882.51/1096A
The Secretary of State to the Secretary of the Navy (Daniels)
Sir: Adverting to my letter of March 18, 1920,6 in which I indicated the desirability of a United States warship visiting the port of Monrovia for approximately one week, I now take the opportunity to express to you further the urgency of having a naval vessel despatched to that port. I am cognizant of the fact that it would be inadvisable at this time to withdraw a ship to be used for this purpose from Central American waters. It is felt, however, that by the action requested the critical political situation which has existed for several months in the Republic of Liberia might be extensively improved and the propaganda and other means employed by foreign representatives to disturb the friendly relations which have for over one hundred years existed between the Republic of Liberia and the United States Government might be effectively countered.
I appreciate fully the statement made by you at a recent conference held with a representative of this Department relative to a shortage of ships in condition for sea, but regret that I now feel constrained to inquire urgently whether directions can be given to despatch a vessel, if no other ships be available, from the training grounds at Guantanamo Bay to the port of Monrovia.
In cooperation with the Treasury Department, a Financial Plan under which it is proposed to make available a loan credit of several million dollars extended to the Republic of Liberia during the war has recently been drafted, and permission is requested to send this document to the American Minister Resident and Consul General to the Republic of Liberia in the custody of the commanding officer of the ship, which it is hoped you will be able to send to Monrovia.
Since the matter evidently is one of much urgency, I should be very grateful to learn your views in connection with the foregoing at your early convenience.
I have [etc.]
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