Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Address of the President to Congress December 5, 1916

File No. 822.51/211½a

The Acting Secretary of State to Minister Hartman

[Telegram]

Department of State,
Washington, July 12, 1916.

Department advised that Ecuadorian Minister of Finance, recently in this country, has returned to Ecuador to obtain additional data relative to negotiation of loan with American syndicate.

While not modifying in any way attitude regarding long-standing claim against Ecuador, bondholders of Guayaquil & Quito Railway and Department are not disinclined to await result of such negotiations provided equitable settlement may be reached.

Norton sails 15th. Upon arrival of Minister of Finance discreetly endeavor to ascertain and determine attitude and good faith Ecuadorian Government in this connection.

Polk