723.2515/2081: Telegram
The Ambassador in Peru (Poindexter) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:05 p.m.]
38. Your No. 30, March 29, 1 p.m. I have talked at length with the President on the matter. He seems to be sincerely disposed to cooperate with you in good faith. Freyre’s disinclination to proceed with registration of voters is based primarily upon Peruvian assertion that conditions in the provinces are such that it is impossible to go on with the plebiscitary activities without suffering and loss of life, and that acceptance of good offices of the United States for settlement by direct negotiations is preferable. I told President that you were anxious that Peru should not delay in appointing her representative at Washington in the proceedings under your good offices. President Leguía agreed to inform you at once but said that he desired to submit nomination of Peruvian representative to Congress for its approval. He has practically decided to send Freyre as Peruvian Plenipotentiary. President Leguía remarked that Freyre’s appointment would be confirmed as soon as definite understanding was reached on suspension of plebiscitary proceedings. I also saw Minister for Foreign Affairs and told him you wished to proceed in exercise of good offices as promptly as possible, and urged upon him desirability of prompt action in appointment of Peruvian Plenipotentiary. The Minister assured me that Peru would not delay action in this matter.