File No. 839.51/1635.
Minister Russell to the Secretary of State.
Santo Domingo, November 5, 1915—5 p.m.
Your November 4, 4 p.m. By last mail, due New York about 8th, I have reported on improbability of securing approval of Congress to amendments to convention outlined in your instruction No. 139. President still absent from the city and uncertain when he will return. Minister of Finance still requests approval of advances to pay salaries and says that disbursement of all such advances will be absolutely controlled by Johnston who can withhold payment if not legitimate or there is any attempt to divert sums for other purposes. I still strongly advise against any advances unless controlled by receivership as well as all disbursements of Government. The one thing Congress is very sure to do will be the authorization for a loan. I am of the opinion that the issue should be made at once, and that after Department receives my number 13, October 29, I be instructed by cable to proceed in accordance with instructions in your No. 139.