839.00/2611c: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (Welles)
12. For your information and guidance following is substance of letter from the Secretary of State to the Secretary of the Navy with reference to a recent conversation regarding problems arising out of the installation and functioning of the Provisional Government:
- (1)
- The turning over of the administration from the Military Government to the Provisional Government will be effected by solemn ceremony, with due dignity, fully preserving the prestige of the Military Governor. Upon the installation of the Provisional Government there is no reason why the Military Governor should not leave the island and remain away unless a situation should unfortunately arise, due to the failure of the Provisional Government to carry out the terms of the agreement or through its inability to carry it out, which would necessitate his return. However, pending complete carrying out of plan his office should not be abolished. In accordance with Article 2 of the agreement, officers who have been occupying positions under the Military Government will remain in Santo Domingo prepared to give advice to the Provisional Government should it be called for, but it is understood that a suitable building will be provided for them.
- (2)
- That Department will take up the question of having it definitely understood that the American marines concentrated in the three places provided for in the agreement will be tried by provost courts for any offences which they may commit while they remain in the island.
- (3)
- That it will be proper for the Military Government to accord the customary salutes to the Provisional Government when it assumes office, in order to enhance its prestige, making it clear, by detailing an officer if necessary to explain to the Provisional Government, that the salute is fired as a manifestation of friendship and good will, but does not carry with it recognition other than as a Provisional Government, as is clearly stated in agreement.
- (4)
- The wording of the Admiral’s proclamation is to be discussed between you and him and after agreement you will telegraph to this Department for final sanction. The Navy Department has sent instructions to the Admiral to that effect.
- (5)
- That in accordance with Admiral Robison’s letter to you of September 13th you had informed the Dominican leaders that Santo Domingo City, Santiago and Puerto Plata only would be occupied by American troops.
- (6)
- With regard to the suspension of newspapers it was suggested, with reference to previous correspondence, that Admiral Robison be instructed that, with the exception of La Information, orders of suspension of the publication of newspapers should be rescinded and no further orders suspending publication of newspapers should be given without bringing matter to the attention of the Department and obtaining an expression of its views. I stated that my thought is that, in view of the existing situation, any question as to the suspension of newspapers should be taken up by Admiral Robison in a practical way with you and should an agreement not be reached you should both at once communicate with your respective Departments by cable in order that a satisfactory conclusion may be reached without delay. I expressed willingness that same procedure be followed in case Admiral Robison objects to the rescission of any order of suspension.
Department pointed out difficulties attending withdrawal from Santo Domingo and importance of conciliating public opinion to utmost possible extent. The success you have already met with in your negotiations was referred to and the belief expressed that Admiral Robison desires to cooperate with you and that there would appear to be no reason why you and he should not accomplish the purpose we have in view.