Note 40 — Chapter XXIV

“A series of articles have appeared from time to time in the papers of Nicaragua, which reflect generally and particularly upon the British government, and its respectable representative, Mr. Chatfield, as also holding up the English nation, collectively and individually, to public indignation. Such language is improper and unjust, and I bring it thus officially before your government, believing that it will make use of its influence over the public press to restrain, in future, all offences of this nature. * * It is my intention to return to this port in a few days, when I expect to find a satisfactory answer to this communication.”—Rear Admiral Hornby, to the Sect. of State of Nicaragua, March 19, 1850.

“The press of Nicaragua has not held up the British nation collectively or individually to public indignation, unless by the simple announcement of such acts as have been committed in the port of San Juan, in the island of Tigre, and elsewhere. Nothing can be cited in proof of your charge; and the Supreme Director regrets, Sir, that you should counsel him to commit an unlawful act, by attacking the liberty of the press, which is guarantied in the most solemn manner by the constitution of the State.”—Reply of Señor Salinas, Sect. of State, March 31, 1850.