File No. 839.00/1114.
Minister Sullivan to the Secretary of State.
Santo Domingo, March 26, 1914, 5 p.m.
Your March 23, 8 p.m. Answering inquiries therein in order; at Seibo Andreas Beras deposed, General Neftali Hernandez succeeds to governorship peaceably; at Puerto Plata, deposed as governor, Cristobal Perello; General Quirieo Feliu assumes governorship without trouble; La Vega, General Tanco Savinon will succeed Manrico Jiminez, left on the 25th for post; at Santiago General Manuel Sanchez, commander of fort, will be named to-morrow to succeed Manuel Franco of whom Vick complains.
Dominican Government points out that new governors are chosen from various parties but without doubt they are now loyal to Provisional Government. I believe authority of new governors will be maintained and Bordas can cope with situation, as he controls dominating military strongholds in San Francisco de Macoris, Moca, Puerto Plata, Santo Domingo, San Pedro de Macoris, Samana, Seibo, Santiago, La Vega, and Barahona. Arias dominates Monte Christi, and Vidal, who is on the fence, is in power at Azua. Arias’ power to start any serious trouble has been materially minimized and he has withdrawn from Santiago to Guayubin, small village near Monte Christi. Bordas seems to he master of situation although political opposition aside from military tactics is pronounced and active. There is no conceivable attitude, whether affirmative or negative, that can prevent criticism here. If Bordas is given money prior to election I believe it means his reelection. I believe we should consider any advantage to him in the light of an incident and keep in mind supreme importance of forcing Arias out of Dominican affairs for ever. It is my opinion that it is proper, necessary and expedient that the interests of decency should be permitted to enjoy incidental benefit that can be hoped for through the proper distribution of funds prior to and during election time. Arias has forced the issue upon this country and upon us through our economic interests in this country as to whether he shall continue to stand between the people angle their hopes for law, order and solvency in Government. Failure of Bordas’ Government at coming elections would mean the rehabilitation of Arias, as the one or two other candidates who might have a chance are willing to wear his collar. The only way to take issue with Arias and other grafters here is by supporting the group that is pledged to dispose of them. I am looking forward to more peaceable and orderly election than the one held on December 15th.
A large minority percentage of the salaries has been pledged to banks and business men for credit whereby employees might live. The effect of payment of salaries will be beneficial to the people generally.
Dominican Government to-day, after a conference between President and Cabinet Ministers, agrees without reservation to temporary [Page 222] comptroller, to be followed by permanent comptroller with three years contract. I have on file practically in the language of your February 12, 6 p.m., request from Dominican Government for appointment of such comptroller to be designated as commercial attaché.
Following funds available on telegraphic notice: Royal Bank of Canada, $50,000,; Banco National, $150,000; Michelena, $25,000. First two institutions can advance any amount from New York City by notice. Royal Bank of Canada report that New York City office acquainted with details of the situation and able to act. Dominican Government has now 2,500 soldiers in the country which can be increased three times, I am informed, in twenty-four hours. Government should be in position sanctioning this if necessary. Hasten instructions about observers.