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you did complete justice to my government, and you ho'nored yourself and Costa-Rica.- It only remains now with._those who sincerely de- sire the good of both countries, to resolve, and ·adopt the methods most judicious and efficacious for strengthening the good relations between them, and unite them forever with bonds of true friendship.- And how can this noble end be effected?- I have already indicated my opinion concerning the matter; and I repeat now my firm convic- tion that nothing can contribute so essentially to the good of this country as an open answer, frank and manly, to the letter of Mr. Cass, recognizing fully the doctrine, set forth in that document, of non- intervention in the affairs of Central America, neither by the United States, nor by any nation of the world- This policy will assure once and forever, the great object, which my nation longs for equally with this-the nationality, independence and prosperity of Central- America.- What does Costa-Rica want? Does it wish protection against the Filibusters? This is promised to her in the most solemn manner by my government; and to doubt its word is to doubt that the Sun gives light.- Do you wish guarantees for the conservations of your national- ity and independence? Concerning this point, for many years my gov- ernment has declared its policy. 'fhe protection of this country against the aggression of any nations whatsoever has always been the firm resolution of the United States- It was declared first by Mr. Monroe, formed afterwards the basis of the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty; and is today manifested more fully and forcibly in the recent letter of l\Ir. Cass. And what better demonstration can my Government offer of its just intentions toward this country?- And is it possible that it can ask more of us? Permit me, Your Excellency to say to you that now a great and generous nation offers to this Republic the hand of friendship; and my advice to Cosa-Rica is that it take it imme- diately with reciprocal cordiality.- But, if in opposition to all the manifestation of good intentions, Costa-Rica will continue cherishing in its bosom a dissembling jealousy and suspicion toward my nation, then, in my opinion, many years will pass in this country before there is realized any noticeable progress or friendship and protection of the United States, it cannot acquire any credit or character abroad; and,. having these advantages, it will be able to secure all. For this reason it is my opinion that the true policy of this Republic is to raise at once and without any vacillation the standard of Monroe--with the device of eternal nationality, independence and prosperity for Costa-Rica.- Your Excellency is placed in a situation most favorable for taking great measures that should be for the glory of your country and the good of humanity. It is truly an enviable position! Endowed with brilliant talent and of good disposition, you have been able to serve for many years as Supreme Chief of this nation with wisdom mod- eration, and success; so that your administration not only has assured to Your Excellency the confidence and gratitude of your fellow- citizens; but it has gained for Your Excellency great influence and consideration among all the States of Central America. These advan- tages place Your Excellency in a position to do great good; and your obligation for doing it, can only be in proportion to your means and
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