721.23/1903
The Ambassador in Peru (Dearing) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 13.]
Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith enclosed a newspaper report of the turning over of Leticia by the Peruvian authorities to the League Commission. The clipping is taken from El Comercio, Lima, of July 5, 1933.93
The Peruvians have derived considerable satisfaction over the way in which the Peruvian flag was removed from Leticia. A great deal had been made in the country over promises never to haul down the Peruvian flag at that port. It appears from the attached clipping that the flag was not hauled down but that the flag pole with the flag attached was taken up and carried across the river to Peruvian territory, where it was replaced in the ground with the flag still flying.
There has not been the slightest sign of disappointment in Peru over the evacuation of Leticia, and everyone is heartily glad to have the conflict finished and is fast forgetting about it.
The mutiny which took place in Iquitos just after the evacuation of Leticia was, it appears, caused by alleged mistreatment of some of the military forces. A Court Martial is being held to try the ringleaders. It is understood that most of the civic bodies of Loreto have requested clemency for the accused.
Respectfully yours,
- Not reprinted.↩