882.6176 F 51/101: Telegram
Mr. Harvey S. Firestone to the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs (Castle)
[Received 7:15 p.m.]
Just received following cable from Hines:
“My withdrawal negotiations and State Department’s cable strengthened position here and has changed President’s attitude regarding loan. Informed now preparing submit new and more acceptable loan proposal through State Department immediately. Government maintain have no power sign agreement including any commitment negotiate or accept loan without first obtaining legislative authority but possibility may find way because [my] departure and State Department’s attitude alarmed Government and made them fear losing Firestone development and American support. Suggest consideration following plan: Draw up complete loan terms and hold conference with Liberian officials Europe thereby immediately concluding negotiations. Liberian officials prefer Europe to America because of racial conditions and Minister, Receiver, all here concur in meeting Europe. Facilitates and expedites matters every way. Believe continued farms [firm] stand will assure Liberian acceptable [acceptance] satisfactory loan terms. Ross conversant all negotiations conditions. Sailing today arriving London about June 12th.”
Could you meet me New York conference with Hoffman, Monday or Tuesday? Will call you on phone.