A manuscript document written in Madrid, Spain dated May 1, 1875: Politics of Chinese Colono Trade to Cuba. The document was written at the “Ministerio de Ultramar” (Ministry of Overseas) and besides printed letterhead it contains dry seals from the ministry. The document was signed by the Sunsecretary Francisco Rubio at the Ministry and was addressed to the captain General of Cuba Buenaventura Carbo y Aloy. Carbo signed this document upon receipt in Havana on the first page to the left of the main text. This unusual document talks about a political struggle between the Spanish and Chinese Government over a legal case pertaining to the transfer of Colonos to Cuba. The Chinese Government eventually banned this proceder after conducting investigations into the hars realities that awaited the Coolies in Cuba where they were treated not much better than slaves.
Translated summary of the document reads as follows;(There is a note dated and signed in Havana on June 3, 1875 asking to give legal effect to this letter signed – Carbo)To the Governor General of Cuba;”The Spanish Consul in Beijing states that after several demands, he managed to summon the commissioners of the Chinese government in order to discuss the contents of a document regarding the transfer of colonos to Cuba. It will take over a year for us to have a written translation of that document. It is therefore not possible for to give a detailed account of the content of this document. Copies of this document have been distributed to the foreign representatives of the Adjudication Committee. This is a strategy employed by the Chinese Government in order to delay the process of adjudication. It is our duty to make sure that the legal provisions on the matter are adhered to. These legal provisions are geared towards ensuring a smooth process of adjudication in this matter”Signed: Madrid, May 1, 1875. The Subersecretary Francisco Rubio.