File No. 822.00/455.
The American Chargé d’Affaires to the Secretary of State.
Monrovia, January 5, 1913.
German Consul informs me verbally German Government will be satisfied with nothing less than dismissal Liberian officer and intimates drastic action will be taken if dismissal not conceded. Ballard’s report almost certain to exonerate Liberian officer or set up counter charges as grave as those made by Germans.
Liberian Government states that if compelled to accede to German demands irrespective of Ballard’s report it will consider usefulness of American officers seriously impaired.
Believe can exert sufficient pressure to secure dismissal provided incident will be closed and no further demands made by German Government. German Consul has been asked to give official assurance in this regard and has communicated with his Government. Please instruct. Urgent.