711.162/16: Telegram
The Chargé in Salvador ( Engert ) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 11—8:55 a.m.]
18. After further conferences with the persons mentioned in my telegram No. 15 of April 28, 11 a.m., I doubt the possibility of overcoming their opposition. Finance Minister who is evidently opposed asked me pointedly for specific instances of benefits which would result to the exports of Salvador to the United States.
So far I have purposely avoided any reference to the possible negotiation of a general treaty. However, if the Department should desire, I shall now sound the Government of Salvador informally on [Page 922] the subject. Note from Salvador of July 19, 1922, might be a convenient starting point.14
My personal feeling is that rather than make preliminary inquiries which would probably elicit evasive replies, the most effective procedure would be to address a formal note couched in such broad terms as to render it difficult for the Government of Salvador to decline or procrastinate on trivial grounds.
- Note of July 19, 1922, not printed; it stated that Salvador would view with the greatest pleasure the conclusion of a treaty of friendship, commerce, and navigation with the United States. (File No. 616.11247/22).↩