEL ORINOCO— Continued. Tarifa de Fletes. — Fletes de Subida a San Fernando de A pure — Continued Mecedores armados y silletones Mesas de madera, junco, etc., midiindose la superficic de la tabla ' Mesas de mdrmol, midi^ndose la superficie del mdrmol Metales: — alambre, anclas, budares, cadenas, clavos, fondos, gudimaros, mandarrias, municidn, yunques, etc., acero, cobre, hierro, koja de lata, laidn, plomo, tornilos de hierro, zinc, etc. , eh platinas, barras, barretas, planchas, etc anajes, campanas, calderos, cafeteras y sartenes anajes, catnpanas, calderos, cafeteras y sartenes sueltos-- Molinos con rueda, para moler caf 6 MoUejones, segun didmetro de la piedra Muebles no especificados — previa convenio Papel de estraza - Pianos Pesos de plataforma, armados (medida de la plataforma) _ _ Pesos de plataforma, encajonados Piedras de destilar Piedras sueltas para moUejones (segun didmetro) Pinturas Planchas para aplanchar P61vora, previa aviso del embarcador Prensas para copiar cartas y otras semejantes Sacos vacios Sal, en sacos de 1—2 fanega solamente Sal de Epsom Sillas y galdpagos Silletas armados Soda cdustica Suela en tapas Tabaco en rama Tabaco — hueva Tabacos elaborados, ordinaries " "en cojitas de 250, 200, 100, 50, 25, etc_ Tejas — embarcdndose y desembarcdndose por el dueno, sin responsabilidad para el vapor Tinas de metal 6 de madera, en nidos Trapiches Utensilios de labor y agricultura, como azadones, capo- ranas, chicuras, palas, tacies, etc., etc., sin mangos - Utensilios de labor y agricultura, como azadones, capo- ranas, chicuras, palas, tacies, etc., etc., con mangos - Hachas, picos, etc., sin mangos " " " con mangos Vidrios y cristales de todas clases c. 75 uno 20 pie cuad. 30 pi 6 cuad. I GO quintal I 25 quintal I 50 quintal 75 "no 08 pulgado 20 pi6 cAbico 1 25 quintal 15 00 uno 40 pie cuad. 2 00 quintal I 25 una 05 pulgada I 00 quintal 75 doc. de pares 4 00 quintal 50 una 1 00 quintal 2 00 fanega I 25 quintal I 00 uno 25 una 75 quintal 20 una I 50 quintal I 00 quintal 50 miliar 75 miliar 15 00 miliar 25 una I 25 quintal 25 docena 50 docena 50 docena 75 docena 40 pi^ clibico RECORD OF CI.AIM NO. 1 9. 631 THE ORINOCO SHIPPING & TRADING COMPANY, LIMITED — Continued. Tarifa de Fletes. — Fides de Subida a San Fernando de A pure — Continued. FLETES DE BAJADA. $ C. Animales — Burros 4 00 uno Caballos, mulas y reses 10 00' una Carneros, chivos y venados i 25 uno Gallos, galinas y patos, enjaulados 12 1-2 uno Gallos, gallinas y patos, sueltos 25 uno Marranos, segun tamano 2d5 00 uno Pavos y tortugas 31 1-4 uno Perros, tigres, etc., e«jaMWo.f 2 00 uno Ajos, algod6n prensado y anil i 00 quintal Almiddn arroz 75 quintal Astas 50 ciento Azdcar 75 quintal Bateas, segdn tamano dei2 1-2^75 una Caf ^ 80 quintal Cacao I 00 quintal Caraotas 50 quintal Caucho 6 goma, jMe/to i 50 quintal " " encajonada i 25 quintal Cazabe en tercios 50 tercio CeboUas y cocos 62 1-2 quintal Cueros de res 18 3-4 uno " de venado 02 uno Chiquichique, empaquetado solamente i 00 quintal Damesanas de 2 1-4 d 3 galones, llenas 37 1-2 una " " " " vacias 08 una Damesanitas de i gal6n, llenas 20 una Dulce, panela 6 papel6n 62 1-2 quintal Espias de Rio-Negro i 00 pulgada Frijoles 50 quintal Jab6n 75 quintal Liquidos en bocoyes, barricas y barriles 80 gal6n Maderas-Costillas, cuartones sencillos y tablas 06 1-4 vara Cuartones dobles 08 vara Trozas V vigas 37 1-2 vara Maiz 50 quintal Papas 62 1-2 quintal Pardsitas, encajonadas 37 1-2 pi6 cribico " sueltas 12 1-2 una Pldtanos 50 ciento Plumas de garza 6 de otras clases--' i 25 pie ciibico Queso, encajonado enfardelado 75 quintal " suelta 1 25 quintal Sarrapia y Sebo i 00 quintal Suela 10 tapa Tabaco en petacas dc cuatro d cinco arrobas i 25 petaca Tabaco negro en rollos i 00 quintal Tasajo y carnc salada i 00 quintal Zarza i 00 quintal 632 APPENDIX. THE ORINOCO SHIPPING & TRADING COMPANY, LIMITED — Continued. Tarifa depletes. — Fletes de Subida a San Fernando de Apure — Continued. 1. Las cajas como de agua florida, agua divina, aceite en frasquitos, etc., y las demds de su tamano y clase y las botijuelas como las de aceite, etc., pagardn por un gal6n. Las cajas de 1 2 botellas 6 24 medias botellas de tamano ordinario, pagardn por dos galones. Un barril de cerveza con 4 docenas botellas 6 canas y los demds de su tamano y clase, pagardn como conteniendo galones. 2. Los efectos como azadones, planchas, cafeteras, prensas de copiar, motones, romanas, arneses, tinas, baldes, papel de estraza, petates, ajos, astas de res, cocos, cueros de venado, pldtanos, etc., que se embarquen sueltos 6 sin el correspondiente embalaje, y las damesanas que carezcan de su forro original y se embarquen forradas en coleta li hojas, d menos de no estar bien resguardadas en agajes, sufrirdn un 25 por ciento de recargo. 3. Los efectos que, con previo permiso del capitdn respective, se admitan en la cdmara PagarAn doble plete. 4. Todo bulto cuyo contenido no sea claramente distinguible por fuera, deberd numerarse. 5. Los conocimientos serdn extendidos en cuatro ejemplares de un mismo tenor y en los t^rminos circulados por la Empresa, debiendose dejar un ejemplar al Agente local; se expresardn el valor Por separado de cada bulto que pague flete ad valorem, como tambi^n el peso y las medidas clibicas 6 de superficie de aquellos bultos que paguen por quintal 6 pi^ ciibico 6 cuadrado respectivamente, y serdn aforados y sumados de acuerdo con esta tarifa; de lo contrario, aunque firmados por error 6 por falta de tiempo para su revision, no serdn vdlidos sine los montos y pesos que arrojen despu^s de corregidos. 6. En caso de responsabilidad por p6rdidas 6 averias, solo se resarcird el valor, 6 sea el precio corriente de los artlculos en el puerto de su embarque. 7. Siendo de un quintal el peso ordinario de los sacos de caf^, cacao, etc., al haber diferencia con este peso, los embarcadores deben especificarlo en los respectivos conocimientos, teniendo la Compania el derecho de rectificar el peso y cobrar el flete de cualquier exceso que resultare. 8. Se prohibe estrictamente d los oficiales y d las tripulaciones de los respectivos buques, ocuparse en traficar con pacotillas de cualquiera naturaleza que fueren, bajo pena de ser confiscadas, y se ordena terminantemente d los contadores no hacerse cargo de encomienda alguna, por la cual no se haya pagado el flete adelantado. Todos los empleados de los vapores deben atenerse d lo que les prescribe el Reglamento Interior para los buques de la Compania. 9. No se firmardn conocimientos por menos de cinco bolivares de flete. 10. El que embarcare, sin previo aviso y manifesto, p61vora, dinamita, f6sforos, agua-fuerte ri otra materia explosiva 6 inflamante, perderd los articulos al ser des- cubiertos d bordo, sin derecho d reclamo y con sujeci6n d las penas de ley respecto de los calificados como elementos de guerra, debiendo tambi^n ser responsable por los dafios y perjuicios en casos de accidentes. 11. Los duenos de las bestias, ganados y otros animales que se embarquen, supli- rdn el forraje que se necesite para la raantenci6n de dichos animales. 12. La Compania no responde de las bestias, ganados y otros animales durante su embarque, conducci6n 6 desembarque. 13. Tampoco responde de la medida de los IJquidos, niimero de los articulos no contados, ni del peso y contenido de los bultos; ni de las faltas que resulten por incuria de las marcas; ni por las detenciones que puedan ocurrir en el trdnsito. RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 633 THE ORINOCO SHIPPING AND TRADING COMPANY, LIMITED — continued. Tarifa de Fletes. — Fletes de Subida a San Fernando de A pure — Continued . 14. TODOS LOS FLBTBS SE CALCULARAN FOR LA TARIFA DE CIUDAD-BOLivAR A SAN FBRNANDO DB APURE. CON LAS MOtHFICACIONBS QUE A CONTINUACr6N SE BXPRESAN PARA LA CARGA DESTINADA A LOS OTROS PUERTOS DE LA LtNEA 6 PROCEDENTE DE LOS MtSMOS: — de Ciudad-Bolivar RioCaburaro- _ _al Almacen -_d Bocas del Pao [-_6o% menosque dSan Fernando. - -d Moitaco ..d Santa Cruz 50% menos que d San Fernando. --dMapire 1 _ _ , ,j T) 't k .40%. menosque a San Fernando. . -d Palmana 35% menos que d San Fernando. __d Caicara 25 % menos que d San- Fernando. _ _d Cabruta 20% menos que d San Fernando. ..d-La-Urbana el mismo que d San Fernando. _ -Los-Barrancos 25 % mds que d San Fernando. _ _d Cariben 50% mds que d San Fernando. _ _d Guaramaco 60^ mds que d San Fernando. _ _d Perico __• el doble de San Fernando. 5 j d Buena-Vista del Meta 110% mds que d San Fernando. .-d Orocu6 150% mds que d San Fernando. --d San Rafael de Ata- 25% mds que d San Fernando, raaica. " . " d El Yagual 65 % mds que d San Fernando. " " d Chiricoa 75 % mds que d San Fernando. " " d El Viento 85 ^ mds que d San Fernando. " " d El Amparo 150% mds que d San Fernando. Rio Apure d Arichuna i ■■ ■■ d Las MangasCoveras_.|--^g"'^l^l'J^ San Fernando. " " d Apurito 20 % mds que d San Fernando. " d Santa-Catalina 20 % mds que d San Fernando. " " d Puerto-Nutrias 25 % mds que d San Fernando. " " d Palmarito 75 % mds que d San Fernando. Rio Zarare d Guasdualito (Periquera).i25 % mds que d San Fernando. Rio Masparro d Libertad 85% mds que d San Fernando. Rio Arauca d El-Paso-de-Arauca 10% mds que d San Fernando. Rio Portuguesa d Camagudn 12 1-2% mds que d San Fer nando. , . -d La Uni6n 20% mds que d San Fernando. .--d Guaderrama 25% ™^s que d San Fernando. .--d Los Caimanes 40% mds que d San Fernando. .--d La Florida 60% mds que d San Fernando. . -d San Lorenzo 70% mds que d San Fernando. Rio Guanare d Arismendi 60% mds que d San Fernando, Rio Cojedes d El Baul 50% mds que d San Fernando. San Fernando por el rio Arichuna — " " d San - Rafael -de - Ata- 40 % menos que d San Fernando. maica. " " d El Yagual 10% menos que d San Fernando. " " d El Viento — . 15 % mds que d San Fernando. " " d El Amparo 70 % mds que d San Fernando. 634 APPENDIX. The ORINOCO SHIPPING AND TRADING COMPANY, LIMITED — Continued. Tarifa de Fletes. — Fletes de Subida a San Fernando de A pure — Continued. FLETES INTERMEDIOS. de Caicara de San Fernando de Puerto-Nutrias _ _d San Fernando 25% menos que d San Fernando -_d. Puertos-Nutrias 25 % menos que & San Fernando . _d Camagudn 50% menos que a San Fernando _-d La Uni6n 40% menos que d San Fernando - - d Guaderrama 30% menos que d San Fernando . _ _d Los Caimanes 20% menos que d San Fernando. __d El Balil igual al de San Fernando. _ -d Palmarito igual al de San Fernando. " " " _-d Guasdualito 50 % mds que d San Fernando. " " " -.a Libertad igual al de San Fernando. y asi sucesivamente, calculando todos los fletes, como ya se ha dicho, por la tarifa de Ciudad-Bolivar d San Fernando de Apure. La misma regla se aplicard para los fletes de bajada. Notas. — Los fletes desde los puertos intermedios que no tuvieren aforo determinado en esta tarifa, se calculardn en proporcion. Si se embarcaren, de bajada, mercancias 6 efectos que s61o figuran en la tarifa de subida, se calculardn seg^ Quintal Rope, untarred, tarred, etc 1.00 Quintal Lime in bags, barrels, etc .62^ Bedsteads, wooden or iron, etc., according to size \ _ , * [to 5.00 Each Paddles .40 Dozen Baskets, empty, according to size ] '_ p v. Carts, Ox, with or without appurtenances 8.00 " " Mule," " " " 6.00 " " Smaller, With or " " 3- 00 Wheelbarrows, mounted i.oo " " dismounted, in packages 5.00 Dozen Cots 1. 00 Each Cigarettes .04 Dozen Roman Cement .50 Quintal Cocoanuts, loose J i.oo Hundred inbags .75 " Mattresses, horse hair, straw, etc 2. 00 Quintal " wire, according to weight and size •! „ , Victuals and Groceries, such as nuts of all kinds, starch, herring, codfish, meat from the North, onions, glue, dates, spices, vermicelli, fine crackers, pickles in bottles, canned foods, figs, soap, ham, mackerel, maccaroni, lard, butter, potatoes, rai- sins, cheese, sausage, sperm oil candles, wax, tal- low, poison, etc., all in their original receptacles, I and also cassava and raw sugar, gross weight, i. 25 Quintal Ham, Sausage, Cheese, etc., when loose 1.50 " Wooden crosses 1.50 Each Carriages, mounted 1500 " Carriages, not mounted 10.00 " Drag nets, loose .75 Dozen " " packed or in sacks 1.25 Quintal Demijohns of 2^ to 3 gallons, with common liquor 50 Each. Demijohns of 2^ to 3 gallons, with double liquor, as 3/6, double dry wine or sweet wine, acid, etc 75 Each Demijohns of 2^ to 3 gallons, with spices, barley, etc 25 Each Demijohns of 2X to 3 gallons 10 Each Demijohns of i gallon, with common liquor 18^ Each Demijohns of i gallon, with spices, sagu, barley, etc 12^ Each Demijohns of I gallon, empty 05 Each Dynamite, upon notice being given by the shipper 8. 00 Quintal Stamped money, to any port on the line 50 Per cent Coined money, to any port on the line 1.00 " 636 APPENDIX. THE "ORINOCO SHIPPING AND TRADING COMPANY — continued. ORINOCO STEAMERS — Continued. SchedMe of freight rates. Freights upwards to San Fernando de A pure — Continued. Brooms, whisk $0.40 Dozen Mirrors, according to size 75 Cubic foot Pressed oakum 1.00 Quintal Fruits in their juice, syrup, etc., in cases of 24/2 bottles — 37K Each Ditto, in cases of 1 2/1 bottles 30 Matches of all kinds 5° Cub. ft. .Saddletrees i2>^ Each Flour in whole barrels 2.00 ' half " 1.25 " third " 87K " " sacks 1-25 Quintal Iron manufactured into window blinds, balustrades, crosses, and other similar articles 2.50 Kerosene in cases of two cans containing 10 gallons 75 Each Kerosene in cases of 10 cans containing 10 gallons i . 00 Brick (to be embarked and disembarked at the expense of the owner, without responsibility on the part of the steamer) 10. 00 Thousand. Liquids and liquors, in hogsheads, casks, and barrels 10 Gallon Liquids and liquors, in bottles, in their respective cases, barrels, or baskets 20 " Liquids and liquors, in jars and cans 25 Gallon Slabs for paving (12 X 12, 18 X 18) , 20 and 38 Each ■Crockery in crates, cases, or other packing 20 Cub. ft. Crockery, ordinary, glazed, in small and large pieces (with- out responsibility on part of steamer) 15 to 20 Each Machetes 1.00 Quintal Handles or ends for axes, etc 25 Dozen Cotton gins and other similar machines 20 Cub. ft. Pots in small and large nests 8 and 16 Each Medicines 36 Cub. ft. Flower and foliage shrubs, etc., price to be agreed on 13 to 75 Each Merchandise in any packing 36 Cub. ft. Rocking chairs, set up, and easy chairs 75 Each Tables of wood, rush, etc., measuring the surface of the bottom 20 Sq.ft. Tables, marble, measuring the surface of the marble 30 " Metals — wire, anchors, bake pans, chains, nails, sugar boilers, bullets, sledge hammers, ammunicion, anvils, etc., steel, copper, iron, tin plate, brass, lead, iron screws, zinc, etc., in plates, bars, etc , 1.00 Quintal Chafing dishes, bells, boilers, coffee pots, and frying pans. 1.25 " Chafing dishes, bells, boilers, coffee pots, and frying pans, loose 1.50 " Mills with wheel, for grinding coffee 75 Each Grindstones, according to diameter of stone 08 Inch Furniture not specified, upon agreement 20 Cub. ft. Paper made from rags. 1.25 Quintal Pianos 15.00 Each RECORD OF CLAIM NO. 19. 637 THE ORINOCO SHIPPING AND TRADING COMPANY — Continued. ORINOCO STEAMERS— Continued, Schedule of freight rates. Freights upwards to San Fernando deApure — Continued, Scales, platform, set up (measure of the platform) $0.40 Sq.ft. Ditto, boxed 2. 00 Quintal Stone filters 1.25 Each Loose stones for grindstones (according to diameter) 05 Inch Paints 1. 00 Quintal Irons for ironing 75 Doz. pairs Gunpowder, upon notice by shipper 4.00 Quintal Letter-copying presses and other similar presses 50 Each Empty sacks i.oo Quintal Salt, in sacks of i f anega only 2. 00 Fanega Epsom salts 1.25 Quintal Saddles (sillas y galdpagos) i.oo Each Small chairs, set up (silletas armadas) 25 " Caustic soda • 75 Quintal Sole leather in hides ._ 20 Each Tobacco, leaf i-50 Quintal Tobacco, chewing 1.00 Quintal Cigars, ordinary 50 Thousand Ditto, in boxes of 250, 200, 100, 50, 25, etc 75 " Tiles, to be embarked and disembarked by the owner, without responsibility on part of steamer 15. 00 " Tubs of metal or wood, in nests 25 Each Cane mills 1.25 Quintal Agricultural implements, such as spades, caporanas (picks), chicuras (picks), shovels, tacies (picks), etc., etc., without handles 25 Dozen Ditto, with handles 50 " Axes, pipk axes, etc., without handles 50 Ditto, with handles 75 Window glass and glassware of all kinds 40 Cub. ft, FREIGHTS GOING DOWN. Animals — Donkeys 4.00 Each Horses, mules, and oxen 10.00 " Sheep, goats, and deer 1.25 Roosters, hens, and ducks, in cages 12^ " Ditto, loose - ■ 25 Hogs, according to size 2. 00 to 5. 00 Turkeys and turtles 51% Dogs, tigers, etc., in cages 2.00 Garlic, pressed cotton, and indigo 1.00 Quintal, Starch and rice 75 Horns 50 Hundred Sugar 75 Quintal Flat-bottomed boats (bateas) according to size 12X to 75 Each Coffee,- 80 Quintal Cacao I. 00 " Beans 50 '* 638 APPENDIX. THE ORINOCO SHIPPING AND TRADING COMPANY — continued. ORINOCO STEAMERS— Continued. Schedule of freight rates. Freights upwards to San Fernando de A pure — Continued. India-rubber, loose iSi.50 Quintal. Ditto, boxed 1.25 " Cassava, in tierces 50 Tierce Onions and cocoanuts 62^ Quintal. Cowhides 18^ Each Deer hides 02 Chiquichique, packed only 1.00 Quintal Demijohns of 2^ to 3 gallons, full SyK Each Ditto, empty 08 Small demijohns of i gallon, full 20 Sweets, brown sugar (panela), or raw sugar (papelon) 62 >^ Quintal Rio Negro cable i.oo Inch Beans 50 Quintal Soap 75 Liquids in hogsheads, casks, and barrels 08 Gallon Woods — Staves (costillas), simple scantling (cuartones), and boards 06^ Rod Double scantling 08 " Planks (trozas), girders (vigas) 37K " Indian corn 50 Quintal Potatoes 60% " Parasites, boxed 37>^ Cub. ft. Ditto, loose 12X Each Plantains 50 Hundred Heron or other feathers 1.25 Cub. ft. Cheese, boxed or packed 75 Quintal Ditto, loose 125 " Tonka bean and tallow i.oo " Sole leather 10 Hide Tobacco in cases of 4 or 5 arrobas 1.25 Case Tobacco, black, in rolls i.oo Quintal Jerked beef and salt meat i.oo " SarsapariUa i.oo " RECORD OF CIvAIM NO. I9. 639 THE ORINOCO SHIPPING AND TRADING COMPANY Continued. ORINOCO STEAMERS— Continued. Schedule of freight rates. Freights upwards to San Fernando de A pure — Continued. NOTES. 1. Cases containing such things as agua florida, agua divina, oil in bottles, etc., and others of their size and kind, and small jars such as those containing oil, olives, etc., shall paj' per gallon. Cases of 12 bottles or 24 half bottles of ordinary size shall pay per two gallons. A barrel of beer containing 4 dozen bottles or cans and others of their size and kind shall pay as if containing 8 gallons. 2. Articles such as hoes, fiat irons, coffee pots, copying presses, pulleys, steelyards, harness, tubs, pails, rag paper, sleeping mats, garlic, ox horns, cocoanuts, deer hides, plantains, etc., embarked loose or without being properly packed, and demijohns without their original cover embarked wrapped in hair or leaves, unless they are well secured in cages, shall pay an extra charge of 25 per cent. 3. Articles which are admitted into the cabin, by permission of the captain, shall pay double freight. 4. Every package whose contents are not plainly distinguishable from outside must be numbered. 5. Bills of lading shall be issued in four copies of even tenor and in the form adopted by the Company, it being necessary to leave one copy with the local agent; the value of each package paying freight ad valorem shall be stated separately, as well as the weight and cubic or superficial dimensions of packages which pay by the quintal or cubic or square foot, and they shall be appraised and taxed in accordance with this schedule ; otherwise, although signed by mistake or for lack of time for their revision, only the amounts and weights shall be valid which remain after they are corrected. 6. In case of liability for loss or damage, only the value, that is, the current price, of the articles in the port of their shipment shall be paid. 7. As the usual weight of sacks of coffee, cacao, etc., is one quintal, if there is a difference from this weight the shippers must so state in their bills of lading, the Company having a right to rectify the weight and collect freight on any excess that may be found. 8. The officers and crew of the several vessels are strictly prohibited from carrying goods privately, whatever be their nature, under penalty of confiscation of the goods, and the accountants are positively ordered not to take charge of any goods whatever on which the freight has not been paid in advance. All the employees of the steam- ers must obey the provisions of the Internal Regulations of the vessels of the Company. g. Bills of lading for less than five bolivars worth of freight will not be signed. 10. Any person who embarks, without previous notice and manifest, gunpowder, dynamite, matches, nitric acid, or other explosive or ignitible substance, shall forfeit the articles if found on board, and he shall not be entitled to any recourse and shall be subject to the penalties of the law regarding things characterized as war stores; moreover, he shall be liable to damages in case of accident. 1 1 . The owners of pack and draft animals, cattle, and other animals embarked on the vessels shall furnish the forage necessary for the maintenance of these animals. 12. The Company will not be responsible for pack and draft animals, cattle, and other animals during their embarkation, transportation, or disembarkation. 13. Neither will it be responsible for the measure of liquids, the number of un- counted articles, or the weight and contents of packages; nor for errors arising from carelessness in marking; nor for delays which may occur during transit. 640 APPENDIX. THE ORINOCO SHIPPING AND TRADING COMPANY — Continued. ORINOCO STEAMERS-Continued. Schedule of freight rates. Freights upwards to San Fernando de A pure — Continued. 14. \hh FREIGHTS SHALI* BE CALCULATED ACCORDING TO THE SCHEDULE FROM BOLIVAR CiTY TO San Fernando de Apure, with the modifications given below for cargo bound for THE OTHER PORTS OP THE LINE OR COMING THEREFROM: From Bolivar City (Orinoco R.) to Almacen 60% less than to San Fernando. Bocas del Pao_. " " Moitaco " Santa Cruz 50% Mapire 40% Las Bonitas " Palmana 35 " Caicara 25 Cabruta 20 " La Urbana The same as to San Fernando. " Los Barrancos _ _ 25 % more than to San Fernando. Cariben 50% " Guaramaco 60% " ' ' Perico twice the rate to San Fernando. From Bolivar City (Meta) to BuenaVistadelMeta.110% more than to San Fernando. " " Orocue 150% " From Caburaro River to San Rafael de Ataraaica 25% more than to San Fernando. El Yagual 65% " Chiricoa 75% El' Viento 85^ " El Amparo 150% From Apure River to Arichuna same as to San Fernando. " Las Mangas Co veras " " Apurito 20% more than to San Fernando, " Santa Catalina 20% Puerto Nutrias 25% " Palmarito 75% From Zarare River to Guasdualito (Periquera) 125% more than to S. Fernando. Masparro River Libertad 85% Arauca River El Paso de Arauca 10% Portuguesa Camaguan 12^% " La Union 20% " Guaderrama 35% '" Los Caimanes 40% La Florida 60% San Lorenzo _ 70% Guanare River Arismendi 60% " Cojedes River El Baul 50% From San Fernando by the Arichuna River — to San Rafael de Ataraaica... 40% less than to S. Fernando. to El Yagual _.- 10% to El Viento 25% to El Amparo 70% [Translation.]" THE ORINOCXJ SHIPPING & TRADING COMPANY, LTD. ORINOCO STEAMERS. Passenger tariff. Rio Orinoco Rio Apure Bolivar Palmar Moitaco Maria Luisa Mapire Las Bonitas Caicara Cabruta Arichuna S°. Fernando Aptmto Catalina Bolivar $S $10 Si I fl2 $15 S20 f22 $30 $35 $45 $48 $4 Palmar 5 7 8 10 15 20 35 32 38 43 8 4 Moitaca 3 5 6 xo 15 30 30 35 38 9 5 3 Maria Luisa 3 S 9 12 19 29 34 36 lO 6 4 3 Mapire 4 8 10 18 38 33 3S 13 9 8 4 3 Las Bonitas 6 8 15 35 30 33 IS 12 10 9 8 5 Caicara 2 10 20 25 28 i8 15 12 10 9 6 2 Cabruta 9 IS 22 25 30 19 iS 16 15 13 10 8 Arichuna 10 20 23 35 34 23 21 20 18 IS 14 8 S°. Fernando 10 IS 33 30 25 34 22 20 18 16 15 8 Apurito 6 35 33 30 38 26 33 20 18 16 12 4 Catalina 38 37 35 33 30 »5 32 21 iS IS 8 4 48 45 43 40 3& 3S 32 30 26 23 18 IS 60 56 S3 50 48 45 42 40 35 3S 37 23 Bolivar San Fernando Camagudn Uiii6n Guaderrama Caimanes BalU Bolivar »35 $40 $45 $So $53 $55 »2S San Fernando 6 10 15 18 20 30 5 Camagu&n 5 10 13 15 35 8 4 Unidn 8 10 12 38 10 8 6 Guaderrama 6 8 39 12 10 7 5 Caimanes 4 40 15 13 8 6 3 Baesos a day if they stay on board. 8. Every passenger must deliver any firearms he may have to the Purser, upon arriving on board, and demand them on leaving the vessel. 9. Once a ticket has been bought, the amount paid therefor can not be demanded back, but in case it is not used it may serve for the next voyage. xo. Baggage must be on board at least one hotir before the departure of the steamer, and it must not exceed one quintal in weight for each passenger; any excess shall be paid for at the rate of two pesos per quintal and it shall be carried at the risk of the owner. II. Passengers are requested not to carry sealed letters or The Company will not be responsible for what is contained in are requested to deliver articles of value to the secretary or i Nothing will be admitted as baggage but trunks, satchels, : Other packages not immediately required for use by the pass room and pay according to the usual schedule, unless the owi take them to the cabin, with the previous consent of the caj zs. In order to avoid confusion and loss of baggage, the pa with the name of the owner and the place of its destination. 13. No passenger will be allowed to keep more than one tri 14. Smoking is strictly forbidden in the cabin, 15. The use of uncovered lights is strictly forbidden, as is a 16. In order not to disttnb persons who have gone to bed, t] hibited after 9 p. m. 17. Animals are not allowed in the Cabin. x8. Passengers are prohibited from taking any kind of liqu< need in the buffet of the vessel, of good quality and at reaso 19. The rates in this schedule are calculated in common i each. Passengers are requested to notify the Captain at once of anything wrong they may notice on board. Port of Spain, April i, 1900. (oThjs translation was not filed with the mixed commission of 1903— Agent's note.] 17301. (To face page 641.) No. 2. [Translation. ]o THE ORINOCO SHIPPING & TRADING COMPANY, LTD. ORINOCO STEAMERS. Passenger tariff. Rio Orinoco Rio Apure Rio Sarare Moitaco Maria Luisa Mapire Las Bonitas Caicara Cabruta Aiichuna S». Fernando Apurito Catalina P"> Nutrias Palmarito Guasdualito $io Ui $12 $15 S20 $22 $30 »35 $45 $48 $50 $60 $75 S 7 8 10 IS 20 25 32 38 43 48 55 70 d Moitaca 3 5 6 lo IS 20 30 35 38 40 50 6S a 2 Maria Luisa 3 5 9 12 19 29 34 36 39 48 63 W 4 2 Mapire 4 8 10 18 28 33 35 38 45 60 8 4 3 Las Bonitas 6 8 15 25 30 33 35 38 55 '^ lO 9 8 5 Caicara 2 10 20 25 28 30 35 50 12 10 9 6 2 Cabruta 9 15 22 25 28 33 48 i8 16 15 12 10 8 Arichuna 10 20 23 25 28 45 1 < >o 22 21 20 18 IS 14 8 S». Fernando 10 15 20 25 40 2S 24 22 20 18 16 IS 8 Apurito 6 10 20 35 30 28 26 22 20 18 16 12 4 Catalina 6 18 28 a! 35 43 33 40 30 3& as 35 22 32 21 30 18 26 IS 23 8 18 4 15 P'». Nutrias 12 15 Palmarito 25 15 u S3 so 48 45 42 40 35 32 27 23 20 12 Guasdualito Bolivar San Fernando Camagudn Uni6n Guaderrama Caimanes Baiil Bolivar S35 $40 »4S $So $53 $55 $2S San Fernando 6 10 15 18 20 3 30 5 Camagudn 5 10 13 15 S 35 8 4 Uni6n 8 10 12 M 38 10 8 6 Guaderrama 6 8 A 39 12 10 7 S Caimanes 4 VI 40 IS 12 8 6 3 Baiil Pi '5 Bolivar San Rafael Yagual Chiricoa. El Viento Amparo Bolivar $40 S45 $45 $So SS65 $30 San Rafael 10 15 20 35 t 35 8 Yagual 10 15 30 2 40 12 8 Chiricoa 10 28 . Nutrias Palraarito Guasdualito »io *ii $12 $15 $20 $22 $30 $35 $45 $48 $50 $60 $75 5 7 8 10 15 20 25 32 ' 38 43 48 55 70 tfoitaco 3 5 6 10 15 20 30 35 38 40 so 65 g 2 Maria Luisa 3 5 9 12 19 29 34 36 39 48 63 4 2 Mapire 4 8 10 18 28 33 35 38 45 60 8 4 3 Las Bonitas 6 8 15 25 30 33 35 38 55 '& 10 9 8 S Caicara 2 10 20 25 28 30 35 50 12 10 9 6 2 Cabruta 9 15 22 25 28 33 48 18 16 15 12 10 S Arichuna 10 20 23 25 28 45 22 21 20 ig 15 14 8 S". Fernando 10 15 20 2S 40 s 25 30 35 43 53 24 28 33 40 50 22 26 30 38 48 20 32 25 35 45 18 20 22 32 42 16 18 21 30 40 15 16 18 26 35 8 12 15 23 32 Apurito 4 8 18 27 6 Catalina 4 15 23 10 6 P". Nutrias 12 20 20 18 IS Palmarito 12 35 28 25 IS Guasdualito •ji Bolivar San Fernando Camagudn Uni6n Guaderrama Caimanes Baijl Bolivar S35 $40 $45 *5o »53 $55 $25 San Fernando 6 10 IS 18 20 P 30 5 Camagu^n 5 10 13 15 35 8 4 Unidn 8 10 12 M 38 10 8 6 Guaderrama 6 8 « 39 12 10 7 5 Caimanes 4 s 40 IS 12 8 6 3 Badl it Bolivar San Rafael Yagual Chiricoa El Viento Amparo 1 Bolivar $40 $4S »45 $50 $6s 30 San Rafael 10 IS 20 35 35 8 Yagual 10 15 30 1 40 12 8 Chiricoa 10 28 45 IS 12 8 El Viento 25 s 50 30 28 25 20 Amparo Bolivar San Fernando Camagu&n Uni6n Guaderrama Caimanes Florida San Lorenzo 1^1 Bolivar 50 60 $60 Florida 10 $70 12 San Lorenzo Bolivar San Fernando Camagu^n Uni6n Arismendi 01 Bolivar S50 60 Arismendi Rio Orinoco Alto Orinoco Bolivar Palmar Moitaeo Maria Luisa Mapire Las Bonitas Caicara Cabruta Urbana Guaramaco Perico Bolivar $40 35 30 28 25 20 15 12 Urbana 8 20 $50 45 40 3* 35 30 25 22 $65 60 55 52 SO 45 40 37 Palmar Moitaco Maria Luisa Mapire Las Bonitas Caicara Cabruta $30 $38 S50 $26 34 45 $24 30 40 $22 26 38 $20 24 36 ifiS 22 32 $10 18 28 $! I. 2( 10 Guaramaco 12 25 15 Perico Los pasajes de Bolivar al rio Meta y viceversa serdn el doble de los de Nutrias. ■Todo pasajero sin distincion de pirsima estd en la obligacion de presentar su cMula de pasaje ar 4 bordo, 6 de pagar su pasaje al ado de embarcase en los puntos donde no bay agentes. — Los tomen d bordo en Ciudad-Bolivar p%ardn un diez por cicnto de recargo. -Las c^dulas de pasajes no son transferibles. ■Los ninos de 2 d 8 anos pagaxdn la cuarta parte, y los de 8 d 12 anos, la mitad del pasaje ordi- d menos que tomen asiento en la primera mesa, en cuyo caso pagardn el pasaje completo. ■Los sirvientes pagardn las tres cuartas partes del pasaje, y comerdn en la cimara despu^s de iajeMs de primera clase. Los pasajeros de cubierta pagardn la mitad del pasaje de primera, y recibirdn la manutencidn me se les pasa d los marineros del buque. La Linea no responde del atraso que pueda tener lugar por accidentes, ni del dafio que resulte peligros de la navegacidn, enemigos, ladrones, explosion, incendio, colisidn, naufragio y fuerza ■; tampoco de las consecueocias que resulten de las medidas sanitarias que juzguen conveniente en prdctica los oficiales de la Linea 6 las autoridades locales. En cualquier caso que tengan los vapores de la Linea que detenerse por mds de un dia en Puerto habilitado, deberdn los pasajeros hospedarse en tierra 6 pagar cuatro pesos por dia si se n d bordo. Todo pasajero debe entregar sus armas al Contador, d su Uegada d bordo y reclamarlas al barcarse. romada una c£dula no se podrd reclamar el valor del pasaje que se ha pagado, pero en caso isarse, la misma servird para el viaje siguiente. NOTAS 10. — Los equipajes deben estar d bordo por lo menos una hora antes de la salida del vapor, y no deberdn pasar del peso de un quintal por cada pasajero; el exceso se pagard d razdn iedos pesos por quintal y el riesgo serd por cuenta de su dueno. II. — Se suplica d los pasajeros no hacerse cargo de cartas cerradas, ni de cantidad de dinero que pase de 250 pesos. — La Linea no responde de lo que contengan los equipajes de los pasajeros, y se les suplica que entreguen los objetos de valor al Secretario i5 Contador, exigiendo el correspondiente recibo. No se a^mitirdn como equipajes, sino los baiiles, sacos de viaje, capoteras, cobijas y otras articulos por este estilo. Otros bultos que no sean del uso inmediato del pasajero, se pondrdn en bodega y pagardn segtin Tarifa, d menos que su dueno prefiera pagar doble flete, Uevdndolos en la Cdmara, previo consentimiento del capitdn. 12. — Para evitar trastomo y p&dida de los equipajes deberdn los pasajeros marcarlos, con letras grandes con el nombre de su dueno y el lugar de su destiuo. 13. — Ningtin pasajero podrd tener mds de un balil en la Cdmara. 14. — Se prohibe estrictamente fumar en la Cdmara. 1 5 . — Se prohibe estrictamente hacer uso de luces abiertas, d encender tuego dentro de los carmarotes. 16,— Despuls de las nueve de la noche no es pennitldo hacei ruldo en la Cimara, & fin de no moleslar i las personas que estin acoBtadas. 17. — No se consienten animales en la Cdmara. 18. — Se prohibe d los pasajeros embarcar licores de ninguna clase. En la Cantina del buque hallardn todos los que necesiten, de buena calidad y d precios equitativos. 19. — Los precios de esta tarifa estdn calculados en pesos macuquinos, de ocho reales d sean cuatro boUvares cada uno. • de abril de 1900. Se suplica d los seiiores Pasajeros, que ctialquiera falia que noten d bordo, se la comuniqiien inmediatamente al Captidn. La Administraci6n. :e page 641.) No. i. RECOIID OF CLAIM NO. 1 9. 64 1 THE ORINOCO SHIPPING AND TRADING COMPANY — Continued. ORINOCO STEAMERS— Continued. Schedule of freight rates. Freights upwards to San Fernando de Apure — Continued. INTERMEDIATE FREIGHTS. ' From Caicara to San Fernando 25% less than to San Fernando. From San Fernando to Puerto Nutrias 25% less than to San Fernando . " Camaguan 50% " " La Union 40% " " Guaderrama 30% " " Los Caimanes 20% " " El Baul same as to San Fernando. From Puerto Nutrias to Palmarito " *' " Guasdualito 50^ morethan toSanFernando. ' ' Libertad same as to San Fernando. and thus successively, calculating all freights, as said before, according to the rates from Bolivar City to San Fernando de Apure. The same rule shall apply with respect to freights downward. Notes. — Freights from intermediate ports which are not specifically given in this schedule shall be calculated proportionately. If there are embarked downwards goods or articles which are only mentioned in the schedule of rates upwards, they shall be calculated according to the latter, dis- counting 20%. If, vice versa, goods or articles are shipped upwards which appear only on the downward schedule, they shall be computed according to the latter and 30% shall be added. Owners or consignees must receive their cargo upon its being landed as the Com- pany WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGE OCCURRING THERETO AFTER BEING PLACED ON LAND. The Management. Port of Spain, April i, 1900. 17301 — 10 41 [i8o3 Exhibit M.] Filed July 2sth, 1903. Rudolf Dolge, secretary on the part of the U. S.; J. Padron Uztariz, Scy. REGLAMENTO INTERIOR PARA LOS VAPORES DE "THE ORINOCO SHIPPING AND TRADING CO., LIMITED." I. — Todos los empleados de los vapores estdn en el deber de desplegar el mayor celo y actividad, en obsequio de los intereses de la Etnpresa. CAPITANES. 2. — Los capitanes tienen directamente bajo su responsabilidad no s61o la suerte de los pasajeros y la tripulacion de la nave de sii mando, sino los cuantiosos intereses representados en el buque confiado d su cuidado y el cargamento. 3.^Corresponde d los capitanes vigilar personalmente todo lo conciernente d su vapor, tanto respecto de la marcha, las entradas y salidas de los puertos, como la maquinaria y el puntual recibo y entrega de la carga, lo mismo que imponer el mayor orden y disciplina entre los empleados d bordo, ya sea que el barco estd fondeado e navegando. 4. — El capitdn es el jefe supremo en su buque, y, de consi- guiente, responde d la compania de lo que pase en la nave de su mando. 5. — Los capitanes Uevardn un Registro diario y escrupuloso, en el cual deberdn anotar todo aquello que tenga importancia 6 juzguen de utilidad para la Empresa, y especialmente : — (a) Las horas de entrada y salida de los puertos y de los lugares donde atraque el buque, durante el trdnsito, por cualquiera circunstancia. (6) El ndmero de toneladas de carb6n 6 tareas de lena que tome en cada punto. (c) El nlimero y condici6n de los pasajeros y carga que tome en los puertos intermedios, d cuyo efecto recogerd, las c^dulas expedidas por los contadores, las que entregard d. la Oficina de la Compania. 642 RECORD OF CLAIM NO. I9. 643 CONXADORES. 6. — lyos contadores tienen d su cargo, como lo indica el nombre, todo lo relativo d la contabiiidad del vapor, y asi, recibiran y entregardn la carga, de acuerdo con los conocimientos respectivos, cobrardn los fletes en los puertos en que no hubiere agentes, llevardn cuenta minuciosa de los gastos de la parte dom^stica del buque, deberdn tomarse el mayor interes d fin de que no se per- judique la Empresa en las compras de lena ii otro combustible, y ban de prestar, sus servicios cuando los necesiten otros oficiales del barco. 7. — Cada contador debe llevar un libro, en que anote con exactitud las horas de Uegada y salida de cada puerto, y lo demds de importancia que ocurra d bordo durante la navegacidn. 8. — Cuando un pasajero se embarcare sin cedula en los lugares donde haya Agenda, deberd pagar 10% de recargo estipulado en el aviso que corre al dorso de las c^dulas de pasaje. 9. — A los pasajeros que se embarquen en los puntos donde no haya Agenda, el contador deberd expedirles immediatamente la cedula, anotando en su diario esta circunstancia. 10. — Bl contador es responsable para con la Direccidn, del valor de las c^dulas que expida. 1 1 . — En ningdn caso aceptardn fiete los contadores sin el cono- cimiento respectivo. (a) IvOS contadores son responsables de la carga que este en el barco, la cual ha de ser entregada tal cual ha sido llevada d bordo. Caso de que sobraren bultos, los contadores los depositardn d bordo, dando aviso d la Direccidn tan pronto les sea posible, para que ella disponga lo conveniente, caso de que no fueren reclamados por quienes aparecieren ser sus legitimes dueiios. (b) Los contadores cuidardn de que no se abran las bodegas sin estar ellos presentes. Los contramaestres responderan a los con- tadores, y todos juntos al Capitdn del buque de las inconfo[r]mi- dades e incorrecciones d que dieren lugar las bodegas y la carga que en ellas se trasporte. INGBNIEROS. 12. — Los ingenieros estan encargados de la seccion mecanica, y tienen el deber de conservar siempre en las mejores condiciones posibles la maquinaria y todo aquello que le corresponde, con el mayor orden y aseo, cuidando que, sin f altar lo que sea necesario, 644 APPENDIX. haya economia racional en los gastos de combustible, aceites y demds accesorios, como tambife, en el ntimero de empleados de su departamento. IvOS sub-ingenieros, maquinistas, fogoneros, cenizeros y demds personas de esa seccidn estdn bajo las 6rdenes inmediatas del 1°" Ingeniero <5 Maquinista, quien d su vez responde al Capitdn de las faltas que hubiere en ellas. MAYORDOMOS. 13. — IvOS mayordomos de acuerdo siempre con los contadores, dirigen todo aquello que corresponde d la parte domestica del buque, y es su deber esmerarse, para que todos queden satisfechos del servicio d bordo, a la vez que evitar d, todo trance desperdicios 6 falta de la debida economia en los comestibles. Son responsables directamente d los contadores de cuanto se les entregue para servicio de mesa y demds utensilios, y tendran bajo su dependencia d los mozos de cdmara, coclneros y ayudantes de ^stos, debiendo tambi^n responder d los contadores de los de- fectos que se observen en esta seccidn. PILOTOS. 14. — I/Os pilotos 6 practices ejecutan las ordenes que reciben del Capitdn, y se les llama la atencidn hacia el deber en que estdn de encontrarse puntualmente a bordo una 6 dos horas, por lo menos, antes de hora iijada para la salida del barco. CONTRAMAESTRES . 15. — Los contramaestres dependen tambien directamente del Capitdn, en lo que toca d la navegacidn y las consiguientes manio- bras del buque; ban de cuidarlo, en modo especial, cuando estd anclado 6 amarrado, y han de obedecer las disposiciones de los contadores respecto de recibo y entfega de carga, teniendo siempre bajo su inmediato mando d los marineros y demSs empleados de cubierta. ASEO. 16. — Se impone d todos los empleados la obligacidn de esmerarse para que, d mds del orden, haya el mayor aseo posible en su buque. RECORD OP CLAIM NO. 1 9. 645 CARTAS. 17. — I/CS estd prohibido estrictamente mezclarse en asuntos de la politica militante de Venezuela, y no podrdn, en ninglin caso, trasportar correspondencia de cualquier origen que ella sea, sino, por el contrario, cuidar que todas las cartas vayan religiosamente a las Oficinas de Correos. CONTRABANDOS. 18. — De igual manera, se prohibe severamente a todos los em- pleados Uevar por su cuenta, aceptar 6 permitir que otros Ueven pacotillas d bordo, 6 simples bultos, de cualquier tamano que sean, conteniendo articulos de contrabando, como tambi^n, con- ducir personas que no est^n al servicio de la Compania sin las correspondientes cddulas. PBNAS. 19. — Los oficiales que infringieren las disposiciones de los dos articulos anteriores serdn penddos, por la primera falta, con la suspensi6n de su sueldo durante dos meses, y con la p^rdida de su empleo, si reincidieren. 20. — Los demds empleados serdn despedidos al quebrantar una sola de dichas disposiciones, expresadas en los articulos 17 y 18. MESONEROS. 21. — Los mesoneros no deben ocupar camarotes, ni colgar hamacas en el saldn, 6 puente de proa, ni hacer uso de los col- chones 6 almohadas del salon, de los banos de primera clase, excusados li orinales: — tampoco pueden tomar bebidas en la cantina, ni disponer de las provisiones del buque para usos par- ticulares. 22. — Se prohibe en absoluto d los camareros ocuparse ennego- cios de ninguna clase: y cualquier mesonero (o. Calcano Sanavria, Secretary on the part of Venezuela. Delivered February 22, 1904. Filed March 19th 1904. Rudolf Dolge, secretary on the part of the United States. Comisidn Mixta Venezolano-americana. Instalada en Caracas, Venezuela. LAUDO. En el asunte de la reclamacidn de los Estados Unidos de America en membre de "The Orinoco Steamship Company" contra la Reptiblica de Venezuela No. 19, se acuerda por la presente d la reclamante "The Orinoco Steamship Company" veintiocho mil doscientos veinte y cuatro dollars, nov'entitres centavos ($28,- 224.93) oro americano; dicha suma serd satisfecha por el Gobiemo 727 728 APPENDIX. de Venezuela al Gobierno de los Estados Unidos segfin lo estipulado en el Convenio en virtud del cual se dicta este Laudo. Harry Barge, Tercero en Discordia. RUDOI.F DoivGE, Secretario por los Estados Unidos de America. Ref rendado : Edo. Calcano Sanavria, Secretario por Venezuela.