File No. No. 763.72113/711a
The Secretary of State to the Minister in Guatemala ( Leavell)
Inform Hodgsdon confidentially that the Government of the United States deems it of the first importance that American interests be given every opportunity bids upon any German properties which might under Guatemala’s Alien Property Custodian’s ruling be sold. It is the duty of the United States diplomatic and consular officers to use the best efforts in every proper manner to assure to American citizens every possible advantage. There are at present important American groups anxious to enter the Guatemalan field. Request the delay of sale of any German properties until representatives of these United States groups arrive. Wire the moment legislation is passed permitting the sale of German properties.