814.00/329: Telegram
The Chargé in Guatemala (Scotten) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 7—12:15 a.m.]
2. My 1, January 3, 5 [4] p.m. Two leaders of new party called at Legation today and informed me that police and soldiers had broken into their printing establishment last night and carried to headquarters of secret police all the presses, etc., for which reason they are unable to publish their newspaper. These men further gave me the names of two Army officers whom they claim have been instructed by the President to leave tomorrow for a place near Mexican frontier in order to start a commotion [which?] the President will blame on new party in order to have excuse to place leaders in jail. Both men swear that new party will have absolutely no part in this commotion and that their party’s only wish is to carry on their political propaganda in strict compliance with laws. British Chargé d’Affaires confirms Legation’s report in above mentioned telegram that signers of pamphlet referred to are practically all men of highest type in Guatemala.