714.1515/71: Telegram

The Chargé in Guatemala ( Thurston ) to the Secretary of State

Your January 22, 7 p.m. The Minister for Foreign Affairs replied my note and states that Guatemala will be pleased to withdraw to places now proposed whenever definite date is set. He adds that Guatemala does not intend to intrude matters relating to concessions, [Page 94] their rights and activities, into the international boundary treaty, for which reason the Guatemalan Government has not permitted these companies holding concessions from it to engage in actual development work in the disputed territory. He states Honduras should do likewise, especially in the case of the Cuyamel Company. In conclusion he said that any other procedure places Guatemala in such inferior position as to be incompatible with national dignity and with the spirit of justice animating the Department of State.

It is my intention to take up this matter with President Cabrera.

Victor Ocaña has returned from Honduras. Guillermo Campos, the Honduranean Minister, and his family and secretary are leaving Guatemala. I have not yet ascertained whether these movements result from boundary dispute or the earthquakes which continue unabated.

Thurston