711.21/354½a
The Secretary of State to President Wilson
My Dear Mr. President: After consultations with Senators Swanson, Knox and Lodge I am convinced that the present Colombian [Page 517] Treaty could only obtain senatorial consent by the acceptance of several amendments, which would require the assent of Colombia, and would leave the finished treaty to my mind in a very confused and, if I may use the term—inartistic form. Such amendments I feel would also be viewed as criticisms of the Administration.
A careful canvass of the situation seems to assure thirty-seven votes in opposition to the treaty even as amended by the Committee.
My suggestion is that, since in any event the treaty will require further action by Colombia, the simplest and most expedient method is to negotiate a new treaty. With that idea in mind I send you a proposed draft.9 This treaty I can guarantee will be accepted by the Senate but of course I cannot speak for Colombia, though that Government will be very anxious to get the twenty-five millions.
The most radical change is the omission of Article I of the present treaty. I feel that in view of the proviso added by the Senate Committee as to denial of criticism of any Administration Article I means nothing. I understand that that proviso was a concession to Senator Knox. Its effect, however, neutralizes every expression of regret in Article I.
I enclose also a memorandum9 showing the original text, the Senate amendments, and in typewriting and pen deletions the proposed changes to be made in the old treaty. The enclosed clean draft on long paper incorporates all of these additions and changes.
At your convenience I would like to talk the matter over with you or to receive a memorandum on the proposed course of action and the enclosed draft.
Faithfully yours,