723.2515/1678: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Chile (Collier)
72. Embassy’s telegram No. 117, November 9, 5 p.m. I am very glad to have information contained in your telegram. I hesitate [Page 412] somewhat to ask you to take up matter with Chilean Government as there is already much bitterness felt by Chilean officials and I wish to avoid giving slightest impression that this Government is acting as advocate of one of parties to the arbitration. It is of importance that the Government of the United States maintain its absolutely impartial attitude, and not take any action which might be thought more favorable to one side than to the other. I also fully appreciate that to take no action at all might lay Department open to charge that it was aiding Chile by suppressing important information. For that reason, before determining on any course of action I wish to know (1) whether there are any obstacles placed in way of direct communication between the Peruvians involved and their Government or their Plebiscitary Commission, and (2) your views on attitude that Government of Chile would take should you take up matter informally with it. You will appreciate that I may have to call upon you to make further representations to Government of Chile on behalf of the President’s representative on Plebiscitary Commission and it is important, therefore, that your effectiveness to this end should not be impaired.