On Saturday, December 12th, there was a telegraphic report that a hundred
men had been killed by a dynamite explosion at Panama. Mr. Taft, being
at that time in Washington, on his suggestion an inquiry as to the need
of assistance was sent to Colonel Goethals. Fortunately the report was
exaggerated and as will be seen by the following dispatches, aid was not
required.
Col. Goethals, Chairman Panama Canal Commission, Panama.
Deeply concerned to hear of accident. The Red Cross Society
expresses much sympathy, and is prepared to furnish financial
assistance for relief if you deem it necessary. Answer.