Mr. Blaine to Mr. Phelps.
Washington, October 26, 1891.
Phelps, Minister, Berlin:
Telegram from Apia, by way of Sydney, 23d, reports resignation of president of municipal council October 5, owing to disagreement with German member of council; consuls protested against his proposal to hand over municipal funds to German consul; and president refuses to deliver funds to three consuls acting jointly. You will represent the embarrassment this situation is likely to cause to the efforts of the three powers to secure good government in Samoa, and the necessity of equal share of the three in the financial administration during this temporary emergency.