Peru's Action In Regard to the War

PERU'S ACTION IN REGARD TO THE WAR.

On September 25th the Peruvian Government sent an ultimatum to the Imperial German Government, threatening to break diplomatic relations with that Government, unless a favorable reply to Peru's demands for indenmities on account of the sinking of the Peruvian Steamship LORTON was given within 8 days.

Favorable reply not having been received, on October 6th the Peruvian Congress in joint session passed a resolution approving the breaking of relations with Germany. Only two votes in Chamber of Deputies and 4 in Senate were opposed to this motion.

Peruvian Minister for Foreign Affairs immediately after vote in Congress instructed Peruvian Minister at Berlin to ask for his passports and German Minister at Lima was given his passports Oct. 6, at noon.

In informing the Secretary of State of the action which Peru had taken in regard to breaking of relations with Germany, the Minister for Foreign Affrairs, in a personal cable, stated that the Peruvian Government was guided in its action on account of its desire to strictly perform the duties placed upon it by international law and the principles of international justice acclaimed by President Wilson; that Peru was the champion of continental solidarity and adhesion to the principles evoked by the United States.Secretary of State sent reply to this message informing the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the gratification with which his message and expressions of friendship for the United States had been received.

The USS. MARBLEHEAD was sent to pay a visit of courtesy to the Peruvian Government and as a further proof of this country's friendship. She arrived in Callao on Oct. 28th and officers and crew were given a warm and cordial reception.

JHS/EBN