723.2515/1587: Telegram
The President of the Plebiscitary Commission (Pershing) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:30 a.m.]
Department’s telegram of August 14, 6 p.m., has just been received and considered. Your statements on the award and the supplementary ruling are precisely as they are understood by Mr. Dennis and me. I do not think it advisable to make definite issue at this time on the points in question, but I shall not hesitate to do so when the time comes. [Modifications?] of the traffic restrictions as we deem necessary are promised. Meanwhile there are confusing reports, accusations, denials. Absolutely necessary for us to determine for ourselves exact facts about conditions throughout territory, and for this purpose we have sent for American assistants from Panama Canal Zone who speak Spanish and who later will serve on registration and election boards. These men will be sent out with clerical force to study conditions. This action taken with approval of both Commissioners. After I receive their reports I shall be able to determine what demands to make to obtain fair and free election. Will hold other questions in abeyance for time being as far as Commission action is concerned. I earnestly request that Department make no representations to either Peru or Chile, or even to intimate that I have made any report on conditions. Time may come later on to take that action, and if it does, I shall not [Page 373] hesitate to call on Department for all assistance it can give me, but I hope Department will take no action except upon my request. Problem is not one that can be hurried and will require much patient and careful handling. Purpose of my telegram of August 14 was to keep you advised; there would be great danger should Department take action now.