The Secretary of State to the Colombian Minister.

No. 82.]

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 16th instant, in which you advise the department that on the 14th instant you received a telegram from your Government announcing that the consideration of the treaties concluded between the United States and Colombia and Colombia and Panama would be suspended and submitted to a newly elected Congress which would be called immediately.

You express your opinion that the treaties will be approved without modification, although a little later than was anticipated.

I have the honor to say in reply that the department appreciates the cordial sentiments you express, and sincerely trusts that the situation in Colombia will not cause untoward delay in the ratification of the treaties, thus consummating the good relationship for which this Government has so earnestly labored and which it so eagerly desires.

Accept, etc.,

P. C. Knox.