The Acting Secretary of State to Minister Lyon.

[Extract.]

Sir: In accordance with the department’s telegram to you of this date you are to proceed to your post aboard the U. S. S. Birmingham, sailing from Fortress Monroe March 20, 1910.

You have been shown in the department, from time to time, the various diplomatic correspondence concerning developments in [Page 705] Liberia, and upon arrival at your post you will immediately thoroughly familiarize yourself, from the archieves of the legation, with the present situation.

There is inclosed herewith for your information a copy of the report of the commission of the United States of America to the Republic of Liberia.1 The report of the commission will next week be transmitted to Congress by the President, together with a message discussing the Liberian situation.

Your are at liberty informally and orally to make known to the Liberian Government the nature of the recommendations of the commission, which are all responsive to Liberia’s official requests, adding that the Liberian situation will be made the subject of a message to Congress, to be transmitted within the next few days, and that shortly thereafter the decision of this Government will be communicated to Liberia.

The cruiser Birmingham is being dispatched to Liberia by this Government in response to the request of the Liberian Government, through the legation at Monrovia, for assistance in dealing with troubles with the aboriginal inhabitants. The commander of the Birmingham has been informed by the department concerning the situation in Liberia, and you will allow him access, for his information, to the inclosed copy of the report of the commission. After your arrival in Liberia you will keep the department promptly and fully advised as to developments.

I am, sir, etc.,

Huntington Wilson.
  1. See S. Doc. No. 457, 61st Cong., 2d sess.