723.2515/2164a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul at Arica (Von Tresckow)
For Lassiter. General Pershing requests that you deliver to Augustin Edwards the following personal message from him.
“Your proposition for permanent neutralization of Tacna and Arica has been most favorably received both by the State Department and by the American press as a possible constructive solution. As you know I have always agreed with you that neutralization is probably the best practicable outcome. Even if a legally celebrated plebiscite were now feasible, which I myself doubt very much, I am more than ever personally convinced that after all that has happened a plebiscitary solution would not command the moral sanction of the civilized world and serve the best interests either of your country or of Peru. My opinion is that neutralization would fully satisfy the inhabitants of the territory and at the same time give equal advantages in trade and commerce for all concerned. There is, I can assure you, the sincerest desire here to see this vexing question settled in such a manner as to restore for all time the ancient friendship between Chile and Peru. My country has no other object in view. I earnestly hope that your powerful influence will now be exercised in openly advocating this plan. Its adoption would certainly enhance your already great personal reputation throughout the Western Hemisphere. I shall be happy to join you in any way that will promote its adoption. Please accept my warmest regards. Pershing.”