882.6176 F 51/104: Telegram
Mr. Harvey S. Firestone to President King of Liberia46
Have cable from Ross. Liberian Government suggested modifications in Agreements.
With exception of food clause consider modifications only technical wording and would not change actual carrying out of Agreements.
Confidence and honesty of purpose is basis of any agreement to succeed. If this is not mutual no wording in agreements will help. I have given Liberia my full confidence and hope you will reciprocate not only for myself but for America. You never had such fine opportunity to cement more closely this mutual confidence.
Consider Liberia’s interest best served by not taxing food for revenue and therefore not willing change food clause.
American rubber situation account British restriction is critical. Rubber industry now negotiating with other governments for large operations and know if you realized importance you would have agreements signed promptly which will show your confidence in me and come America negotiate loan. Hope you will be one of commission to come. Would like very much have opportunity of personally [Page 443] expressing to you my wishes and desires for future of Liberia.
- Copy transmitted to the Department by Harvey S. Firestone under covering letter of the same date.↩