File No. 839.00/1904

Minister Russell to the Secretary of State

[Telegrams—Extracts]

Your August 2, 6 p.m. * * * The President was elected on July 25 and the following day Congress constitutionally ceased to exist; so that on July 31, when the President took the oath before Congress, the question arises as to whether he has been properly clothed with executive power.

His cabinet appointments indicate victory for Arias and Vidal. Senate and House have been telegraphing openly to Arias congratulating him on his victory in the election of Henríquez. Cabinet probably all anti-American with exception of Representative of Valasquez. Defeated brother resigns as Chief Justice Supreme Court to accept portfolio as Premier of Cabinet for five months.

Russell