List of Papers

[Unless otherwise specified, the correspondence is from or to officials in the Department of State.]

GREECE

Agreement Between the United States and Greece for the Funding of the Greek Debt to the United States and for an Additional Loan to Greece

[Page VIII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 7 (66)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Inquiry whether Department’s disapproval of loans to Greece is now lifted or will continue until Congress has ratified U. S.-Greek debt settlement agreement.	1
Dec. 8 (42)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Impossibility of modifying attitude until debt settlement has been approved by Greek Parliament.	1
1928 Jan. 6 (428)	From the Minister in Greece Interest of Greek Government in possible refunding of foreign loans through loan from American financiers.	2
Jan. 18	From the Greek Minister Recapitulation of terms of U. S.-Greek debt settlement; acceptability of terms.	3
Jan. 18	To the Greek Minister Acceptability of terms.	6
Jan. 25 (128)	From the Greek Minister Understanding that U. S. Government consents to flotation of a Greek loan of 6½ million pounds sterling.	6
Jan. 26	To the Greek Minister Confirmation of understanding.	7
Jan. 28 (156)	From the Greek Minister Approval of debt settlement by Chamber of Deputies on January 27.	7
Jan. 30 (7)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Announcement to American bankers of nonobjection to flotation of Greek securities in American market.	7
Feb. 17 (13)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Information that debt settlement plan is being considered by Congress. Instructions to avoid giving any impression of undue optimism as to outcome.	8
Mar. 15 (512)	From the Minister in Greece Letter from the chairman of the Refugee Settlement Commission (text printed) setting forth urgent reasons for prompt passage of measure now before Congress.	8
Apr. 12 (545)	From the Minister in Greece Further informal communication from the Refugee Commission; Minister’s arguments in behalf of approval of debt settlement.	9
Apr. 12 (19)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister that congressional delay is due solely to the domestic political situation.	10
Apr. 13 (23)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Intention to inform Foreign Minister again that Department’s attitude has undergone no change.	11
Apr. 27[?]	From the Chairman of the Refugee Settlement Commission to President Coolidge (tel.) Hope for immediate ratification of debt agreement in order that funds may be available for urgent refugee settlement work.	11
May 4 (29)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Information that prospects for ratification before adjournment of Congress are not encouraging.	12
May 12	To the Chairman of the Refugee Settlement Commission Assurance that the Administration is doing its utmost to obtain favorable action by Congress.	12
May 29 (34)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Instructions to advise the Foreign Minister that Congress is about to adjourn without taking action on debt agreement, to express U. S. Government’s regret, and to state U. S. Government’s intention to renew efforts to obtain congressional approval in December session.	12
Dec. 10 (47)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Approval of debt settlement by House of Representatives. (Footnote: Information of its passage by the Senate on February 14, 1929, and signature of agreement by Greek Minister and the Secretary of the Treasury on May 10, 1929.)	13

Convention Between the United States and Greece for the Prevention of Smuggling of Intoxicating Liquors, Signed April 25, 1928

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 20 (1607)	From the Greek Minister Desire to conclude treaty pertaining to alcoholic beverages on board Greek ships entering U. S. ports.	14
1928 Mar. 22	To the Greek Minister Transmittal of draft treaty for consideration.	14
Apr. 3 (540)	From the Greek Minister Transmittal of Minister’s full powers to sign proposed treaty.	15
Apr. 25	Treaty Between the United States of America and Greece For the prevention of smuggling of intoxicating liquors.	15

[Page IX]

Proposed Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Consular Rights Between the United States and Greece

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Feb. 8 (12)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Instructions to ascertain whether Greece will now enter into negotiations at Athens for treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights; also to make known the U. S. Government’s desire to conclude with Greece a naturalization treaty.	18
Feb. 17 (12)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Greek acceptance of suggestion to negotiate commercial treaty.	19
Mar. 2 (135)	To the Minister in Greece Transmittal of draft treaty.	19
Mar. 19 (17)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Submission of draft treaty to Foreign Office. (Bracketed note: Information that negotiations were discontinued in 1932 on account of revision of Greek commercial policy in favor of controlled imports and exports.)	24

Proposed Naturalization Treaty Between the United States and Greece

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 July 25 (269)	From the Minister in Greece Observations made to the Foreign Minister concerning difficulties of U. S. citizens of Greek origin resulting from Greek policy relating to citizenship and military service. Hope that Foreign Minister will propose discussion of projected naturalization treaty.	25
1928 Feb. 23 (14)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Inquiry whether Greece is prepared to negotiate a naturalization treaty.	28
Feb. 25 (14)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Doubt of Foreign Minister that naturalization treaty can be negotiated at present.	28
Mar. 1 (490)	From the Minister in Greece Feeling that Foreign Minister is personally sympathetic to proposal for treaty; desire for draft proposals for submission at favorable opportunity.	28
May 2 (157)	To the Minister in Greece Transmittal of draft treaty.	29

Assistance by the Department of State to American Firms Interested in the Struma Valley Drainage Project

[Page X] [Page XI]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 12 (2)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Authorization to give proper support to Monks-Ulen proposal for Struma Valley drainage project.	31
Jan. 14 (4)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Instructions to maintain strict impartiality should other American concerns besides Monks-Ulen be competing.	31
Jan. 17 (439)	From the Minister in Greece Information that Monks and Ulen interests pooled their proposals and that it is unlikely any other American firms will interest themselves in the project.	32
Feb. 15 (478)	From the Minister in Greece Probability that Foundation Company of New York may submit proposals.	32
Feb. 15	From the Consul at Athens (tel.) Advice that bids for Struma Valley project have been called for March 9.	34
Apr. 18 (24)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Desire of Monks-Ulen interests for active U. S. support on ground that Foundation Company operates through foreign subsidiary, backed partly by British capital.	34
Apr. 20 (21)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Instructions to report reasons if uncertain about American character of Foundation Company (Foreign).	34
Apr. 23 (27)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Opinion, after study of Foundation Company statement, that there is no reasonable ground for refusing recognition of the company as essentially American unless facts can be controverted.	35
Apr. 26 (32)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Inquiry as to answer to be made to Foreign Minister’s request for written statement that Foundation Company (Foreign) is an American concern.	35
Apr. 28 (27)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Authorization to answer in the affirmative.	35
May 6 (34)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Information that effort is being made to prevent American concern from getting contract; desire to remind Greek Government of Greek Minister’s promise to Department of State that Struma Valley project would be awarded to American concern.	36
May 7 (31)	To the Minister in Greece (tel.) Authorization to mention informally that Department was under impression that Greek Government intends to award Struma Valley contract to an American concern.	36
May 8 (37)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Explanation that the Minister’s purpose is to prevent award of contract to a British firm, and that Foundation Company and Monks-Ulen interests are cooperating to same end.	36
May 14 (39)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Greek decision to award contract to combination of Monks, Ulen, and Foundation interests.	37
Oct. 20 (45)	To the Chargé in Greece (tel.) Instructions to advise as to areas covered by, and present status of, drainage contract supposedly awarded American group; to advise similarly regarding drainage contract to British firm.	37
Oct. 22 (61)	From the Chargé in Greece (tel.) Information that Monks-Ulen agreement with Greek Government was signed on October 20, but that complications have arisen as to financing, due to offer from Hambro Bank probably more attractive than that from Monks-Ulen backers, Messrs. Seligman & Company.	37
Nov. 6 (63)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Decision of Greek Government to divide productive loan between Seligman and Hambro, giving former one-third only.	38
Nov. 7 (64)	From the Minister in Greece (tel.) Greek proposal that loan be divided equally between Seligman and Hambro; acceptance by Seligman.	39
Dec. 10 (746)	From the Minister in Greece Information that as yet Seligman & Company have not succeeded in obtaining legal contract with Greek Government. (Footnote: Information that the Official Gazette of December 31, 1928, published Greek ratification of Monks-Ulen contract.)	39

Policy of the Department of State Regarding Opportunity for American Firms To Compete for Work To Be Done From Proceeds of American Loans

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 15 (509)	From the Minister in Greece Suggestion that contracts for loans by American bankers to foreign governments include obligation to purchase machinery and supplies in American market, and that Department take this provision into consideration before expressing opinion as to objection to loan flotation in the United States.	42
Apr. 9 (151)	To the Minister in Greece Disinclination to bring pressure on bankers to the end that loan proceeds be expended in the United States; information that present policy is to express hope that American firms will be afforded freest opportunity to compete on equal terms with other competitors.	43

Citizenship Upon Entering Greece of Former Ottoman Subjects of Greek Orthodox Religion Naturalized in the United States

[Page XII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 7 (497)	From the Minister in Greece Information with regard to a new class of citizenship case arising under articles 3 and 7 of the convention signed at Lausanne, January 30, 1923, concerning the exchange of Greek and Turkish populations.	44
Mar. 15 (35)	From the Consul at Saloniki Information concerning cases of compulsory naturalization of naturalized U. S. citizens formerly Turkish subjects of Greek Orthodox religion; request for Department’s opinion of the Greek Government’s contention that such persons come within the purview of the convention of January 30, 1923.	44
June 26 (618)	From the Minister in Greece Foreign Office opinion on the basis of which administrative authorities throughout Greece are acting with respect to the matter reported in despatch No. 497 of March 7. Suggestion that U. S. passports be accompanied by notices apprising naturalized Americans of the difficulties they may encounter if they visit Greece.	46
July 19 (183)	To the Minister in Greece Instructions to inform the Foreign Office that in the opinion of the U. S. Government the terms of the convention of January 30, 1923, do not seem applicable to former Ottoman subjects who have obtained naturalization as U. S. citizens before going to Greece, and that the U. S. Government cannot recognize the right of foreign governments to enter into agreements affecting the nationality of U. S. citizens. Instructions concerning transmittal of information to the consulates in Greece.	47
Sept. 1 (661)	From the Chargé in Greece Foreign Office note verbale, August 28 (textprinted) explaining that Greece must carry out treaty provisions and their official interpretations in the event that persons referred to in treaties enter Hellenic jurisdiction. Information, however, that Greek officials have been accommodating in releasing former Ottomans, naturalized in America subsequent to January 30, 1923, from performance of military duties when appealed to on lines of good policy and common sense.	47

Claims of American Citizens of Greek Orthodox Religion for Property Confiscated by Turkey Under the Convention Concerning Exchange of Greek and Turkish Populations

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 June 15 (169)	To the Minister in Greece Instructions to make appropriate inquiry concerning the attitude of the Greek Government with respect to claims of Americans arising out of the confiscation of property by Turkey under the convention signed at Lausanne, January 30, 1923, and to prepare a report outlining the procedure to be followed by claimants in the event Greece is disposed to consider cases.	49
July 30 (646)	From the Chargé in Greece Outline of procedure to be followed by U. S. claimants under convention of January 30, 1923, and agreement of December 1, 1926, between Greece and Turkey. Foreign Office note verbale, December 7, 1927 (text printed).	50

[Page XIII]

HAITI

Reconsideration of Certain British Claims Against the Government of Haiti for Damages Caused by Successful Revolutionary Troops

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Apr. 27	Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs Conversation between Sir John Broderick of the British Embassy and certain officials of the Department in which the situation with regard to British claims in Haiti was explored, Department’s position remaining unchanged with respect to finding some formula by which British claims could be settled without reopening the general question of claims already passed upon by the Claims Commission and without prejudice to the financial stability of Haiti.	55
Aug. 7 (1263)	From the Chargé in Haiti Financial Adviser’s report, August 1 (text printed) conveying the information that the British Chargé has stated orally that the British have received assurances from the French and other Governments that they would not reopen any claims settled by the Claims Commission.	57
Oct. 3	From the High Commissioner in Haiti, Temporarily in the United States Recommendation that the British Embassy in Washington confirm the oral statement of the British Chargé at Port-au-Prince; that the British reopen question of claims with the Haitian Foreign Office; and that the High Commissioner be instructed to urge the Haitian Government to give the British claims earnest consideration and to notify that Government that if it found payments justified, the United States would not object.	59
Oct. 5	Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs Conversation with representatives of the British Embassy and the High Commissioner in which the information was conveyed that the recommendations of the High Commissioner met with the Department’s approval.	60
Oct. 17 (389)	To the High Commissioner in Haiti Transmittal of memorandum of conversation of October 5; also British letter stating that the British Government is at present aware of no similar claims which might still be asserted against Haiti by other countries. Instructions, when British claims are presented, to state to President Borno that these claims should be given earnest consideration; and to inform the Government that if it should find payment justified, the United States will raise no objection.	61

HEJAZ AND NEJD

Opposition of the Authorities of Hejaz and Nejd to the Entry of American Missionaries

[Page XIV]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 5 (153)	From the Chargé in Egypt Letter from the Director of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Hejaz and Nejd, December 18, 1927 (text printed) with respect to two missionary expeditions into Hejaz alleged to have been undertaken in May and November 1927 by Mr. G. W. Breaden and calling attention to danger to travelers entering that country without permits.	62
Feb. 13 (1642)	From the Consul at Jerusalem Information concerning Mr. Breaden’s expedition into Hejaz in November 1927.	64
Feb. 18	To Mr. A. C. Snead of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Transmittal of note of December 18, 1927, from the Director of Foreign Affairs of the Government of the Hejaz and Nejd. Request for comments on matter as well as information regarding any instructions in the premises found desirable to issue to representatives in the Near East.	65
Mar. 8	From Mr. W. M. Turnbull, Foreign Secretary of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Information concerning the two missionary expeditions under discussion. Desire, should Government of the Hejaz and Nejd be formally recognized by the U. S. Government, to be informed as to the attitude at that time of King Ibn Saud and his government toward missionary effort.	67

HONDURAS

Efforts of the United States To Discourage Revolutionary Activities Against the Government of Honduras

[Page XV]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 14 (563)	From the Minister in Honduras Report that Liberal Party convention appears to be marking time. Rumor that Ferrera may start revolutionary movement against Honduras from Guatemala. Suggestion that Guatemalan Government be informed of its responsibility in regard to Ferrera.	69
Apr. 5 (32)	To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.) Instructions to call to the Government’s attention its responsibility for any subversive acts which might be committed against Honduras by General Ferrera or other revolutionary leaders while in Guatemalan territory and to suggest that, if Guatemala should see fit to act against such persons, this would be welcomed as an evidence of good faith.	70
Apr. 10 (39)	From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.) President Chacon’s assurances that he will not tolerate any subversive activities. (Repeated to Honduras.)	71
Oct. 19 (118)	From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.) Honduran Minister’s request that General Jeffries, who is aiding Honduran emigrados, be deported to the United States, or placed under police surveillance. Request for instructions.	72
Oct. 22 (69)	To the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.) Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister that the Department has been pleased to observe Guatemala’s efforts to prevent revolutionary activities on its soil directed against Honduras, and that the Department would have no objection to the deportation of Jeffries or his being placed under police surveillance if Guatemala believes such action necessary. Authorization to inform Jeffries that he cannot expect to receive U. S. protection if he participates in revolutionary activities.	72
Oct. 22	Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs Conversation with the Guatemalan Minister who called to convey information of certain measures being taken by his Government to prevent launching of any revolutionary activities against Honduras from Guatemalan territory.	73
Oct. 26 (125)	From the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Information from President Paz that the Ferreristas, recently concentrating at Playitas, guatemala, have moved to Espiritu, Honduras, and that he believes there will be no immediate movement against his government unless the Liberals lose the elections on October 28; President’s request that the Cleveland remain at Puerto Cortes for a few days after October 30.	73
Oct. 27 (95)	To the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Information that arrangements have been made for the Cleveland to remain for additional period. Instructions to cable opinion as to earliest day upon which vessel should depart.	74
Oct. 30 (128)	From the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Opinion that there is no adequate reason why the Cleveland should not depart at end of week, although President Paz requests that the ship remain in Honduran waters for the present.	74
Nov. 19 (746)	From the Chargé in Honduras Information that the political situation is not now acute but there are evidently elements of danger to public peace. Suggestion that visits of U. S. naval vessels to north coast be continued until after February 1, 1929.	74
Dec. 20 (145)	From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.) Information that, because of great uneasiness and anxiety on north coast, the President believes it would be helpful if the Department would issue a statement that it would not recognize a government arising from a coup d’état or through violence. Opinion that the situation is not sufficiently acute to warrant such a declaration; suggestion, however, that a U. S. naval vessel be held in readiness to proceed to La Ceiba and that a vessel visit all northern ports as early as possible in January. (Repeated to consul at La Ceiba.)	75
Dec. 22 (763)	From the Chargé in Honduras Information that in the elections held November 25 the Coalition candidates won in an overwhelming majority of the municipalities.	76
Dec. 24 (146)	From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.) Information that public anxiety and apprehension have increased and that the President believes it will be helpful if the Department will make a statement (text printed) expressing its concern.	76
Dec. 29 (148)	From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.) Information that the political situation has improved.	77

[Page XVI]

Administration of the Embargo on the Shipment of Arms and Munitions to Honduras

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 May 29 (621)	From the Minister in Honduras Information concerning a shipment of arms and ammunition from Canada via Kingston, Jamaica, to Amapala, for which the consular invoices were issued by the Honduran consul at Philadelphia.	77
June 20 (52)	To the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Instructions to bring to the attention of the Honduran Government the active efforts of the U. S. Government to prevent clandestine shipments of arms and ammunition from the United States to Honduras; and to state that, if the embargo becomes merely a barrier to U. S. export trade and if through unrestricted export from other countries its effectiveness in protecting Honduras is lost, the Department would be forced to give serious consideration to lifting it.	77
June 21 (639)	From the Minister in Honduras Report that the matter of clandestine shipments has been brought to the attention of the President and the Foreign Minister, both of whom expressed appreciation of Department’s assistance; that the Foreign Minister had stated that the Honduran consul at Philadelphia would be removed.	78
July 12 (62)	To the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Inquiry as to what steps, if any, Honduras has taken to cooperate in making the embargo effective in the future.	79
July 30 (667)	From the Minister in Honduras Information from the Foreign Minister that special instructions have been given to Honduran consuls in United States and Canada, and will be given to consuls in Mexico, to refuse to issue consular documents for shipments of arms and munitions of war without Government’s express authorization.	79

Protest Against Libelous Attack in the Newspaper “El Cronista” Upon Roy Tasco Davis, American Minister in Costa Rica

[Page XVII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Apr. 29 (57)	From the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Information of a libelous telegram against Roy Tasco Davis, American Minister in Costa Rica, published in El Cronista. (Repeated to Mr. Davis at Tela and to San José and Guatemala City.)	79
May 2 (58)	From the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Report that the Government has directed immediate judicial action against El Cronista on charge of calumny under penal code. (Repeated to San José and Guatemala.)	80
May 8 (27)	From the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.) Telegram, May 5, from the Costa Rican Foreign Minister to the Honduran Foreign Minister (text printed) denying the allegations against Mr. Davis in the published telegram and speaking of him in the highest terms. (Repeated to Honduras and Guatemala.)	80
May 9 (17)	To the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.) Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister that the Department deeply appreciates his courteous action.	81
May 17 (604)	From the Minister in Honduras Report that the courts have quashed the proceedings instituted by the Executive against the editor of El Cronista on the ground that no basis for action existed under Honduran law.	81

IRISH FREE STATE

Responsibility of the Irish Free State for the So-Called Republic of Ireland Bonds Sold in the United States

[Page XVIII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Oct. 26	Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State Conversation with the Minister of the Irish Free State who insisted that the Free State was going to repay the balance of the money due on the 1921 bonds, although he felt that the decision of the New York court, which ruled that the Free State was not the successor of the Republic, legally let them out; his belief that the bondholders would get comparatively little money from the amount awarded by the New York court since the expenses of the bondholders’ committees were enormous.	83
1928 Jan. 27	Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State Conversation with President Cosgrave, who declared that he was determined that the money should be repaid to the subscribers and that he would be grateful for any suggestion as to how this could be accomplished with fairness to the bondholders without involving the Free State in any dealings with Messrs. Walsh and Ryan, counsel for the bondholders’ committee.	84
Feb. 8	Memorandum by the Solicitor for the Department of State Conference with Assistant Secretary of State Castle and Messrs. Walsh and Ryan in which it was finally agreed that the latter would submit to the Department a concrete proposal showing the amount of money received by the Free State and how settlement could be made with complete assurance that the certificate holders would be fully reimbursed and the Free State safeguarded against any outlay beyond its legitimate obligation.	86
Feb. 11	To Senator Borah Statement of the present situation with respect to the so-called Irish bonds.	89
Mar. 6	To Messrs. Frank P. Walsh and John T. Ryan, New York Request to be informed whether their letter of February 20 is to be understood as meaning that they do not desire the Department to proceed further with the matter through the use of its informal good offices.	92
Apr. 16 (26)	To the Minister in the Irish Free State Instructions to address a formal communication to the Irish Free State in an endeavor to ascertain the official attitude of the Government toward U. S. subscribers to the so-called Irish Republic loans and what steps the Government expects to take looking to a settlement of these obligations.	93
July 28 (112)	From the Minister in the Irish Free Stale Note from the Minister for External Affairs, July 26 (text printed) reasserting the intention of the Irish Free State to honor the bonds, but stating that no action to that end can be taken until the receivers appointed by the New York court shall have distributed the assets turned over to them.	96
Aug. 16	To Messrs. Frank P. Walsh and John T. Ryan, New York Transmittal of note of July 26 from the Irish Minister of External Affairs. Desire to receive information as to any progress being made by receivers and when it is likely that a report will be made to the court.	97
Oct. 9	To Messrs. Frank P. Walsh and John T. Ryan, New York Acknowledgement of receipt of letter of August 22 containing the second intermediary report of the receivers. Review of Irish Free State Loans and Funds Act of 1924, with a statement that the Department would be glad to consider suggestions and comments as to its amendment. Information that when the final report of the receivers is filed the Department will be glad to give consideration to the question of making further representations to the Government of the Irish Free State.	97
Oct. 11	From Messrs. Frank P. Walsh and John T. Ryan, New York Request for a copy of the proposed bill to amend the Loans and Funds Act of the Irish Free State. Promise to send duly authenticated copies of final report of the receivers in New York when filed. Declaration that they will be glad to take up question of further representations to Government of the Irish Free State.	100

ITALY

Treaty of Arbitration Between the United States and Italy, Signed April 19, 1928

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 8 (23)	To the Chargé in Italy (tel.) Information that draft of proposed treaty of arbitration has been handed to Italian Ambassador and that copy will be sent to Embassy by next pouch.	102
Apr. 19	Treaty Between the United States of America and Italy Of arbitration.	102

[Page XIX]

Representations by the Italian Government Regarding Activities in Italy of American Customs Agents Investigating Valuation of Exports to the United States

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Feb. 17	From the Italian Ambassador Request that the personnel of the Treasury Department assigned to investigate value of goods exported to the United States from Italy be reduced and that the activities of those remaining be curtailed.	104
June 29	To the Italian Ambassador Information that Treasury Department personnel in Italy has been reduced. Explanation why further curtailment of activities of Treasury agents may not be feasible. Discussion of provisions of U. S. customs tariff law regarding procedure in appraising value of imported merchandise.	105

Question of Control From Italy of Fascist Organizations in the United States

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Feb. 9 (1557)	From the Chargé in Italy Information that the new statutes proclaimed by Mussolini as to the conduct of Fascist organizations abroad give Italian diplomatic agents and consuls immediate control over the Fascists living in foreign countries. Opinion that this procedure will strengthen the control of the central home organization over the Fascists abroad.	107
Feb. 10	Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State Conversation with the Italian Ambassador concerning the orders issued by Mussolini to Fascist organizations abroad and the present Italian emigration policy.	109
Feb. 24	Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State Conversation in which Italian Ambassador discussed the authority of the Italian Government over Fascist organizations in the United States and its attitude toward the naturalization as American citizens of Italians residing in this country.	110
Mar. 3	To Representative Hamilton Fish, Jr. Transmittal of Parini’s statement to the United Press in Rome that the Fascist League of North America is not dependent on the Secretary General in Rome and that the instructions in the new statutes are intended for Italian subjects living abroad, and do not apply to naturalized American citizens of Italian origin.	111
1929 Dec. 5	Memorandum by the Secretary of State Conversation in which Italian Ambassador stated that Mussolini had authorized him to disband the Fascist League, but that he would postpone announcement until excitement had subsided.	111
Dec. 27	Statement Issued to the Press by the Secretary of State Information that State Department investigation of incidents referred to in article in Harper’s Magazine has not revealed any subversive activities by Italian residents. Expression of appreciation that the Fascist League has dissolved itself.	112

[Page XX]

Representations by the Italian Government Regarding Alleged Infringement of Italian Treaty Rights by Florida Fish and Game Law

[Page XXI]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Aug. 9	From the Italian Ambassador Observations that the new fish and game law of Florida contains a provision that nonresident and alien retail dealers shall pay a license fee of $50 per annum while other dealers pay only $5 and that this provision is being applied to Italians even when they have been residents for many years. Representations against the law as being in conflict with treaty of 1871.	112
Sept. 9	From the Italian Ambassador Inquiry whether prompt reply could be solicited from the Governor of Florida concerning the Embassy’s representations in regard to the new fish and game law of that State. Information that the Embassy has received new complaints from Italian residents of Florida whose interests are harmed by the operation of the law.	113
Oct. 11	To the Italian Chargé Communication from the Governor of Florida (excerpt printed) to the effect that Italian subjects resident in Florida receive equal treatment with resident American citizens in the matter of licenses to dealers in fish and that nonresident Italians and nonresident citizens of the United States likewise receive equal treatment.	113
1928 Feb. 9	From the Italian Ambassador Further representations occasioned by the receipt of a letter from the Shell Fish Commissioner of the State of Florida to the Italian consular agent at Tampa (excerpt printed) stating that he disagrees with Italian interpretation of treaty of 1871 and will continue to collect license tax from all aliens regardless of nationality. Observation that this letter is in open conflict with position expressed in Department’s note of October 11, 1927.	114
Apr. 6	To the Italian Ambassador Information that the position taken by the Shell Fish Commissioner of Florida has been sustained by the Attorney General of Florida. Expression of regret at this apparent reversal of position set forth in Department’s note of October 11, 1927. Suggestion that any Italian subjects who feel aggrieved by the tax may apply to courts of the United States in which is vested the authority to interpret treaties.	115
Apr. 30	From the Italian Ambassador Statement that Italian Government is entitled to have treaties respected by American authorities apart from actions that Italian subjects may maintain in U. S. courts.	116
June 8	To the Italian Ambassador Statement that, since Florida authorities have not recognized the validity of Italian contentions, the Department is not in a position to take any further action until a final adjudication has been obtained in the appropriate courts of the United States. Belief that Italian rights under existing treaty provisions would suffer no prejudice through a determination thereof by appropriate U. S. Federal judicial authorities.	117
July 18	From the Italian Ambassador Interpretation of U. S. note of June 8 as conveying exactly what the Italian note of April 30 tried to make clear, i. e., that the Department does not consider that adjudication by the Federal courts could be accepted by the Italian Government as a decision on a claim of right to be settled between the two Governments.	118
Aug. 2	To the Italian Ambassador Explanation that the purpose of the U. S. note of June 8 was to convey the assurance that the Federal courts constitute a particularly competent and impartial forum for determination of questions of this nature; and that it was not intended to pass upon the question of the scope of a decision of a local tribunal interpretative of international contractual obligations.	118

JAPAN

Convention Between the United States and Japan for the Prevention of Smuggling of Intoxicating Liquors, Signed May 31, 1928

[Page XXII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 23	Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador in which the Ambassador commented regarding suggested changes in the draft liquor treaty in accordance with instructions from the Japanese Foreign Office (text printed). (Footnote: Information that a copy of the draft treaty was handed to the Japanese Ambassador on March 20, 1924.)	120
May 3	Memorandum by the Chief of the Treaty Division and Mr. Stephen Latchford of the Same Division Conversation with the counselor of the Japanese Embassy during which an understanding was reached that the United States was in accord with all Japanese views except in respect of certain provisions in articles III and VI.	125
May 21	To the Counselor of the Japanese Embassy Explanation that it is impracticable for the U. S. Government to agree to the insertion of the words “at the end of thirty days” in article VI.	128
May 24	Memorandum by Mr. Stephen Latchford Conversation with the counselor of the Japanese Embassy in which the counselor conveyed his Government’s agreement to all questions raised except the proposal that paragraph 1 of article VI be eliminated or amended, and suggested an exchange of memoranda setting forth understandings in regard to interpretation of treaty.	129
May 26	Memorandum by Mr. Stephen Latchford Conversations with the counselor of the Japanese Embassy during which the counselor made known his Government’s agreement to article VI as originally drafted and presented draft notes and interpretative memoranda.	130
May 31	Convention Between the United States of America and Japan For the prevention of smuggling of intoxicating liquors.	131
May 31	From the Japanese Ambassador Transmittal of memorandum (text printed) of the understanding regarding interpretation of the convention.	134
May 31	To the Japanese Ambassador Confirmation of Japanese Government’s understanding.	135

Proposed Treaties of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Japan

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 31	To the Japanese Ambassador Transmittal, for consideration and as a basis for negotiation, of draft treaty of arbitration and conciliation (text printed).	135
1928 Mar. 14	To the Japanese Ambassador Transmittal of draft treaty of arbitration and draft treaty of conciliation (texts printed). Explanation of Department policy in negotiating two separate and distinct treaties.	139
June 26	To the Chief of the Treaty Division Request that answers be prepared to questions raised in the Japanese informal memorandum.	144
Undated	To the Japanese Embassy Detailed reply to questions raised by the Japanese Government regarding provisions of proposed treaties. (Footnotes: Information that memorandum was handed to the Japanese Ambassador on August 7, 1929, and that negotiations were not continued.)	144

Proposal by Japan That a Conference Be Called To Revise the Fur Seals Convention Signed July 7, 1911

[Page XXIII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 28	From the Japanese Embassy Acceptance of American proposal of November 29, 1926, regarding a joint scientific investigation into the feeding and migratory habits of the fur seals; suggestion that Russian and British experts be invited to take part in the investigation, since the investigation’s findings should be used as a basis for the revision of the convention of July 7, 1911, between the United States, Great Britain, Japan, and Russia.	147
1928 Jan. 4	To the Japanese Embassy Statement of U. S. position in regard to invitation to British and Russian experts to participate in proposed joint scientific investigation. (Footnote: Information that this memorandum was handed to the Japanese Ambassador on January 7.)	147
Feb. 14	Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State Conversation in which the Japanese Ambassador expressed the hope that the United States would reconsider its decision regarding participation by Russian and British scientists.	148
Apr. 2	From the British Ambassador Information that no expert representing the British Government will take part in the proposed investigation. Suggestion that the Department communicate with the Canadian Minister regarding the possibility of the attendance of a Canadian expert.	150
May 24	Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador in which the Secretary reviewed the situation with regard to the Japanese desire for revision of the convention of 1911; the Japanese Ambassador’s intimation that pressure was so great to have the convention amended that there was some danger it would be denounced. Conversation with the British Ambassador in which he was informed of what had been said to the Japanese Ambassador.	150
Aug. 24	Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State Conversation with the Japanese Chargé, at the conclusion of which the Chargé stated that he would report to his Government that the United States is prepared to give consideration to any suggestions Japan might have to make with a view to discussing whether or not by amendment of U. S. laws and regulations the United States could meet Japan’s desires.	153

LATVIA

Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Consular Rights, and Accompanying Protocol, Between the United States and Latvia, Signed April 20, 1928

[Page XXIV] [Page XXV] [Page XXVI]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1926 May 3 (3739)	From the Chargé in Latvia Transmittal of text of temporary provisional agreement for most-favored-nation treatment of commerce between United States and Latvia, as published April 28 in official gazette. Reminder that as an inducement to the conclusion of the provisional temporary agreement the prospect was held out of prompt initiation of negotiations for a permanent treaty as soon as the temporary agreement was concluded.	157
1927 Jan. 21 (406)	To the Minister in Latvia Draft of a treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights (text printed) based upon the counter draft submitted by the Latvian Foreign Office, February 15, 1924. Instructions to renew negotiations, bringing to the attention of the Latvian Government the U. S. views in regard to the Latvian counter draft and the provisions of the enclosed new draft.	157
Feb. 21 (16)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Inquiry whether the Department objects to combining in article 16 the last paragraph of article 7 of the draft and the first eleven lines of article 7 of the U. S.-German treaty.	181
Feb. 24 (7)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Information that the Department has no objection to including in article 16 the suggested section from article 7 of the draft and article 7 of the U. S.-German treaty. Instructions to submit text before final agreement.	182
Feb. 28 (17)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Proposed article 16 (text printed).	182
Mar. 7 (8)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Desire that exceptions proposed by Latvian Government in article 16 be limited to provisions of article 7; suggested additional article.	182
Mar. 21 (4408)	From the Minister in Latvia Memoranda dated March 5 and 16, 1927, from the Foreign Office (texts printed) accepting most of the articles of the draft treaty, but making slight alterations in the preamble, and in articles 1, 7, 11, 13, 15, 16, 27, and accompanying protocol.	183
May 16 (19)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Instructions to accept the Latvian Government’s proposals with respect to the preamble, articles 13 and 27. Further instructions, however, with respect to article 1, exception (c) of article 7, relating to monopolies, article 15, and article 27.	190
June 2 (43)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Information as to the Government’s attitude toward points raised by the Department with respect to article 1, exception (c) of article 7, and article 15.	191
June 6 (4542)	From the Minister in Latvia Foreign Minister’s note, June 1, 1927 (text printed) proposing a text for the first two paragraphs of article 1 similar to that of the treaty of commerce and navigation between Latvia and Great Britain, and maintaining position with regard to exception (c) of article 7 and article 15.	191
June 15 (21)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Information that the Department does not perceive that section (c) of article 7 would serve any purpose; further proposal concerning article 15.	193
July 18 (4615)	From the Minister in Latvia Latvian Government’s counter draft of article 1 (text printed); maintenance of position with regard to exception (c) of article 7; acceptance of Department’s proposal regarding article 15.	193
Dec. 15 (479)	To the Minister in Latvia Revised drafts of articles 1, 11, and 15 (texts printed), the latter two of which have been renumbered articles 12 and 16; further discussion of Department’s position regarding the proposed exception (c) in article 7.	196
1928 Jan. 10 (3)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Latvian Government’s agreement with Department’s proposal, except article 7; desire for slight change in transit article 16, formerly article 15.	204
Jan. 11 (5)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Inquiry whether, in authorizing acceptance of Latvian proposal regarding article 27, the Department intends to approve omission of last paragraph of article 26 of the U. S.-Estonian treaty.	204
Jan. 12 (8)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Inquiry whether the Legation is authorized to accept paragraph 3 of the protocol proposed in Latvian memorandum of March 5, 1927, which refers to article 19 of the U. S. draft.	204
Jan. 12 (5)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Information that authorization to accept proposal regarding article 27 did not authorize omission of last paragraph of that article.	204
Jan. 16 (6)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Authorization to accept proposed paragraph 3 of the protocol with insertion of reference to article 19.	205
Feb. 2 (9)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Further instructions regarding transit article 16.	205
Feb. 29 (14)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Desire to have a more definite statement of the views of the Latvian Government in regard to position of U. S. Government respecting exception (c) of article 7.	206
Mar. 8 (24)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Foreign Minister’s further proposals regarding articles 7 and 16.	206
Mar. 13 (17)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Authorization to accept the Foreign Minister’s proposals regarding articles 7 and 16.	207
Apr. 17 (35)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Report that full accord has now been reached and final draft proposed by the Foreign Office is ready for signature. Request for authorization to sign.	207
Apr. 18 (24)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Authorization to sign the treaty.	208
Apr. 20 (36)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Information that treaty was signed at noon.	208
Apr. 20	Treaty Between the United States of America and Latvia Of friendship, commerce and consular rights.	208
Apr. 20	Protocol Accompanying the treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights.	223
Apr. 21 (5237)	From the Minister in Latvia Transmittal of notes dated January 7, 1928, and April 16, 1928, exchanged with the Foreign Minister, recording an agreement made during the negotiation of article 27 to the effect that the Latvian Government will make administrative arrangements whereby U. S. consular officers in Latvia will receive the benefit of free entry of personal property during their incumbency on the ground that Latvian consular officers in the United States will be accorded this privilege under the most-favored-nation provision of article 27.	223
July 10 (539)	To the Minister in Latvia Transmission of President’s instrument of ratification and full powers authorizing the Minister to effect exchange, also copy of form of protocol of exchange to be signed in duplicate. Instructions to notify Department of date of exchange and date of Latvian instrument of ratification. Information that it has long been U. S. policy to construe the most-favored-nation clause in respect of consular privileges and immunities as conditioned on reciprocity. Instructions to so inform the Foreign Office and to withdraw note of January 7, 1928, before exchanging ratifications.	224
July 26 (5477)	From the Minister in Latvia Transmittal of Latvian instrument of ratification dated June 29, 1928, and U. S. copy of protocol of exchange, signed July 25, 1928. Note to Foreign Minister, July 24 (text printed) explaining the U. S. Government’s interpretation of the most-favored-nation clause.	226
Oct. 12 (87)	From the Chargé in Latvia (tel.) Receipt of note of October 5 from the Foreign Office stating that from October 15, 1928, U. S. consular officers shall enjoy, on basis of reciprocity, the privilege of free entry of personal property during their incumbency. Request for date on which similar privileges will be accorded Latvian consuls in the United States.	228
Oct. 15 (5616)	From the Chargé in Latvia Note from the Latvian Foreign Minister, October 5 (text printed) stating that U. S. consular officers during their incumbency shall enjoy the privilege of free entry of personal property from October 15, 1928, on a basis of reciprocity.	228
Nov. 9 (62)	To the Chargé in Latvia (tel.) Information that the U. S. Government will by administrative action reciprocally accord from October 15 the privilege of free entry of personal property to Latvian consular officers in the United States during their incumbency.	229

[Page XXVII]

Representations to the Latvian Government Regarding Certain Requirements Affecting American Indirect Trade With Latvia

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 14 (125)	From the Consul at Riga Transmittal of copy of Latvian decree dated January 10, 1928, regarding authentication by Latvian representatives abroad of certificates of origin accompanying shipments of lard imported into Latvia. Recommendation that measures be taken to comply with the requirements or that steps be taken to secure acceptance of the U. S. certificate of origin in its present form by the Latvian officials.	230
Mar. 9 (5111)	From the Minister in Latvia Information that the Latvian regulation requiring a consular visa for lard shipments has been canceled.	231
July 10 (5439)	From the Minister in Latvia Information that a memorandum (excerpt printed) discussing the effect of the new Latvian customs regulations upon the sale of American products to Latvian merchants was handed to the Foreign Office on June 15, 1928. Agreement of Director of Customs to reverse original decision to demand two certificates in cases of transshipment from European free ports or bonded warehouses of merchandise originating in the United States. Submittal of note of June 19 to the Minister for Foreign Affairs repeating the last three suggestions contained in the memorandum of June 15. Issuance of Order No. 202 providing for the acceptance of U. S. Department of Agriculture certificates covering shipments of lard and fatbacks, of U. S. grain certificates covering shipments of grain from the United States, and of Canadian grain certificates covering grain of U. S. origin shipped from Canada. Plan to continue discussion of question of the admission of merchandise, the American origin of which is indicated by markings.	232

Representations Against the Application of a Residence or Sojourn Tax on American Citizens in Latvia

[Page XXVIII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Sept. 7 (75)	From the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Request for authorization to send note to Foreign Office stating that Latvian nationals resident in the United States are not subject to payment of residence tax and requesting that U. S. citizens in Latvia be accorded similar treatment.	235
Sept. 15 (53)	To the Minister in Latvia (tel.) Instructions to request that U. S. citizens in Latvia receive tax treatment as favorable as that accorded to the citizens of any other foreign country as provided for in article 1 of the treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights of April 20, 1928.	235
Sept. 19 (80)	From the Chargé in Latvia (tel.) Information that the Latvian Government does not consider that the question of the sojourn tax comes under the most-favored-nation provision of article 1 of the treaty. Latvian proposal for an exchange of notes to arrange for the abolition or reduction of the sojourn tax. Request for instructions.	236
Sept. 25 (58)	To the Chargé in Latvia (tel.) Instructions to address a note to the Foreign Office stating that the Chargé has been advised that Latvia grants exemption from residence tax with respect to nationals of certain countries because these countries impose no such tax on Latvian nationals; also to examine Latvian law and request most-favored-nation treatment thereunder, making no claim under the treaty, but stating orally that in refraining from doing so it is not to be understood as an admission that the situation is not covered by treaty, which question is fully reserved.	236
Oct. 3 (5601)	From the Chargé in Latvia Explanation that the first sentence of the note suggested by the Department contains an inaccurate statement of fact; that the nationals of all foreign countries, except Estonia and Great Britain, residing in Latvia are paying the residence tax. Opinion of Latvian Government that it is not bound by any treaty provision in this matter. Willingness of Foreign Office to make a special agreement with the United States by exchange of notes. Request for authorization to submit a note to the Foreign Office similar to enclosed draft, omitting any reference to the treaty.	237
Nov. 21 (94)	From the Chargé in Latvia (tel.) Request for immediate telegraphic reply to despatch No. 5601 of October 3.	238
Nov. 21 (68)	To the Chargé in Latvia (tel.) Inquiry whether tax in question is applied to Latvian nationals as well as foreign nationals.	238
Nov. 22 (95)	From the Chargé in Latvia (tel.) Information that the tax does not apply to Latvian nationals.	238
Nov. 27 (69)	To the Chargé in Latvia (tel.) Instructions to request exemption from tax for American nationals under paragraph 2, article 1, of the treaty.	239
Nov. 30 (98)	From the Chargé in Latvia (tel.) Information that the Foreign Office states that paragraph 2 of article 1 does not apply to the sojourn tax. Request for further instructions.	239

LIBERIA

Appointment of John Loomis as Financial Adviser to the Republic of Liberia Succeeding Sidney de la Rue

[Page XXIX] [Page XXX]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 12	To the Minister in Liberia Discussion of conflicting interests of the Liberian Government, the Receivership, and the Firestone organization in Liberia. Instructions to make every effort to bring about mutual confidence and cordial cooperation.	240
1928 Jan. 21	To the Vice President of the National City Bank of New York Information that the matter of replacing the Assistant Auditor of Liberia concerns only the bank and the Liberian Government and that the Department can take no action, not even to the extent of consulting General McIntyre, the chief of the Bureau of Insular Affairs of the War Department. Belief, however, that General Mclntyre will be glad to cooperate if approached directly; intimation that he may be shown this letter.	241
Jan. 27 (3)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Instructions to inform the Liberian Government that the Department intends to name an Acting Financial Adviser who will eventually be named as Financial Adviser, should De la Rue be unable to resume his duties, and to report the nomination of Conrad T. Bussell as Temporary Financial Adviser until arrival of new Acting Financial Adviser. Opinion that remuneration of Acting Financial Adviser should be the same as that received by De la Rue, and that this matter should be the subject of a supplementary agreement, since the loan agreement makes no provision for such remuneration.	241
Feb. 4 (72/D)	From the Liberian Secretary of State to the American Minister in Liberia Approval of nomination of Bussell as Temporary Financial Adviser. Opinion that the loan agreement furnishes no authority for the appointment of an Acting Financial Adviser in the sense suggested by the Department; and inability to concur in Department’s proposed intention.	242
Feb. 7	To Mr. Harvey S. Firestone Information as to the position taken by Liberia concerning appointment of an Acting Financial Adviser; and advice that the Department can do nothing further unless the Finance Corporation and the Fiscal Agent can reach an agreement with Liberia by direct negotiation.	244
Feb. 15	From the Acting Financial Adviser to the Republic of Liberia to the American Minister in Liberia Acknowledgment of appointment as Acting Financial Adviser and expression of appreciation of cooperation of the American Legation in the past.	246
Apr. 17 (9)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Instructions to inform Bussell that the loan agreement does not give the Financial Adviser any power over expenditures contemplated by the Government as long as these are within the sum appropriated in an existing budget.	246
July 13	To President Coolidge Recommendation that John Loomis be designated to the post of Financial Adviser left vacant by the resignation of De la Rue.	247
July 16	From the Secretary to the President The President’s approval of the designation of John Loomis as Financial Adviser to the Republic of Liberia.	248
July 17 (15)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Instructions to forward De la Rue’s resignation to President King with a covering note informing him confidentially of President Coolidge’s designation of John Loomis as Financial Adviser; and to telegraph a report of results of action taken.	248
July 31 (22)	From the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Information that De la Rue’s resignation has been accepted and that designation of Loomis as his successor has been approved by the Liberian Government.	249

Denial by President King of Liberia of Allegations Made by Raymond Leslie Buell Regarding Firestone Concession

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Aug. 18 (26)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Instructions to inform President King that the Associated Press will handle any statement he desires to make refuting charges concerning the Firestone concession and the American loan to Liberia that may be made by Buell in lectures that he plans to deliver at the Williamstown Institute of Politics.	249
Aug. 29 (27)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Instructions to discuss matter of statement with President King and W. D. Hines, Firestone representative in Liberia, and telegraph President King’s decision.	250
Aug. 30 (34)	From the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Information that President King issued a statement to the Associated Press and sent copy to the Department refuting allegations in Buell’s speech.	250
Aug. 30	From President King of Liberia (tel.) Denial of Buell’s allegations that the Liberian Government was coerced by the Department of State in the matter of the Firestone rubber concession and the 7 percent loan of 1927.	251
Sept. 1	To President King of Liberia (tel.) Acknowledgment of telegram of August 30 and information that it was given full publicity.	253
Sept. 1 (29)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Information that the speech delivered by Thomas Jesse Jones at Williamstown on August 29, the extensive press comments by the Department, and President King’s statement should dispose of Buell’s charges and clear the air of misunderstandings.	253

[Page XXXI]

Establishment of Radio Communication Between the United States and Liberia

[Page XXXII] [Page XXXIII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 3 (53)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Firestone’s statement that the recent Liberian Executive order regarding the use of radio amounts in effect to nullification of privileges granted by article II, paragraph E of the planting agreement, which he points out is general in character and does not limit the use of radio to the confines of Liberia. Department’s belief that Firestone’s position is consistent with a reasonable interpretation of article II, paragraph E; and instructions to tender good offices. (Footnote: Text of a telegram from Firestone representative in Liberia, November 28, giving substance of Liberian Executive order and the Liberian Government’s position that Firestone is not entitled to trans-Atlantic use of radio.)	254
Dec. 6 (53)	From the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Explanation of Liberian Government’s position. Minister’s reluctance to tender good offices.	255
Dec. 17 (Dip. 6)	From the Minister in Liberia Transmittal of duplicate originals of agreement between the Liberian Government and the Radio Corporation of America of October 31, 1927, for delivery to the Radio Corporation of America in New York City.	256
Dec. 21 (55)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Information that Firestone disagrees with the views of the Liberian Government but wishes no action taken until his arrival in Monrovia in January.	257
1928 Jan. 14 (Dip. 13)	From the Minister in Liberia Concurrence in Department’s opinion that Firestone’s position is consistent with a reasonable interpretation of paragraph E of article II of planting agreement. Information that Liberian Government is determined in its insistence upon exclusive rights in the use of radio.	257
Feb. 24 (Dip.40)	From the Minister in Liberia Report that Mr. Harvey S. Firestone, Jr., had a conference with a commission appointed by the Liberian Government regarding the establishment of a trans-Atlantic wireless station in Liberia by the Firestone Plantations Co. and that a tentative verbal agreement was reached. Correspondence between Firestone and Postmaster General Ross concerning granting of suitable wavelengths consistent with the provisions of Radio Act of February 17 (text printed).	258
June 27	To the Chairman of the Federal Radio Commission Desire that both the Firestone and the Radio Corporation Liberian circuits be permitted to continue operation.	263
June 28	From the Chairman of the Federal Radio Commission Information that Radio Corporation has been notified of the denial of its application for license to communicate with Liberia.	264
July 2 (14)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Instructions to ascertain the present status of Firestone’s negotiation of a traffic agreement with the Government of Liberia and the Radio Corporation’s negotiation for an extension of the agreement with the Liberian Government signed last fall; also whether negotiations have been carried on between any other radio concerns and the Liberian Government, and the effect upon Radio Corporation’s existing agreement if Firestone agreement is signed.	264
July 9 (Dip.91)	From the Minister in Liberia Report that all negotiations with Firestone representative have ceased; that Liberian Government has advised Radio Corporation that it desires to have two wireless stations, but if there is to be but one, desires that Radio Corporation should have it. Opinion that nothing further will be done until the Government is advised of the final action of the Federal Radio Commission. Information that overtures made by German and British interests have been sidetracked.	265
July 25 (20)	From the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Transmittal of President King’s request that the Department use its good offices in facilitating the issuance of the necessary licenses to both the Radio Corporation and Firestone.	267
July 27	From Mr. Harvey S. Firestone, Jr. (tel.) Transmittal by Hines of a statement authorized by President King (text printed) that Liberian Government agrees to grant a public utility radio license to Firestone but feels that Liberia should have more than one radio public utility system of communication between Liberia and the United States. (Footnote: Information that this same statement was cabled by President King to Harvey Firestone, Jr., on July 30.)	268
July 30 (18)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Instructions to ask Hines for a verification of President King’s statement to him; and to obtain from President King a definite statement as to the nature of the license he is willing to grant Firestone, as well as further clarification of the Liberian Government’s policy regarding general commercial licenses.	268
Aug. 3 (23)	From the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Information that President King’s illness prevents immediate interview.	269
Aug. 7 (20)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Instructions to forward by cable the complete text of the proposed license for operation of a general commercial radio station in Liberia to be issued to Firestone; to discuss with President King the decision of the Radio Commission to assign only one wavelength for Liberia and report to Department by cable.	269
Aug. 15 (29)	From the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Report that President King states that the Liberian Government’s position is made plain in his telegram to Firestone of July 30.	270
Aug. 15	To the Chairman of the Federal Radio Commission Transmittal of views of Liberian Government regarding the question of the granting of licenses for general commercial radio communication with Liberia. Department’s desire that President King’s request that licenses be granted to both the Firestone Plantations Co. and to the Radio Corporation of America be considered.	271
Aug. 17 (25)	To the Minister in Liberia (tel.) Information that the Federal Radio Commission has granted the Radio Corporation a license for general radio communication with Liberia, thus making possible the double line of direct public service radio communication between Liberia and United States desired by Liberia.	272
Aug. 22 (Dip. 113)	From the Minister in Liberia Transmittal of correspondence exchanged between the Liberian Government and Firestone Plantations Co., June 15, June 21, and August 3 (texts printed); note from President King, August 16 (text printed); note to President King, August 18 and his reply August 20 (texts printed) expressing appreciation of Department’s good offices; also President King’s telegram, August 20, to the Radio Corporation of America (text printed) expressing appreciation.	272
Sept. 6 (Dip. 124)	From the Minister in Liberia Information that the Liberian Government radio stations at Monrovia and Cape Palmas were opened on September 1.	278
1929 Jan. 23 (Dip.216)	From the Minister in Liberia Radio agreement between the Republic of Liberia and the Firestone Plantations Co., signed January 22, 1929 (text printed).	279

LITHUANIA

Treaties of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Lithuania, Signed November 14, 1928

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Aug. 3 (723)	From the Lithuanian Chargé Information that Lithuania has accepted the U. S. proposal to sign treaties of arbitration and conciliation and that the treaties will be signed by the new Minister of Lithuania to the United States.	283
Nov. 14	Treaty Between the United States of America and Lithuania Of arbitration.	283
Nov. 14	Treaty Between the United States of America and Lithuania Of conciliation.	285

[Page XXXIV]

Representations to the Lithuanian Government Regarding Certain Requirements Affecting American Indirect Trade With Lithuania

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Nov. 10 (64)	To the Chargé in Lithuania (tel.) Information that the consul at Kovno reports that certificates of origin are required under amended Lithuanian tariff. Instructions to consult the consul and, if necessary, endeavor to work out arrangement similar to that effected with Latvia.	287
Nov. 23 (5728)	From the Chargé in Lithuania Despatches of November 13 and 21 from the consul at Kovno (texts printed) setting forth the substance of his conversations with Lithuanian officials concerning the question of certificates of origin in Lithuania.	288

MEXICO

Protection of Rights of American Owners of Oil Lands in Mexico

[Page XXXV]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 30 (215)	From the Ambassador in Mexico Information that the bill (text printed) providing for the amendment of articles 14 and 15 of the petroleum law of December 26, 1925, has been passed by the Chamber of Deputies.	292
1928 Jan. 9 (16)	From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Information that the President has signed the amendment to the petroleum act. Exchange of correspondence between Branch, representing the Huasteca Company, and Morones, the Secretary of Industry, Commerce and Labor (texts printed).	293
Undated [Rec’d Jan. 11] (22)	From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.) Information that the Diario Oficial of January 10 contains the official promulgation of the law amending articles 14 and 15 of the petroleum law of December 26, 1925.	295
Jan. 12 (23)	From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.) Information that the Ministry of Industry has no objection to release for publication of the correspondence with Branch; that Branch reports that a district court recently rendered a decision in an amparo action that the petroleum law of December 26, 1925, is unconstitutional in certain articles in addition to articles 14 and 15. Suggestion that publicity be deferred until receipt of full particulars from Branch.	295
Jan. 12 (24)	From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.) Branch’s memorandum (text printed) giving full particulars in regard to the decision rendered on January 7 by the third supernumerary judge of the Federal District in granting amparos to the Huasteca, Mexican, Tuxpan and Tamiahua oil companies.	296
Jan. 13 (12)	To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.) Information that the Department is giving a statement to the press based on the Embassy’s telegrams of January 12.	297
Feb. 10	From the Ambassador in Mexico Information that the oil companies will make no settlement of their preconstitutional rights until the untagged land question is settled to the satisfaction of the State Department.	297
Mar. 6 (421)	From the Ambassador in Mexico Transmittal of a draft of proposed amendments to the regulations of the Mexican petroleum law and text of the proposed transitory articles. Information concerning the negotiations.	298
Mar. 27 (471)	From the Ambassador in Mexico Letter to the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Labor (text printed) setting forth understanding of the purport of article 152, amended, of the regulations of the petroleum law promulgated by Executive decree March 27.	299
Mar. 27 (474)	From the Ambassador in Mexico Mexican decree of March 27, 1928 (text printed) containing amendments of the petroleum regulations promulgated April 8, 1926; and statement handed to the press, March 27, 1928, on behalf of Ambassador Morrow (text printed).	300
Mar. 27	Statement Issued to the Press by the Department of State Announcement that the petroleum regulations just promulgated by President Calles bring to a practical conclusion the discussions, begun 10 years ago, with reference to the effect of the Mexican Constitution and laws upon foreign oil companies; and that such questions as may hereafter arise can be settled through due operation of Mexican administrative departments and the Mexican courts.	307
Apr. 16 (101)	To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Request for verification of despatch in New York Times to the effect that Huasteca Petroleum Company has advised the Mexican Government through Branch that it accepts the recent petroleum regulations.	308
Apr. 16 (112)	From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Information from Branch that the newspaper report is correct.	308

Convention Between the United States and Mexico Safeguarding Live stock Interests Through the Prevention of Infectious and Contagious Diseases, Signed March 16, 1928

[Page XXXVI]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1926 Apr. 13 (2061)	From the Ambassador in Mexico Willingness of Mexican Government to participate in proposed conference between representatives of the U. S. Department of Agriculture and the Mexican Department of Agriculture and Fomento regarding problems of the livestock industry.	308
May 19 (900)	To the Ambassador in Mexico Instructions to inform the Mexican Government that the Department of Agriculture will name three representatives of the Bureau of Animal Industry to confer with Mexican delegates, suggests that the conference be held at an early date, and names El Paso, Texas, as a possible place of meeting.	310
July 15 (312)	From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Receipt of Foreign Office note stating that the Mexican Government accepts U. S. invitation to conference and is agreeable to holding of conference in July at Washington instead of El Paso, and advising that Mexican representatives will be Jose Figueroa and Daniel Ortiz Berumen.	310
July 24 (244)	To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Instructions to advise the Foreign Office that it will be agreeable to the United States to hold the conference in Washington instead of El Paso.	310
Aug. 4 (327)	From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Information that representative of Foreign Office at conference will be Antonio Castro Leal, counselor of Mexican Embassy at Washington.	311
Oct. 8	From the Mexican Chargé Information that the Mexican Government is prepared to appoint a plenipotentiary to conclude and sign the draft convention proposed by the delegates.	311
Nov. 15	To the Mexican Ambassador Information that the United States is prepared to sign the convention provided article 13 is modified. Proposed amendment of article 13 (text printed).	312
1927 Jan. 21	From the Mexican Ambassador Acceptance of proposed amendment of article 13 with slight changes in the wording.	313
Feb. 17	To the Mexican Ambassador Inquiry whether the Mexican Government will agree to amendment of article 13 proposed by the Secretary of Agriculture in letter of February 8 (extract printed).	313
Mar. 16	From the Mexican Chargé Notification of Mexican Government’s acceptance of amendment of article 13 proposed by Secretary of Agriculture.	315
1928 Feb. 24 (49)	To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Instructions to inquire informally of the Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs whether the Mexican Government would now be disposed to sign the convention.	316
Feb. 29 (63)	From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Information that the Mexican Government is ready to sign the convention, and that on March 2 the President will sign full powers for Ambassador Téllez to sign the convention.	316
Mar. 2 (62)	To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Instructions to inquire of Foreign Office whether it will agree that simultaneous press announcements regarding proposal to sign convention be made by both Governments.	317
Mar. 8 (73)	From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Information that Foreign Office states that March 16 will be satisfactory for signing of convention and that it will issue press statement to that effect March 9.	317
Mar. 16	Convention Between the United States of America and Mexico Safeguarding livestock interests through the prevention of infectious and contagious diseases.	317

[Page XXXVII]

Opposition of the Department of State to Any Undue Preference for Any Group of Creditors of the Mexican Government

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Nov. 2 (287)	To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Information that the Department has not been consulted regarding, and is not advised concerning, the nature of the negotiations which, according to press reports, representatives of foreign holders of Mexican bonds are conducting in Mexico. Instructions to call the Government’s attention to the fact that there are other obligations of the Mexican Government to U. S. citizens the existence of which should not be overlooked in connection with any financial adjustments the Mexican Government may have under consideration with its foreign bondholders.	321
Nov. 9 (1114)	From the Ambassador in Mexico Report that representatives of the International Committee of Bankers on the Mexican debt have been in consultation with the Minister of Hacienda for the purpose of discussing the general principles which might form the basis of a new agreement regarding external debt; that the Ambassador has made no formal representations but has informally called attention to the unfortunate situation which would arise if they conclude a new agreement of such a nature that it might break down when the country is faced with payment of other obligations including claims sponsored by various other governments.	322
Dec. 9 (319)	From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.) Information that the Minister of Finance has stated that political events of the past week have rendered it desirable to leave the debt negotiations and plans for railroad reorganization in statu quo until the situation becomes somewhat clarified.	323

Establishment of Air Mail Service Between the United States and Mexico

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 23	From the Second Assistant Postmaster General Request that the State Department inquire whether the Mexican Government would approve the operation of an air mail line from Brownsville, Texas, to Mexico City via Tampico and Vera Cruz.	323
Mar. 24 (79)	To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Instructions to address note to Foreign Office inquiring whether the Mexican Government would approve the establishment of an air mail line from Brownsville, Texas, to Mexico City via Tampico and Vera Cruz.	324
Apr. 3 (493)	From the Ambassador in Mexico Foreign Office note of March 31 (text printed) stating that under certain conditions the Mexican Government perceives no objection to the contemplated project.	324
Oct. 1	From President Calles to President Coolidge (tel.) Congratulations on the establishment of the air mail service between the two countries.	325
Oct. 1	From President Coolidge to President Calles (tel.) Expression of felicitation upon the inauguration of the air mail service.	326

[Page XXXVIII]

Good Offices of Ambassador Morrow in Facilitating Negotiations Between the Mexican Government and Representatives of the Roman Catholic Church

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 July 23	From the Ambassador in Mexico Review and record of the course of events and the conversations and principal correspondence which the Ambassador has had in regard to the religious situation in Mexico. Opinion that further discussion of an adjustment at this time is futile.	326
Nov. 23 (307)	From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.) Report of conference with President Calles on the clerical issue, November 22, in which the President stated that it was inadvisable to take up the matter in the few days he would remain in office.	335

Representations to the Mexican Government Regarding Protection of American Interests at Manzanillo From Attacks by Revolutionists

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 May 25	From the Vice Consul at Manzanillo (tel.) Report that on May 24 revolutionists attacked Manzanillo but were repelled and that all Americans are safe.	336
June 11	From the Vice Consul at Manzanillo (tel.) Telegram sent to the Embassy (text printed) reporting rumors that the revolutionists will again attack Manzanillo and will burn and destroy Manzanillo, especially the plant of the Standard Oil Company, and suggesting that this be brought to the attention of the Foreign Office.	336
June 12 (147)	To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.) Instructions to make suitable representations.	336
June 21 (704)	From the Chargé in Mexico Information that note was sent to Foreign Office on June 11 requesting that steps be taken to protect the interests of the California Standard Oil Company as well as other American interests in Manzanillo and that reply was received on June 18 that the military authorities had been advised to provide adequate protection for American interests.	337

Designation of the Third Member of the General and Special Claims Commissions by the President of the Administrative Council of the Hague Tribunal

[Page XXXIX]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Apr. 10	Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State Conversation with Mexican Ambassador in which the Ambassador stated that the Mexican Government did not approve any of the three names suggested to fill the vacancies of president of the Claims Commissions.	337
Apr. 23 (13)	To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Instructions to confer with the Mexican representative in the Netherlands and make joint request to the President of the Permanent Administrative Council of the Hague Tribunal that he designate the third member of the General and Special Claims Commissions, explaining that the same person will serve as the third member of each of the Commissions; and to telegraph name and biographical sketch of person selected.	338
Apr. 26 (17)	From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Information that the Netherlands Minister for Foreign Affairs will make appointment requested. (Footnote: Explanation that the Netherlands Minister for Foreign Affairs acts as President of the Permanent Administrative Council.)	339
June 16 (31)	From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Announcement that S. K. Sindballe has been designated as president general of Special Claims Commission.	340
June 16 (27)	To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Instructions to express appreciation of action taken by the Minister of Foreign Affairs.	340

MOROCCO

Reservation of Rights by the United States in the Application of Taxes to American Citizens and Protégés in the French Zone in Morocco

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 18 (255)	From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier Telegram dated January 10 from the French Resident General (text printed) conveying the information that the consumption tax on sugar has been increased owing to flood disasters in the Province of the Gharb. Reply dated January 18 (text printed) making specific allusions to illegal nature of levy of increased consumption tax upon U. S. citizens and protégés effected prior to Department’s assent thereto, and formulating full reservations.	341
Feb. 20 (461)	To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier Instructions to state to the French Residency General that U. S. treaty rights in Morocco exempt U. S. nationals and ressortissants from taxation, except such as provided for in treaties or to which the United States has been asked to consent or to which it has assented. Nonobjection to the proper authorities in the French Zone collecting the increased sugar consumption tax if it is applied without discrimination.	343

Negotiations Concerning Claims and Proposed Recognition by the United States of the Spanish Zone in Morocco

[Page XL] [Page XLI]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 4	To the Spanish Ambassador Transmittal of list of claims of U. S. nationals or ressortissants who have suffered losses in the Spanish Zone of Morocco.	344
Feb. 11 (75–11)	From the Spanish Ambassador Information that, in accordance with U. S. wishes, the Spanish consul general at Tangier has been instructed to collaborate with the U. S. diplomatic agent and consul general at Tangier in examining and reporting outstanding claims of U. S. citizens and protégés in connection with the Spanish Zone in Morocco.	346
Feb. 25	To the Spanish Ambassador Information that instructions have been sent to the U. S. diplomatic agent to examine the claims with the Spanish consul general and to prepare a joint report.	346
Feb. 25 (3)	To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.) Instructions to collaborate with Spanish consul general in examining the claims and in preparing a joint report.	347
June 16 (5)	From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.) Information that the joint report on American claims may be signed within two weeks. Request for permission to go to Madrid for consultation with Ambassador before representations are made to the Spanish Prime Minister.	348
June 22 (45)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Instructions that, after consultation with Blake, conversations should be initiated with the Spanish Government in regard to settlement of claims.	349
July 12 (311)	From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier Transmittal of correspondence with Spanish consul general of February 27, March 7, March 9, April 3, and April 4 (texts printed); and the joint report, July 12, on settlement of American claims in the Spanish Zone in Morocco, with summary of claims (texts printed).	349
Aug. 3 (985)	From the Ambassador in Spain Information that as yet no decision has been reached in the matter of American claims in the Spanish sphere of influence in Morocco.	357
Aug. 9 (52)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Authorization to intimate to the Spanish Government that the Department is awaiting an offer for the settlement of the claims. Information that the Department prefers to have the claims regarding which the Spanish consul general entered reservations, included in the settlement and has instructed the diplomatic agent at Tangier to forward a comprehensive memorandum citing reasons and precedents supporting these claims.	358
Aug. 15 (321)	From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier Memorandum (text printed) dealing fully with the question of the reservations as to certain claims made by Spanish consul general.	359
Nov. 22 (487)	To the Ambassador in Spain Instructions to make informal inquiries as to possibility of early action on settlement of claims by Spanish Government and to advise Spanish Government informally that recognition of the Spanish Protectorate will be considered as soon as a satisfactory settlement of the outstanding claims of U. S. citizens and protégés is made.	366

Attitude of the United States Toward Proposed Changes in the Status of Tangier

[Page XLII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Feb. 21 (29)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Information from the French Ambassador concerning the basis upon which the Franco-Spanish Tangier negotiations have been settled. Report that France and England have agreed with Spain to the calling of a conference in the near future at Malaga, to which Italy is to be asked, for the purpose of determining the extent of Italian participation in Tangier administration.	367
Feb. 29 (21)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Instructions to inquire informally at the Foreign Office concerning the basis for the reports regarding proposed Moroccan conference. Explanation that the U. S. attitude continues to be that indicated in the 1926 correspondence between the two Governments.	368
Mar. 2 (56)	From the Ambassador in France (tel.) Main points of the agreement concluding the Franco-Spanish negotiations which will probably be signed March 3.	369
Mar. 5 (33)	From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Report of interviews with the chief of the Diplomatic Bureau and with the counselor of the French Embassy. Request for authorization to discuss matters with Primo de Rivera.	369
Mar. 6 (8400)	From the Ambassador in France Information that the agreement was signed on March 3. Request for instructions should the four-power conversations be held in Paris.	370
Mar. 7 (24)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Authorization to discuss Moroccan matters with Primo de Rivera.	371
Undated [Rec’d Mar. 14] (67)	From the Ambassador in France (tel.) Information that the four-power Tangier conversations will begin at Quai d’Orsay on March 20.	371
Mar. 15 (76)	To the Ambassador in France (tel.) Memorandum for the Foreign Office (text printed) stating that the U. S. views regarding Tangier remain unaltered and reserving U. S. position on any decisions taken by the conference. (Instructions to repeat to London, Madrid, and Rome for similar action by them and to Tangier for its information.)	371
Mar. 21 (44)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Report of interview with Primo de Rivera, at time of presentation of note, in which Primo said that the Spanish Government had no desire to interfere with the maintenance of the open door in Tangier or with the protection which U. S. citizens and interests enjoyed under the Algeciras Act. (Repeated to Paris, Tangier, London, and Rome.)	372
May 25 (134)	From the Ambassador in France (tel.) Associated Press report that the Tangier agreement was reached May 24. Foreign Office statement that agreement will be communicated to all signatories to Act of Algeciras.	373
Aug. 2 (8836)	From the Ambassador in France Foreign Office note of July 31 (text printed) transmitting copies of the final protocol of the Tangier conference.	373
Dec. 21	To Mr. Walter Littlefield of the “New York Times” Statement of the attitude of the United States toward the recent agreement between Great Britain, France, Spain, and Italy.	374

NETHERLANDS

Understanding Between the United States and the Netherlands Concerning Reciprocal Access to Petroleum Resources

[Page XLIII] [Page XLIV] [Page XLV]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Nov. 14 (3225)	From the Netherlands Minister Information that a bill has been introduced in Parliament granting a concession to the Nederlandsche Koloniale Petroleum Maatschappij, a subsidiary of the Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey; and that after this project becomes law the Netherlands Government will continue to take the same line in the future with regard to issuing of oil lands. Hope that, in view of these facts, the United States will now declare the Netherlands a reciprocating country under the provisions of the U. S. general leasing act of 1920.	375
Dec. 28	To the Netherlands Minister Letter from the Department of the Interior, December 14 (excerpt printed) suggesting that an application be filed under the provisions of the general leasing law of 1920, in order that the Dutch position under U. S. laws may now be passed upon.	376
1928 Jan. 7 (1385)	From the Minister in the Netherlands Interview with the Foreign Minister who expressed the hope that the passage of the Koloniale bill through the second Chamber would be accepted by the United States as evidence of the Netherlands Government’s desire to establish complete reciprocity between the two nations.	377
Feb. 3 (6)	To the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.) Instructions to ascertain whether report concerning possible legislation in the United States applicable to naval oil reserves is being circulated in the Netherlands.	378
Feb. 4 (6)	From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.) Report that Reuter news agency despatch alleged that difficulties had resulted from the Royal Dutch purchase of naval reserve oil from the Honolulu Oil Co. Foreign Minister’s intimation of possibility of postponement of the Koloniale bill in view of recent rumors.	378
Feb. 8 (7):	From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.) Report that Koloniale oil bill was approved by the first Chamber on February 8.	379
Feb. 18 (1427)	From the Chargé in the Netherlands Colonial Minister’s declaration that should the U. S. Government fail to extend complete reciprocity in oil matters, he might withhold his signature to the bill. Opinion that the Netherlands Government, in order to clear the record of charges of lack of reciprocity made in the President’s message May 16, 1921, may desire a formal statement from the U. S. Government rather than to leave their vindication to the filing of an application for a permit by the Royal Dutch.	379
Feb. 24 (8)	From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.) Information that the Netherlands Chargé at Washington has been instructed that his Government, before signing the oil bill, wishes a formal statement that the U. S. Government now considers the Netherlands a reciprocating country under the provisions of the general leasing act of 1920.	381
Mar. 2 (8)	To the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.) Informal memorandum for the Foreign Office (text printed) expressing belief that an informal exchange of views rather than continuation of formal diplomatic correspondence which has extended over 8 years is better calculated to facilitate a prompt understanding; also setting forth U. S. position and concluding with three conditions precedent to U. S. action.	381
Mar. 5 (9)	From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.) Opinion of Secretary General of the Foreign Office that it should not be difficult to meet the provisions of the U. S. memorandum; his belief that the Colonial Minister, in complying therewith, would expect a definite declaration that the Netherlands is considered a reciprocating country. Inquiry whether Department of the Interior is disposed to give this assurance.	384
Mar. 10 (9)	To the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.) Authorization to state orally and informally that, in view of statement in latter part of U. S. memorandum that recognition of the Netherlands as a reciprocating country would in principle be assured should that Government do certain specified things, the Chargé is unable to understand what more definite declaration could be made at this time.	384
Mar. 14 (11)	From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.) Information that the Dutch, sensitive to the charges of nonreciprocity, desire the promise of a written declaration, possibly a letter from the Interior Department, recognizing the Netherlands as a reciprocating country, to be made upon receipt of a satisfactory reply to the U. S. memorandum. Request for authorization, if the Interior Department is prepared to make such a promise, to so inform the Foreign Office.	384
Mar. 28 (10)	To the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.) Department’s feeling that it is now the Netherlands Government’s move. Authorization, however, to state informally that there will be no objection to the desired written declaration when the Netherlands Government, in reply to the U. S. memorandum, shall have met the conditions stated therein.	385
Apr. 10 (16)	From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Foreign Office assurance that signature of bill granting concessions may be expected soon.	386
May 14 (20)	From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Information that the Colonial Minister is prepared to sign the bill provided assurances are given that the U. S. Government regards the Shell Co. and the Bataafsche Petroleum Co., despite British interest in those concerns, as Dutch companies within the meaning of the reciprocal provisions of the leasing act.	386
May 14 (1517)	From the Minister in the Netherlands Detailed confirmation of telegram No. 20, May 14; statement that the Colonial Department is in agreement with contentions set forth in U. S. memorandum and that remaining questions relate to interpreting “equivalent,” as used in the memorandum, and as to whether U. S. corporations controlled by Dutch interests could acquire leases on U. S. public lands.	386
May 21 (17)	To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Authorization to convey informally the information that the Department, after receiving definite information concerning the Netherlands Government’s position with respect to points in latter part of the U. S. memorandum, will be willing to consider further the inquiry contained in telegram No. 20, May 14; also to make an oral statement expressing the belief that, if the Netherlands Government meets the views set forth in U. S. memorandum, U. S. officials will be disposed to examine in the friendliest spirit the means of facilitating access of U. S. companies controlled by Dutch interests to U. S. public mineral lands.	390
May 26 (24)	From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Request for authorization formally to assure Foreign Office that the Netherlands Government’s assent to the three conditions in the U. S. memorandum will be followed by U. S. recognition of the Netherlands as a reciprocating country, and U. S. companies owned by Dutch interests will enjoy, even if a minor part of stock is owned by nonreciprocating country’s nationals, all advantages appertaining to reciprocity.	391
May 26 (1522)	From the Minister in the Netherlands Detailed confirmation of telegram No. 24, May 26.	391
May 29 (20)	To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Department’s conclusion that any formal advances would not be appropriate. Instructions to talk matter over informally along lines of telegram No. 17, May 21, and to make it clear that the United States is waiting for the Netherlands Government’s views; also to express the opinion that public opinion in the United States may demand measures which would condition access to both public and private lands upon reciprocity.	394
June 7 (24)	To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Explanation of meaning of “equivalent” as used in U. S. memorandum. Instructions to make oral statement authorized in last part of telegram No. 17, May 21.	395
June 29	To the Secretary of the Navy Statement of Department’s views in regard to the naval oil reserves.	396
July 10 (1553)	From the Minister in the Netherlands Memorandum from the Foreign Office (text printed) containing assurances requested in the U. S. memorandum; Legation’s acknowledgment (text printed); and a second memorandum from the Foreign Office (text printed) recording certain views with regard to possible legal and other difficulties which might arise in connection with the exploitation of concessions in U. S. public lands.	398
July 17 (35)	From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Information that the Minister for the Colonies has signed and delivered the Koloniale Petroleum Co. contracts.	402
July 21 (1561)	From the Minister in the Netherlands Receipt of note from Foreign Office informing the Minister of the signature, on July 17, of four contracts granting petroleum concessions to the Koloniale Petroleum Co.; the Legation’s reply, July 21 (text printed) conveying to the Netherlands Government recognition by the United States as a reciprocating nation within the meaning of the provisions of the leasing act of 1920.	402
Aug. 4 (1574)	From the Minister in the Netherlands Foreign Office note of August 2 (text printed) expressing satisfaction at arrangement reached.	403
Oct. 1 (592)	To the Minister in the Netherlands Memorandum for the Foreign Office (text printed) in reply to the Netherlands second memorandum of July 10. Instructions to point out orally that this reply is made not in a spirit of controversy but merely for purposes of record; and to indicate that should the Netherlands Government be willing to withdraw its memorandum, the Minister is authorized to withhold this memorandum in reply.	404
Oct. 15 (1663)	From the Minister in the Netherlands Information concerning presentation of memorandum and oral statements made in compliance with Department’s instructions.	406

Treaty Between the United States and the Netherlands for the Advancement of Peace, Signed December 18, 1913, and Protocol Interpretative of Article I Thereof, Signed February 13, 1928

[Page XLVI]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Feb. 13	To President Coolidge Request that protocol interpretative of article I of the treaty be transmitted to the Senate for ratification. (Footnote: Information that the protocol was submitted to the Senate on February 16.)	407
	Treaty Between the United States of America and the Netherlands, Signed December 18, 1913 For the advancement of peace.	408
Feb. 13	Protocol Interpretative of article I of the treaty for advancement of peace, signed December 18, 1913.	410
Sept. 8	To the Netherlands Chargé Suggestion that the date within which the organization of the Commission may be completed be extended from September 10, 1928, to March 10, 1929.	411
Sept. 8 (2906)	From the Netherlands Chargé Approval of extension of the time within which the organization of the Commission may be completed.	411

Proposed Treaty of Arbitration Between the United States and the Netherlands

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 29 (11)	To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Information that the Netherlands Chargé has been handed a draft treaty of arbitration whose provisions operate to extend the policy of arbitration enunciated in the convention of 1908, which expires March 25, 1929; and that the text of the proposed treaty will be forwarded in the next pouch.	412
June 27 (1949)	From the Netherlands Minister Aide-mémoire suggesting various changes in draft of proposed treaty.	412
Oct. 4 (3145)	From the Netherlands Legation Proposal to enter into a renewal agreement of the existing treaty of May 2, 1908. (Footnote: Information that an agreement further extending the duration of the convention was signed February 27, 1929.)	416

NICARAGUA

Assistance by the United States in the Supervision of Elections in Nicaragua

[Page XLVII] [Page XLVIII] [Page XLIX] [Page L] [Page LI] [Page LII] [Page LIII] [Page LIV] [Page LV] [Page LVI] [Page LVII] [Page LVIII] [Page LIX]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 10 (16)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that electoral law was passed by Senate and sent to Chamber of Deputies. Possibility of opposition, and several days’ delay before final action.	418
Jan. 10 (10)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information concerning conferences with the Nicaraguan Minister in which the Minister was advised of U. S. dissatisfaction with the present state of affairs regarding the electoral law; the Minister’s contention that the law in its present form is unconstitutional and therefore would not be passed. Instructions to confer with President Diaz and to state the U. S. position to the effect that (1) objection to the legislation is untenable as a proposition of constitutional law; (2) refusal to enact it can be regarded as a flagrant breach of faith; (3) powers conferred on electoral board are considered absolutely essential to execution of the agreement; (4) further delay might compel the United States seriously to consider other measures.	418
Jan. 13 (23)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Medrano has been selected as Liberal Vice Presidential candidate on ticket with Moncada. Inquiry whether the Department sees any reason to question the constitutionality of Medrano’s election.	420
Jan. 13 (14)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the Department would regard the abandonment or postponement of the enactment of the electoral law in favor of any plan for convening of a constituent assembly as a deliberate sabotage of the Stimson Agreement; and that the Department cannot give its assent to any such procedure.	421
Jan. 14 (26)	To the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.) For White: Transmittal of telegram from the Chargé in Nicaragua (text printed) urging that Cuadra Pasos be approached and requested to cable his personal adherents to change their attitude of opposition to the electoral law; and conveying understanding that Cuadra Pasos has already cabled and advised that consideration of law be delayed.	421
Jan. 15 (29)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that committee report approved by Chamber of Deputies stated constitutional objections to electoral law and proposed a substitute project; that in discussions with Chamorro the Chargé had stated that the substitute project was utterly unacceptable. Opinion that opposition of Chamber of Deputies can be worn down eventually if situation is handled properly.	422
Jan. 16 (18)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Department’s unwillingness to pass upon the question of Medrano’s eligibility under Nicaraguan Constitution.	423
Jan. 16 (30)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Recommendation that note setting forth position of U. S. Government, as expressed in Department’s telegram No. 10, January 10, be given to Nicaraguan Minister for transmittal to his Government to counteract the harmful effect of rumors that the U. S. Government is no longer interested in a free election in Nicaragua.	424
Jan. 17 (17)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Authorization to present note to President Diaz (text printed) setting forth U. S. views.	424
Jan. 17 (32)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Chamber of Deputies has approved the substitute electoral law; that Diaz has promised to try to persuade the Conservative Deputies to reconsider this action; and that if this cannot be done, it may be necessary to introduce the McCoy project in an amended form as a new measure, since the Constitution prohibits the consideration of a measure twice by the same legislature.	425
Jan. 17	From the Assistant Secretary of State, Then in Habana Memorandum, dated January 15, recording conversation with Cuadra Pasos (text printed); and memorandum, dated January 17, recording conversation between the Secretary of State and Cuadra Pasos, January 16 (text printed).	425
Jan. 18 (33)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Chamber of Deputies has sent substitute electoral project to the Senate. Report of interview with three of the leaders of the Conservative Deputies in which they expressed unyielding opposition to General McCoy’s project, and of a later interview with six Conservative Senators who promised that the new project would not be approved.	436
Jan. 19 (21)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Desire for information (1) as to what further legislative procedure is contemplated or is possible; (2) full text of amendments adopted by the Chamber of Deputies; and (3) whether there is any doubt regarding attitude of President Diaz henceforward. Information that Eberhardt and McCoy have been instructed to proceed to Managua without delay.	437
Jan. 19 (11)	To the Chargé in Panama (tel.) For General McCoy: Instructions to proceed to Managua at once. Explanation that situation there is critical because of Chamber of Deputies’ refusal to pass electoral law and rumors of Diaz’ resignation.	438
Jan. 19 (7)	From the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) From White: Report on interview with Cuadra Pasos and interview with Zepeda, who believes that an agreement can be reached by a very minor change in phraseology which will leave the law as effective as originally drafted. (Copy sent to Nicaragua.)	438
Jan. 19 (35)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information of efforts being made to persuade the Senate not to reject the substitute electoral law; of interview with President Diaz in which the Chargé expressed his willingness to recommend such changes in form as did not in any manner lessen McCoy’s powers if and when convinced the Chamber of Deputies had really changed its attitude and would accept the project without further changes. Inquiry whether the Department would under such circumstances agree to certain additions.	439
Jan. 20 (36)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information as to what further legislative procedure is contemplated or is possible; transmittal of the substitute project (text printed) and a few objections to the project; information that President Diaz is not yet completely convinced that the electoral law must be passed. Belief that every possible effort should be made to secure favorable action by the Nicaraguan Congress.	440
Jan. 20 (37)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the substitute electoral law has been sent to the Senate.	442
Jan. 20 (23)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that McCoy has left Panama en route to Managua. Suggestions as to amendments which the Chargé is to use only in case he reaches a point where it seems necessary to agree to some such amendments to obtain results.	443
Jan. 21 (24)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Statement pointing out the inevitable consequence of U. S. refusal to recognize a government established in disregard of the result to which it had certified. Instructions to read the statement to President Diaz and Chamorro and to make plain that this must not be taken as in any way modifying the U. S. main position that the duties and obligations imposed by the Tipitapa Agreement must be fulfilled.	444
Jan. 21 (25)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Inquiry, in view of rumors which may be circulated in Nicaragua that the United States intends to favor a particular candidate or party in the election, whether any new public statement of U. S. neutrality and impartiality would be advisable; or whether publication in Nicaragua of note of November 17, 1927, to the Nicaraguan Minister would be sufficient.	445
Jan. 21 (13)	From the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American Slates (tel.) From White: Information that Cuadra Pasos and Zepeda are optimistic that the electoral law will be passed; their suggestion that opposition would be removed if a new translation were made and if it were called a revised project. Cuadra Pasos’ opinion that a statement that the United States was not attempting to place the Liberals in office would be helpful.	446
Jan. 22 (26)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Transmittal of telegram No. 13, January 21, from the chairman of the American delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States; request for comments.	446
Jan. 22 (43)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that McCoy has arrived.	447
Jan. 23 (13)	To the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) For White: Transmittal of telegram No. 24, January 21, to the Chargé in Nicaragua; instructions to repeat statement to Cuadra Pasos.	447
Jan. 23 (15)	To the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) For White: Transmittal of text of the substitute project approved by Chamber of Deputies January 17.	447
Jan. 23 (16)	To the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) For White: English text of the electoral law as submitted to the Nicaraguan Congress (text printed).	447
Jan. 23 (44)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Reasons why a further statement with regard to U. S. impartiality would not be advisable. Opinion that the difficulty will not be overcome by revising the translation of the electoral law, since the opposition in the Chamber of Deputies has been directed against the whole idea of supervision.	449
Jan. 24 (46)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Interview with Chamorro in which the Chargé again made clear the unalterable intention of the Department that the election should be conducted according to the agreement concluded between the Governments; and gained the impression that, although Chamorro stated he had not changed his position, he nevertheless was seeking a dignified way out.	450
Jan. 24 (28)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Concurrence with Chargé’s conclusion concerning the inadvisability of a further statement of U. S. impartiality. Instructions to exert every effort to bring about adjustment on basis of electoral law, redrafted, if need be, to save the face of the opposition without impairing effective U. S. supervisory control of the election. Suggestion that the regulations might be embodied in the law itself.	451
Jan. 25 (26)	From the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) From White: Conversation with Cuadra Pasos and Zepeda concerning Joaquin Gomez’ proposed modified law which they promised to redraft when told that its changes were absolutely unacceptable. (Copy sent to the Chargé in Nicaragua.)	451
Jan. 25 (47)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Report of conference with the President at which General McCoy was present. Chargé’s impression that a way out can be found by letting the Deputies see the regulations which McCoy is drafting and thus allay their fears that the regulations favor the Liberals.	453
Jan. 27 (39)	From the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) From White: Receipt from Cuadra Pasos of new draft electoral law (text printed) which now is substantially the same as the McCoy law.	454
Jan. 28 (32)	To the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) For White: Approval of new draft electoral law. Suggestion that “or suplente” be added in penultimate sentence of article 2. (Repeated to Managua.)	458
Jan. 28 (35)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Transmittal of Dodds’ suggestion that McCoy may want to consider method of handling municipal elections in November.	458
Jan. 28 (45)	From the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) From White: Information that Cuadra Pasos agrees to insertion of words “or suplente” in article 2.	459
Feb. 1 (61)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that President Diaz professes to have received no definite word from Habana regarding Cuadra Pasos’ compromise proposal; that the President, at the Chargé’s suggestion, has promised to recall invitation sent to 50 prominent members of the Conservative Party to meet at Managua Sunday to discuss the party’s attitude toward the electoral law. (Repeated to Habana.)	459
Feb. 1 (60)	From the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) From White: Information that Cuadra Pasos and Zepeda have promised to cable members of the Conservative Party to support the electoral law at conference.	460
Undated [Rec’d Feb. 2] (66)	From the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) Cable, February 2, from White to the Legation in Nicaragua (text printed) reporting that Cuadra Pasos has telegraphed new text of electoral law to President Diaz and that Cuadra Pasos states he is doing all he possibly can to advance the electoral law; and also requesting to be informed of anything Cuadra Pasos can do or of names of persons whom he should cable directly.	460
Feb. 2 (64)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) From McCoy: Report of conversations with President Diaz, General Moncada, and General Chamorro. Recommendation of unremitting pressure on Diaz and Nicaraguan Government for fulfillment of agreement.	461
Feb. 6 (82)	From the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) Telegram from White to Managua (text printed) reporting results of Cesar’s conferences with Cuadra Pasos; Cuadra Pasos’ view that he cannot convince his followers by cable and that it will be necessary to wait until his return to Managua on February 25; and White’s belief that Chamorro is the crux of the whole situation.	462
Feb. 7 (70)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that opposition in Conservative Party to passage of a satisfactory electoral law is becoming more determined and more general. Request for approval to give out statement of U. S. position (text printed).	462
Feb. 8 (90)	From the Chairman of the American Delegation to the Sixth International Conference of American States (tel.) Telegram from White to the Legation in Nicaragua (text printed) reporting an interview with Cuadra Pasos concerning President Diaz’ contention that the public in general feel that the United States is supporting not the Liberal Party but General Moncada personally; also Cuadra Pasos’ statement that he is again instructing César in Washington to cable his support of the electoral law. Suggestion that the Department impress upon César the necessity of taking the action instructed by Cuadra Pasos.	464
Feb. 8 (38)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Observations regarding proposed statement.	466
Feb. 15 (80)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that, at the Minister’s suggestion, Congress has adjourned until March 5; that there is no apparent change in the attitude of the Conservative Deputies.	467
Feb. 18 (83)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that there is a marked revival of unrest and rumors of impending disorder, caused in part by Sandino’s appearance near Matagalpa; that, in view of the situation, the guardia will take over the policing of Managua about March 15.	467
Undated [Rec’d Feb. 20] (85)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Moncada and Medrano were officially nominated for President and Vice President by the convention of the Liberal Party at Leon.	468
Feb. 21 (86)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) For White: Report that Conservative press is emphasizing the plan for selecting a single presidential candidate; receipt of press despatches ‘stating that President Coolidge, Mr. Hughes, and Colonel Stimson have expressed warm approval of the plan and that Mr. Hughes has promised efficient U. S. cooperation; opinion that Moncada and his supporters will oppose this plan.	468
Feb. 23 (42)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) The Secretary’s intention to issue a statement (text printed), in view of numerous rumors and newspaper articles conveying the impression that the U. S. Government is showing partiality.	469
Feb. 23 (43)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that United States has no suggestions to make on the subject of the selection of a coalition ticket or single presidential candidate. Authorization to deny categorically that individuals mentioned in telegram No. 86, February 21, have at any time expressed the views attributed to them.	469
Feb. 25 (92)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Request for authorization to issue statement outlined in telegram No. 70, February 7, with a few modifications to eliminate dangers pointed out by the Department.	470
Feb. 27 (47)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Authorization to issue statement as modified.	471
Mar. 2 (105)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report of conversation with President Diaz regarding redraft of the transitory provisions prepared in Habana by Cuadra Pasos. Request that the Department send a strong cable stating that the U. S. Government expects prompt passage of compromise proposal.	471
Mar. 3 (55)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Context of a strong statement to the effect that the U. S. Government expects prompt passage of the compromise proposal. Authorization to use statement in any quarter deemed desirable.	473
Mar. 5 (108)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Suggestion that Zepeda cable Chamorro recommending that the electoral law be passed.	474
Mar. 5 (61)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Zepeda states he will telegraph Chamorro recommending passage of electoral law.	474
Mar. 9 (115)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that President Diaz has authorized the Minister to inform the Department that the law would pass on Monday or Tuesday; that Chamorro has informed McCoy that he will consent to its passage if certain provisions are inserted concerning maintenance of order and fair treatment in the appointment of secretaries of the local electoral boards.	474
Mar. 13 (116)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Reasons for Chamorro’s bitter opposition to the law in its present form; his threat to issue a manifesto withdrawing from politics. Presentation of counter proposals to one of Chamorro’s followers.	475
Mar. 13 (117)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the Chamber of Deputies has rejected the electoral law by a vote reported to be 24 to 18.	476
Mar. 14 (119)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Conference with Cuadra Pasos and President Diaz in which conviction was expressed that it would be desirable for Congress to adjourn March 15 at the end of its regular session; and the suggestion was made that, in order to organize the National Board of Elections and make preparations for the election, the President issue a decree containing the substance of the transitory provisions, such a decree to rest on article III, clauses 2 and 33 of the Constitution and to be ratified subsequently at a special session of Congress when the Government was able to command a majority.	476
Mar. 15 (69)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) For the Minister and McCoy: Department’s approval of plan to proceed by Executive decree; belief that the decree should not be conditioned upon ratification by Congress and doubt as to wisdom of making any reference to constitutional provisions supporting it; intimation that it might be desirable for the President of the United States to make the same decree, mutatis mutandis, in the form of an order to McCoy.	478
Mar. 16 (130)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Plan, in order to make decree conform to Nicaraguan conceptions of constitutional procedure, for McCoy, like president of existing National Board of Elections, to be elected by the Supreme Court of Nicaragua.	479
Mar. 17 (71)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Nonobjection to plan suggested in telegram No. 130, March 16. Understanding that McCoy will be elected by the Supreme Court upon the nomination of the President of the United States.	479
Mar. 19 (136)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Opinion that it would not be necessary or advisable to issue the order to General McCoy suggested in telegram No. 69, March 15.	480
Mar. 19 (74)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Approval of text of proposed decree. Request for suggestion as to alternate for McCoy on the National Board of Elections.	480
Mar. 20 (137)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Recommendation that Col. Francis Le J. Parker be designated as alternate to General McCoy.	480
Mar. 20 (138)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that that morning General McCoy took oath of office before the Supreme Court as Chairman of the National Board of Elections. Hope that the decree will be issued March 21.	481
Mar. 21 (76)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) For McCoy: Navy Department’s apprehension concerning provisions of article 8 of the decree which delegates to McCoy authority over the guardia to the extent that may be necessary in carrying out the elections. Department’s assumption that McCoy does not intend to take charge of the guardia and operate it as a separate military unit, but that in actual practice McCoy will deal with and through the appropriate officers of the Marine Brigade.	481
Mar. 22 (145)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) From McCoy: Desirability of incorporating into decree authority for U. S. representatives to utilize guardia for electoral purposes; opinion that there will be no difficulty in arriving at a satisfactory adjustment along lines desired.	482
Mar. 24 (148)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Decree promulgated March 21 (text printed).	482
Mar. 24 (82)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Letter from President Coolidge, March 22 (text printed) authorizing the Secretary of State to inform President Diaz, as soon as decree has been published, that General McCoy has been formally nominated as chairman of the commission to supervise the forthcoming elections in Nicaragua, and that Colonel Parker has been designated as alternate. Instructions to convey this information to President Diaz.	485
Mar. 28 (86)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that César and Gomez have informed the Department of the difficulties in the Conservative Party and have been told that the Department cannot intervene in any way.	486
Apr. 2 (166)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Martin Benard’s announced intention to accept Vice Presidential nomination on ticket with Rappaccioli, whom Chamorro is supporting for Presidency, will reduce the contest in Conservative Party to one between Chamorro and the Granada Conservatives on the one hand, and Cuadra Pasos, backed more or less openly by the Administration, on the other hand; also that Chamorro has stated most definitely that he has no objection to the conduct of the elections under Presidential decree, which statement is important in view of possibility that he may protest the legality of the elections if the Liberals win.	486
Apr. 10 (173)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Inquiry whether Minister should suggest that the President withhold the manifesto which he proposes to issue stating that he personally favors Cuadra Pasos as Conservative candidate for President because of his pro-Americanism.	487
Apr. 12 (92)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Instructions not to make any representations or comment in any way on the action of President Diaz.	487
May 5 (202)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the results of the Conservative departmental conventions have been inconclusive; that in the majority of departments one faction or the other walked out and there have been two conventions; that there will be a violent contest over organization of the national convention when it meets on May 20 unless the two factions can reach an agreement before that time.	488
May 10 (206)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that half of the delegates to the Conservative Convention are still in dispute and that the decision in these contested cases will rest with the Conservative national directorate, which Chamorro claims to control; that Cuadra Pasos has intimated that unless an arrangement is reached before May 20 there will probably be two conventions and McCoy would be compelled to decide which was the legal Conservative ticket.	488
May 15 (212)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that the President has publicly announced he would not call a meeting of the Conservative national directorate, and that this action makes the holding of two conventions increasingly probable. Opinion that the administration faction intends to force a decision of the National Board in the belief that the board would decide against Chamorro.	489
May 16 (214)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that, despite the President’s announcement, 11 of the 19 members of the Conservative directorate met on May 15, summoned by the secretary; observation that this shows clearly that Chamorro controls the majority of the directorate.	489
May 17 (216)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Colonel Parker to General McCoy: Details of the fight between Conservative factions over the powers and functions of the national directorate, for such comment as General McCoy may wish to communicate.	490
May 17 (218)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information concerning action taken by Chamorro members of Conservative directorate at a second meeting, May 16; the President’s statement that he will not recognize the validity of any action taken by the directorate at these meetings, because they had been illegally called.	491
May 18 (114)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) For Minister and Parker: Hope that the necessity for calling upon the National Board to decide, directly or indirectly, factional disputes within either party may be avoided; intimation that any political maneuvers to throw choice of President into Congress cannot fail to be viewed with the gravest misgivings.	491
May 20 (222)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that, in two separate and orderly conventions, one Conservative faction nominated Cuadra Pasos but did not name Vice Presidential candidate; the other nominated Rappaccioli and Martin Benard.	492
May 22 (117)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) For Minister and Parker: Considerations as to Department’s policy should the Conservative split continue. Instructions to avoid any attempt to forecast the action of the National Board of Elections in the contingency that it may be finally called upon to exercise its full powers; and for General Parker to reserve all action in regard to article 9 of the regulations. Request for views concerning advisability of a possible present or further statement emphasizing Tipitapa Agreement, the party’s duties and obligations, and Department’s desires and expectations.	492
May 24 (231)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the course followed has been in accordance with telegrams No. 114, May 18, and No. 117, May 22. Opinion that present or future statement would have little effect upon conditions existing in Conservative Party; that only effective way to convince both factions is for National Board of Elections to make an announcement which would definitely restrict the election to two parties, but that present is not opportune for such an announcement.	494
May 25 (231)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that the National Board of Elections has filed without action similar communications from each faction, dated May 23 and May 25, claiming recognition as representing the Conservative Party. Recommendation that a statement be issued by the Legation (text printed).	495
May 28 (123)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) For Minister and Parker: Department’s desire that Legation not issue statement contained in telegram No. 231, May 25.	497
June 27 (263)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that McCoy on returning to Managua made it clear he would not act as arbiter between the two factions, but that any action taken would be as president of the National Board of Elections and in cooperation with the other two members of the board; that written statements have been submitted and oral statements are now being made by representatives of each side before the National Board and in the presence of representatives of the other faction.	498
June 29 (265)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that on June 28 McCoy informally exchanged views with other two members of the board with the result that Castillo, the Conservative member, offered to endeavor to persuade the two Conservative factions to present one ticket.	499
July 2 (268)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that conference of Conservative factions will take place July 3 in endeavor to reach an agreement.	499
July 5 (270)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the conference adjourned without result; that later discussions between subcommittees have been equally fruitless; that both Cuadra Pasos and the President expressed the belief that there was no prospect of further advance toward understanding until after Electoral Board makes some formal decision.	499
July 7 (272)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Resolution of the National Board of Elections (text printed) to the effect that neither of the two factions has duly established its right to be recognized as representing the Conservative Party. Statement issued by the president of the board (text printed).	500
July 12 (281)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that, as a result of several conferences among Conservative leaders, it has been decided that the directorates of the two factions be given full powers to decide the dispute either by majority vote or by unanimity and that Chamorro has apparently agreed with the proviso that the decision be between the two candidates nominated by Cuadra Pasos.	501
July 26 (297)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the President and Chamorro have agreed upon Adolfo Benard as Conservative candidate for Presidency and Julio Cardenal as Vice Presidential candidate; that formal nomination will probably be made July 26 by combined directorates of the two factions.	502
Aug. 2 (301)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that on July 11 the National Board of Elections formally recognized the new directorate of the Conservative Party and on the same day formally adopted the regulations to govern the election.	502
Aug. 10 (306)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Medrano, candidate for Vice Presidency, has resigned because of illness.	503
Aug. 12 (307)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the Liberal directorate nominated Aguado to succeed Medrano.	503
Aug. 23 (318)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that on August 20 the Conservative member of the National Board of Elections presented a statement opposing the acceptance by the board of Moncada’s nomination for the Presidency; and that on August 21 the board, with the dissenting vote of the Conservative member, decided to accept Moncada’s nomination.	503
Sept. 24 (351)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that registration, which started September 23, took place without disorders.	505
Oct. 1 (355)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Moncada proposes an agreement between Conservatives and Liberals promising to request U. S. supervision of the 1932 election. Request for authorization to convey Moncada’s proposal to President Diaz and Adolfo Benard for their consideration.	505
Oct. 3 (191)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Instructions to reply to Moncada that while the Department is most gratified at his confidence and while the Minister feels sure the Department would give sympathetic consideration to any request so made by both parties, the Minister feels it would be better to take action only when matter is presented by both parties for transmission to L. S. Government rather than to act as intermediary between the two parties.	506
Undated [Rec’d Oct. 11]	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Electoral mission report No. 1 giving detailed account of registration.	507
Oct. 12 (363)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that figures which are still incomplete indicate that over 150,000 voters registered. Claim of Liberals to larger majority than the Conservatives.	509
Oct. 19 (365)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that Moncada is sending letter to Benard promising to request American supervision of the next election if the Liberal Party wins, and calling on Benard to make a similar promise.	509
Oct. 30 (832)	From the Minister in Nicaragua Letters exchanged between the Liberal and Conservative presidential candidates regarding the proposed supervision by the United States of the presidential election of 1932 (texts printed).	510
Nov. 2 (374)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that, two days before election, conditions throughout Nicaragua appear to be satisfactory; that leaders of both parties have expressed themselves as satisfied with manner in which electoral supervision has been conducted.	513
Nov. 4	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Electoral information report No. 3 giving detailed account of conditions attending election.	513
Nov. 5	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Electoral information report No. 10 conveying information of Liberal victory and press comments on the election.	515
Nov. 8	From President Coolidge to President Diaz (tel.) Message of congratulation.	515
Nov. 9	From President Diaz to President Coolidge (tel.) Expression of appreciation for message of congratulation.	516
Nov. 12 (385)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) From McCoy: Detailed report on election.	517
Dec. 6 (410)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that the National Board of Elections has completed its canvass and that on December 7 Moncada and Aguado will be formally notified of their election.	519
Dec. 13 (412)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that both the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies have provisionally accepted the new members elected November 4; that it appears probable that Congress will be organized on the basis of the outcome of the election and that there will be no difficulty about the proclamation of the results of the presidential elections.	520
Dec. 15	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Electoral information report No. 12 giving details of final work of the mission; McCoy’s resignation as President of the National Board of Elections; date of departure of mission.	520
Dec. 19 (419)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Suggestion that a strong statement from the Department, to be shown privately to those concerned, might be helpful in dissuading Conservative Deputies from their evident intention of rejecting certificates issued by the National Board of Elections to four Liberal Deputies.	521
Dec. 22 (226)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Refusal of Department to issue suggested statement, in view of section 2 of article 83 of the Nicaraguan Constitution giving each house of Congress the right to pass upon the credentials of its members. Authorization to state informally that the Department feels that there is a moral obligation for the Nicaraguan Congress to accept the certificates of the board.	521
Dec. 29 (427)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that Congress approved report of National Board of Elections and declared Moncada and Aguado constitutionally elected.	522
1929 Jan. 1 (1)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Inauguration of Moncada.	522

[Page LX]

Cooperation of the United States in Rearranging the Financed of Nicaragua

[Page LXI] [Page LXII] [Page LXIII] [Page LXIV]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 13 (24)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Cumberland is preparing a financial plan which differs from that prepared by the bankers. Suggestion that the Department may wish to notify bankers in order to avoid a duplication of effort.	523
Jan. 14 (16)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that it had not been contemplated that Cumberland would prepare a financial plan; that what the Department primarily desired was recommendations as to Nicaragua’s financial requirements and borrowing capacity. Instructions to inform Cumberland not to discuss matters with Nicaraguan officials or to submit report or recommendations to them without ascertaining the Department’s views. Suggestion that Cumberland depart from Nicaragua when gathering of data is completed, and not postpone his departure for period needed to prepare his report in final form.	523
Jan. 21 (40)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Cumberland’s reply (text printed) stating his reasons for preparing the alternative financial plan in addition to his report and why such a plan can be prepared only in Nicaragua. Chargé’s opinion that the desired changes in the existing financial situation can only be brought about by a new financial plan, one more comprehensive than the bankers’ plan.	524
Feb. 7 (608)	From the Minister in Nicaragua Information that the unexpected increase in Government revenues and the remarkable prosperity of the country since the termination of hostilities has completely changed Nicaragua’s financial problem; that the Government has money on hand and in sight to pay current expenses and provide for the guardia and the election.	525
Feb. 25 (93)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Advice that Cumberland’s report will be practically useless unless he is given freedom to discuss his conclusions with leaders of both parties in order to obtain their point of view and bring them into accord with his conclusions.	526
Feb. 27 (48)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Nonobjection to Cumberland’s discussing financial problems covered by his report with President Diaz and other authorities. Belief, however, that he should take care not to make it appear that the conclusions are definite or that they have the Department’s approval.	526
Mar. 10	From Dr. W. W. Cumberland Transmittal of report and draft financial plan. Conclusion that the financial condition of Nicaragua is comparatively satisfactory.	527
Mar. 14 (118)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Cumberland discussed his principal recommendations with the President, the Minister of Finance, and General Moncada before leaving on March 12; and that they all expressed themselves as in complete accord therewith.	528
Mar. 26 (151)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) From General McCoy: Recommendation that Cumberland’s report be approved and acted upon by the Department.	529
Mar. 30	Brief Description of the Financial Plan for Nicaragua Recommended by Dr. Cumberland Provisions concerning unification of revenue services, supervision of expenditures, budget, national bank, public works service, railway, and claims commission.	529
Apr. 19 (97)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) For Minister and McCoy: Review of possible difficulties and delays in establishing an effective control through a financial plan; inclination to contend that every expedient be exhausted in other directions. Request for views. Suggestion that McCoy come to Washington for a conference. Instructions to consult President Diaz and ascertain his views on project of making a loan and putting the financial plan into force now.	533
Apr. 25 (187)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Opinion that it would be far better to proceed immediately with the Cumberland financial program; outline of procedure to obviate dangers of such a course. Belief that it would be inadvisable to discuss the entire situation frankly with President Diaz until the Department has given the matter further consideration.	535
Apr. 28 (105)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) View that the primary problem is to place all public funds and revenues under U. S. control for the next few months so they cannot constitute any temptation so far as the election is concerned; and that this must be accomplished either by a provisional arrangement ancillary to the eventual elaboration of a plan or by direct action of the President of Nicaragua. Opinion that the time has come for a frank and full discussion with the President.	537
May 2 (201)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Interview with President Diaz in which the contents of telegrams No. 97, April 19, and No. 105, April 28, were discussed. Opinion that solution of entire problem would be greatly facilitated by the immediate sale of a controlling interest in the National Bank, because the freedom of the bank from political control is of the greatest importance.	539
May 16 (215)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Discussion of certain points of Cumberland’s program which should be considered in a preliminary arrangement such as suggested by the Department.	540
May 22 (225)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Rosenthal’s recommendation, concurred in by the Minister, that the purchase price for the stock of the National Bank be held in escrow pending the approval of Congress. Suggestion that purchase price be used for the expenses of the guardia after January 1, 1929. Inadvisability of consulting Chamorro.	542
May 23	Memorandum by the Economic Adviser Conference of Department officials with bankers and Cumberland on Nicaraguan financial situation. Agreement that bankers give further consideration to the financial plan and again consult with the Department of State.	542
June 14 (132)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Department’s disappointment at bankers’ attitude as shown in their draft plan of 1928 which departs radically from the Cumberland plan with especial reference to amount and allocation of the loan, duties of auditor, safeguards of the National Bank, etc. Request for views whether bankers plan would be likely to be acceptable to Nicaraguan Government and high officials of both parties; also for information as to how the Cumberland plan was received by President Diaz and other political leaders.	544
June 16 (257)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that it is very difficult to ascertain what the political leaders really think of the Cumberland plan; that the President has, however, expressed general approval of its principal features; that neither Chamorro nor the President will support loan project which does not provide for Atlantic railroad construction. Views that, with respect to the bankers plan, it would be difficult to justify a loan which makes no provision for payment of claims.	545
July 3 (269)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that the latest draft plan from the bankers appears very satisfactory. Suggestions, especially with respect to costs of the guardia and countersignature of checks by the Collector General.	546
July 7 (140)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Bankers’ willingness to include a provision requiring countersignature of checks by the Collector General, provided the latter is nominated by the Secretary of State; their belief, however, that supervision of Auditor and the publicity which would attend any improper act on part of Finance Minister would work as a deterrent. Request for views.	548
July 9 (274)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Opinion that a provision for countersignature of checks is absolutely essential for effective control of expenditures; also that the expenditure for one purpose of sums appropriated for another is so generally accepted as a part of the system that there is no hope that publicity or remonstrance by U. S. officials would stop it.	548
July 17 (145)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Bankers’ further suggestions concerning costs of the guardia and the countersignature of checks. Request for views.	549
July 23 (150)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the bankers have submitted another draft plan, the main objection to which is that it merely provides for a $3,500,000 loan, principal amount to be used mainly for railroad construction and $500,000 for payment of small claims. Instructions to cable views of himself, McCoy, and Munro, and also whether, in his opinion, such a plan would be acceptable to all parties in Nicaragua.	550
July 26 (298)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Opinion that the plan outlined in telegram No. 150 would probably be acceptable and that it would be very advisable to present the plan as soon as possible.	552
July 27 (154)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Bankers’ telegram to Rosenthal (text printed) stating that the bankers and the Department have agreed, in view of the impending elections and also because the market for securities in the United States is now somewhat inactive, that it seems wisest to postpone the whole matter for the present. Confidential information that the latest financial plan of the bankers is not one which the Department cares to sponsor in advance.	552
Aug. 1 (300)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Reasons for recommending most urgently that the new financial plan be submitted at once for consideration, even though the Department is not fully satisfied with all its details.	553
Aug. 3 (158)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the Department would raise no objection if bankers desire to make a copy of the existing project available to the Nicaraguan Government. Suggestion that this might be arranged through César, Nicaraguan Minister at Washington, or Rosenthal.	555
Aug. 7 (303)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Rosenthal is en route to New York with letters from President Diaz to the bankers and that he will visit the Department. Request for a copy of the latest draft of the financial plan to be shown to President Diaz with the explanation that it is merely intended as a basis for discussion and has not received the Department’s approval.	555
Aug. 14 (163)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the bankers prefer to reserve decision about giving out financial plan until Rosenthal’s arrival.	556
Aug. 25 (169)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the bankers have definitely decided not to submit a copy of the draft financial plan to President Diaz at the present time.	556
Sept. 11 (339)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that President Diaz has informed the Legation in writing that he has ordered the Treasury Department to see that $380,000 from the next surplus is set aside for the exclusive use of the guardia; and has further stated that it is his definite purpose not to obtain advances against the next surplus for any other purpose. Legation’s intention, to seek to obtain General Moncada’s promise to abide by this arrangement if he should be elected; and to take up matter along similar lines with Benard.	557
Sept. 11 (177)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Instructions to tell President Diaz that the Department has been informed of his request to the bankers for a railroad dividend of $100,000 and to ask the President to confirm the Department’s understanding that the money will not be used for political purposes either before or after November 4.	557
Sept, 14 (343)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that Diaz has given the assurances desired regarding the dividend. Desirability of withholding greater part of proceeds of dividend until after the election.	558
Sept. 15 (425)	To the Minister in Nicaragua Instructions to express to President Diaz on behalf of the Secretary of State the latter’s gratification at the intention of the President to give to the guardia all necessary support. Approval of Legation’s intentions concerning Moncada and and Benard.	558
Sept. 17 (181)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the bankers report that the dividend has been paid over to the Government. Instructions to suggest to President Diaz the desirability of paying over balance not immediately needed for paving contract to guardia fund, in order to prevent use of money for political purposes and to protect the President from pressure to make it available for such purposes.	559
Oct. 31 (372)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that a letter has been received from Benard promising to set aside $380,000 from the next surplus for the guardia.	559

Assistance by the United States Marines in the Suppression of Bandit Activities in Nicaragua

[Page LXV] [Page LXVI] [Page LXVII] [Page LXVIII] [Page LXIX]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 3 (2)	To the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Information that the Marine Corps is taking active steps to round up Sandino’s band. Instructions to request Honduras to take active measures to prevent Sandino’s forces from crossing into Honduras or to intern them if they cross the frontier. Suggestion that if Honduras cannot undertake this it would be helpful if Honduras would request the United States to prevent the bandits from entering Honduras and using territory of Honduras as a base of operations.	559
Jan. 5 (12)	From the Minister in Honduras (tel.) President Paz’ statement that a sufficiently large Honduran force would arrive at border with a view to preventing Sandino’s forces from entering Honduras and that specific orders had been given to arrest and intern any who cross the border; his intimation that should these measures prove ineffective he would make the suggested request.	560
Jan. 11 (19)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Recommendation that the Department give further consideration to the question of declaring a state of war in Nueva Segovia, in view of the situation caused by the lack of legal authority to hold bandit prisoners.	560
Jan. 13 (13)	To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.) Inadvisability of Nicaraguan Congress making a formal declaration of war. Belief that the present state of affairs will have to be maintained.	561
Jan. 27 (601)	From the Chargé in Nicaragua Letter addressed to General Sandino by Admiral Sellers (text printed) in an effort to persuade Sandino and his followers to lay down their arms before extensive military operations, now contemplated, should be carried into effect.	561
Feb. 8 (72)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) From McCoy: Conflicting reports concerning whereabouts of Sandino; probability that he is now in coffee area near Matagalpa owned largely by Americans and other foreigners; information that reinforcements are being moved toward the threatened area.	563
Feb. 9 (74)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) From McCoy: Colonel Parker’s report on conditions in Nueva Segovia.	565
Feb. 23 (90)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Telegram to Tegucigalpa, Honduras (text printed) suggesting the advisability of requesting the arrest of General Sequeira, associate of Sandino, reported to be in Honduras; and to request redoubled efforts to prevent further supply of ammunition being sent to Sandino across the border.	566
Feb. 28 (98)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that reports of murders of Conservatives in Esteli are apparently false. Probability that such rumors are being disseminated by Conservatives to show that a free election cannot be held under present conditions.	566
Feb. 28 (99)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report of attack on Marine pack train near Yalito Condega,	567
Mar. 6 (113)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Request of General Feland that efforts be made to ascertain where funds being collected by Sandino in New York, Mexico City, etc., are being sent and that every effort be made to intercept any arms or ammunition which may be purchased with the funds.	567
Mar. 7 (64)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Advice that the Department has no information of any attempt to purchase arms with funds reported being raised for purchase of medical supplies for Sandino; that the Department will endeavor to prevent shipment of arms and ammunition destined to forces of Sandino.	568
Mar. 8 (1835)	From the Minister in Guatemala Transmittal of correspondence with the Foreign Office concerning money being solicited in Guatemala for the alleged benefit of the “Red Cross of the Sandino Army.” Foreign Minister’s oral statement that the Government will see to it that none of the funds leave the country and that they will be returned to the donors.	568
Mar. 16	From the Secretary of the Navy Letter of February 3 from General Sandino to Admiral Sellers (text printed), stating that the struggle will be ended only when American troops are withdrawn and President Diaz replaced.	569
Mar. 19 (135)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that planes have been fired on north of Murra by a band of outlaws.	570
Mar. 28 (635)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Inquiry whether it would be possible to prosecute those persons in New York and elsewhere who are openly encouraging and furnishing supplies to Sandino in Nicaragua.	570
Apr. 11 (501)	From the Ambassador in Mexico Information that the Military Attaché places no reliance on report of the alleged forwarding of officers and men from Mexico to assist Sandino in Nicaragua; that although funds are being collected by the Comité pro-Sandino for medical supplies, it is believed the funds are quite inadequate to recruit officers and men, supply and equip them, and ship them to Nicaragua.	570
Apr. 20 (182)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report of Marine operations in eastern Nueva Segovia. Rumor that Sandino has left Nicaragua and is probably on his way to Mexico.	571
Apr. 21 (98)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report from the La Luz Mining Company that Sandino on April 12 raided its mine in Prinzapolka district and took all employees prisoners including Marshall, the assistant superintendent. Instructions to cable all information available.	572
Apr. 23 (99)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Further report from La Luz Company stating that four Americans and a British subject have been captured by bandits who raided the mine, and requesting that all possible steps be taken for their recovery and safety. Instructions to investigate and request Marine Commandant to do everything possible for their safety.	572
Apr. 24 (186)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report that thus far it has been impossible to get definite information concerning the raids at La Luz Mine April 12 and the Bonanza Mine April 14; that arrangements are being made to send troops into area.	572
Apr. 25 (189)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Confirmation of report of capture of Marshall and others at La Luz Mine and looting at the mine.	573
May 2	From the Consul at Bluefields (tel.) Report of destruction of La Luz Mine and partial destruction of Bonanza Mine. Rumor that Marshall is still held prisoner.	573
May 7 (668)	From the Minister in Nicaragua Transmittal of two pamphlets issued by the All-America Anti-Imperialist League which advocate mutiny among marines in Nicaragua. Inquiry whether it would not be possible to take legal action against those responsible for propaganda of this nature.	573
May 13 (209)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that General Feland reports that 275 Sandinistas are being surrounded by marines in the Pis Pis mining district and that bandits are short of ammunition.	574
May 26	From the Consul at Bluefields to the Minister in Nicaragua Letter from General Sandino to the manager of the La Luz and Los Angeles Mines of April 29 (text printed), indicating a policy of unrestrained destruction. Rumor, which U. S. military authorities doubt, that Marshall has been murdered.	574
May 29 (237)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Inquiry if plan contemplated by President Diaz of asking Honduran Government to take action against those who are giving aid to Sandino would embarrass the Department. (Repeated to Honduras.)	576
May 31 (242)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Summary of military situation: guerrilla forces concentrated north of Pena Blanca and small band in southwestern Nueva Segovia.	576
May 31 (243)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report of bandit attack at Masaya and Niquinohomo. Suspicion that members of the revenue guard attacked guardia post at Posoltega.	577
June 1 (125)	To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Information that the U. S. Government would not be embarrassed by Nicaraguan Government’s request to Honduras to take action against those who are giving aid to Sandino.	578
June 12 (381)	To the Minister in Nicaragua Transmittal of U. S. District Court decision refusing the issuance of an injunction against an order of the Post Office Department barring from the mails matter bearing the socalled Sandino stamps issued by the All-America Anti-Imperialist League. Information that the United States Attorney will now consider whether the acts of the persons connected with the All-America Anti-Imperialist League constitute a violation of any criminal statute. Request for any information which may indicate that funds collected in the United States by the League are being used for the purchase of munitions for the Sandino forces in Nicaragua. (Footnote: Information that the instruction was also sent to the Ministers in Guatemala, Honduras, and Salvador.)	578
June 14 (1237)	From the Chargé in Costa Rica Information concerning escape of General Alberto Larios and some of his followers into Costa Rica and their evident intention to rejoin Sandino as soon as reconditioned. Assurances of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs that his Government will investigate and take such steps as the case may require.	579
June 25 (1997)	From the Minister in Guatemala Report that there is no evidence that funds collected by All-America Anti-Imperialist League in the United States are being used for any purpose except to foment trouble for the United States.	580
June 25 (1217)	From the Minister in Salvador Conflicting rumors that funds are sent to Sandino and that amounts collected ostensibly for Sandino were divided among the collectors.	580
July 2 (647)	From the Minister in Honduras Information that only negligible quantities of arms and ammunition are reaching Sandino through Honduras; that, however, Sandino’s agent in Tegucigalpa is sending money in considerable amounts to Sandino.	581
July 11 (278)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel). Report that 189 former bandits have accepted amnesty offer and have registered with the marine commander.	582
July 14 (63)	To the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Instructions to bring informally to the attention of the Honduran Government the U. S. Government’s profound interest in Central American peace and stability; and the U. S. Government’s concurrence in the request made by the Nicaraguan Government that Honduras take steps to curb activities of persons in its territory now aiding subversive movements in Nicaragua.	582
July 21 (66)	To the Minister in Honduras (tel.) Information that the main body of Sandino’s force is just north of Patuca River in disputed boundary area in very favorable position for aerial attack. Instructions to take up matter with President Paz and endeavor to obtain consent to this action and to cable authority to Managua.	583
July 21 (292)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) General Feland’s report that planes on reconnaissance were fired upon by bandits machine guns and rifles on north bank of the Patuca River.	583
July 25 (295)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) General Feland’s report that planes had again been subjected to machine gun and rifle fire in the Patuca River region.	583
July 31 (760)	From the Minister in Nicaragua Report that only a few thousand dollars of the funds collected by anti-imperialist organizations appear to have reached Sandino. Assumption that greater part of the funds collected is used for the immediate benefit of the collectors.	584
Aug. 9 (305)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report of Marine attack on bandits near Wamblan August 7.	585
Aug. 24 (775)	From the Minister in Nicaragua Report that more than 1,200 persons have taken advantage of amnesty proclamation and have registered with the authorities in Nueva Segovia. Cooperation of natives around San Juan de Telpaneca with guardia.	585
Sept. 13 (341)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Telegram to the Legation at San José (text printed) requesting information regarding steps which the Costa Rican Government is taking or will take to stop subversive activities against Nicaragua, and conveying information that President Diaz has requested that the Department ask the Costa Rican Government to take immediate measures to prevent organization of revolutionary movements of this kind.	586
[Sept.13] (60)	From the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.) Telegram to the Legation at Managua (text printed), stating that there is no information available regarding revolutionary activities, but the Costa Rican Government will investigate.	587
Sept. 14 (30)	To the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.) Instructions to watch developments carefully and keep the Department and the Legation at Managua informed.	587
Sept. 18 (61)	From the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.) Information that a certain person is reported leaving for Nicaragua via Guanacaste with considerable money; that the President believes these Sandino agents are moving about as individuals, since there is no evidence of an organization with the intent of an armed invasion of Nicaragua.	587
Sept. 20 (800)	From the Minister in Nicaragua Report that operations conducted by marines against Sandino and other outlaws have reached a point where it appears extremely improbable that the outlaws can seriously interfere with either the registration of voters or with the election itself.	588
Sept. 25 (64)	From the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.) Information that a certain Sandino agent has arrived at Las Juntas in southern Guanacaste and is under surveillance.	589
Oct. 8 (359)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Report of murders of several Liberals in Jinotega Department; possibility the murders were part of an effort to carry out Sandino’s public threat to create such conditions that the election would be impossible.	590
Oct. 11 (362)	From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.) Telegram to Legation at San José (text printed) transmitting information obtained from two separate sources that a certain person is preparing to invade Nicaragua from Costa Rica about the end of this month, and indicating that information and any steps which can be taken to check the activities would be helpful.	591
Undated [Rec’d Oct. 12] (68)	From the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.) Telegram to Managua, October 12 (text printed) stating that the President will try to secure further information and has issued orders to have activities reported, but at same time minimizes possibility of real trouble occurring.	591
Undated [Rec’d Oct. 17] (70)	From the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.) Telegram to Managua, October 17 (text printed) reporting results of investigation of Sandino agents’ activities and the President’s statement he will detain them should they attempt an invasion of Nicaragua.	591

[Page LXX]

NORWAY

Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Consular Rights Between the United States and Norway, Signed June 5, 1928, Additional Article Signed February 25, 1929, and Exchange of Notes Concerning Tariff Treatment of Norwegian Sardines

[Page LXXI] [Page LXXII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1925 July 31	From the Norwegian Chargé Information that the Norwegian Government will be glad to negotiate at Washington the treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights which the U. S. Government desires to propose.	593
Aug. 13	To the Norwegian Chargé Transmittal of a draft for a proposed treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights between Norway and the United States. Explanation that article VII contains unconditional most-favored-nation clause and that article XXX provides that the treaty shall supplant the treaty concluded by the United States with Sweden and Norway on July 4, 1827.	593
1926 Dec. 1 (909)	From the Minister in Norway Foreign Office note, November 29 and memorandum (texts printed) expressing opinion that Norway would be placed in an unfavorable position by accepting the third praagraph of article XXX, providing for the denunciation of certain clauses of the treaty after one year upon three month’s notice.	594
1927 Mar. 9 (336)	To the Minister in Norway Conference with Norwegian Chargé on February 4 in regard to Norwegian objections to provisions of Article XXX. Memorandum for the Foreign Office (text printed) expressing hope that the Norwegian Government will, on further consideration, perceive in the provisions of article XXX no hindrance to the conclusion of the treaty. Instructions to present memorandum or, in case the Norwegian Government has already decided to accept the paragraph in question, to make appropriate reply and to explain orally and informally the reservation the Senate made to the treaty with Germany and Department’s unwillingness to consider any change in regard to the paragraph in question. Explanation why Norway would not be placed in unfavorable position through acceptance of the third paragraph of article XXX.	595
Mar. 24 (965)	From the Minister in Norway Information concerning presentation of memorandum to Foreign Office and oral statements made in compliance with Department’s instructions.	599
July 7 (367)	To the Minister in Norway Instructions to bring informally to the attention of the Foreign Office the Department’s desire for prompt negotiation of the treaty; that unless definite progress has been made by December, it will be necessary to consider the termination of the treaty of 1827. Disadvantage of continuing the special privilege of the two-cent tonnage rate accorded under article VIII of the treaty of 1827.	599
Nov. 5 (1077)	From the Minister in Norway Résumé of oral statements made in compliance with Department’s instructions. Foreign Office assurance that efforts will be made to proceed rapidly in accordance with Department’s wishes. Information that Foreign Office memorandum containing suggestions regarding the final text of certain stipulations in the draft under consideration has been sent to the Norwegian Legation at Washington. Minister’s impression that Norway will yield to representations made respecting article VIII and is now prepared to conclude a treaty substantially as set forth in the present draft. Desirability of having the treaty signed before the retirement of the Lykke ministry in January.	602
Dec. 9	From the Norwegian Chargé Detailed comments by Foreign Office on articles 1, 4, 6, 7, 9, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, and 30. Request that there be included in the treaty a special provision relating to Norwegian sardines. Observation that the Foreign Office has accepted in principle the stipulations relating to tonnage dues.	603
1928 Mar. 23	To the Norwegian Minister Detailed comments on Norwegian observations concerning the draft treaty up to and including article 21. Proposal of amendment of the first paragraph of article 1 and acceptance of suggested additional sentence to paragraph 2; acceptance of addition to article 4, if word’ ‘personal’ is inserted before the word “property”; acceptance of amendment to article 6; proposed revision of article 7; modifications to article 9; omission of articles 14 and 15 and substitution of a single article placing commercial travelers on a favored nation basis; revision of article 16; proposed new paragraph for article 18; omission of second paragraph of article 19; acceptance of new paragraph for article 20; acceptance of suggested change in article 20.	615
Apr. 6	To the Norwegian Minister Detailed comments on Norwegian observations concerning the draft treaty from article 23 through article 30. Explanation that it would be contrary to U. S. policy to include a special provision relating to Norwegian sardines.	623
Apr. 27	To the Norwegian Minister Article 6 (text printed) amended to include the addition suggested in Norwegian note of December 23, 1927.	630
Apr. 27	To the Norwegian Minister Acceptance of Norwegian suggestion for change of wording in article 8 of the treaty.	631
May 7	From the Norwegian Minister Information that Norwegian Government has accepted the proposal regarding article 4; explanation concerning taxation in Norway in connection with the second paragraph of article 19; request for further consideration of change suggested in article 24, providing that the local authorities of each country shall inform the consular officers of the other in certain cases of deaths in their territories.	631
May 22	To the Norwegian Minister Proposal that second paragraph of article 19 be omitted; submission of amended paragraph 1 of article 24.	633
May 23	From the Norwegian Minister Further observations, especially with respect to articles 1, 7, 17, 22, 24, 26, and 29.	634
June 1 (1196)	From the Minister in Norway Information that the Government has decided to authorize signature of the new treaty.	640
June 2	From the Chief of the Treaty Division Inquiry whether Secretary of State approves proposed exchange of notes stating that Norwegian sardines would not pay a higher tariff rate than sardines prepared from fish belonging to other species imported from other countries.	640
June 4	To the Norwegian Minister Acceptance of Norwegian proposals regarding articles 1, 7, 17, 24, and 29. Agreement to sign treaty June 5.	642
June 5 (11)	To the Minister in Norway (tel.) Notification of signature of treaty on June 5.	643
Dec. 7	To the Norwegian Legation Suggestion that an additional article concerning entry and residence for commercial purposes be made a part of the treaty and ratified at the same time.	644
June 5, 1928 and Feb. 25, 1929	Treaty and Additional Article Between the United States of America and Norway Of friendship, commerce and consular rights.	646
June 5, 1928	From the Norwegian Minister Understanding that under the present U. S. tariff laws Norwegian sardines are accorded the same tariff treatment as sardines imported from any other country and that such equality of treatment would continue under the most-favored-nation provision of the treaty.	662
June 5, 1928	To the Norwegian Minister Confirmation of Norwegian understanding.	662

PANAMA

Proposals by Panama To Modify the Unperfected Treaty Between the United States and Panama, Signed July 28, 1926

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Undated [Rec’d Jan. 5]	From the Panaman Minister Detailed observations concerning each article of the treaty.	663
Oct. 20 (1838)	From the Minister in Panama Foreign Minister’s opinion that it would be futile to present the treaty in its present form to the National Assembly.	677

[Page LXXIII]

Statement by the Department of State That the United States Does Not Intend To Supervise Elections in Panama

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 July 27 (52)	To the Minister in Panama (tel.) Statement issued by the Secretary of State (text printed) regarding U. S. policy with reference to question of intervention in internal affairs of Panama and the carrying out of treaty obligations.	678

Representations by Panama Respecting Statement of President Coolidge Classifying the Panama Canal Zone as a Possession of the United States

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Nov. 15 (D–276)	From the Panaman Minister Representations against the statement in President Coolidge’s speech of November 11, which the Panaman Government considers implicitly classified the Panama Canal Zone among the possessions of the United States.	679
Nov. 28	To the Panaman Minister Statement that the position of the United States with regard to the status of the Canal Zone as set forth in note of October 24, 1904, remains unchanged.	680

PERSIA

Exchange of Notes Between the United States and Persia, May 14 and July 11, 1928. Following Termination of Treaty of Friendship and Commerce of 1856

[Page LXXIV] [Page LXXV] [Page LXXVI] [Page LXXVII] [Page LXXVIII] [Page LXXIX] [Page LXXX] [Page LXXXI] [Page LXXXII] [Page LXXXIII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 29 (75)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Request for written report regarding Persia’s views and policy with respect to the possible termination in May 1928 of treaty of 1856; attitude of colleagues, especially the British, and views concerning possible effect of recently negotiated Perso-Soviet agreements on British policy in Persia; also best means, in absence of either a formal treaty or modus vivendi, of affording proper protection to U. S. interests.	682
1928 Jan. 17 [18] (7)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information from British Minister that a note was delivered to the Persian Government last December indicating British willingness to replace existing commercial agreements, to provide a new tariff schedule which will take into consideration the Perso-Soviet one, and to recognize Persia’s suppression of the capitulations on May 10, 1928, in a new treaty.	683
Jan. 26 (6)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information received from the Ambassador in Great Britain of the ten safeguards desired by the British for the protection of British nationals in Persia when consular jurisdiction ends.	683
Feb. 13 (11)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the British Ambassador has been informed orally that the Department is in substantial agreement with the British position explained in their ten points and would not be adverse to cooperating on the basis of the ten points.	684
Feb. 16 (14)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that Persia will not object to the use of the phrase “most-favored-nation” in treaties with regard to all treaty privileges except those which relate to tariff, and regarding this Persia will insist upon some other phrase which implies similar rights.	685
Feb. 21 (18)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the Foreign Office requests U. S. consent to the application of the Perso-Soviet tariff to U. S. imports prior to May 10; that Persia has similarly requested consent from representatives of all capitulatory treaty governments with the exception of the British; that the German Minister has recommended to his Government that it accept the application of the new tariff to northern Persia only.	685
Feb. 28 (12)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the Department has received a summary of the sixteen safeguards the British Government desires for the protection of its nationals in Persia; that the British Minister in Persia has been informed of his Government’s opposition to any collective diplomatic démarche but that it would be useful should there be cooperation along same fundamental lines when conversing with Persian Government about protection of nationals. Instructions to confer with the British Minister.	686
Feb. 28 (13)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Instructions to cable views regarding Persian proposal that the Perso-Soviet tariff be applied to American imports and to explain reasons for Department’s delay; also to telegraph information on action which other foreign governments may take and British colleague’s opinion regarding the Persian Government’s proposal.	687
Mar. 3 (16)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that, in conversations March 1 and 2 with the French and German Ambassadors, the Department presented the desirability of the representatives in Persia of capitulatory powers working along same lines for adequate safeguards to protect foreign nationals; also the necessity of urging Persia to postpone the putting into effect of the new system should Persia not accept satisfactory safeguards prior to May 10.	688
Mar. 3 (59)	To the Ambassador in France (tel.) Information, for oral use at Foreign Office, concerning conversation March 1 with the French Ambassador.	688
Mar. 3 (20)	To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.) Information, for oral use at the Foreign Office, concerning the conversation March 2 with the German Ambassador.	689
Mar. 5 (21)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information from the British counselor that the Persian reply has not yet been received concerning the sixteen points and that he is of the opinion that Persia will decline to incorporate in treaties any reference to judicial advisers or to grant them extensive powers. Unconfirmed report that German Minister has submitted tentative draft treaty with substitute phrase for the most-favored-nation rights in tariff matters. Opinion that the Department should avoid the appearance of associating with British aims; also that it would be desirable to make provision for recognition of American religious, medical, and scholastic institutions.	689
Mar. 5 (18)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Inquiry concerning meaning of reference to British aims in telegram No. 21 of March 5.	690
Mar. 6 (22)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that advice to avoid the appearance of associating with British aims was meant to imply that the Persians might be prejudiced by an obvious American-British cooperation; and that Belgium has authorized its representative to begin negotiations.	691
Mar. 7 (23)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that Persia has given no reasons, other than desire for uniformity and convenience, for its proposal to apply the new tariff to U. S. imports; report that Germany has declined Persian proposal; opinion that other foreign Governments will take similar action. German Minister’s opinion that the conclusion of three or four separate agreements may be more practicable than to attempt to cover entire subject in one treaty. Report that a draft treaty has been submitted to the French and German Ministers which is not satisfactory and does not contain a most-favored-nation treatment clause. Impression that Persia desires to make one treaty as soon as possible, probably with Germany, and is delaying negotiations with Great Britain because of many extraneous matters involved.	691
Mar. 9 (22)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the Department received on March 6 a copy, in French, of a British memorandum to the Persian Government containing sixteen points concerning judicial safeguards; that it covers the first fifteen points of the summary of sixteen safeguards received previously by the Department but omits all reference to Persian codes of law, point sixteen of the summary. Inquiry whether the sixteen points mentioned in the Legation’s telegram No. 21, March 5, are the summary or the memorandum in French; also what action the British Minister is taking with respect to satisfactory codes of law.	692
Mar. 10 (43)	From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.) Information that instructions have been sent to the German Minister at Teheran to cooperate fully with the U. S. Minister.	692
Mar. 10 (23)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the Italian Ambassador has promised to telegraph his Government regarding desirability of instructing Italian Minister in Persia to keep in close touch with U. S. Legation; and that the German Minister in Teheran has been instructed to cooperate fully with the U. S. Minister. (Footnote: Information that summary of conversation was cabled to the Ambassador in Italy.)	693
Mar. 13 (46)	From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.) Information that the German Minister at Teheran is convinced that Persia will not accede to the main point of the British memorandum, i. e., foreign judicial advisers with real authority; that the German policy will apparently be to sign the treaty under negotiation and to bring it into operation provisionally prior to May 10; that Persia will not accept the most-favored-nation clause, but that the inverted form suggested by France is deemed almost as good.	693
Mar. 13 (26)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the memorandum referred to in telegram No. 21, March 5, is similar to that furnished the Department on March 6 and submitted to the Persian Government by the British Minister. British counselor’s opinion that his Government will not raise the question of satisfactory codes. Information that some Legations have received notification that the 1927 tariff will go into general effect on the northern frontier on May 21. Report that Persian Government intends to adopt the preferential maximum-minimum tariff system. Opinion that a tentative expression of readiness to negotiate is in order.	694
Mar. 14 (24)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Instructions to inform Teimourtache, the Persian Minister of the Court, orally that the United States is in principle agreeable to the negotiation of a new treaty but that, before proceeding to further and more detailed negotiations, it desires to reach an understanding with the Persian Government on: (1) Question of appointment of foreign judicial advisers, (2) establishment of a system of modern civil, commercial and criminal courts, (3) personal status and family law, (4) taxation and duties on U. S. imports, (5) equality of treatment of U. S. citizens with other foreign nationals, and (6) activities of U. S. educational enterprises. Instructions to inform the proper Foreign Office official in the same sense and to leave with him an aide-mémoire containing only the six points listed. (Footnote: Communication of this information to the British, French, German, and Italian representatives in Washington’ on April 7 by aide-mémoire and by mail to the Embassies in Great Britain, France, Germany and Italy on April 13.)	695
Mar. 15	From the Italian Embassy Information that the Chargé at Teheran has been instructed to cooperate with the U. S. representative. Present views of Italian Government on the subject of the Persian treaty situation.	696
Mar. 20 (28)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that, in a friendly conference on the six U. S. points, Teimourtache stated that point 1 will not be accepted; that points 2 and 3 will be accepted; that part of point 4 will be accepted, but most-favored rights in respect of import duties cannot possibly be granted; that point 5 will be accepted in principle since Persia does not intend to impose penalties or inferior treatment of any sort upon U. S. citizens owing to the possible lapse of the treaty; that point 6 will be accepted if a slight change is made in wording. Also information that Teimourtache urges against the presentation of a formal aide-mémoire containing the six points.	696
Mar. 22 (31)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the Minister of Finance on March 18 presented a bill to the Medjliss authorizing the Government to negotiate special customs treaties, within the maximum and minimum limits of the tariff.	697
Mar. 24 (564)	From the Minister in Persia Transmittal of copies of proposed treaty of friendship and proposed commercial convention received from French colleague. Information that attitude of French and German Ministers is one of tolerance with the friendship treaty and disappointment with the commercial convention. Report that the Persian Government plans to initiate a new customs tariff on May 10 with maximum and minimum rates which would call for special customs agreements.	698
Mar. 27 (32)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that British Minister states that Persian reply to his aide-mémoire of 16 points acquiesced in principle to all his suggestions except as regards the engagement of judicial advisers and the provision “Notice to Consular authorities of arrests.” Report that Teimourtache has conveyed the impression that Persians will agree to certain safeguards by exchange of notes, but not in treaties; that Dutch and Italians have been instructed to broach tentative negotiations. Recommendation for initiation of negotiations at an early date.	699
Mar. 28 (77)	To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Information that Persia has accepted in principle the establishment of several of the safeguards proposed by the United States, but does not indicate time they are to become operative; also that Persia does not regard favorably the proposal concerning foreign judicial advisers. Instructions to endeavor to obtain Foreign Office views.	699
Mar. 30 (8481)	From the Ambassador in France Report of interview with official of Foreign Office who intimated that it was somewhat late for the United States or any other country to try to line up with other powers for common action whether it be of urging postponement of putting new regime into effect or of insisting upon Persia’s acceptance of the 16 British safeguards.	700
Mar. 31 (65)	From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Information that Foreign Office believes a modus vivendi is imperative, since it is impossible to ratify any treaty by May 10; and that British Minister in Persia has been instructed to confer with his colleagues in an effort to agree upon an alternative recommendation with respect to foreign judicial advisers.	701
Apr. 4 (29)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Instructions not to present aide-mémoire outlined in Department’s telegram No. 24 of March 14 but to explain to Teimourtache that the Department is pleased by his friendly attitude and his acceptance of the suggestion regarding courts; that handling of matters of personal status by consular officers in Persia would be a great convenience; and that the United States is disposed to continue favored-nation treatment in customs matters on condition that U. S. merchandise is accorded lowest rate of duty in force when such importation takes place. Authorization to point out power of President to levy additional duties or to declare embargo in case of discrimination and also to make comparison between value of U. S. and Persian imports. Instructions to discuss Teimourtache’s suggestion in regard to schools with missionaries and report their views.	702
Apr. 5 (68)	From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Information that Persia has recently passed a law of compulsory arbitration when desired by either party and has agreed that, upon request of any British subject under detention, the nearest British consul would be notified; that the British Foreign Office is inclined to policy of testing Persia’s good will by separate negotiations on the part of the several interested Governments, with resort to joint action in case of failure to reach compromise before May 10.	703
Apr. 13 (39)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Summary of conversation with Teimourtache regarding new codes, recent arbitration law, and the tariff situation. Minister’s opinion that the British Government will withhold assent to signature of tariff agreement pending receipt of assurances of satisfaction for its outstanding claims and that the only danger to Americans would appear to be a possible reversion by Great Britain to the 1903 tariff if negotiations are broken off. Suggestion that an early notice be given to Persian Government that Minister is empowered to negotiate a new treaty. Information that the views of missionaries are not yet available. Impression that Persian Government is now inclined to yield on minor points.	704
Apr. 13 (73)	From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.) Foreign Office information that the six U. S. points represent generally what Germany would like to obtain but that the practical situation is different; that Germany accepts as final Persia’s refusal to admit foreign judicial advisers through treaty provision but is still trying to have matter covered by a note; that Great Britain is also weakening in the matter of foreign judicial advisers; also that Germany is unable to cooperate as to point 6.	706
Apr. 16 (31)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Instructions to telegraph summary of arbitration law, indicating the character of civil suits which it is proposed to submit for settlement thereunder.	707
Apr. 16	From the British Amba sador Memorandum (text printed) summarizing instructions to the British Minister at Teheran directing him to urge the Persian Minister of Court to draw up and to deliver to the interested Legations in Teheran an official note stating the intention of the Persian Government to establish modern civil, commercial, and criminal courts and its readiness to afford to foreigners full and adequate protection and embodying the safeguards which the Persian Government is prepared to give to foreigners during the period between May 10 and the coming into force of the new treaties.	707
Apr. 18 (41)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the new law provides for arbitration in all suits admitted to trial before a justice of the peace, a court of first instance, or a commercial court, if one party to suit so requests; and will cover all but penal suits.	708
Apr. 25 (35)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Authorization to begin formal negotiations and to propose, as a first step, an exchange of notes relating to the tariff; also to cooperate with the British and German Ministers in regard to the note that Teimourtache is being urged to draw up.	709
Apr. 25 (99)	To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Information that the Minister in Persia has been instructed to cooperate with the British and German representatives in the matter of the proposed Persian note to the interested Legations. Instructions to obtain Foreign Office views with regard to matter of urging Persia to postpone exercising penal jurisdiction over foreigners until the modern penal system effectively enters into force; and as to feasibility of representations at Teheran early in May to induce Persia to promise this postponement in the official note to be addressed to the Legations.	710
Apr. 27 (86)	From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Foreign Office telegram to Minister in Persia (text printed) conveying authorization to join in collective representations, if deemed feasible, for postponement of Persia’s exercise of penal jurisdiction after May 10.	711
Apr. 27 (36)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Instructions to discuss with the British Minister the U. S. views concerning collective representations with respect to postponement of penal jurisdiction.	712
May 2 (44)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the British Minister states his emphatic opposition to suggested postponement of Persia’s exercise of penal jurisdiction and to concerted pressure by foreign powers as to this or any other question involved in the negotiations; that draft of official Persian note to interested Legations on safeguards appears reasonably satisfactory. Suggestion that authorization be given him to reach any favorable provisional agreement that would assure the United States all safeguards accorded any other power.	712
May 3 (37)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Department’s acceptance of unfavorable views regarding penal jurisdiction and joint representations. Instructions, however, to cooperate with colleagues with a view to enlarging the scope of the safeguards to be set forth in the official Persian note to the Legations. Department’s nonobjection to Minister’s discussing with proper Persian authorities of a provisional agreement assuring U. S. interests all the safeguards to be accorded any other power.	713
May 5 (47)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Teimourtache’s counter proposal of an exchange of notes providing, in three paragraphs, for diplomatic and consular representation, establishment and residence, and a commercial agreement according the equivalent of most-favored-nation treatment and being in other respects acceptable in principle with the primary exception of reciprocal treatment with respect to persona] status and family law. Receipt also of draft declaration on safeguards which will be addressed to the Legations coincidentally with the signature of the notes to be exchanged.	714
May 7 (48)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information of agreement reached on the clause pertaining to personal status. Opinion that this renders possible and advisable U. S. acceptance of the entire provisional agreement.	714
May 8 (38)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Further observations concerning question of personal status, family law, etc., with instructions to further converse with Teimourtache and to cable full text or a summary of the law being passed by the Medjliss on personal status and family law.	715
May 10 (52)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information as to the personal status assurances contained in the declaration on safeguards; and the more important articles of the law on personal status and family law jurisdiction voted May 8.	717
May 10 (53)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that Teimourtache has offered to delete all reference to personal status from proposed arrangement and suggests the question be handled subsequently in a note or in definitive treaties. Hope that the Department will authorize the signature of the other agreements. Advice that the French and British have reached agreement with Persia and that Germany and other powers will now follow suit.	717
May 10 (40)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Further suggestion as to provision concerning personal status and family law to be included in exchange of notes, with authorization to sign and exchange notes if suggestion is accepted, otherwise to sign and exchange notes without the provision but with the understanding that in the immediate future a further exchange of notes will be negotiated on the subject.	718
May 13 (54)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Intention, because of less conciliatory Persian attitude, to conclude on May 14 an arrangement to consist of notes similar in substance to those outlined in telegram No. 47, May 5, but to take the form of a unilateral declaration and to be accompanied by supplementary formal letters of acknowledgment. Information as to how these notes will differ from the earlier drafts.	719
May 14 (55)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that the notes were signed and exchanged as arranged, but that the declaration on safeguards, handed to him following the exchange, omitted reference to U. S. institutions.	720
May 16 (56)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that notes dated May 14 had just been exchanged relative to U. S. missionaries. Persian Acting Minister’s note (text printed).	720
May 17 (42)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Approval of action described in telegram No. 56, May 16. Instructions to telegraph recommendations with respect to exchange of notes regarding personal status and family law jurisdiction and to send texts of all notes and declarations.	721
May 18 (599)	From the Minister in Persia Transmittal of the seven notes signed and exchanged on May 14 (texts printed).	721
May 19 (601)	From the Minister in Persia Suggestion that the present may be a favorable moment to take the initiative with Persia in negotiation of an agreement on naturalization.	733
May 26 (44)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Department’s inability to understand Persia’s delay in reaching an understanding on the subject of personal status and family law jurisdiction along the lines originally suggested in telegram No. 38, May 8, since pertinent features therein outlined seem to have figured in the arrangement of May 10 between Persia and Great Britain; also inability to understand discrepancy in personal status assurances in declaration on safeguards in telegram No. 52, May 10, and the provision (text printed) in the declaration on safeguards handed May 10 to the British Minister in Persia.	734
May 28 (59)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that negotiations regarding personal status have been resumed along lines of telegram No. 40, May 10, but that the Persian Government has shown an unwillingness to come to an agreement, and that the Minister senses a disposition to avoid the issue. Suggestion that the Department might well communicate its views to the Persian Minister at Washington. Explanation of the discrepancies in provisions regarding personal status in the declarations on safeguards.	735
May 29 (46)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Instructions to remind Teimourtache of his unqualified assurances that Persia had no intention of imposing penalties or inferior treatment of any sort upon U. S. citizens because of the lapse of the treaty and to indicate that the United States might be placed under the regrettable necessity to consider appropriate action. Information that the Department’s views will be brought to the attention of the Persian Minister. Inquiry whether Department’s understanding that Persian tribunals will exercise jurisdiction over personal status of Persian nationals in Belgium, France, Germany, and Italy is correct.	736
May 29	To the Consul at Teheran Reminder that with the abrogation of the treaty of 1856, effective May 10, Persian subjects will not hereafter be entitled to classification as treaty aliens under section 3(6) of the Immigration Act of 1924.	736
June 2 (47)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Substance of interview with Persian Minister regarding personal status and family law jurisdiction.	737
June 5 (61)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Teimourtache’s refusal of settlement on basis of reciprocal favored-nation treatment. Explanation of special considerations involved in Persia’s arrangement with the British. Formula proposed by Persia’s French legal adviser, which the Minister believes is the maximum to be obtained in any declaration.	737
June 29 (55)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Department’s formula respecting personal status (text printed).	739
June 30 (632)	From the Minister in Persia Letters exchanged June 3 and June 21 (texts printed), in regard to competence of U. S. consular courts in Persia as applied to cases pending before those tribunals on May 10.	740
July 6 (67)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Report of Teimourtache’s favorable reaction to the Department’s formula and his substitute draft (text printed) which seems to embody precisely the desired fundamental principles. Request for authorization to sign and exchange the notes before July 9 when Teimourtache expects to depart for a 2-months’ tour.	741
July 6 (56)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Authorization to sign and exchange notes. (Footnote: Information that the Minister reported in telegram No. 72, July 11: “Notes providing for Provisional Agreement in matters of personal status and family law jurisdiction signed and exchanged today.”)	742
July 11	From the American Minister to the Persian Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs Understanding of results of conversations with respect to personal status and family law jurisdiction.	742
July 11	From the Persian Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs to the American Minister Understanding of results of conversation with respect to personal status and family law jurisdiction.	743
July 17 (73)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Foreign Office objection to U. S. consulate’s refusal to issue a nonimmigrant treaty alien visa; claim of contravention of favored-nation stipulation of paragraph 2 of provisional arrangement of May 14. Request for instructions.	744
July 20 (60)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Instructions to inform Persian Government that paragraph 2 of the provisional agreement of May 14 cannot be regarded as according right of Persian nationals to enter the United States as nonimmigrant treaty aliens. Argument in support of Department’s position. (Bracketed note: Information that a draft treaty of friendship, commerce, and establishment was submitted to the Persian Minister of Court on April 14; that no further negotiations followed.)	744

Proposed Treaties of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Persia

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 May 8 (39)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Request for opinion as to advisability of proposing to negotiate treaties of arbitration and conciliation with Persian Government at the present time, or of postponing proposal until negotiations for modus vivendi are completed.	746
June 25 (65)	From the Minister in Persia (tel.) Opinion that time is now favorable to advance proposal to negotiate treaties of arbitration and conciliation with Persia.	746
June 29 (54)	To the Minister in Persia (tel.) Information that Persian Minister has been given drafts of proposed treaties as a basis for negotiation; and that copies are being sent to the Legation. Possibility that proposed negotiation may be of advantage in the matter of exchange of notes on personal status and family law jurisdiction.	746
Sept. 23	To the Counselor of the Persian Legation Reason why the ratifications of the Treaty for the Advancement of General Peace of 1914 between the United States and Persia were never exchanged.	747
Dec. 4 (90)	From the Chargé in Persia (tel.) Information that for political reasons Persia prefers a general clause in a treaty of friendship to a separate treaty of arbitration and also prefers to postpone question of a conciliation treaty. (Footnote: Information that further negotiations did not result in the signing of an arbitration or conciliation treaty.)	748

[Page LXXXIV]

POLAND

Treaties of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Poland, Signed August 16, 1928

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 28	To the Polish Minister Transmittal, for the consideration of the Polish Government and as a basis for negotiation, of a draft treaty of arbitration and a draft treaty of conciliation.	751
May 14 (71 T.28)	From the Polish Minister Poland’s willingness to take up negotiations on the basis of the drafts proposed by the United States. Submission of counter drafts of both treaties.	752
Aug. 8	From the Polish Legation Explanation of proposal to omit from the arbitration treaty the phrase “law or equity” and to substitute for it the phrase “international law and custom”.	757
Aug. 14	To the Polish Minister Explanation why it is impracticable for the United States to accept substitution of phrase “international law and custom” for the phrase “law or equity.” Request for further consideration by the Polish Government of the acceptability of the language used in the draft originally proposed by the United States.	757
Aug. 14	To the Polish Minister Reasons why the Department finds it impracticable to accept certain alterations in the draft treaties proposed by the Polish Government.	759
Aug. 15 (3154/28)	From the Polish Minister Information that the Polish Government has decided to withdraw suggestions which the U. S. Government does not wish to accept, and to conclude both treaties, accepting the drafts submitted on August 14.	761
Aug. 16	Treaty Between the United States of America and Poland Of arbitration.	763
Aug. 16	Treaty Between the United States of America and Poland Of conciliation.	765

PORTUGAL

Representations Regarding Discriminatory Charges in Portuguese Ports

[Page LXXXV] [Page LXXXVI] [Page LXXXVII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 31 (859)	To the Minister in Portugal Transmittal of a letter from the Chairman of the Shipping Board, December 2, 1927, requesting information concerning Portuguese customs rebate of 10 percent allowed cargo landed or loaded by Portuguese vessels, and pointing out that tobacco shipments from Gulf ports will no doubt be transshipped to Portuguese vessels to take advantage of the rebate. Instructions to verify and, in cooperation with consul general, to submit a full report; instructions also to renew representations respecting discriminations against U. S. shipping.	768
Jan. 31 (2202)	From the Minister in Portugal Information that there is nothing in decree No. 7822 of November 22, 1921, which distinguishes between rebates to Portuguese carriers on cargoes reshipped from European ports and those carried in Portuguese bottoms directly to and from American ports. Concurrence with opinion of colleagues that the Portuguese Government intends to issue further decree, probably favorable. Opinion that it would be a mistake for the Legation to make any isolated new intervention for at least another month.	769
Feb. 24 (7)	From the Chargé in Portugal (tel.) Information that the Minister for Foreign Affairs states that the Portuguese Government accepts, in principle, equality; but that delay is due to necessity of finding means to compensate Portuguese shipping for losses resulting from abolition of discriminations.	770
Feb. 24 (2220)	From the Chargé in Portugal Information that the Portuguese Government has taken no action respecting the 10 percent rebate. Opinion that the projected League of Nations loan would have considerable effect in influencing Portugal to clear up the shipping question. Report on the tobacco situation.	770
Feb. 28 (2221)	From the Chargé in Portugal Informal conversation with Minister for Foreign Affairs who said he believed that a means had been found of compensating Portuguese shipping interests for the loss of the advantage of the discriminatory duties. Consulate general’s opinion that the decrees providing for an alleviation of the burden of port charges and dues are unsatisfactory since they allow for an increasing of these at some future time. Information from British Embassy that the two chief British shipping firms in Lisbon are satisfied with the changes effected by the decrees.	772
Apr. 10 (15)	From the Chargé in Portugal (tel.) Report that interested chiefs of mission are now disposed to renew representations against shipping discrimination; that the British Ambassador has addressed an identical note to representatives suggesting that the protest include decree of February 28 granting subsidy upon coal imported in Portuguese vessels; that the Minister, however, intends to omit it and to limit his protest to general percentage discrimination.	774
Apr. 11 (898)	To the Chargé in Portugal Authorization to convey to Portuguese Government an expression of gratitude over Portugal’s acceptance of the principle of national treatment of shipping and to use the occasion to propose a treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights.	774
Apr. 13 (10)	To the Chargé in Portugal (tel.) Information that if subsidy upon coal imports in Portuguese vessels is payable to Portuguese shipowners, and therefore a direct subsidy, the Department perceives no ground for representations. Instructions to make informal representations if otherwise.	775
Apr. 23 (18)	From the Chargé in Portugal (tel.) Report that coal subsidy is direct to Portuguese shipowners; that British representative is protesting coal subsidy but including 10 percent discrimination and that other representatives are renewing protests on 10 percent discrimination with incidental mention of the coal subsidy. Request for authorization to make representations regarding delay in correcting 10 percent discrimination without citing coal subsidy.	776
Apr. 27 (12)	To the Chargé in Portugal (tel.) Authorization to make further representations regarding shipping discriminations; to bring to attention of colleagues the Department’s belief that protest against coal subsidy may interfere with abandonment of discriminations; and to use discretion whether to postpone further representations until the Minister has had a chance to consider the proposal of the treaty suggested in despatch No. 898, April 11.	776
May 3 (19)	From the Chargé in Portugal (tel.) Information that a note was sent to the Foreign Office on May 2; that eight nations have renewed protests.	777
May 4 (2281)	From the Chargé in Portugal Summary of events in shipping discrimination. Transmittal of note of May 2 to the Foreign Minister, Portuguese decree No. 15086, and memorandum by the Chargé on port charges (texts printed).	777
May 9 (2284)	From the Chargé in Portugal Information that chiefs of missions do not agree with Department’s viewpoint regarding subsidies paid to shipowners. Opinion that, without British support, there is not much prospect that the Portuguese Government will abolish the present discriminations through compensatory subsidies to the Portuguese vessel owners.	783
June 22 (25)	From the Minister in Portugal (tel.) Request for draft treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights, which the Foreign Minister desires to examine.	783
June 25 (2325)	From the Minister in Portugal Information that Foreign Minister is willing to examine proposed treaty; but that opposition is expected from the head of the Consular and Commercial Division of the Foreign Office. Doubt that Portugal has really accepted in principle equality of treatment. Request for information as to Department’s understanding of national treatment and opinion whether such treatment is nullified by subventions, subsidies, special payments or other measures.	784
Oct. 16 (2413)	From the Chargé in Portugal Information that British Chargé sent note to Foreign Office, dated October 8, protesting against port charges and dues, but omitting any reference to coal subsidy. Memorandum of Minister’s conversation with the Foreign Minister on June 21 (text printed) regarding shipping discrimination and the Portuguese policy of not opening up their colonies to foreign shipping.	786
Jan. 23 (2499)	From the Minister in Portugal Report of interview with Meyrelles, the new Foreign Minister, on January 17. Opinion that there will not be any favorable developments either in matter of shipping charges or in the negotiation of a treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights.	788

Portuguese Regulations Regarding Jurisdiction on Board Foreign Ships in Portuguese Waters and Request for Reciprocal Action by the United States

[Page LXXXVIII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 July 27	From the Portuguese Minister Inquiry whether Portuguese consular officers are invited to be present when American authorities take legal action on board Portuguese merchant vessels in American waters. Explanation that the decree of the Portuguese Government of July 23, 1913, provides for reciprocal treatment to foreign ships in Portuguese territorial waters.	790
Sept. 5	To the Portuguese Minister Information that consular officers are not invited to be present when American authorities take legal action on board Portuguese merchant vessels in American waters. Department’s opinion that the request of a Portuguese consular officer to be present would not be refused by the local authorities. Explanation that there are no American treaty provisions or legislation similar to the Portuguese decree of 1913.	790
Sept. 8	From the Portuguese Minister Inquiry whether U. S. Government interprets the most-favored-nation treatment stipulated in the commercial agreement between the United States and Portugal of June 28, 1910, as extending to vessels of the one country in the territorial waters of the other the treatment granted by the latter country to vessels of other nations through treaty provisions agreed upon with them.	793
Sept. 26	To the Portuguese Minister Department’s understanding that commercial agreement of 1910 has not been considered to apply to consular privileges with respect to matters pertaining to the internal discipline of vessels; that the most-favored-nation treatment stipulated in the agreement related to charges on commerce.	793
Oct. 12	Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State Secretary’s proposal, in conversation with the Portuguese Minister, that the Minister leave the Department’s note of September 26 for reconsideration; and that if it were found possible to take a different attitude, another note would be substituted, and that if it were necessary to maintain the stand taken, a letter of explanation would be written.	794
Nov. 20	Memorandum by the Solicitor for the Department of State Opinion that the Portuguese Minister should be told that the views expressed in the Department’s notes of September 5 and 26 represent the Department’s considered views on the subject. (Bracketed note: Information that no further correspondence on this subject has been found in the files of the Department.)	795

RUMANIA

Efforts To Reach a Satisfactory Settlement Regarding Subsoil Rights in Leased Rumanian Oil Lands

[Page LXXXIX]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 31 (565)	From the Minister in Rumania Report that the Minister of Commerce and Industry called at the Legation, March 24, and gave definite assurance that the subsoil rights in embatic lands would be restored to the Romano-Americana and that all concessions taken by the Romano-Americana on these lands before the enactment of the so-called interpretive law of 1926 would be recognized following the adjustment of the question of royalty. Rumanian memorandum, dated March 11, pertaining in general to the embatic land questions and concessions from embatic holders taken by the Romano-Americana Company (text printed).	798
Apr. 13 (572)	From the Minister in Rumania Information that the Romano-Americana has accepted the proposal of the Rumanian Government for settlement of the dispute. Memorandum prepared by the Romano-Americana Co. reviewing the history of the case and draft convention between Rumania and the Romano-Americana embodying the settlement (texts printed).	803
June 22 (596)	From the Chargé in Rumania Information that, on June 8, there appeared in the Monitorul Oficial extensive regulations dealing with the methods of exploitation of petroleum and gas as stipulated in the mining law of 1924, and limiting the employment of foreigners. Informal interview with the Minister of Industry and Commerce, who requested that text of regulations should not be sent to the Department until a thorough revision had been made. Chargé’s opinion that it is doubtful whether any real action will be taken.	808
July 5 (603)	From the Chargé in Rumania Press announcement, June 27 (text printed) stating that the advance project which was published by mistake was not the definite project. Message sent by Hughes, Director of Romano-Americana, to Paris office of Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey (text printed) stating that unofficial promises have not been fulfilled and expressing doubt as to Government’s sincerity.	811
July 24 (307)	To the Chargé in Rumania Approval of action described in despatch No. 596 of June 22; and instructions to keep the Department promptly advised of further developments.	813
Sept. 26	From the Paris Representative of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey to the General Counsel of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey at New York Explanation that Rumanian Government has not definitely confirmed the settlement.	813
Dec. 7 (50)	From the Minister in Rumania Press report of an interview with the Minister of Industry in which the promise to repeal the objectionable features of the mining law is repeated. (Footnote: Information that a new ministry in Rumania was formed November 10, 1928, under Juliu Maniu, leader of the Nationalist-Peasant Party).	814

Refusal of the Department of State To Associate the Flotation of an American Loan to Rumania With Questions Pending Between the Two Governments

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 26 (8)	From the Minister in Rumania (tel.) Information that representatives of Blair and Company, New York, are now, at Rumanian Finance Minister’s request, investigating financial situation in Rumania with a view to floating a loan and that they have indicated that it would be desirable to settle all pending cases between United States and Rumania before loan is made. Suggestion that commercial treaty, better treatment for Standard Oil Co., and settlement of bond and other claims be included.	814
Jan. 28 (5)	To the Minister in Rumania (tel.) Instructions to avoid giving impression that the United States associates treaty negotiations, settlement of claims, or revision of mining law with the question of American loan.	815
Feb. 2 (535)	From the Minister in Rumania Report of conversations with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Secretary General of the Ministry of Finance regarding the payment of the pre-war bond issues. Minister’s opinion that the Rumanian Government will offer some sort of a settlement of American claims but only in connection with a general settlement.	815
Feb. 4 (537)	From the Minister in Rumania Further information concerning the proposed international loan to Rumania.	816
Aug. 15	To Blair & Company, Inc., and Chase Securities Corp. Nonobjection to participation in Rumanian loan. Department policy regarding foreign loans.	818

[Page XC]

Attitude of the Department of State Toward Protests by Jewish Groups Regarding Treatment of Jews in Rumania

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 29	To the Minister in Rumania Instructions to bring informally to the attention of Titulescu the bad impression the anti-Jewish riots have made in the United States.	819
1928 Feb. 29	From the Minister in Rumania Information that substance of instructions of December 29 has been conveyed to the Acting Secretary for Foreign Affairs and other prominent leaders, including the Prime Minister.	820
Apr. 13 (15)	To the Minister in Rumania (tel.) Instructions to bring to the attention of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs orally and informally the information that the Rumanian Minister in Washington has been advised to ignore several speeches of an anti-Rumanian character delivered in Congress.	821
Dec. 12 (54)	From the Minister in Rumania Report that students’ celebrations of December 10 were held without disorders.	821

RUSSIA

Policy of the United States Toward the Soviet Regime

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Feb. 23	To the Chairman of the Republican National Committee Statement covering activities of the Department of State (excerpt concerning Russia printed).	822

Reiteration by the United States of Its Policy Not To Countenance Infringements by Americans Upon Foreign Rights in Russia

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 15	From the French Ambassador Information that a contract recently concluded between the Soviet regime and Mr. Percival Farquhar has caused considerable concern in France in view of the extensive investments of French capital in the steel works of Makeevka and in the adjoining coal and iron mines. Statement that the French Government considers that the contingent grant to a foreign group of the right to exploit, or to participate in the management of, an enterprise belonging to French nationals cannot be regarded otherwise than as prejudicial to the rights of the former owners. Reference to the Department’s press announcement of July 20, 1922, that the Government of the United States will not favor any arrangement entered into by U. S. citizens with the Soviets prejudicing the rights of citizens of other countries.	826
Apr. 16	To the French Ambassador Information that Mr. Farquhar has been advised that the Department could not view with favor the project in question; and that the attitude of the U. S. Government toward arrangements concluded by U. S. citizens with the Soviet authorities remains the same as that set forth in the Department’s press announcement of July 20, 1922.	827

[Page XCI]

Continued Refusal of the United States Mints and Assay Offices To Accept Gold of Soviet Origin

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Feb. 14	From the Under Secretary of the Treasury Inquiry whether the Department still adheres to the opinion given on November 8, 1920, that it cannot give any assurance that the title to Soviet gold will not be subject to attack internationally or otherwise.	827
Feb. 17	To the Under Secretary of the Treasury Statement that the attitude of the Department remains the same as set forth in the letter of November 8, 1920, to the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury.	829
Feb. 24	To the Under Secretary of the Treasury Information that the Department does not consider that the purchase of Soviet gold could be regarded as a recognition of the Soviet regime as the Government of Russia.	829
Mar. 5	From the French Ambassador Inquiry, in view of press reports that the U. S. S. R. has shipped some five million dollars to New York, whether the U. S. Government will maintain its position in regard to importation of Russian gold.	829
Mar. 10	To the French Ambassador Assurance that there is no present intention to change the position maintained since 1920 with respect to acceptance of gold of Soviet origin. Statement issued to press by Treasury Department March 6 (text printed).	830

SPAIN

Representations to the Spanish Government for Fair Compensation to American Interests for Property Taken by the Spanish Petroleum Monopoly

[Page XCII] [Page XCIII] [Page XCIV] [Page XCV] [Page XCVI]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 4 (719)	From the Chargé in Spain Spanish note verbale, December 23, 1927 (text printed) stating that the seizures of property are being carried out in accordance with the Royal decree-law of October 17, 1927, with reserve of making pertinent indemnification and that it has been impossible to determine the amount of the indemnification because it is necessary to make proper valuation in accordance with Royal decree-law of June 28, 1927, which fixes an as yet unexpired period for these valuations; also that the Government has decided that these expropriated companies will receive interest on finally determined valuation from date of seizure to time of final payment.	832
Jan. 5 (1)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Comment that the Spanish note verbale of December 28, 1927, contains no satisfactory assurances. Request for authority to refute the arguments in the Spanish note.	833
Jan. 6 (3)	To the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Department’s preference to await receipt of text of Spanish note verbale before issuing definite instructions. Authorization to intimate to the Spanish Government that its course with respect to oil monopoly is being observed by the United States with growing concern and that the United States will be obliged to conclude from failure to give prompt and fair compensation that Spain does not intend to extend protection to U. S. property in Spain.	834
Jan. 10 (4)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Information that the substance of telegram No. 3, January 6, was communicated to Primo de Rivera on January 9, and that he promised to hasten valuations and gave assurance that his Government intends to pay a fair and generous compensation. Opinion that the Department’s representations have made an improvement and that there is a fair prospect of fair compensation ultimately.	835
Jan. 11 (737)	From the Chargé in Spain Detailed report of interview with Primo de Rivera on January 9.	835
Jan. 19 (7)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Summary of Spanish reply to French protests, to the effect that there was not sufficient time to make valuations at the time of seizure and promising generous and equitable treatment. Suggestion that the Department consider the advisability of continued protest. French Embassy report that Russia demands recognition by Spain in return for a longterm contract for supplying monopoly. Opinion that recognition will not be granted by present regime.	839
Jan. 26 (10)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Information that first valuation proceedings at Santander indicate that method employed by Spanish representatives is to undervalue properties and disregard value of the business as a going concern. French Ambassador’s plan to present further note threatening reprisals against Spanish interests in France unless fair and immediate compensation is made to French petroleum interests in Spain. Suggestion that a categorical refutation of the Spanish arguments in the note of December 28, 1927, be made. Opinion that without further energetic protest the Spanish Government will consider American attitude as one of acquiescence to the present procedure.	840
Jan. 27 (10)	To the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Instructions to report concerning the British Embassy’s attitude and any further action taken by the French; also to stress to French and British colleagues the U. S. desire for cooperation.	841
Jan. 28 (11)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Report that British attitude is ambiguous and negative, but that the French desire to cooperate with Americans; that the British attitude of procrastination is considered ill-advised and unfortunate by the French.	842
Feb. 1 (14)	To the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Instructions to proceed to Paris and London for consultation with the respective Embassies. Authorization, in conjunction with American Embassy in Paris and at his own discretion, to discuss question informally with French Foreign Office.	843
Feb. 2 (16)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Information that the French Embassy sent the Spanish Government a strong note on January 30, reiterating demand for protection and fair treatment of French property seized by the petroleum monopoly. Suggestion for further American protest along the lines of the French note. Report that French are considering commercial reprisals.	844
Feb. 4 (26)	To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Information concerning the importance of ascertaining the British Government’s attitude. Instructions with respect to conferences with Blair, the Chargé at Madrid, who is proceeding to London.	845
Feb. 8 (28)	From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Opinion, after conferences with Blair, that the only remedy immediately available would seem to be a protest by the U. S., British, and French Governments. French Ambassador’s assurance of continued pressure by his Government and belief that the British will refuse to act because British subjects are interested in a company which is a Spanish corporation, in fact. Private information that this attitude on the part of the British may possibly be altered; and suggestion that the matter be discussed with British Ambassador at Washington as most effective means of speeding such a result.	845
Feb. 13 (25)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Information that American, British, and French owned petroleum companies have filed protest with Minister of Finance against methods of central Valuation Commission and have refused to attend further valuation meetings. Finance Minister’s reply citing them to appear before each session of the commission. French approval of withdrawal of the companies. Chargé’s opinion that companies are justified in their withdrawal and that vigorous protest against the treatment accorded to American interests should be made.	846
Feb. 14 (790)	From the Chargé in Spain Report on conferences with American Embassies in Paris and London; possibility that British Foreign Office will take a stronger position.	847
Feb. 14 (41)	From the Ambassador in France (tel.) Information that, following conferences with Blair, the Spanish oil situation was discussed with the Foreign Office and the desirability of the French Embassy at London aiding in bringing the British Government in favor of concerted action was suggested.	850
Feb. 14 (17)	To the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Request for information whether any change in British attitude is indicated by fact that, in withdrawing from the central Valuation Commission, the British companies were acting with the U. S. and French companies; also for opinion whether withdrawal of companies has weakened their position. Information that the Standard Oil Company is consulting its representatives in Spain as to the advisability of filing a suit in Spanish courts to test decree’s constitutionality.	851
Feb. 18 (27)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Information that the British attitude is unchanged. Opinion that oil companies now present a united front and that withdrawal from Valuation Commission does not weaken their position. Impracticability of bringing any suit in Spanish courts to test legality of the decree.	852
Feb. 21 (28)	From the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Report on encouraging assurances regarding instructions for the Valuation Commission received from King Alfonso and Primo de Rivera; also French Ambassador’s understanding with Primo de Rivera.	853
Feb. 21 (18)	To the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Department’s assumption that the oil companies will now prepare appeals to be submitted to the Council of Ministers. Request for comments on suggestion that the Department present representations as soon as Babel and Nervion files its appeal. Information that the French Embassy reports a better chance of British support and that France is demanding from Spain an unequivocal and definite reply.	854
Feb. 23 (19)	To the Chargé in Spain (tel.) Information that Standard Oil Company has indicated that it will await confirmation of the French Ambassador’s understanding before reappearing before the Valuation Commission. Authorization to seek appropriate assurances from Spanish Government for U. S. interests. Instructions to advise whether there is to be a reexamination by the Valuation Commission or whether valuations are to be reviewed by the Council of Ministers.	855
Feb. 29 (31)	From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Information that on February 25 the French Ambassador received a note from Primo confirming the Ambassador’s understanding of the conversation of February 21; that Primo, however, gives no assurances regarding Valuation Commission’s instructions to interpret “industrial value” of expropriated companies, which interpretation is now the crux of the situation; that American and French interests have indicated they would return to the Commission in view of the recent assurances; that the British, however, have sent a bitter protest refusing to take part in proceedings of the Commission unless given categorical assurances on industrial value.	855
Mar. 9 (37)	From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Information that the U. S., British, and French Embassies have received identical note dated March 6 from Primo promising that the Valuation Commission will in the future act judicially and will be instructed to deal reasonably and generously with all interests affected, and enclosing new rules governing the Commission’s procedure which make great concessions. Suggestion that since letter’s wording is vague, the Spanish Government should be informed that the United States is not wholly satisfied.	856
Mar. 9 (835)	From the Ambassador in Spain Note from Primo de Rivera of March 6 and rules for the valuation of petroleum plants (text printed).	857
Mar. 10 (25)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Instructions to acknowledge note of March 6; to inform French and British colleagues regarding reply and if advisable, deliver reply at about the same time as the French and British do.	859
Mar. 14 (839)	From the Ambassador in Spain Note to President of Spanish Council of Ministers, March 13, acknowledging the Spanish note of March 6 (text printed). Information that it was not possible to arrange delivery of note at the same time as British and French replies. Rumor that Valuation Commission will delay its work until after the Easter holidays.	859
May 23 (915)	From the Ambassador in Spain Information of interview with Primo in which was discussed the Commission’s refusal to review its awards made before the new rules, and its failure to give fair consideration to companies’ claims for good will; intention of French Ambassador to take matter up with Primo personally.	861
May 31 (56)	From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Information that the French Ambassador delivered note to Primo on May 29 (summary printed); delivery of American note, May 31.	864
May 31	From the American Ambassador in Spain to the President of the Spanish Council of Ministers Request that the Valuation Commission review its earlier awards and that prompt payment be made for the losses resulting to American interests.	865
June 1 (38)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Authorization to second the French protest along similar lines if it seems expedient; and to discuss with British and French colleagues and with oil company representatives plan of Standard Oil Company to secure agreement among companies on definition of the criteria (including industrial value) on which compensation should be based.	866
June 12 (933)	From the Ambassador in Spain Note from Primo de Rivera, June 6 (text printed) which the Ambassador considers an entirely unsatisfactory and obvious, though friendly, attempt to dodge the issue.	867
June 20 (942)	From the Chargé in Spain Information that tentative agreement has been reached between the Babel and Nervion Company and the Valuation Commission. Chargé’s opinion that the time is now opportune to give more tangible support to the French negotiations.	869
July 3 (954)	From the Ambassador in Spain Report of interview with Primo de Rivera on June 27. Probability of settlement in the near future.	871
Aug. 24 (78)	From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Information that Shell Company will accept a settlement on the basis of actual physical valuation, plus 8 percent, plus legal interest from date of seizure.	873
Aug. 30 (54)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Instructions to discuss Shell Company’s settlement with French colleague and ascertain what line of action the French Government proposes to take under the circumstances. Information that the Department and Standard Oil Company will confer upon the course of action to be followed regarding which instructions will be sent to the Ambassador. (Copies to London and Paris.)	874
Sept. 5 (82)	From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Information that French Embassy intends to continue pressing for increased compensation for good will, with hint that they will invoke arbitration under treaty; but that the French Embassy does not expect to take any action before the end of October.	874
Sept. 18 (462)	To the Ambassador in Spain Information of conversation between Secretary of State and Briand at Paris in which the Secretary stated that United States was in accord with the French on this question; and Briand stated that when the Spanish Government realized that the American and French Governments were firmly resolved on a common line of action, they would abandon their present attitude.	875
Oct. 25 (329)	From the Chargé in France (tel.) Information that the French Government is considering recourse to arbitration as a means of settling the oil monopoly cases and would welcome U. S. support of their position; and that such a course is favored by American oil companies.	875
Nov. 1 (338)	From the Chargé in France (tel.) Information from Foreign Office that the French Ambassador in Madrid has been instructed to consult with his American and British colleagues and to report as to the advisability of resorting to arbitration.	876
Dec. 4 (67)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Information that the Spanish Government will be asked by the French to submit to arbitration questions arising out of the application of the oil monopoly. Request for comments and recommendations with regard to arbitration and for copy of French note asking for arbitration.	876
Dec. 6 100)	From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Information that the French note was sent to Foreign Office on November 30; and that the Ambassador on December 4 also addressed a note to the Foreign Office (text printed) in support of the French action.	877
Dec. 8 (68)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Comment on Ambassador’s failure to inform the Department of the French note of November 30 and to consult the Department before sending the U. S. note of December 4.	878
Dec. 18 (69)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Information that the Department will await receipt of text of French note of November 30 before sending further instructions.	878

[Page XCVII]

Proposed Treaty of Arbitration Between the United States and Spain

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Feb. 20 (335)	To the Chargé in Spain Information that in conversation with the Spanish Ambassador on January 26 the Secretary of State stated he was prepared to negotiate a new arbitration convention either on the basis of the original Root convention of 1908 or on the basis of the draft arbitration treaty which has been submitted to France; and that the Secretary has since despatched a suitable note to the Spanish Ambassador confirming the statement to him and transmitting a copy of the treaty with France which was signed February 6.	879
Mar. 12 (26)	To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.) Information that on March 12 the Spanish Ambassador was handed a draft treaty of arbitration whose provisions operate to extend the policy of arbitration enunciated in the treaty of 1908, which expired June 2, 1923; and that the text of the proposed treaty will be forwarded in the next pouch.	880
July 11 (76–22)	From the Spanish Ambassador Statement that the Spanish Government is unable to sign the proposed arbitration treaty. Counter proposal of draft of a treaty of conciliation, judicial settlement, and arbitration as a basis for negotiation. (Footnote: Information that no reply appears to have been made to this note.)	880

SWEDEN

Treaty of Arbitration Between the United States and Sweden, Signed October 27, 1928

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Apr. 28 (5)	To the Minister in Sweden (tel.) Information that the Swedish Minister has been handed a draft treaty of arbitration whose provisions operate to extend the policy of arbitration enunciated in the convention of 1924, which expires March 18, 1929; and that the text of the proposed treaty will be forwarded in the next pouch.	882
Oct. 4	From the Swedish Minister Information that he has been authorized to sign the treaty at any time convenient to the Secretary of State.	882
Oct. 27	Treaty Between the United States of America and Sweden Of arbitration.	883

Proposed Reciprocal Treatment Regarding Taxation of Resident Aliens in the United States and Sweden

[Page XCVIII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Feb. 9 (38)	To the Minister in Sweden Instructions to make representations to the Foreign Minister regarding extension to U. S. citizens residing in Sweden of the same income tax deductions which are now granted to Swedish nationals; also to explain that the provisions of section 222 of the Revenue Act—permitting American citizens to credit Federal income tax with the amount of income, war-profits, or excess-profits taxes paid to any foreign country—may be extended to Swedish nationals, as soon as assurances are received from the Swedish Government that the deductions permitted under Swedish tax laws are available to U. S. citizens residing in Sweden.	885
Apr. 10 (249)	From the Minister in Sweden Information concerning presentation of memorandum on March 7 and oral statements made in compliance with Department’s instructions. Foreign Office request for a note confirming Minister’s statement respecting the treatment accorded Swedish residents in the United States. Information that upon the receipt of such a note, arrangements would be made for the issuance of a Royal decree extending to resident citizens of the United States the same benefits respecting deductions in the taxable amount of their income now enjoyed by Swedish nationals.	886
May 21 (283)	From the Minister in Sweden Foreign Office note of May 18 and Swedish Royal decree No. 105 of May 4, 1928 (texts printed) extending to citizens of the United States domiciled in Sweden treatment in respect of income tax similar to that enjoyed by Swedish subjects.	887
July 16 (72)	To the Minister in Sweden Inquiry whether the benefit extended to Americans is limited to the allowance of deductions from their gross income formerly denied them, or whether they may now credit their Swedish income tax with the amount of any income, warprofits, or excess-profits taxes paid to another country.	889
Sept. 8 (370)	From the Chargé in Sweden Foreign Office note, September 3 (text printed) stating that national treatment extended by decree of May 4 to U. S. citizens domiciled in Sweden does not imply the right to credit their Swedish income tax with the amount of any income, warprofits, or excess-profits taxes paid to another country. Royal decree No. 380, July 13, 1926 (text printed).	890
Nov. 10 (82)	To the Minister in Sweden Treasury Department letter of October 26 (text printed) stating that Swedish nationals residing in the United States will receive national treatment, except that they will not be allowed to take as a credit against their Federal tax the amount of any income, war-profits or excess-profits taxes paid to a foreign country.	892

SWITZERLAND

Proposed Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Consular Rights Between the United States and Switzerland

[Page XCIX]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1927 Dec. 27 (106)	To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.) Information of changes that it has been found advisable to make in articles 7, 9, 11, 12, and 13 of the draft treaty of friendship, commerce and consular rights submitted to the Swiss Foreign Office in 1926.	894
Mar. 8 (335)	From the Minister in Switzerland Report of interview with Motta, Federal Councillor and Chief of the Political Department, in which Motta intimated that Switzerland would submit a counter proposal that a treaty of friendship and a treaty of commerce be negotiated separately; and suggested entering into negotiations for an arbitration treaty similar to the one with France but with the addition of some declaration by which the United States would undertake to respect the neutrality of Switzerland. Request for guidance.	895
Mar. 18 (358)	From the Minister in Switzerland Foreign Office note, March 14 (text printed) transmitting a draft counter proposal of a treaty of friendship, juridical protection and consular rights with final protocol (text printed). Information that the draft treaty of commerce is being delayed by departmental differences of opinion.	897
Apr. 4 (387)	From the Minister in Switzerland Report of interview with Motta in which was discussed the possibility of including in the treaty some provision for the questions of nationality and taxation. Request for instructions.	908
Apr. 9 (194)	To the Minister in Switzerland Information of changes that it has been found desirable to make in articles 7, 9, 11, 12, and 13 of the draft submitted in 1926.	911
Apr. 11 (43)	To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.) Opinion that it is neither practical nor desirable to add any declaration concerning U. S. attitude toward the neutrality of Switzerland, as suggested by Motta. Authorization, if deemed advisable, to inform Motta that should a multilateral treaty for renunciation of war be successfully negotiated the United States would be most happy for Switzerland to adhere thereto.	918
Apr. 24 (415)	From the Minister in Switzerland Report of conference with Swiss officials in which amendments, modifications, and restrictions suggested by the Swiss were discussed. Doubt as to advisability of going further in negotiation of this treaty.	919
May 5 (423)	From the Minister in Switzerland Transmittal of note sent on May 4 to Motta submitting all changes but the one dealing with article 9 of the U. S. draft. Explanation.	926
July 18 (518)	From the Minister in Switzerland Swiss draft of a treaty of commerce (text printed). Report of interview with Motta who explained omission of article 13 of the U. S. draft relative to right of transit and discussed various provisions of the “additional stipulations”.	926
Sept. 10 (582)	From the Minister in Switzerland Letter of August 22 from the Chief of the Division of Foreign Affairs, Swiss Federal Political Department (text printed) regarding certain modifications which the Swiss Government is prepared to make in its draft treaty. (Bracketed note: Information that no further progress was made in these treaty negotiations.)	934

[Page C]

Proposed Treaty of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Switzerland

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Apr. 3 (41)	To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.) Information that the Swiss Chargé has been handed a draft treaty of arbitration whose provisions operate to extend the policy of arbitration enunciated in the convention of 1908 which expired December 23, 1918; and that the text of the proposed treaty and covering note—explaining certain differences in the text of the draft treaty from the language of the French treaty and suggesting that the Swiss Government might care to consider again the ratification of the so-called Bryan treaty—will be forwarded in the next pouch.	937
June 14 (472)	From the Minister in Switzerland Letter of June 12 from the Chief of the Swiss Federal Political Department (text printed) transmitting counter draft of the treaty. (Bracketed note: Information that text of the treaty, signed February 16, 1931, is published as Department of State Treaty Series No. 844.)	937

TURKEY

Proposed Treaties of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Turkey

[Page CI] [Page CII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Mar. 23 (25)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Request for opinion whether a proposal to negotiate treaties of arbitration and conciliation would be well received by the Government of Turkey at present time; whether such a proposal would be of assistance in any negotiations for renewal of the commercial modus vivendi of February 17, 1927; also as to how and when the proposal should be made.	940
Mar. 26 (33)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Opinion that Turkey would welcome a proposal to negotiate arbitration and conciliation treaties and that such a proposal would help in negotiations for the renewal of the commercial modus vivendi. Suggestion that proposal be made in Constantinople rather than in Washington and soon after the return of the Minister for Foreign Affairs from Geneva. Favorable effect of including Turkey among first countries to which these treaties are offered.	941
Mar. 27 (27)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that the Department intends to sound out Senate leaders during the next week, and, if they agree, then the texts of the treaties will be handed to the Turkish Minister in conformity with the procedure which is being followed with all other countries; that handing of the texts could be timed so as to permit the Ambassador to make a simultaneous announcement to the Foreign Minister of the V. S. Government’s intentions.	941
Apr. 11 (50)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Report of interview with Foreign Minister, March 10, in which the Foreign Minister inquired whether the United States did not intend to extend its “outlawry of war” treaties to nations other than the great powers, and implied quite openly that Turkey would welcome such a proposal. Opinion that full moral effect of offering such treaties to Turkey will be lost if the offer is not made soon.	942
Apr. 12 (36)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Explanation that arbitration treaty should not be confused with treaty for renunciation of war. Information that instructions will be sent shortly regarding the Department’s intention to hand to the Turkish Ambassador the texts of arbitration and conciliation treaties and regarding the renewal of the commercial modus vivendi.	943
Apr. 13 (37)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Precise instructions with respect to interview which the Ambassador should arrange with the Foreign Minister for the purpose of announcing that the treaty texts have been handed to the Turkish Ambassador at Washington, which event should take place the latter part of the next week.	943
Apr. 16 (56)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that the appointment has been made with Minister for Foreign Affairs for April 19.	945
Apr. 19 (40)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that drafts of proposed treaties were handed to Turkish Ambassador and that copies will be sent to Embassy in the next pouch.	945
Apr. 20 (61)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Foreign Minister’s statement that Turkey would be glad to sign both treaties provided they contain some formula or some qualifying document, such as a procès-verbal or exchange of notes, which would make it impossible for the United States to invoke either treaty in connection with any question pertaining to the Armenians. Request for instructions.	945
Apr. 25 (41)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Instructions to endeavor, at an appropriate moment, but preferably not until commercial modus vivendi has been renewed, to dissuade the Foreign Minister from suggesting the stipulation regarding the Armenians; and to avoid giving the impression that the United States is more anxious to negotiate the treaties with Turkey than with other States.	946
June 24 (83)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information of receipt of Foreign Minister’s personal letter of June 19 requesting revision of article 2 of arbitration convention. Request for approval of proposed reply (text printed).	947
June 25 (55)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Approval of draft personal letter to Foreign Minister with the amendment of the last sentence (text printed). (Footnote: Information that the letter, embodying the amendment, was delivered on June 26.)	948
Aug. 16 (68)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that the Turkish Ambassador has been informed that the Department cannot accept the modification of the arbitration and conciliation treaties proposed by Turkey nor an exchange of notes interpreting the text and forming part of the treaties; but that the Secretary of State has proposed an exchange of notes defining the term “domestic jurisdiction”.	948
Oct. 1 (112)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that the Turkish Ambassador has been instructed to discuss with the Department the exchange of notes mentioned in telegram No. 68, August 16; and that, as soon as texts of notes have been approved, the Turkish Ambassador will sign the arbitration treaty.	949
Oct. 9 (77)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Conversation with Turkish Ambassador on October 2 concerning note requesting explanation of “domestic jurisdiction”. Objection to Turkish proposed note (text printed). Instructions to discuss the matter orally and informally with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, if and when a suitable occasion presents itself. (Footnote: Information that further negotiations did not result in the signing of an arbitration or conciliation treaty.)	949

Prolongation of Commercial “Modus Vivendi” Between the United States and Turkey by Exchange of Notes, May 19, 1928

[Page CIII]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Apr. 28 [29?] (63)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Receipt of oral information from Foreign Office that Council of Ministers has approved prolongation of commercial modus vivendi until April 10, 1929.	950
May 7 (67)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Request for Department’s approval of Turkish draft text for exchange of notes prolonging modus vivendi, which is almost identical with the note dated July 20, 1926. Suggestion that in second line there should be inserted the clause “pending the coming into effect of the commercial convention referred to in subparagraph (a) of paragraph (2) of the notes exchanged today, February 17, 1927, concerning the relations between the United States and Turkey.”	951
May 10 (47)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Approval of draft text with modifications suggested by the Turkish Foreign Office. Desirability, before proceeding to signature, of making insertion in second line.	951
May 14 (71)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that Foreign Office approves suggested insertion, and that notes will be exchanged May 19.	952
May 17 (74)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Foreign Minister’s objection to Department’s insertion on the ground that reference to modus vivendi of February 17, 1927, which expires May 20, 1928, is superfluous; Foreign Minister’s counterdraft.	952
May 18 (51)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Nonobjection to Foreign Minister’s proposed modifications.	953
May 22 (320)	From the Ambassador in Turkey Notes exchanged May 19 (texts printed) providing for an extension of ten months and twenty days of the commercial modus vivendi dating from May 20, 1928.	953
May 22	To the Ambassador in Turkey Department’s decision regarding bringing up question of Foreign Minister’s reference to note of February 17, 1927. Inquiry whether Ambassador’s interpretation of Foreign Minister’s statement of April 19 regarding establishment of relations referred to paragraph 3 of the first of the two notes exchanged February 17, 1927.	955
June 6	From the Ambassador in Turkey Opinion that Foreign Minister referred to paragraph 3 of the first of the two notes exchanged on February 17, 1927.	956
July 25 (397)	From the Ambassador in Turkey Inquiry whether the Department desires that the Turkish Government be approached with a view to securing the amendment of article 1 of the law of April 10, 1927, or of enacting other legislation to permit the continuation of the modus vivendi beyond April 10, 1929, until such time as an accord of a more permanent character shall have been entered into by the two Governments.	957
Sept. 12 (488)	From the Ambassador in Turkey Improbability that question of commencing negotiation of new commercial treaty will be broached until new Turkish tariff has been enacted, possibly not until winter or even spring. Arguments pro and con whether the Foreign Minister will take the initiative. Belief that for the present no steps should be taken to secure legislation. Request for specific instructions.	958
Oct. 2 (113)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that the Foreign Minister has, on his own initiative, broached the question of negotiations for a commercial treaty, stating that he believes the new tariff law will pass the Assembly next month and that he will probably be ready early in January to begin negotiations.	961
Dec. 12 (10)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Improbability that the new Turkish tariff law will be passed before March or April.	961
Dec. 26 (109)	To the Ambassador in Turkey Department’s desire to negotiate an agreement by an exchange of notes of indefinite duration providing for mutual unconditional most-favored-nation treatment in customs matters. Transmittal of note to be addressed to the Foreign Minister. Opposition to tariff rebates.	962

[Page CIV]

Closing of American School at Brusa and Trial of American Teachers on Chargé of Teaching Christianity

[Page CV]

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 22 (5)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that Turkish Government is investigating alleged conversion to Christianity of four girl students in American school at Brusa whose diaries were stolen and turned over to the Turkish authorities; that Goodsell, field secretary of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, states that the school has been conforming scrupulously to antipropaganda laws and therefore the board welcomes investigation.	964
Jan. 31 (8)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Publication of official communiqué stating that active religious propaganda has definitely been established in the Brusa school and that the school will be closed and legal action taken against those responsible. Information that Miss Sanderson, one of the teachers, admits giving instruction in Christianity. Opinion that intervention by the Embassy at present would be useless and unwise.	965
Feb. 1 (9)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Suggestion that at least an official and friendly contact with Turkish authorities should be maintained; also that a representative of the American Board might well be sent to Angora.	965
Feb. 1 (153)	From the Ambassador in Turkey Detailed report of events leading up to the closing of the school at Brusa. Opinion that there is possibility of closing of other schools. Hostile attitude of Turkish press.	966
Feb. 3 (12)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that Goodsell has consistently recommended against the Embassy’s making formal representations, because he considered it wiser to reserve Embassy’s influence for a better cause, since on basis of facts the closing of the Brusa school was unavoidable.	969
Feb. 8 (14)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Report on interview at Angora with Foreign Minister who stated that the Brusa case is sporadic and in no way compromises other U. S. educational institutions and that after a lapse of time the Government will examine question of reopening the school. Impression that the Government intends to proceed with a technical prosecution.	970
Feb. 9 (13)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Department’s gratification at results of conversation with Foreign Minister. Instructions to keep the Department informed of the progress of the proceedings which, according to press reports, begin February 13.	970
Feb. 12 (18)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Note from Minister of Foreign Affairs modifying his statements of February 7 and stating that Brusa school will not be reopened. Information concerning the proceedings against American teachers which will begin February 13 at Brusa.	971
Feb. 14 (15)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that Department, while refraining from making official representations, has brought to Turkish Embassy’s attention the effect on American public opinion of the trial of the American missionaries in a Turkish court on a charge of Christian propaganda.	972
Feb. 14 (19)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that hearings were postponed until March 5.	972
Feb. 14	From the Associate Secretary of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions Report of interviews with Turkish Ambassador and Greek and Bulgarian Ministers.	972
Feb. 17 (21)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) For Shaw: Possibility of domestic editorial value in the opinion handed down by attorney general at Lansing, Michigan, that religious instruction in public schools of the State is unconstitutional because of the separation of church and state. Belief that Brusa incident is analogous.	973
Feb. 17 (17)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) From Shaw: View that Michigan attorney general’s opinion is not applicable since Brusa school is a private, not a public, institution.	974
Feb. 25 (24)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Report on interviews with Minister for Foreign Affairs and Ismet Pasha at Angora. Hope of more tolerant attitude toward American schools.	974
May 8 (295)	From the Ambassador in Turkey Detailed report on the circumstances of the trial at Brusa; conviction and sentence of the three teachers to three days’ imprisonment and fine; lawyer’s appeal of case to Court of Appeals; departure of Miss Sanderson for the United States.	974
Aug. 21 (100)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that permission has been given for reopening of American school at Talas. Unofficial report that teachers at Brusa have won their appeal and will have a new trial.	980
Aug. 30 (104)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Press announcement that Court of Appeals has annulled judgment against Brusa teachers and that case will be heard again.	980
Sept. 27 (109)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that Brusa court on September 26 confirmed its original conviction and sentence of American teachers, and that case has been appealed again.	980
Oct. 22 (545)	From the Chargé in Turkey Transmittal of letter of October 20 from Mr. Luther R. Fowle, Treasurer of the Turkey Mission of the American Board, stating that the petition of Miss Jillson to reopen the American School at Brusa has been refused by the Ministry of Public Instruction.	980

[Page CVI]

American Aid in the Evacuation of Russian Refugees in Turkey

Date and number	Subject	Page
1928 Jan. 7 (4)	To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Instructions to refer orally and informally while at Angora to American contribution to fund to assist in carrying out League of Nations plan for evacuation of Russian refugees now in Constantinople; and to express hope that additional time, after February 6, 1928, will be granted to carry out plan.	981
Jan. 12 (1)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that a delay of 12 months will be granted for the evacuation of Russian refugees.	981
Jan. 29 (7)	From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Turkish press announcement that one year’s delay would be accorded for the stay of the Russian refugees in Turkey.	982
Apr. 10 (253)	From the Ambassador in Turkey Information that Mr. Taylor of the Embassy has been designated to represent the Red Cross on the American Advisory Committee for the Evacuation of Russian refugees from Constantinople.	982
Sept. 11 (489)	From the Ambassador in Turkey Possibility of Turkish Government’s permitting Russian refugees to remain.	983
1929 Jan. 2 (111)	To the Ambassador in Turkey Instructions to report any extension of the present time limit set for the evacuation of the Russians; also the number of refugees awaiting evacuation and of the likelihood that refugees who are awaiting quota numbers as emigrants to the United States would be permitted to remain in Turkey beyond February 6, 1929, and until visas are available for them.	984
Jan. 16 (639)	From the Ambassador in Turkey Report on interviews with Minister for Foreign Affairs on January 5 and January 10 in which he was informed that 304 Russians were evacuated in 1927 and 1,013 during 1928.	985
Feb. 27 (684)	From the Ambassador in Turkey Press rumors and information from other unofficial sources indicating that no action will be taken by the Turkish Government concerning the Russian refugees as a whole, but that a small number of undesirable refugees will be asked to leave. Information relative to the demand against the Russian quota and the allotment of quota numbers made.	987