819.6363V23/3: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Minister in Panama ( Price )

Reference your despatch 1348, April 21, 1917.

Sinclair Panama Oil Corporation states that it is owner of Valentine’s rights under contract of April 14, 1917 with Government of Panama for exploration and exploitation of petroleum deposits; that, owing to war conditions, corporation has not been able to complete within two years’ period fixed by Article 5 of contract, work of exploration so as to determine areas which Company will not desire to exploit, and therefore has requested Panaman Government to extend this period for one year.

If you perceive no objection, use your good offices in aid of extension requested.

Phillips