File No. 822.124/244.
The Acting Secretary of State to the American Chargé d’Affaires.
Washington, October 5, 1912.
It has seemed necessary to seek Congressional authorization because of the constitutional requirement therefor (art. 1, sec. 9, clause 8) in order to permit American officials to go to Ecuador in pursuance of Department’s July 25. Ecuador did not make the fund available to cover the expenses of a commission until after Congress had adjourned, and the Department did not deem it advisable to request [Page 433] Congressional action before Ecuador had deposited the funds. But the Department is trying to find a way to avoid awaiting the next session of Congress. You will do all you can to impress upon the Government of Ecuador the reasons for the delay and the continued interest of this Government in the matter.