819.51A/4: Telegram

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

22. Two hours conference with Panaman President this afternoon ended by him stating that he would consider matter further,5 conferring with advisers and Cabinet and would see me February 25th, [Page 608] 3 p.m. In the course of it in addition to contentions heretofore reported he argued that Law 30 was unconstitutional in authorizing appointment of a foreigner with the powers given therein; stated that he had the written opinion of many lawyers and others upholding his interpretation of article 1 of the Law; that public sentiment strongly favored appointment of a Panaman; offered to employ Mr. Hord to reorganize Banco Nacional and as his personal adviser if we would not insist upon American Fiscal Agent. Then proposed arbitration of the whole matter and took occasion to remark that if we imposed the matter upon them he would protest to the world. Additional strong cablegram again solicited.

Price
  1. See Departntent’s telegram no. 11, Feb. 18, p. 606.