File No. 837.00/643.
[Untitled]
Mr. Gibson delivered my note regarding protection of Spanish-American Iron Co., and under my general instructions to make strong supporting representations, he had a very frank but friendly talk with Patterson.1 I trust this may stimulate the authorities to proper action. Gibson pointed out that failure to fulfill repeated verbal and written assurances of protection was the one thing destructive of our confidence in ability and willingness of Cuban Government to fulfill its obligations; that repeated failure would surely cause our Government seriously to consider the need for its giving protection to American interests; that if this was to be avoided Cuban Government must immediately take energetic steps. Patterson replied that it was local military authorities who were at fault, but Gibson rejoined that admission of inability of Cuban Government to secure obedience of its military officers was very serious, and that our Government looks alone to the Central Government for the protection of American interests. Patterson cordially promised to use best efforts to bring military authorities to proper realization of responsibilities.
- Subsecretary of State.↩