No. 681.
Mr. Russell to Mr. Fish.
Caracas, May 15, 1875. (Received June 14.)
Sir: I have the honor to report that No. 47 of the Department was received last night, directing me to demand payment, without condition or reserve, of the amount now deposited on account of the United States Government. In compliance with that request, I have made such demand this day. When a reply is received, I will report at once.
Since my No. 61 was written, treating of this matter, President Guzman Blanco has referred to the subject in his message, as I have had the honor to report in Nos. 64 and 65.
I have since learned that he had withdrawn the minister of Venezuela from Washington some time since.
I have not supposed that his action in the premises was any reason for me to delay the presentation of this demand.
I have, &c.,