List of Papers

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

GREAT BRITAIN

Visit of the British Prime Minister, Ramsay MacDonald, to the United States, October 4–10, 1929

Date and number Subject Page
1929 June 28 (15) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Information that the British Ambassador called on June 20 to discuss the proposed visit of Prime Minister MacDonald to the United States.
1
Aug. 15 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the British Ambassador in which arrangements for Prime Minister MacDonald’s visit in October were discussed.
1
Sept. 28 (286) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Departure of the Prime Minister.
2
Oct. 7 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Notes on the informal conversations at Rapidan, October 5–7, among President Hoover, Prime Minister MacDonald, Secretary of State Stimson, and others in the official parties, with respect to the general situation existing between the United States and Great Britain, including prohibition enforcement, freedom of the seas, the Kellogg Pact, naval disarmament, naval bases, etc.; annexed memoranda and drafts by President Hoover and Secretary Stimson (texts printed).
3
Oct. 9 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Description of annexed U. S. and British memoranda and drafts (texts printed) used in the discussions at Rapidan and Washington.
14
Oct. 10 From President Hoover
Memorandum sent to Prime Minister MacDonald, October 9, concerning prohibition enforcement (text printed).
31
Oct. 10 Press Release Issued by the White House
Joint statement by President Hoover and Prime Minister MacDonald respecting the nature and results of their informal conversations (text printed).
33
Oct. 11 Press Release Issued by the Department of State
Denial of conjecture in the press that Great Britain and the United States have in effect agreed to pool their navies.
35
Oct. 19 From the Private Secretary to the British Prime Minister
Information on the reaction in Ottawa to the nature and results of the Washington conversations.
36
[Page VIII]

Question of Acceptance as Deportees From Great Britain of Persons Presumed To Have Lost American Citizenship Acquired by Naturalization

Date and number Subject Page
1928 Aug. 9 From the British Chargé
Inquiry whether naturalized citizens of the United States who have brought upon themselves the presumption of loss of citizenship through protracted residence abroad as specified in the act of March 2, 1907, will be admitted to the United States as citizens thereof upon deportation from Great Britain.
37
1929 Jan. 26 To the British Ambassador
Absence of any court decisions concerning the question of citizenship of persons of the class mentioned.
40
Apr. 9 To the British Ambassador
Opinion of the Secretary of Labor that the appearance at a U. S. port of entry of a person of the class mentioned would not of itself be sufficient to meet the rules for overcoming the presumption of loss of citizenship.
42

Reciprocal Customs Privileges Accorded to American and British Consular Officers

Date and number Subject Page
1928 Oct. 19 (3123) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Transmittal of correspondence exchanged with the Foreign Office on the subject of customs and taxation privileges for American consular officers in Great Britain; observation that the British practice does not coincide with American practice in that such privileges are not extended to vice consuls.
43
Dec. 12 (1623) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Instructions to inquire whether customs privileges may not be extended to American vice consuls.
44
1929 June 4 (3688) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Decision of the British Government to extend customs privileges to American vice consuls in Great Britain; information that the Embassy has not yet received a reply to a further inquiry whether the same treatment would be accorded in other parts of the Empire.
45
Aug. 21 (177) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Receipt of Foreign Office note of August 17 stating that customs privileges will be extended to American vice consuls in the British Dominions, with the exception of Canada, which has not yet given a decision, and to American vice consuls in the British colonies and protectorates.
46
[Page IX]

Protection of American Lives and Property in Palestine Endangered by Conflict Between Arabs and Jews

[Page X][Page XI]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Aug. 23 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Occurrence of renewed Wailing Wall incidents resulting in conflict between Arabs and Jews.
46
Aug. 24 To the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Instructions to keep the Department informed; presumption that no injury has been done to American lives or property.
47
Aug. 24 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Report that a serious situation has developed, that 33 American Jews have taken refuge in the Consulate General, and that the Consular Corps has requested the British authorities to accord proper protection.
47
Aug. 25 To the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Instructions to emphasize to the British authorities that they are responsible for protecting American lives and property in Palestine.
48
Aug. 25 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Report that American students at the Talmudic school at Hebron were wounded and 12 killed in Moslem attacks on August 23 and 24.
48
Aug. 25 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Expectation that the situation in Jerusalem will improve as a result of the recent arrival of British troops; information that the American refugees have returned to their homes; understanding that disturbances have commenced elsewhere.
49
Aug. 26 (223) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to make immediate representations to the Foreign Office for the restoration of order in Palestine and the protection of American lives and property.
49
Aug. 26 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Advice that British authorities will evacuate Americans at Hebron, and that a member of the Consulate General has been sent to verify names of the dead and wounded Americans and to assist in evacuation of the living.
49
Aug. 26 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
List of the dead, wounded, and unhurt Americans at Hebron and Jerusalem.
50
Aug. 26 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Information that the situation is generally improved, and that the arrival of British troops now en route should materially assist in suppressing the disorders.
50
Aug. 27 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Explanation by the Secretary of State to the Zionist delegation of the measures taken by the Department for the protection of Americans.
51
Aug. 27 (246) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Assurance by the Foreign Office that every effort is being made and will be made to restore order and to protect American lives and property in Palestine.
51
Aug. 27 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Advice that all the Americans at Hebron as listed in telegram of August 26 are now safe in Jerusalem.
52
Aug. 28 (248) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information that the Ambassador called again at the Foreign Office upon noting press reports that the Arabs in Trans-Jordan were organizing to move into Palestine, and was advised that the British air patrol in that area was in a position effectively to break up organized movements; suggestion that the possibility of moving an available American cruiser to a point nearer Palestine for use in an emergency be considered.
52
Aug. 28 (230) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to advise the Foreign Office that in spite of reiterated requests by the Consular Corps at Jerusalem, no special protection has been accorded the Consulates, and to request that suitable measures for the protection of the American Consulate General be taken without delay.
53
Aug. 29 (231) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Doubt that the dispatch of an American cruiser would be advisable.
53
Aug. 29 (249) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Dispatch by the Foreign Office of instructions to local authorities at Jerusalem to take suitable measures for the protection of the American Consulate General.
54
Aug. 30 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Advice that British troops have been stationed at the Consulate General for its protection.
54
Aug. 30 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Belief that the measures taken in Jerusalem are sufficient to maintain public security within the city and that the menace from Trans-Jordan is not now so dangerous; opinion, however, that disorders in outlying localities will continue for some time and that more British troops should be sent to clear up the situation quickly.
54
Sept. 1 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Confirmation by the British High Commissioner of reported appointment of a Commission of Inquiry.
55
Sept. 4 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Request by the Consular Corps that the High Commissioner consider the question of indemnification of damages suffered by foreigners and inform it of the procedure to be followed in verification of damages and presentation of claims.
55
Sept. 6 To the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Remarks by the Secretary of State to a delegation of American citizens representing the Palestine National League, the New Syria Party, and the Young Men’s Moslem Society (text printed), in which he stated that by emphasizing the qualities of moderation and thoughtfulness they could assist in bringing about peace and cooperation in Palestine.
56
Sept. 14 To the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Instructions to telegraph names of the other Americans reported in telegram of August 25 as killed at Hebron but not named in subsequent telegrams.
56
Sept. 17 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Advice that four of the persons reported in telegram of August 25 later proved not to be American citizens.
57
Sept. 19 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Information that the Consul General inquired informally of the High Commissioner, at the request of a representative of Messrs. Felix Warburg and Bernard Flexner of New York, whether an American lawyer might represent Jewish-American interests before the forthcoming Commission of Inquiry, and was advised that the interested parties would have to make appropriate representations to the Colonial Office.
57
Sept. 20 To the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Instructions to refer to the Department any request for assistance in obtaining representation for American-Jewish interests before the Commission of Inquiry.
58
Sept. 23 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Conversation between the Secretary of State and Rabbi Stephen S. Wise, in which the Secretary advised that there would be no objection to the American Zionists’ retaining an American lawyer to present the Jewish point of view before the Commission of Inquiry, but that the Department could not assist in that respect.
58
Sept. 25 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Telegram from the Commission of Inquiry to the Palestine Government, Palestine-Zionist Executive, and Palestine-Arab Executive (excerpt printed), stating terms of reference to the Commission and declaring that it will be inexpedient to permit counsel for the purpose of addressing the Commission or of cross-examining witnesses.
59
Oct. 7 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Information that the British Government has compromised with Jewish demands and will permit counsel to ask pertinent questions of witnesses but not to plead case; also, that the Commission will arrive on October 24.
60
Oct. 18 From the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Request for instructions whether to make reservations to the Palestine Government before the expiration of the two-months’ limit, with respect to the possibility that international claims might be justified.
60
Oct. 22 To the Consul General at Jerusalem (tel.)
Opinion that any claim for injury to the person or property of an American citizen would not be barred from further consideration on its merits if the award of the Commissioner should be inadequate or insufficient time allowed for presentation of the claim; authorization to so inform the Palestine Government.
61
[Page XII]

Representations for Protection of American Rights Under Palestine Mandate Convention in Connection With Bids for Construction of Harbor Works at Haifa

Date and number Subject Page
1928 July 24 (1814) From the Consul at Jerusalem
Advice that the new harbor works at Haifa are to be built by contract and that specifications have been requested of the Palestine Government and when received will be forwarded to the Department for the information of American contractors.
61
Oct. 20 (1872) From the Vice Consul at Jerusalem
Information that the Government some time in July provided eleven specially selected British firms with approved specifications, and that, as the bidding will be closed on November 4, the three interested American firms will have no opportunity to submit bids unless the date can be postponed and the bidding opened to them.
62
Dec. 4 (1617) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Opinion that the British action is discriminatory and violates U. S. rights under the American-British Palestine Mandate Convention of December 3, 1924; instructions to make representations to the Foreign Office.
64
1929 Jan. 10 (1904) From the Consul at Jerusalem
Press report that commencement of the harbor construction work has been postponed owing to Italian protest in London against the manner in which the contract was let.
66
Jan. 30 (3334) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Foreign Office note of January 29 (text printed), stating that plan for the Haifa harbor construction work under a single contract has been abandoned and that separate contracts will be let out locally, without discrimination.
67
Undated Memorandum by the Consul General at Jerusalem
Opinion, following conversation with the British High Commissioner on June 12, that while the abandonment of plan for construction of the Haifa harbor works under a single contract seems to have been brought about primarily by the protests of other powers, the local labor situation is also responsible; observation that, since construction by the Palestine Public Works Department is permitted under the mandate, further representations would not be justified.
69

Negotiations in Regard to the Administration of the Turtle Islands and to the Boundary Between the Philippine Islands and British North Borneo

[Page XIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Undated Memorandum of a Conference Held at 10 a.m., July 24, 1929, Regarding the Turtle Islands Boundary Negotiations
Discussion by U. S. and British negotiators of an undated British memorandum (text printed) stating interest in continuing to administer the Turtle and Mangsi Islands and inquiring if the U. S. Government will not cede, sell, or lease them; discussion, also, of U. S. draft treaty delimiting the boundary between the Philippine Islands and British North Borneo, and providing for temporary continuance of administration of Turtle Islands by the British North Borneo Co.
70
Undated Memorandum of a Conference Held at 10 a.m., July 29
Discussion of the possibility of a treaty to delimit the boundary and an exchange of notes to provide for the administration of the Turtle Islands.
74
Undated Memorandum of a Conference Held at 4 p.m., July 31
Arrival at agreement on provisions of draft treaty and note to be exchanged; arrangements for completion in final form at conference on August 2.
77
Undated Memorandum of a Conference Held at 10 a.m., August 2
Final agreement on texts of the treaty and note; intention of the British Ambassador to submit his copies to the Foreign Office for approval.
78
Aug. 3 Memorandum by Mr. John K. Caldwell, Division of Far Eastern Affairs
Explanation of the changes which were made in the U. S. draft treaty submitted at the conference on July 24.
78
Nov. 20 To the British Chargé
Nonobjection to amending treaty and notes in the manner suggested in a note from the Embassy, November 7; readiness to proceed to signature thereof.
(Footnote: Signature of convention and notes, January 2, 1930.)
79

Inquiry Regarding British Policy Respecting the Holding and Operation by Foreigners of Petroleum Concessions in Territories Such as Bahrein

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Mar. 28 (61) To the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to obtain a statement of British policy respecting the holding and operation by foreigners of petroleum concessions in territories such as Bahrein.
80
May 30 (135) From the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.)
Foreign Office note (text printed) stating that the British Government reserves the right to consider each proposal for the holding or operation of petroleum concessions in such territories as Bahrein on its merits and is therefore unable to make the desired general statement of policy.
81

GREECE

Arrangement Between the United States and Greece Granting Relief From Double Income Tax on Shipping Profits

[Page XIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 Feb. 29 From the Greek Minister
Desire to enter into an agreement for the reciprocal exemption of nationals of both countries from income tax on shipping profits; exemption provisions of Greek law (excerpts printed); submittal of draft agreement.
83
Apr. 26 To the Greek Minister
Request for further information on the pertinent provisions of the Greek income tax law; observation that if the appropriate U. S. authorities should eventually determine that the Greek exemptions are equivalent to the exemption provisions of section 213 (b) (8) of the Revenue Acts of 1921 and 1924, it will be unnecessary to conclude any agreement.
84
1929 Apr. 2 (422) From the Greek Minister
Information as requested in note of April 26, 1928.
85
June 10 To the Greek Minister
Letter from the Treasury Department (excerpt printed), stating that Greece satisfies the equivalent exemption provisions contained in the Revenue Acts.
86

Unsuccessful Efforts To Secure Servicing by International Financial Commission of Proposed J. & W. Seligman & Co. Loan to Greece

[Page XV][Page XVI][Page XVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 8 (814) From the Minister in Greece
Information that the International Financial Commission has communicated to the governments represented on the Commission the request of the Greek Government that the Commission accept service of the loan contract recently concluded with J. & W. Seligman & Co. of New York; understanding that the delegates are not encouraging their Governments to comply with the request.
87
Feb. 8 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Conversation with the Greek Minister in which he agreed to telegraph his Government to the effect that the Department of State presumed that the Greek Ministers at London, Paris, and Rome had been instructed to press for early and favorable action on the Greek request to the Commission.
89
Feb. 12 (30) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain the present status of the question of complying with the Greek request.
(Instructions to repeat to Paris, Rome, and Athens.)
90
Feb. 14 (16) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Ratification by the Chamber of the Seligman loan contract.
90
Mar. 8 (44) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to renew inquiries concerning the question of servicing the Seligman loan.
91
Mar. 13 (53) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Advice that no decision has yet been taken by the British Government.
91
Mar. 14 (28) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Information from the Foreign Office that the Italian delegate opposes servicing the Seligman loan; understanding, however, that the matter is still under discussion.
92
Mar. 15 (51) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to advise the Foreign Office that opposition to the Commission’s servicing the Seligman loan is justified only if the British Government intends to adopt henceforth a policy of refusing consent to the placing of further loans of any kind with the Commission.
92
Mar. 16 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Conversation with the Greek Minister in which a telegram was drafted to inform his Government of the opposition of the British, French, and Italian Governments, and of the position of the Department of State.
93
Mar. 20 (24) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Instructions to consult the Greek Minister concerning report that he advised his Government on February 18 that the Italian Government’s instructions to its delegate were in a sense favorable to the Commission’s accepting service of the loan.
94
Mar. 21 (56) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information from the Foreign Office that both the French and Italian Governments have refused to consent to the Commission’s servicing the loan; understanding, however, from the Seligman representative, that the Italian Government has in fact consented.
(Repeated to Paris, Rome, and Athens.)
94
Mar. 22 (106) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information from the Foreign Office, March 20, that no decision has yet been reached.
(Repeated to the Embassy in Great Britain.)
94
Mar. 23 (31) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Advice from the Greek Minister that he had been given to understand that the Italian Government perceived no objection to the Commission’s servicing the loan but that the competent Italian financial authorities would have to be consulted before a definite view could be expressed; also, that he was subsequently informed that the financial authorities did not oppose the Commission’s accepting service of the loan.
95
Mar. 29 (881) From the Minister in Greece
Opinion that the Commission proposes to maintain its unfavorable attitude; hope that the intervention of the Department in London may result in acceptance of service of the loan by the Commission.
95
Apr. 4 (28) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Request by the Prime Minister that the Department of State use its efforts with the British Government on behalf of the Greek Government to overcome objections to the Commission’s accepting service of the loan.
97
Apr. 11 (78) To the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.)
Presentation by the Greek Minister of his Government’s earnest hope that the question of servicing the Seligman loan may be promptly and favorably solved.
97
Apr. 15 (86) From the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.)
Preparation by the Foreign Office of draft reply disapproving Greek request for service of the Seligman loan, for submittal to the French and Italian Governments for approval in order that the replies may be identic.
(Repeated to the Embassies in France and Italy.)
98
May 9 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Greek Minister in which it was decided to investigate the possibility of establishing a new American loan service.
98
May 15 (156) To the Chargé in France (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Foreign Office that it is still the Department’s hope that the interested governments will place the Seligman loan under the Commission or will inform Greece of their unalterable opposition to allowing the Commission to undertake the service of any new Greek loan, of any kind.
(Instructions to repeat to the Embassy in Italy.)
99
June 4 (44) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Intention of the Foreign Office to approve British draft reply; understanding that reply states that the Commission opposes acceptance of service of the Seligman loan because it is not inclined either to extend its activities or to prolong its existence through undertaking new loans.
99
June 27 (52) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Advice from the Foreign Office that the views set forth in British communication are to be accepted in principle by the French and Italian Governments; understanding that the French Government is seeking to except the Turkish-Greek loan and that the Italian Government is suggesting that provision be made to extend the activities of the Commission in the event of an extreme emergency.
100
July 12 (189) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Approval of the British draft reply by the French and Italian Governments; understanding that approval was based on condition that the Greek share of the Ottoman debt will be serviced by the Commission.
100
July 17 (181) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain from the Foreign Office whether the recent change in the British Government has resulted in any change of attitude toward servicing the Seligman loan.
101
July 30 (210) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Inability of the Foreign Secretary to see how the British position could be altered from that taken in the draft note; his intention to reply in writing to the Ambassador’s inquiry regarding British policy toward the Commission’s accepting service of future loans.
101
Aug. 5 (41) To the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Understanding of Seligman & Co. that Commission’s reply has been delivered to the Greek Government; instructions to send copy to the Department if such is the case.
102
Aug. 6 (72) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Nonreceipt by the Foreign Office of note from the Commission.
102
Aug. 12 (144) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Foreign Office note, August 8 (text printed), advising that British decision in regard to the Seligman loan applies to any future Greek loans, with the exception of the Greek share of the Ottoman debt.
102
Sept. 3 (77) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Note to the Greek Government from the Commission, August 28 (text printed), disapproving Greek request for servicing of the Seligman loan or any future loans with the exception of the Greek share of the Ottoman debt.
105
Sept. 14 To Mr. A. I. Henderson of J. & W. Seligman & Co.
Inability of the Department at present to perceive any reason for protesting the Commission’s refusal to accept service of the loan.
107
Sept. 20 (83) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Efforts of the Greek Foreign Minister while at Geneva to convince the British Foreign Secretary that attitude toward the Seligman loan should be reconsidered on account of its being a productive loan.
107
Sept. 28 (9875) From the Chargé in France
Receipt of Foreign Office aide-mémoire of September 27 stating that the decisions taken by the governments represented on the Commission were not made with the idea of discriminating against American finance but that they were reached after a purely objective study.
108
Oct. 28 (1122) From the Minister in Greece
Cancelation of the loan contract by mutual consent.
108

Representations on Behalf of American Firms Interested in Radio and Telephone Concessions in Greece

[Page XVIII][Page XIX][Page XX]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 31 (800) From the Minister in Greece
Information that the Legation arranged meeting with the Prime Minister for representative of the International Telephone and Telegraph Corporation of New York in connection with proposed new telephone system.
109
Apr. 29 (20) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Minister of Communications that Durham and Co. understand that technical points in connection with the broadcasting concession are to be reexamined by a commission, that Mr. Wilson Durham will arrive in Athens about May 14, and that the Department hopes no decision will be taken until he has had an opportunity to present his views.
110
May 2 (34) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Receipt of letter from the Prime Minister stating that unless the Minister of Communications’ decision to give the concession to Marconi is disapproved by a technical commission, the matter cannot be reopened; the Chargé’s request to the Prime Minister that further hearings before the commission be postponed until Mr. Durham’s arrival.
110
May 3 (21) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Approval of request made to the Prime Minister; instructions to continue to accord every appropriate assistance in the matter.
111
May 6 (23) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions, in view of understanding that attempt will be made to nullify decision by the Technical Board of Trade favoring Durham and Co., to renew the representations authorized in telegram No. 20 of April 29.
111
May 15 (36) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Advice that, upon learning that the technical commission decided to accept the Marconi offer, the Chargé expressed regret over the disregard of his many representations in behalf of granting Mr. Durham an opportunity to be heard; understanding from the Durham agent, however, that the matter is not yet closed.
112
May 16 (25) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Approval of action taken; instructions to inform the Minister of Communications that Mr. Durham is en route from Paris to Athens.
113
May 25 (39) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Information that an adjudication for the telephone concession is to be held on June 5 and that the Minister of Communications has indicated he would like the local International Telephone and Telegraph agent to make an offer.
113
May 28 (40) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Confirmation by the Minister of Communications of press report that the radio contract was signed on May 27.
113
May 28 (41) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Belief that, inasmuch as the radio contract was given to a British firm, the International has a good chance to secure the telephone concession; advice that the Minister of Communications is anxious that the International take part in the adjudication of June 5.
114
May 31 (28) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Hope of the International that the adjudication may be postponed until June 19 in order that representative now in London may arrive in Athens; instructions to inform the Minister of Communications.
114
June 1 (29) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Receipt from Durham and Co. of advice that award of radio contract to Marconi is being reviewed by the State Council; authorization to inform the Foreign Minister that by withholding the contract from Parliament pending the decision of the State Council the Greek Government will help prevent the creation of an unfortunate impression which will arise in American business circles through apparent failure to afford Mr. Durham adequate opportunity to state his case.
115
June 3 (45) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Decision by the Minister of Communications that the telephone adjudication cannot be postponed beyond June 5; information that the Chargé is communicating directly with the Prime Minister and will express the apprehension mentioned in Department’s telegram No. 29 of June 1 respecting the radio matter; suggestion that the Department send instructions to express the American Minister’s apprehension with regard to both radio and telephone matters.
115
June 4 (30) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Approval of action taken; disapproval of suggestion, in order not to give the impression that failure to accord Durham a radio contract has created an obligation of granting telephone concession to the International.
116
June 4 (48) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Information that the Prime Minister has overruled decision of the Minister of Communications and that telephone adjudication will be postponed until June 19.
116
June 4 (49) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Advice that the Prime Minister stated that, while he could not agree to withhold the contract from Parliament, he would give the opposition every opportunity to express itself; the Chargé’s opinion that this reply may be interpreted as favorable to case of the American radio company.
117
June 5 (31) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Gratification over the results secured by the Chargé’s representations.
117
June 5 (51) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Doubt that the Greek Government has gained the impression mentioned in telegram No. 30 of June 4.
118
June 22 (58) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Information that on June 21 it had been decided to submit the Marconi radio award to the Chamber with the understanding that if rejected an entirely new adjudication would be held; also, that the British Legation has made strong representations to the Prime Minister and the prospects in favor of the American company are much less encouraging.
118
June 24 (34) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Authorization to express to the Prime Minister the earnest hope that the Chamber may have all the facts before it in order that it may take a decision on the merits of the case.
119
June 25 (59) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Submittal to the Foreign Minister of a note summing up the position of the Legation on the basis of the unfortunate impression mentioned in Department’s telegram No. 29 of June 1; advice that telegram No. 34 of June 24 is being held in reserve for the moment.
119
July 6 (65) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Information that despite adverse report of the parliamentary commission on ratification of the Marconi contract, the Government’s bill was read for the first time in Parliament the previous day; advice that the Minister is requesting delay for the second reading.
119
July 16 (67) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Adjournment of the Chamber until October 15 after agreement of the Prime Minister to withdraw the radio contract from the agenda.
(Footnote: Transmittal, in instruction No. 420, August 30, 1930, to the Legation in Greece, of letter from Durham and Co. reporting success of negotiations in connection with the broadcasting concession.)
120
Sept. 11 (45) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Hope that opportunity will be afforded to the International Telephone and Telegraph Corporation to compete for the telephone contract at the present time on a basis of equality with the other interested firms; instructions to inform the appropriate authorities.
120
Nov. 2 (1135) From the Minister in Greece
Decision of the Greek Government to sign telephone contract with Siemens and Halske of Berlin; advice that the International believes it best to withdraw entirely and await the conclusion of the negotiations going on with the German firm.
120

Relaxation With Regard to American Clergymen of Certain Restrictions Imposed by the Greek Government on Entry of Ministers of Religion

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Oct. 18 (1104) From the Minister in Greece
Report that efforts to secure relaxation of certain restrictions upon the entry into Greece of American clergymen have been successful and that hereafter Greek consular authorities in the United States will grant visas to them, without the necessity of obtaining special permission from Athens, in cases where the sojourn in Greece will not exceed two months.
121
[Page XXI]

GUATEMALA

Agreement Between the United States and Guatemala To Submit the Shufeldt Claim to Arbitration

[Page XXII][Page XXIII][Page XXIV][Page XXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 May 19 (44) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to investigate report that Congress is now considering a bill to cancel a chicle concession held by Mr. Percy W. Shufeldt.
123
May 21 (66) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Passage by the Assembly, May 15, of a bill disapproving the contract assigned to Mr. Shufeldt by Messrs. Nájera and Morales and directing that steps be taken to recover possession of the lands; advice that the President has 10 days within which to approve or veto.
123
May 28 (73) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Desire of Messrs. Shufeldt and Morales that the American Minister accompany Mr. Shufeldt and his lawyer to a hearing before the President on May 30 in support of their request that he veto the bill; the American Minister’s intention, however, merely to request that the President receive Mr. Shufeldt and his representatives and give full consideration to their arguments.
124
May 29 (47) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Nonobjection to the Minister’s attending the conference if he deems it desirable.
(Footnote: Information that the Minister was not present at the conference.)
124
July 10 (2016) From the Minister in Guatemala
Memorandum of a conversation with the Foreign Minister, June 27 (text printed), in which he suggested that, inasmuch as his Government was disposed to pay Mr. Shufeldt a reasonable sum in order to settle the matter, the American Minister act as a sort of unofficial arbitrator to determine an equitable amount, and the American Minister stated his preference not to act in that capacity. Advice that, in a subsequent conversation on July 10 concerning report that licenses to extract chicle in the Shufeldt territory are to be issued, the Foreign Minister stated he would take up the matter with the Minister o: Agriculture and expressed the hope that a satisfactory agreement might be reached between the latter and Mr. Shufeldt.
125
July 16 (2019) From the Minister in Guatemala
Information that a letter had been received from Mr. Shufeldt in which he expressed desire for action by the President in the matter of the legislative bill; and that, in reply, the Minister had stated that the bill was signed on July 4 and had reported his conversation with the Foreign Minister, July 10.
127
Aug. 10 (1108) To the Minister in Guatemala
Authorization, if again requested to take action on Mr. Shufeldt’s behalf, to advise the Foreign Office that the coming into force of the bill effectively deprives him of the enjoyment of a valuable property right and therefore entitles him to the prompt payment of just compensation.
128
Sept. 4 (2083) From the Chargé in Guatemala
Request by Mr. Shufeldt that the Legation ask that court proceedings be suspended pending negotiations for a direct settlement and also that the Legation carry on the negotiations. Receipt of Foreign Office memorandum stating that Mr. Shufeldt always has recourse to the courts.
128
Sept. 15 (66) To the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Opinion that the Chargé would be justified in making informal statement to the Foreign Office as to advisability of arriving at amicable solution of the controversy, suggesting that court proceedings be held in abeyance, and pointing out obstacles in the way of Mr. Shufeldt’s obtaining legal counsel and the possibility that alternative to amicable settlement would be a vexatious diplomatic claim.
130
Sept. 17 (2103) From the Chargé in Guatemala
Intention to inform the Ministers of Agriculture and Foreign Affairs of the name of the person designated to negotiate for Mr. Shufeldt when advised by him; also to make the statement authorized in telegram No. 66 of September 15.
131
Oct. 16 (2148) From the Chargé in Guatemala
Probability that the Foreign Minister, rather than negotiate on the basis of Mr. Shufeldt’s claim of approximately $460,000, would allow the matter to develop into a diplomatic claim.
132
Nov. 5 (1124) To the Chargé in Guatemala
Suggestion that, if Mr. Shufeldt were advised that the conditions under which the Department would be warranted in supporting a claim have not yet arisen, he might be disposed to negotiate on a basis which would offer a greater promise of success than does his present basis.
132
Nov. 20 (2191) From the Chargé in Guatemala
Understanding that memorandum of agreement whereby the Government will pay Mr. Shufeldt $100,000—one-half in cash and the remainder within four months—and also give him a release from Messrs. Morales and Nájera for any claim, is agreeable to the President and will be submitted to the Cabinet for final approval.
133
Dec. 4 (2202) From the Minister in Guatemala
Transmittal of memorandum presented to Mr. Shufeldt’s representative by the Ministers of Agriculture and Finance, November 30, in which the Government proposed to pay the sum of $100,000—$10,000 in cash, $15,000 in one year, and the remainder in equal installments of $25,000 each in two, three, and four years.
134
Dec. 31 (2223) From the Minister in Guatemala
Refusal of Mr. Shufeldt to accept the Guatemalan proposal of November 30, and decision that so far as he is concerned the negotiations are closed.
136
1929 May 9 (22) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to bring to the attention of the appropriate authorities the probability that the Department will present claim.
136
June 14 (30) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Conclusion that the U. S. Government is warranted in presenting a diplomatic claim; instructions to express to the appropriate authorities the earnest hope that they will negotiate a settlement on the basis of a memorandum of July 20, 1928, initialed by the American Minister and the Foreign Minister.
(Footnote: Excerpt from the memorandum.)
137
June 20 (78) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that the contents of telegram No. 30, June 14, were communicated to the new Foreign Minister, who will study the matter and consult the President and the Cabinet.
137
June 29 (2483) From the Minister in Guatemala
Memorandum presented to the Foreign Office, June 20 (text printed), covering the American Minister’s remarks on that day; information that on June 29 the Foreign Minister stated that he and the Minister of Agriculture would be pleased to receive Mr. Shufeldt’s representative on July 1 for the purpose of discussing a compromise.
138
July 1 (85) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Telegram to Mr. Shufeldt from his representative (text printed), reporting that, having no instructions, he was unable to present a proposal as requested by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Agriculture, and that they made no offer.
139
July 3 (36) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister that while Mr. Shufeldt is prepared to submit evidence in support of claim totaling $500,000 he will consider a smaller amount in cash.
140
July 6 (87) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Receipt of memorandum from the Foreign Minister stating that Mr. Shufeldt has previously been informed that he will receive due attention provided that he adjusts his procedure to constitutional precepts; observation that in conversation the Foreign Minister has contended that Mr. Shufeldt’s remedy is to apply to the courts for redress or to present a claim for damages to the Assembly.
140
July 10 (37) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister that the Department considers that the Guatemalan Government committed itself to make a settlement with Mr. Shufeldt, and hopes that it will now state definitely the terms of settlement it is prepared to make.
141
July 12 (91) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Advice that the Foreign Minister is studying memorandum presented by the Legation in accordance with telegram No. 37 of July 10, and will submit the matter to the Cabinet on the 16th.
141
July 19 (92) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Receipt of Foreign Office memorandum stating that the Government’s efforts to arrive at a settlement with Mr. Shufeldt cannot be considered as recognition of his alleged rights, and proposing that (1) the American Minister act as a friendly arbitrator under the conditions set forth in his memorandum of June 27, 1928, or (2) that direct arrangement be entered into on the same terms as contained in Guatemalan memorandum of November 30, 1928, or (3) that, in event neither of these proposals is accepted, the matter be submitted to a tribunal established under one of the treaties in force between the two nations.
142
July 19 (93) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that Mr. Shufeldt disputes a claim by Messrs. Morales and Ndjera for $50,000 royalty on chicle gathered before the concession was disapproved.
143
July 26 (40) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Apparent necessity of resorting to the Guatemalan proposal that the case be submitted to an arbitral tribunal; suggestion that the special tribunal provided under the pan-American pecuniary claims convention of 1910 be used, and that a single arbitrator be named; instructions to inform the Foreign Minister.
143
July 29 (98) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Willingness of the Foreign Minister to submit the case to arbitration under the pecuniary claims convention; his desire that the tribunal be composed of three arbitrators.
144
Aug. 7 (44) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Preference for a single arbitrator; suggestion that Sir Herbert Sisnett, the Chief Justice of British Honduras, might be suitable and that he might sit at Belize; instructions to discuss the matter with the Foreign Minister.
145
Aug. 8 (102) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s agreement to selection of the Chief Justice of British Honduras.
145
Aug. 28 (1184) To the Minister in Guatemala
Information that the Department is taking steps to ascertain whether the Chief Justice of British Honduras will serve; instructions to present note to the Foreign Office setting forth the arbitral question and procedure (text printed), and to report response.
146
Sept. 21 (118) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Receipt of note from the Foreign Minister, September 20, stating objections to the terms of the arbitral question and suggesting modifications.
149
Sept. 21 (2572) From the Minister in Guatemala
Foreign Minister’s note of September 19 (text printed), stating objections to the terms of the arbitral question and suggesting modifications.
149
Oct. 1 (53) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Revised statement of the arbitral question (text printed); instructions to proceed with exchange of notes if the statement is acceptable.
152
Oct. 5 (54) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Suggestions for revising the statement if the Guatemalan Government objects to the statement contained in telegram No. 53 of October 1.
153
Oct. 9 (2607) From the Minister in Guatemala
Foreign Office note No. 10564 of October 8 suggesting a new arbitral formula which may be acceptable with a slight but important change and modifications in procedure, and the American Minister’s reply No. 85 of the same date (texts printed).
153
Oct. 9 (2608) From the Minister in Guatemala
Foreign Office note No. 10615 (text printed) accepting the modifications of proposal of October 8 suggested in the American Minister’s reply of the same date.
159
Oct. 30 (62) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Acceptance of the arbitral formula and procedure as now proposed, with certain additional changes; information that the Chief Justice of British Honduras will serve as arbitrator.
160
Oct. 31 (141) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Inquiry whether the first paragraph of the note may mention the Chief Justice of British Honduras as the arbitrator; Foreign Minister’s agreement to the changes proposed in telegram No. 62 of October 30.
161
Nov. 2 (65) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Acceptance of proposed change, with the insertion of the name of the arbitrator.
161
Nov. 4 (2635) From the Minister in Guatemala
Notes exchanged between the American Minister and the Foreign Minister, November 2 (texts printed), containing the terms for submitting the Shufeldt claim to arbitration.
161
1930 Jan. 17 To the Consul at Belize
Instructions to inform the Arbitrator on February 1, 1930, of the names of the American representatives and to present a copy of this document, certified under the consular seal.
164
Feb. 1 (162) From the Consul at Belize
Information that the Arbitrator accepted the credentials of both parties to the arbitration and declared the proceedings open as of February 1.
165
[Page XXVI]

HAITI

Decision of President Borno Not To Become a Candidate for Reelection

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Mar. 14 (1375) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Report on the question of holding legislative elections in January 1930.
166
Apr. 11 (20) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Opinion that article 72 of the Constitution renders President Borno ineligible for reelection; instructions to inform him of this view.
170
Apr. 15 (26) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Assurance by President Borno that he will not be a candidate for the presidency in 1930.
170
Apr. 20 (28) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Advice that President Borno does not interpret the Constitution as making him ineligible; his desire for the Department’s opinion regarding the holding of legislative elections in 1930.
171
Aug. 22 (425) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Unwillingness to insist that President Borno go against his better judgment in ordering general elections in 1930; opinion that the primary responsibility rests on him.
171
Oct. 24 (1537) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Report of a conversation with President Borno in which he agreed to make announcement that he would not under any condition run for the presidency or accept election.
172
Nov. 29 (87) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
President Borno’s message to the Council of State (excerpt printed), announcing that he is not a candidate for the presidency; suggestion that the Department congratulate him on his attitude toward reelection and make its action public.
174
Dec. 2 (88) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Opinion that a public announcement by the Department of President Borno’s message would have a salutary effect in quieting the political activities of presidential candidates who are now aiding and abetting the striking students.
174
Dec. 2 (58) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to express to President Borno the gratification of the Department upon learning of his message to the Council of State.
174
Dec. 3 (1570) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Maintenance by President Borno of the opinion that he is eligible under the Constitution for a “first term of 6 years;” the High Commissioner’s reply that the Department is aware of his view, although it does not agree.
175
[Page XXVII]

Students’ Strike and Declaration of Martial Law

[Page XXVIII][Page XXIX][Page XXX]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Nov. 12 (1550) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Information that on November 10 the striking students paraded through the downtown sections of Port-au-Prince and that President Borno has appointed a committee to investigate the alleged grievances.
175
Nov. 21 (1562) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Refusal of the striking students of the Ecole Centrale to accept the provisions of an arrêté issued by President Borno, November 18 (text printed), and to return to their classes.
176
Nov. 25 (1564) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Efforts of the Opposition to make political capital out of the students’ strike.
178
Nov. 27 (1565) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Decision of the striking students not to return; continuance of sympathetic strike of other students. Memorandum presented to President Borno by the High Commissioner, November 25 (text printed), suggesting changes in the organization and administration of the Ecole Centrale.
179
Nov. 29 (1566) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Spread of the strike to students in Jacmel and Gonaives; rumors of efforts to induce Government employees to strike; conviction that the strike is being fostered by politicians, the mulatto class, and the French religious orders opposed to the American system of education.
181
Nov. 30 (1567) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Lack of improvement in the strike situation; possibility that the matter may assume serious proportions, especially at Port-au-Prince.
183
Dec. 2 (1568) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Failure of the Government and students to arrive at a settlement; continuance of efforts by the striking students to obtain the cooperation of other Government departments; information that the High Commissioner has counseled the Government against taking drastic measures that might result in bloodshed.
186
Dec. 3 (1569) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Information that the strike is rapidly spreading; hope that if the loyalty of the Garde can be maintained and no untoward incidents occur, the strike will gradually diminish and die.
187
Dec. 3 (89) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Recommendation for immediate increase in strength of the Marine brigade, in view of the increasingly serious situation and the possibility of disloyalty of the Garde.
188
Dec. 4 (90) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Decision to have the marines place the city under martial law and to have the Brigade Commander issue a proclamation to that effect; understanding that dock laborers at Aux Cayes have struck.
188
Dec. 4 (91) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Proclamation to be issued by the Marine brigade (text printed), advising that conditions make it necessary to declare martial law, prohibiting anti-American articles or speeches and advising that offenses against this order will be tried before a military tribunal, and placing a night curfew on the inhabitants of Port-au-Prince and Cape Haitien.
189
Undated [Rec’d Dec. 4] From the Vice Consul at Cape Haitien (tel.)
Occurrence of demonstration sympathetic with disturbance in Port-au-Prince; advice that there has been no violence yet but that it may be necessary to declare martial law.
190
Dec. 4 (59) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Reluctance to increase the Marine brigade unless absolutely necessary; preference that Americans in places where protection cannot be afforded be withdrawn to Port-au-Prince or Cape Haitien if they are in imminent personal danger; willingness to request dispatch of marines to Guantanamo to be held in readiness in case of emergency if such action is considered necessary.
190
Dec. 4 (60) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Disapproval of the measures described in telegram No. 90 unless absolutely necessary for the protection of lives.
190
Dec. 5 (92) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Information that the local situation on December 4 would have gotten out of hand and there would have resulted serious loss of life among both Haitians and Americans, had not the High Commissioner taken extreme measures; advice that the Marine reinforcements requested are to bolster the Garde at ports where there are customhouses, hospitals, and public offices established pursuant to treaty obligations and under the direction of Americans who have their families with them; renewal, therefore, of request contained in telegram No. 89 of December 3.
190
Dec. 5 From the Vice Consul at Cape Haitien (tel.)
Advice that the Cape Haitien district is quiet under martial law.
192
Dec. 5 (61) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Desire that the proclamation contained in telegram No. 91, December 4, be withheld.
192
Dec. 5 (62) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Information that the Navy has been requested to place the Galveston at the order of the High Commissioner for the moral effect of its presence in Haitian waters; opinion that the situation does not seem to require the display of Marine forces in the outlying sections; doubt of the wisdom of the martial-law proclamation, and hope that it may soon be modified or withdrawn.
192
Dec. 5 (93) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Advice that events forced the High Commissioner to have the proclamation issued on the afternoon of December 4.
193
Dec. 6 (63) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Disapproval of the trial of Haitians for serious offenses by military courts or the imposition of heavy sentences except in extreme cases and after the Department has had an opportunity to consider the facts.
193
Dec. 6 (64) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Issuance of orders for the immediate dispatch of 500 marines to Haiti.
193
Dec. 6 (95) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Information that the effect of the measures taken by the High Commissioner has spread throughout the country and that conditions are stabilizing; opinion that, in view of present conditions and the placing of the Galveston at the High Commissioner’s disposal, increase in strength of the Marine brigade is not necessary at present.
194
Dec. 6 (95 [96?]) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Report that Marine patrol was obliged to fire into a mob moving on Aux Cayes, and that all is now quiet there; instructions to the Galveston to proceed to Jacmel, where the country people are rumored to be in revolt; suggestion that the Marine reinforcements be sent, as the situation is not clearing up as rapidly as it was hoped.
195
Dec. 7 (97) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Issuance of order to the Brigade Commander for strict compliance with the instructions contained in telegram No. 63 of December 6.
195
Dec. 7 (98) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Report that mob activity and agitation continue throughout the country.
196
Dec. 8 (100) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Report that all is quiet; plan, upon arrival of reinforcements, to increase force at Cape Haitien by 100 and to maintain remainder at Port-au-Prince; also, if Port-au-Prince and Cape Haitien are still quiet, to remove curfew restrictions.
196
Dec. 9 From the Vice Consul at Cape Haitien (tel.)
Information that quiet has been restored.
197
Dec. 9 (102) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Report that the situation is quiet, that some of the students have returned to schools, and that steps have been taken to prevent the rumored importation of arms.
197
Dec. 9 (67) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to advise whether the orders for the marines to go to Haiti can be countermanded, or if this cannot be done, whether conditions have not sufficiently improved so that only a portion of them may be disembarked and the remainder sent on to Guantanamo.
198
Dec. 9(68) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Opinion that landing of marines should be avoided if possible; information that the Wright has been ordered to wait 25 miles off Port-au-Prince pending orders.
198
Dec. 9 (103) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Letter from President Borno congratulating the High Commissioner on the measures he took in establishing martial law, and annexed proclamation stating that the chief of the American forces was obliged to put martial law into effect in order to maintain public safety from disorders fomented by political opposition (texts printed).
199
Dec. 9 (104) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Advice that the situation is problematical, but that with present strength it should be possible to control matters unless unrest should develop in the interior; recommendation that the Wright be diverted and marines held at Guantanamo subject to further orders, and that the Galveston remain in Haitian waters.
200
Dec. 10 (106) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Information that all is quiet, that conditions throughout Haiti continue to improve, and that the Galveston may be released on return to Port-au-Prince; petition to the Court of First Instance by Port-au-Prince lawyers, December 5 (text printed), protesting the presence of armed forces and stating decision to abstain from pleading before the courts until a new order is established.
200
Dec. 12 (107) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Advice that all is quiet; report that the disorders in the other portions of Haiti were incited by agitators from Port-au-Prince; opinion that reinforcements requested by the Brigade Commander at Cape Haitien are not necessary at present.
201
Dec. 13 (113) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Report of efforts to induce students to return to schools; plan, if conditions remain quiet, to direct removal of curfew as of December 16.
202
Dec. 14 (115) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Advice that all is quiet; decision not to reinforce the marines at Cape Haitien.
202
Dec. 15 (116) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Information that all is quiet and that the Galveston will be released from duty in Haitian waters on December 17.
203
Dec. 16 (117) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Opinion that the situation is much improved; advice that restriction on circulation at night will be removed immediately.
203
Dec. 18 (120) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Information that all is quiet and that the educational system of Service Technique is being reestablished with slow progress.
203
Dec. 21 (123) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Advice that all is quiet, but that Darien medical and law school students are still on strike; expectation that the number of rural farm and industrial schools operating will be increased after the holidays. Report that the Garde, which has been operating as a regiment of the brigade, has been returned to its independent function and that this action places the military situation in the condition existing prior to December 4.
204
Dec. 31 (79) To the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Commendation for dealing with the recent disturbances with so little show of force and bloodshed.
204
[Page XXXI]

The President’s Commission for the Study and Review of Conditions in the Republic of Haiti

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Sept. 25 From President Hoover
Suggestion that a commission be appointed to examine U. S. policy in connection with Haiti and to determine the course to be followed for the future.
204
Sept. 30 To President Hoover
Agreement with suggestion.
205
Dec. 4 Memorandum by Mr. Winthrop R. Scott, Division of Latin American Affairs
Conversation with the Haitian Chargé in which he made known President Borno’s opposition to a commission being sent to Haiti to investigate purely Haitian affairs.
205
Dec. 7 Message of the President of the United States to Congress
Request that immediate dispatch of a commission to Haiti be authorized and that $10,000 be appropriated for this purpose.
207

General Instructions to the High Commissioner in Haiti

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Mar. 14 (406) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
General instructions for the guidance of the High Commissioner and other treaty officials in Haiti.
208
Mar. 25 (24) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Desire to withhold action on instruction No. 406 of March 14 pending receipt by the Department of the High Commissioner’s request for reconsideration of certain features.
211
Apr. 2 (1391) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Request for reconsideration of instructions respecting the High Commissioner’s relations with the Financial Adviser-General and other treaty officials.
211
Oct. 25 (430) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Opinion that the intent of instruction No. 406 of March 14 should be made clearer; supplementary explanations and modifications thereof.
215

Good Offices on Behalf of French Holders of Old Bonds of the National Railroad of Haiti

[Page XXXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 May 3 From the French Ambassador
Request for the use of good offices with the Financial Adviser of Haiti in order to induce him to release Series C bonds of the Republic of Haiti for exchange of the remainder of old bonds of the National Railroad of Haiti still outstanding.
218
July 1 To the French Ambassador
Advice that the exchange period under the Series C loan contract has expired but that the problem is expected to be settled through a proposed new contract to be entered into between the Haitian Government and the National Railroad.
218
July 22 From the French Ambassador
Urgent request that the case be given further consideration so that the Financial Adviser may without delay release the Series C bonds necessary for the exchange of the old railroad bonds.
220
Aug. 17 To the French Ambassador
Information that the Financial Adviser will be asked to make a further effort to effect a settlement with the holders of the old railroad bonds.
221
Aug. 17 (914) To the Chargé in Haiti
Instructions to inform the Financial Adviser that the Department feels it is very desirable that a method be found for reaching a settlement with the remaining holders of the old railroad bonds.
222
Sept. 10 (45) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to inquire what progress is being made in accordance with instruction No. 914 of August 17; hope that the Haitian Government will enact legislation to take care of the outstanding bonds in order that foreclosure proceedings contemplated by certain holders of the old bonds may be avoided.
223
Sept. 11 (1498) From the Chargé in Haiti
Information that President Borno has authorized the Financial Adviser to offer to exchange the old bonds at a rate of $72.39 in Series C bonds bearing the current coupon; his refusal to agree to the payment of any cash as a part of the present settlement, inasmuch as funds to cover the full cash settlement were turned over to the receiver of the National Railroad in 1924.
223
Sept. 20 (48) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Nonobjection to proposed settlement; assumption that the money already provided for the cash payments is still in the hands of the receiver and is available.
225

HONDURAS

Representations on Behalf of American Insurance Companies Doing Business in Honduras Against Stamp Tax and Cash Deposit Discrimination

[Page XXXIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 4 (328) To the Minister in Honduras
Opinion that Honduran decree of October 5, 1927, imposing taxes on agents of foreign insurance companies and assessing higher stamp taxes upon American policies than on Honduran policies, is in violation of U. S.-Honduran treaties of 1864 and 1928; instructions to make representations to the Foreign Office, expressing hope that the decree may be modified.
226
Mar. 25 (29) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Plan to discuss informally with the Honduran Government its renewed demand of the Pan American Life Insurance Co. for deposit of $50,000 under decree No. 107 of April 1, 1922; request for instructions to enter formal protest.
227
Mar. 27 (25) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Authorization to take up the matter formally.
228
Apr. 27 (871) From the Minister in Honduras
Information that the Foreign Office has replied to representations made by the Minister as directed in instruction No. 328 of February 4, by stating that American insurance companies will be able to do business in Honduras on equal basis with the national companies; also, that the Pan American Life Insurance Co. is now doing business without having made the deposit of $50,000.
228
May 18 (891) From the Chargé in Honduras
Receipt of Foreign Office note stating that the $50,000 deposit will not be required of American insurance companies.
229

HUNGARY

Treaties of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Hungary, Signed January 26, 1929

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 26 Treaty Between the United States of America and Hungary
Of arbitration.
230
Jan. 26 Treaty Between the United States of America and Hungary
Of conciliation.
232

IRISH FREE STATE

Liability to Taxation of Property Leased by the Irish Free State for Legation Purposes

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 7 From the First Secretary of the Irish Legation
Inquiry whether repayment may be made to the lessee for District of Columbia taxes presumably included in rental charges on property leased for Legation purposes.
234
Mar. 15 To the Irish Minister
Excerpt from opinion of the Solicitor of the Department of State (text printed), stating that the matter of payment of tax by the Legation is entirely a matter between the owner of the property and the Legation.
234
[Page XXXIV]

JAPAN

Declaration by Japan Upon Ratification, on June 27, 1929, of the Treaty for the Renunciation of War

[Page XXXV][Page XXXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 31 (1084) From the Chargé in Japan
Information that the Prime Minister was interpellated in the Diet on January 24 concerning the phrase “in the names of the respective peoples” contained in article 1 of the treaty for the renunciation of war.
237
Feb. 25 (8) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Desire to have Japan’s ratification of the treaty before March 4; instructions to see the Foreign Minister and advise what can be done.
238
Feb. 26 (14) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Inability of the Prime Minister to ask the Privy Council to consider the treaty while political discussions concerning the treaty are going on in the Diet.
239
Feb. 28 (15) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Prime Minister’s assurance that he will do his best to obtain ratification at an early date, but inability to promise to obtain it by March 4.
240
Mar. 9 (14) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Intimation to the Japanese Ambassador, March 7, that should Japan not intend to ratify the treaty within the near future, the other powers might be asked to sign a protocol putting it into effect without Japanese ratification.
240
Mar. 11 (24) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Advice that members of the Privy Council have insisted that a reservation with regard to the phrase “in the names of their respective peoples” should be attached to the treaty to clarify Japan’s position; opinion that ratification may be counted upon as soon as those members are satisfied that there is not involved any question affecting the Japanese Constitution.
241
Mar. 14 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador in which he was informed that Japan was the only power which had not ratified, and he stated that he would wire his Government again.
241
Mar. 18 (20) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Inquiry whether press report from Tokyo, March 15, regarding declaration to the Diet by the Prime Minister may be taken to mean that steps have been taksen at Tokyo for ratification; instructions, if the press report is incorrect, to inform the Prime Minister of the suggestion that the treaty be put into effect among the other powers by the signing of the protocol.
242
Mar. 19 (25) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Advice that the remarks attributed to the Prime Minister are merely stock answers to questions concerning the treaty.
242
Mar. 20 (26) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Information from the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs that it is hoped to have ratification by the middle of April; the Chargé’s opinion that action to put the treaty into effect without Japan’s adherence would imply doubt of U. S. belief in the good faith of the Japanese Government.
243
Mar. 20 (21) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Advice that, as the treaty will undoubtedly be ratified in April, no steps likely to offend or embarrass Japan will be taken.
244
Mar. 22 (30) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Expectation of the Prime Minister that the treaty will be submitted to the Privy Council after the close of the Diet; his hope to have ratification by the middle of April.
245
Apr. 6 (38) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Information from the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs that the Government is still experiencing difficulty with some of the Privy Councilors in regard to the phrase “in the names of their respective peoples.”
245
Apr. 25 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador in which he stated that his Government hoped to ratify the treaty within a few weeks.
246
Apr. 26 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador in which he advised that the Privy Council was now ready to submit the treaty to the Emperor for ratification and that the latter at the time of ratification would issue a declaration (text printed) respecting the phrase “in the names of their respective peoples,” on which the Ambassador would like to have a favorable expression of opinion.
(Footnote: Marginal notation stating that the Japanese Ambassador was informed of the Department’s nonobjection to the declaration.)
246
May 15 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador in which he stated that the declaration already approved by the Department had turned out to be unsatisfactory to some of the Privy Councilors, and presented the text of a different declaration which is objectionable in that it comes close to being a reservation.
247
June 11 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador in which he advised that the Government had sent the treaty to the Emperor for ratification, that the Emperor will submit it to the Privy Council, and that it is expected that the Privy Council will finish its deliberations between June 20 and 25.
248
June 19 (64) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Receipt from the Prime Minister of the declaration and instrument of ratification accepted by a committee of the Privy Council (texts printed).
248
June 24 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Chinese Minister in which he presented a written statement (text printed), concerning a discussion said to have been held in the Japanese Privy Council concerning Japanese interpretation of the right of self-defense when Japan’s special interests outside the territory of the Empire should be affected and asked whether the correspondence gave any light on the interpretation of the right of self-defense.
249
June 28 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador in which he brought the announcement of ratification by the Emperor and a copy of the declaration respecting the phraseology “in the names of their respective peoples.”
250
July 19 Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Division of Far Eastern Affairs
Suggestion that the best reply to the Chinese Minister’s question regarding the right of self-defense is to refer him to certain illustrative passages in the correspondence and let him draw his own conclusions; memorandum (text printed) listing such passages.
250
July 24 (92) From the Japanese Ambassador
Japanese declaration of June 27 (text printed); request that copies of the Ambassador’s letter and the declaration be sent to each of the other high contracting parties.
254
July 24 To the Japanese Ambassador
Information that copies of the Ambassador’s note and the declaration will be sent to the other high contracting parties, as well as to each of the governments who have adhered or may hereafter adhere.
(Footnote: Proclamation of the treatv by the President, July 24.)
255
July 31 To the American Diplomatic Officers Accredited to Governments Which Have Ratified or Which Have Definitely Adhered to the Treaty for the Renunciation of War
Transmittal of copies of the Japanese Ambassador’s note of July 24 and declaration of June 27, for transmission to the governments to which accredited.
256

Objection by Japan to Visits of American Naval Vessels to Unopened Ports on Islands Under Mandate to Japan

[Page XXXVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Apr. 25 (1156) From the Chargé in Japan
Note No. 477, April 12, informing the Foreign Office of the U. S. Navy’s desire to order the Asheville to visit certain of the islands under Japanese mandate (text printed); receipt of oral information that the South Seas Bureau would be pleased to have the vessel visit any of the open ports but could not welcome visits to any of the out-of-the-way places because harbor accommodations are limited, no pilots are available, and harbors or anchorages are difficult of approach and sometimes dangerous.
256
Apr. 26 (36) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Instructions to advise the Foreign Office informally that the Asheville will not visit any Japanese-mandated islands.
257
June 19 (56) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Instructions to request permission for U. S. destroyer division to visit the Japanese-mandated islands of Jaluit, Wotje, and Kwajalong en route from Honolulu to the Asiatic station.
258
June 29 (70) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Information from the Foreign Office that the South Seas Bureau cannot see its way to grant permission for vessels to visit unopened ports, but has no objection to visit to Jaluit.
258
Oct. 23 (630) To the Chargé in Japan
Instructions to endeavor informally and discreetly to bring about modification in the Japanese Government’s attitude.
258
Dec. 16 (1366) From the Chargé in Japan
Information from the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs that objection comes principally from the South Seas Bureau; his observation that if the U. S. Government insisted and raised the legal question of treaty rights, the Japanese Government would have to consider the whole matter from that standpoint, but that the Japanese Government would be greatly obliged if the United States did not do so.
259
Dec. 31 (1386) From the Chargé in Japan
Report of further interview with the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs in which he advised that the Japanese Navy would raise no objection to visits by American men-of-war to those mandated islands where Japanese officials are resident, and suggested that whenever U. S. men-of-war intend to visit any of the islands the Japanese Government be informed beforehand so that the Navy Department could indicate what islands were open.
(Footnote: Information that this procedure was subsequently followed.)
261

Informal Representations Respecting Apparently Discriminatory Features in the Japanese Lumber Tariff

[Page XXXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Mar. 22 (22) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Instructions to advise the Japanese Government that the proposed lumber tariff placing higher rates of duty on woods of American origin than on Siberian products such as kedar and spruce would appear likely to constitute discrimination against American products.
262
Mar. 23 (31) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Memorandum delivered to the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs (text printed) in accordance with telegram No. 22 of March 22.
262
Apr. 4 (1139) From the Chargé in Japan
Foreign Office note No. 27/C1 of March 30 explaining that the tariff is not designed to constitute any discrimination against American lumber (text printed).
263
Aug. 1 (588) To the Chargé in Japan
Advice that information received through other sources indicates that the tariff is in fact discriminatory against American products; instructions for making further informal representations.
264
Sept. 10 (1274) From the Chargé in Japan
Report of interview with the Foreign Minister on August 30 in which he stated that the tariff question would be reconsidered with a view to submitting certain proposals to the next session of the Diet; information that the Chargé and the Commercial Attaché will continue to keep the matter before the Japanese authorities in an informal manner.
267
Nov. 26 (110) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Request by the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs for formal note setting forth the American position; the Chargé’s plan to send such a note based on instruction No. 588 of August 1 and referring to conversation of August 30.
268
Nov. 27 (120) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Approval of proposed action.
(Footnote: Report by the Chargé in despatch No. 165, March 17, 1931, that on March 12 the Japanese Government proposed revision of the lumber tariff by increase in Siberian and Asiatic mainland import duties; information that the Diet subsequently passed the proposal.)
268

LATVIA

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

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 21 (5840) From the Minister in Latvia
Request for authorization to send a note to the Foreign Office requesting removal of residence or sojourn tax on Americans in Latvia on the basis of reciprocity alone, in view of difference in U. S. and Latvian interpretations of the applicability of paragraph 2, article I, of the treaty of April 20, 1928.
269
Feb. 12 (598) To the Minister in Latvia
Instructions to explain U. S. interpretation of the pertinent portions of article I of the treaty; authorization, if it is deemed advisable, to advise the Foreign Office by note that Latvian nationals are not required to pay a sojourn tax in the United States and to request that American nationals in Latvia be relieved of payment of the tax.
270
June 4 (6191) From the Minister in Latvia
Information that in reply to the Legation’s note of February 27, the Foreign Office stated that beginning July 1, a fee of lats 10.00 per year for the permit of sojourn in Latvia of American citizens will replace the previous sojourn tax.
272
Sept. 24 (671) To the Minister in Latvia
Instructions to renew request for exemption of American nationals from the sojourn tax; observation that in any case American nationals should not be compelled to pay tax any larger than the nationals of the nation most favored by Latvia in this respect.
272
[Page XXXIX]

LIBERIA

Appointment of the International Commission of Inquiry Into the Existence of Slavery and Forced Labor in the Republic of Liberia

[Page XL][Page XLI][Page XLII][Page XLIII][Page XLIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 June 5 (5) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Note for the Liberian Government (text printed) emphasizing the importance of prompt ratification and enforcement of the international slavery convention signed at Geneva in 1926, alteration or change in the interpretation of the Liberian-Spanish agreement of 1914 regarding the recruitment of laborers for Fernando Po, rigorous investigation of forced labor conditions throughout Liberia, drastic reform and reorganization of the frontier force and of the administration of labor and of the interior, and punishment of all persons who may have aided in the development of forced labor conditions so closely resembling slavery.
274
June 5 (15) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Request for immediate instructions or comment on report that Barber Line agent at Cape Palmas is booking 100 natives for Libreville.
276
June 7 (7) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions, if satisfied that the laborers are being exported under compulsion, to advise the Liberian Government that such shipment would violate the Act of Brussels of 1890 and the slavery convention of 1926 and to urge that appropriate measures be taken to prevent such violation; also, to advise the Barber Line representative in Monrovia similarly, informing him that all measures will be invoked to prevent the use of the American flag in the transportation of forced labor.
276
June 8 (8) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Intention, if the shipment is made, to consider possibility of initiating criminal proceedings under the U. S. Criminal Code.
276
June 11 (17) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Delivery, June 10, of the note contained in telegram No. 5 of June 5; oral reply by Secretary of State Barclay to the effect that the charges will be investigated but that investigation may be difficult because no specific instance is charged.
277
June 13 (18) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Note from Secretary Barclay, June 11 (text printed), denying the existence of such labor conditions as charged, and declaring nonobjection to investigation by a commission.
277
June 15 (9) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Note for the Liberian Government (text printed) suggesting appointment of an impartial commission of investigation consisting of Liberians and non-Liberians and stating U. S. willingness to cooperate with such a commission.
281
June 18 (19) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Information that none of the action authorized in telegram No. 7 of June 7 has been taken with the Government, but that the Barber Line representative has radioed instructions to stop captains from transporting laborers destined for Fernando Po and Libreville and has advised his principals at New York City.
281
June 19 (10) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Approval of course of action.
282
June 19 (572) To the Ambassador in Spain
Information concerning U. S. notes to the Liberian Government with respect to labor abuses; instructions to explain the situation to the Foreign Office, expressing hope that the Spanish Government will cooperate in the prevention of continuance of any conditions such as have been reported in connection with the export of labor from Liberia to Fernando Po.
282
June 20 (20) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Information that action on telegram No. 9 of June 15 has been withheld; opinion that a commission’s findings would be thwarted by any Liberian members thereon; request for furtherinstructions.
283
June 22 (12) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Approval of withholding action on telegram No. 9 of June 15; substitution of a new note for the Liberian Government (text printed), suggesting that the proposed commission of investigation consist of one Liberian, one American, and one European.
283
June 22 (13) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Information that it was suggested to a representative of the Barber Line that agent at Monrovia confer with the American Minister for the purpose of working out some effective means of distinguishing between legitimate shipments of voluntary laborers and shipments of forced labor.
284
June 28 (25) From the Third Secretary of Legation in Liberia (tel.)
Advice that early reply is expected to note delivered June 26 in compliance with telegram No. 12 of June 22.
285
July 4 (30) From the Third Secretary of Legation in Liberia (tel.)
Liberian reply dated July 2 (text printed), stating acceptance of suggestion as to the composition of a commission, intention to forward the terms of reference for comment, and plan to request the United States and the Secretariat of the League of Nations to recommend one representative each.
286
July 11 (33) From the Third Secretary of Legation in Liberia (tel.)
Information from Barber Line representative that he has received no instructions from his principals and that there have been no shipments on his vessels since May 14.
286
July 12 (16) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Note for the Liberian Government (text printed), suggesting that the terms of reference confer the broadest possible powers on the commission.
287
July 23 (25) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to present the note contained in telegram No. 16 of July 12 with revisions (text printed) necessitated by the recent death of the American Minister.
288
July 24 From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Information that note has been presented; receipt of Liberian note of July 18 containing terms of reference (text printed), requesting comments thereon, and stating that each party on the Commission is to pay expenses of its member.
289
July 24 From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Confidential observations on the terms of reference. Understanding that on July 19 Vice President Yancy radioed his agent at Cape Palmas that he had seen President King and that it was all right to ship the laborers, believed to number 200, at £10 sterling each, to be sent to the Congo.
290
July 25 From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Advice that the Liberian Secretary of State agrees that the U. S. Government announce that the Liberian Government is appointing a commission of investigation; his intention to make announcement also.
291
July 26 (27) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Request for further information concerning section 2 of the terms of reference.
291
July 26 (28) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to advise President King that the Department would regard in a most serious light the export of laborers at this time, and to suggest the advisability of taking steps to prevent shipments.
291
July 26 From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Further comments on the terms of reference; reported information concerning activities of the former French Chargé, now employed by the Firestone interests at Cape Palmas.
292
July 28 From the Spanish Embassy
Desire that a Spanish member be appointed on commission.
292
Aug. 1 From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Information concerning reported charges of recruitment of laborers for Firestone at Cape Palmas. Desire of President King that no Garvey man or U. S. Negro Improvement Association sympathizer be selected as American member of commission; his consideration of ex-President Arthur Barclay as Liberian member.
293
Aug. 3 (29) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to advise the Liberian Government that the proposed terms of reference appear most generous in principle but that certain clarifying changes are needed; belief that the Liberian Government should make the original announcement concerning the commission; willingness of the Department to defray expenses of the American member and to urge the League to do likewise.
293
Aug. 3 (37) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Declaration by Firestone manager that the charges contained in Legation’s telegram of July 26 are unfounded and that he would welcome investigation of the conditions of Firestone labor.
295
Aug. 9 (39) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Delivery of note in accordance with telegram No. 29 of August 3; information that Secretary Barclay officially announces for publication by the Department that the Liberian Government is appointing a commission.
295
Aug. 12 (83) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Statement to the press, August 9, concerning Liberian appointment of a commission (text printed). Instructions to ascertain whether, upon Liberian request, the League will appoint a member and pay his expenses.
(Footnote: Repetition of press statement to the Chargé in Liberia as telegram No. 30.)
296
Aug. 14 From the Liberian Consul General at Baltimore
Announcement that the Liberian Government is determined to go to very bottom of charges that slavery and forced labor conditions exist in Liberia and is appointing an international commission of investigation.
297
Aug. 14 (40) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Desire of the Liberian Government that certain alterations be made in the Department’s suggestions for rewording the terms of reference; understanding that Liberia hopes to have a Spaniard named by the League of Nations.
297
Aug. 16 (32) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Further suggestions for wording the terms of reference; information that the Minister in Switzerland has been authorized to advise the Secretary General that the selection of a Spaniard would be highly inappropriate.
298
Aug. 17 (61) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Conversation with the Secretary General in which he advised that the League would undoubtedly be glad to appoint a member on the commission, if so requested by Liberia, but could not undertake to pay the expenses; his desire for the Department’s views on the kind of person and nationality to be selected.
299
Aug. 22 To the Liberian Consul General at Baltimore
Advice that the American Legation at Monrovia has already indicated willingness of the U. S. Government to cooperate with an international commission.
300
Aug. 22 (41) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Reaction of Secretary Barclay to the note of August 21 with set forth Department’s suggestions concerning the terms of reference contained in telegram No. 32 of August 16.
300
Aug. 22 (42) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Supplementary comments on conversation with Secretary Barclay concerning the terms of reference.
301
Aug. 27 (44) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Further conversation with Secretary Barclay concerning shipments of laborers to Fernando Po and the terms of reference; advice that the Liberian Government is awaiting reply to Legation’s telegram No. 41 of August 22.
302
Aug. 27 From the American Chargé in Liberia to the Liberian Secretary of State
Confirmation of conversation of August 27.
302
Aug. 28 From the Liberian Secretary of State to the American Chargé in Liberia
Confirmation of conversation of August 27.
304
Aug. 28 (33) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Further comments which should complete the terms of reference.
305
Sept. 7 (45) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Receipt of official information that the terms of reference have been completed, and of request that U. S. Government recommend member of the commission; information that request was made to the League direct.
306
Sept. 7 (46) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Liberian note, September 4 (excerpt printed), requesting the U. S. Government to nominate an American citizen for appointment on the commission; receipt of further note, September 7, confirming form and contents of the terms of reference and advising that request was made to the League on September 6.
306
Sept. 11 (105) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Terms of reference (text printed); information that the U. S. Government is unable to defray the expenses of the League member or to urge Liberia to do so; advice that Department has no national preference but believes League’s nominee should not be a national of a country likely to import labor from Liberia.
307
Sept. 14 (81) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Information that Liberian representative has not yet asked the League to nominate a member for the commission; reiteration by the Secretary General of request for intimation of the kind of man the Department expects to nominate, in order to be able to choose someone of like authority and complementary attributes.
309
Sept. 20 (88) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Receipt from the Secretary General of copy of the Liberian representative’s request that the League appoint a member on the commission and itself pay the expenses.
310
Sept. 21 (50) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Information that the Liberian representative at Geneva has advised Secretary Barclay that the representatives of Belgium, France, Portugal, and Spain desire no investigation into conditions of compulsory labor for public works in Liberia, fearing that similar investigations may follow in their colonies; also, that matter has been submitted to the League Council.
310
Sept. 24 (114) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Transmittal of text of telegram No. 50 of September 21, from the Chargé in Liberia; authorization to advise the Secretary General that by the terms of reference Liberia has demanded an inquiry into compulsory labor for public purposes as well as private, and that there should be no objection to granting Liberia’s request. Information that American member has not yet been selected.
311
Sept. 26 (94) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Resolution adopted by the League Council, September 25 (text printed), directing the appointment of a member of the commission and the payment of expenses from League funds; advice that apparently there was no reference made to limiting the investigation to compulsory labor for public purposes.
311
Nov. 4 (59) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Information that the President’s message to the legislature, October 30, considered the slave trade question in general terms and quoted extracts from the first notes exchanged between the Government and the American Legation.
312
Nov. 6 (45) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Inquiry whether the President’s message recommended ratification of the slavery convention of 1926.
312
Nov. 8 (60) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Reply in the affirmative to inquiry in telegram No. 45.
312
Nov. 15 From Mr. N. E. Nelson of the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company
Statement of Firestone position on the inquiry (text printed).
313
Nov. 17 (64) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Ratification of the slavery convention by the Senate, November 13.
315
Dec. 7 (53) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Liberian Government that Dr. Charles S. Johnson has been nominated as the American Commissioner; biographic data concerning Dr. Johnson (text printed).
315
Dec. 7 (139) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Transmittal of text of telegram No. 53 sent to the Chargé in Liberia; instructions to inform the Secretary General; desire to have the name and biographic data of the League’s nominee.
316
Dec. 17 (75) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Information that Liberia has no objection to the American nominee and that ex-President Arthur Barclay will be the Liberian Commissioner.
(Footnote: Appointment by the League of Dr. Cuthbert Cristy, British African explorer and expert on tropical medicine, and constitution of the Commission at Monrovia on April 7, 1930.)
316
[Page XLV]

Appointment of Dr. Howard F. Smith of the United States Public Health Service as Chief Medical Adviser to the Republic of Liberia

[Page XLVI][Page XLVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 June 29 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Record of telephone conversation with Mr. Harvey Firestone, Jr., in which he recommended that the Liberian Government be urged to use some portion of the unexpended balance of public improvements loan to employ a sanitary engineer or doctor to clear up the conditions which bring about recurrent epidemics of yellow fever in Monrovia.
316
July 3 (368) From the British Ambassador
Suggestion that the American diplomatic representative in Monrovia be instructed to cooperate with the British Chargé in an effort to induce the Liberian Government to take suitable measures to improve the sanitary conditions; information that a similar suggestion has been submitted to the French Government.
317
July 9 (15) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to suggest that the Liberian Government appoint a competent sanitary engineer to clear up the yellow fever situation; to advise the Government that the Department is prepared to locate such a person upon request, and in the event Liberia cannot pay the entire cost, to state that the Advisory Committee on Liberian Education would contribute half of the amount required for the first year if the total expense does not exceed $15,000; instructions also to consult the British and French representatives so that all may work harmoniously in discussions with the Liberian Government.
318
July 11 (228) To the Chargé in France (tel.)
Instructions to indicate to the French Government that the U. S. Government is in accord with British suggestion for impressing on the Liberian Government the necessity for improving health conditions in Monrovia; information concerning instructions to the Minister in Liberia.
319
July 12 To the British Ambassador
Information concerning the instructions sent to American representatives at Monrovia and Paris.
319
July 12 (34) From the Third Secretary of Legation in Liberia (tel.)
Advice that the British Chargé has not received instructions. Concurrence of the British Chargé the American Financial Adviser, and the Third Secretary of Legation in recommending that Rockefeller Foundation yellow fever and sanitation expert be sent from Lagos to advise the Government. Inquiry whether to follow Department’s telegram No. 15 of July 9.
320
July 13 (18) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Information that Department is communicating with the Rockefeller Foundation; authorization to act upon telegram No. 15 of July 9 if it seems desirable.
321
July 18 (22) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Willingness of Rockefeller Foundation to send an expert to Monrovia for conference without expense to Liberian Government; inability, however, of maintaining an expert there permanently. Recommendation by the U. S. Public Health Service that a Public Health Service officer be appointed as a permanent arrangement after discontinuance of the proposed emergency measures.
321
July 19 (342) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Instructions from the French Government to their Consulate at Monrovia to support representations made by U. S. representative.
322
July 24 (26) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Advice from Rockefeller Foundation that its commission in Lagos has been authorized to send an expert to Monrovia upon Liberian request.
322
Aug. 7 (38) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Desire of Liberian Government for U. S. good offices to secure competent sanitary engineer to study the health situation and devise a plan to avoid recurrence of yellow fever; recommendation that offered contribution of the Advisory Committee on Liberian Education be extended and added to $15,000 which has been reserved from the unexpended balance of the 1926 loan; understanding that invitation has been sent to Rockefeller Foundation.
322
Sept. 17 (34) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Information that the appointment of a Public Health Service officer may be delayed; authorization to urge the Liberian Government to avail itself meanwhile of the Rockefeller Foundation’s offer to send an expert from Lagos.
323
Sept. 22 (51) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Information that Dr. Allen Moore Walcott, of the Rockefeller Foundation at Lagos, arrived on September 12 to make a few weeks’ survey; also that action has been withheld on telegram No. 34 of September 17.
323
Sept. 24 (52) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Advice that Dr. Walcott will prolong his visit if any further cases of yellow fever appear.
324
Oct. 2 (53) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Departure of Dr. Walcott for Lagos; his intention to recommend health officer.
324
Oct. 8 (37) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Memorandum agreement defining terms of employment and scope of authority of Public Health Service officer to be nominated to the Liberian Government as Chief Medical Adviser (text printed); instructions to discuss agreement with the Liberian Government and to advise that Dr. Howard F. Smith is the officer who has been recommended.
324
Oct. 18 (56) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Advice that the Secretary of State will submit the memorandum agreement to the President, but that it is likely some modifications will be suggested.
326
Nov. 21 (65) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Liberian modifications to the memorandum agreement; advice that Dr. Walcott has submitted his report and recommends U. S. Public Health Service officer.
326
Nov. 23 (50) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Acceptance of Liberian modifications with the exception of the reduction from $15,000 to $12,000 of the fund provided for preliminary studies and corrective sanitary measures; alternate text of article 3 (text printed) providing for $12,000 fund and additional amount of $3,000 if later found necessary.
327
Dec. 3 (68) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Possibility that Liberian Government may agree to the $15,000 fund.
328
Dec. 23 From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Information that the alternate proposal for article 3 has been submitted and that the Liberian Government will agree if a change in wording is acceptable.
329
Dec. 27 (57) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Acceptance of Liberian change in form of article 3; advice that Dr. Smith will sail for Monrovia from Rotterdam on January 3.
(Footnote: Information that Dr. Smith arrived at Monrovia on January 20, 1930, and that his appointment had been approved by President Hoover on December 5, 1929.)
329

LUXEMBURG

Treaties of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Luxemburg, Signed April 6, 1929

Date and number Subject Page
1928 Sept. 1 (57) From the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Inquiry by the Prime Minister of Luxemburg whether the U. S. Government would be disposed to conclude a treaty of arbitration.
330
Sept. 11 (148) To the Ambassador in Belgium
Transmittal of draft texts of treaties of arbitration and conciliation, with instructions to submit them to the Government of Luxemburg with a covering note (text printed).
330
1929 Apr. 6 Treaty Between the United States of America and Luxemburg
Of arbitration.
331
Apr. 6 Treaty Between the United States of America and Luxemburg
Of conciliation.
333
[Page XLVIII]

MEXICO

The Insurrection in Mexico

[Page XLIX][Page L][Page LI][Page LII][Page LIII][Page LIV][Page LV][Page LVI][Page LVII][Page LVIII][Page LIX][Page LX][Page LXI][Page LXII][Page LXIII][Page LXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 11 (18) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Desire of the Acting Foreign Minister that the U. S. Government be informed that there might soon be some activity in Sonora along the border with regard to shipments of arms and munitions; suggestion that the appropriate authorities be advised.
336
Feb. 12 (24) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information of request made to the Treasury and Justice Departments that their officers along the border be instructed to exercise special vigilance with the object of preventing smuggling of arms and ammunition into Mexico.
336
Feb. 14 (23) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Advice that the Government is preparing to meet any emergency that might arise as a result of contemplated revolutionary activity by General Topete, Governor of Sonora, and others, and hopes that the U. S. Government will facilitate purchase of airplanes and other military supplies in the United States.
336
Feb. 16 (26) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information that the issuance of export licenses will be expedited, that the Navy Department will permit the manufacturer to give preference to Mexican order for Corsair airplanes, and that machine guns and bombs must be obtained through the War Department.
337
Feb. 18 (25) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Departure of Mexican Air Service official for Washington, February 16, to complete arrangements for purchase and delivery of nine Corsair airplanes.
338
Mar. 3 (46) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information that the garrison at Vera Cruz has risen and that there is an uprising in Sonora; also, that the Government has closed the ports of Vera Cruz and Nogales to prevent entry of arms and munitions.
338
Mar. 3 Plan of Hermosillo
Repudiating Emilio Portes Gil as Provisional President and empowering José Gonzalo Escobar, chief of the revolutionary movement, to take all military measures necessary to the success of the movement.
(Footnote: Signed at Hermosillo, Sonora, by a large number of revolutionary leaders.)
339
Mar. 4 From the Mexican Ambassador
Notification that the customhouses at Nogales and Agua Prieta, Sonora, and the port of Vera Cruz have been closed on account of rebellion of the military garrisons.
340
Mar. 4 From the Mexican Ambassador
Notification that all the frontier ports of Sonora have been closed.
341
Mar. 4 (50) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Outline of four policies which the Mexican Government hopes the U. S. Government will adopt in the present crisis: (1) Enforcement of the arms embargo except on specific requests of the Mexican Government; (2) closing of all traffic to border and seaboard ports held by revolutionists; (3) assurances of U. S. Government’s willingness to sell arms and munitions to the Mexican Government if necessary; (4) expression by the new Administration of a friendly attitude toward the Mexican Government.
341
Mar. 4 (54) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Comments on the four suggestions.
342
Mar. 5 (42) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Desire of the President for the Ambassador’s comments, particularly on the second Mexican request, and his recommendations in general.
343
Mar. 5 (59) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Advice that the Ambassador refrains from making any specific recommendations concerning the second request, as the Department is more familiar with the precedents affecting such action under international law; recommendation, however, in regard to all four requests, for as friendly action as the President feels justified in taking and at least action equivalent to that taken at the time of the De la Huerta revolution.
344
Mar. 5 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Report on the present situation in Mexico, including recent telegrams from the Consuls at Nogales and Agua Prieta describing capture of those cities by the rebels (texts printed).
345
Mar. 6 To the Attorney General
Communication of the name of a person appointed by the Sonora revolutionists as their commercial agent in Douglas, Arizona, with request that representatives of the Justice Department in States along the border be instructed to exercise the greatest vigilance to prevent violations of the so-called neutrality statutes.
347
Mar. 6 (67) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Desire of the Mexican Government to purchase 10,000 rifles and necessary ammunition from the U. S. Government; possibility that it may also desire to arrange purchase of five pursuit airplanes.
348
Mar. 7 From the Mexican Ambassador
Advice that the Government has decreed the closing of the seaports of Sonora.
348
Mar. 7 From the Consul at Vera Cruz (tel.)
Information that Vera Cruz is again under Federal control, and that the customhouse and other Government offices have been opened.
349
Mar. 8 (1475) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Memorandum from the Acting Foreign Minister, March 5 (text printed), setting forth arguments and precedents to uphold the Government’s right to close ports of entry.
349
Mar. 8 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Commencement of rebel attacks on Juarez; advice that current archives of the Consulate have been removed to El Paso.
351
Mar. 8 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Information that the rebels have taken nearly the whole city.
351
Mar. 8 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Advice that an armistice has been called; understanding that the Government has advised General Ramos to cross with his troops to El Paso and be interned.
352
Mar. 8 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Agreement of the commanders that General Ramos and his troops cross over into the United States and be interned; advice that Fort Bliss military police are in charge of the plan.
352
Mar. 8 (1343) From the Mexican Ambassador
Information that the Federal troops defending Ciudad Juarez decided to cease fighting in order to avoid any incident which might occur due to the proximity of the U. S. border; request that the consent of Texan authorities be obtained so that those troops may proceed across territory of Texas to Eagle Pass to reconcentrate there.
352
Mar. 8 (73) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Advice that the Secretary of State conferred with the Secretary of War and Chief of Staff, March 7, upon being informed that heavy field artillery and armored cars of the U. S. Army were being moved up near the international bridge at El Paso; telegraphic instructions to Major General Lassiter, Commanding General of the 8th Corps Area, concerning the extent of measures to be taken for protection of Americans, in reply to his telegram repeating the instructions which had been sent to General Moseley at El Paso (texts printed).
353
Mar. 8 (81) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Circular telegram to all the Consuls in Mexico except Mexico City (text printed), advising that arms export licenses are not being issued for shipments to points in Mexico not held by Federal forces and that restrictions on exportation of commercial aircraft to Mexico have been reimposed, but that licenses are being issued for arms purchases by the Mexican Government and that the U. S. Government will sell arms and ammunition to the Mexican Government.
354
Mar. 9 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Consul at Chihuahua, March 8: Information that General Moseley’s warning to the Governor of Chihuahua on March 7 made a very bad impression.
354
Mar. 9 From the Mexican Ambassador
Information that the Government has decreed the closing of customhouses on the frontier of Chihuahua because the military garrisons of that State are in revolution.
354
Mar. 9 (1035) From the Vice Consul at Vera Cruz
Report of the activities of the Consular Corps in assisting in the restoration of normal conditions at Vera Cruz.
355
Undated Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Telephone conversation with the Ambassador in Mexico, March 10, concerning the military situation and arrangements for arms purchases by the Mexican Government.
356
Mar. 10 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Verification of death of two Americans and injuries to another from bullets fired during the battle of March 8; report that 37 Federal officers, 267 men, and 63 women and children are being well cared for at Fort Bliss.
357
Mar. 11 (1382) From the Mexican Ambassador
Request that the appropriate authority be instructed to deny application of the Cananea Consolidated Copper Co. for export license covering a carload of dynamite because the territory in which the company operates is under rebel control.
357
Mar. 11 To the Consul at Chihuahua (tel.)
Request to be informed what was meant by General Moseley’s “warning” to the Governor of Chihuahua and upon whom it “made a very bad impression.”
358
Mar. 12 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Conversation with the Mexican Ambassador in which he presented a memorandum concerning the activities of rebel agents in the United States, and expressed satisfaction with emergency arrangement for permitting the Cananea Co. to import a week’s supply of explosives at a time.
358
Mar. 12 From the Attorney General
Issuance of instructions to representatives of the Justice Department in accordance with request of March 6.
359
Mar. 12 (1430) From the Mexican Ambassador
Request for assistance in obtaining permission for the volunteers who crossed the border with Federal troops and are now detained at Fort Bliss to return to Mexico or to reside at El Paso, Texas, until the Government has retaken Ciudad Juarez.
359
Mar. 12 (124) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
General Lassiter’s report quoting General Moseley’s report of the circumstances under which the Mexican troops took refuge in El Paso (texts printed); instructions to ascertain whether the Government is willing that the troops and their families remain at Fort Bliss at Mexican expense, which the President would prefer, or if not, that they reenter Mexico at Eagle Pass on parole not to engage in military service in the Federal Army during the existing revolution.
360
Mar. 12 (110) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information that the Mexican Government has now authorized its consul at Naco to clear shipments to the Cananea mine and has authorized the Southern Pacific Railroad to move the early vegetable crop from Sonora provided the purchase money remains in the United States.
362
Mar. 13 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
From the Consul at Chihuahua: Publication in local papers of telegrams exchanged between General Moseley and the Governor of Chihuahua in which General Moseley warned the Governor of his responsibility for damages to life and property in the United States resulting from the expected attack of revolutionary forces on Ciudad Juarez; advice that many Americans and Mexicans openly expressed dissatisfaction with the warning in the manner in which made.
362
Mar. 14 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs
Conversation with a representative of the Mexican Embassy in which he stated that U. S. customs officials were prohibiting exportation of food supplies and other nonmilitary material to Federal troops at Naco. Information that the customs officer at Naco is being instructed to permit the exportation.
363
Mar. 14 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Consul at Guaymas: Inquiry whether the Department would object to the exportation of fuel oil for Americanowned Mexican company operating light and water works in Sonora and Sinaloa providing suitable arrangements are made with the Government, the revolutionists, and the transportation companies.
363
Mar. 14 To the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Instructions to take special precautions before issuing visas to persons promoting or assisting in the promotion of the uprising with a view to determining whether they are coming to the United States for bona fide purposes or primarily to foment or assist in fomenting the revolution from a place of security; also to determine in each case whether applicant is entitled to be classified as an immigrant according to provisions of section 3 of the act of 1924 and whether he is subject to exclusion upon the ground that he is likely to become a public charge or is otherwise subject to exclusion.
363
Mar. 14 (117) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Advice that the Mexican Government is studying the two alternatives set forth in telegram No. 124 of March 12.
364
Mar. 15 To the Consuls at Agua Prieta, Ciudad Juarez, Matamoros, Mexicali, Piedras Negras, and Nuevo Laredo (cir. tel.)
Transmittal of text of the telegram sent to the Consul at Nogales, March 14, respecting immigration visas, with instructions to follow the same course.
364
Mar. 16 (159) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information from the Southern Pacific Railroad that American shippers of vegetables from Sonora are unable to comply with Mexican stipulation that money received from the sale of products and deposited in American banks must not be withdrawn until the legal Government is entirely in control of Sonora and Sinaloa; authorization to take any action that may be deemed advisable.
365
Mar. 16 (160) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Telegram from the Consul at Chihuahua, March 14, reporting that many Mexicans suggest that the American Ambassador offer good offices to mediate between the Mexican Government and revolutionists, and Department’s reply instructing Consul to refrain from discussing the question with anyone (texts printed).
366
Mar. 16 To the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
For the Consul at Guaymas: Nonobjection to exportation of fuel oil to Mexico as outlined in telegram from Nogales, March 14.
366
Mar. 16 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Conversation with the Mexican Ambassador concerning the troops detained in El Paso, in which the Under Secretary agreed to recommend that consideration be given to the Ambassador’s suggestion that the volunteers be released and be permitted to return to their homes.
366
Mar. 18 (129) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Satisfactory modification by Mexican officials and Southern Pacific officials of the conditions for shipping vegetables from Sonora so as to permit withdrawal of funds, on approval of the Mexican Consul at Nogales, for payment of labor in Mexico and obligations in the United States.
367
Mar. 21 (185) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information that the Treasury Department has instructed the customs officials along the border to detain temporarily all gold and silver specie exported from Mexico into the United States by rebels.
(Footnote: Telegraphic instructions to the consular officers at Nogales, Ciudad Juarez, and Agua Prieta, April 1, to notify the Department, U. S. customs officials, and Mexican consular representatives on the border of any proposed shipments to the United States of gold or silver specie by persons not authorized by the Mexican Government.)
368
Mar. 21 To Consular Officers in Mexico (cir. tel.)
Statement to the press, March 19 (text printed), declaring that neither the Department of State nor any of its representatives has undertaken any mediation between the Mexican Government and the rebels.
368
Mar. 22 (188) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Inability to make any recommendation to the President concerning disposition of the Mexican troops detained at Fort Bliss until Mexican decision concerning the alternatives set forth in telegram No. 124 of March 12 has been received.
369
Mar. 23 (153) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Recommendation that destroyer now en route to Manzanillo be ordered to proceed direct to Mazatlan.
369
Mar. 24 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Desire for instructions with regard to requests for intervention with rebel army leaders received from American shareholders in Mexican companies because of forced loans and requisition of properties.
370
Mar. 25 (201) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Advice that the destroyer Robert Smith has been ordered to proceed to Mazatlan, instead of to Manzanillo, to furnish refuge for Americans and foreigners. Instructions to inform Mazatlan.
370
Mar. 26 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Specific cases of forced loans and requisitions by rebel leaders.
370
Mar. 27 To the Mexican Ambassador
Information that the appropriate authorities have been notified of the Ambassador’s request for prevention of exportation of certain horses bought by the rebels from a ranch in Texas.
371
Mar. 27 From the Consul at Mazatlan (tel.)
Advice that the rebels are in full retreat, and that destroyer is not needed now that the Federals are in full control.
371
Mar. 27 (165) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Renewed discussion with the Acting Foreign Minister concerning disposition of the Mexican troops detained at Fort Bliss.
372
Mar. 28 From the Consul at Mazatlan (tel.)
Departure of the Robert Smith, March 27, for Tobari Bay.
372
Mar. 29 (217) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to the Consul at Guaymas (text printed) to make informal representations to the de facto authorities for protection of American life, property, and interests. Instructions to the Consul at Nogales, for repetition to Guaymas (text printed), to advise Americans paying taxes to de facto authorities to do so under protest; instructions also to protest orally to the de facto authorities against the taxation.
Information that these instructions are being repeated to all Consuls in the disturbed areas; instructions to bring both matters to the attention of the Mexican Government, advising that the U. S. Government will regard all such payments as completely relieving American citizens from any further obligation with regard to such payment.
(Footnote: Communication of the foregoing to the Mexican Foreign Office by note, April 1.)
373
Mar. 29 To the Mexican Ambassador
Inability of the Governor of Arizona to comply with the Ambassador’s request that the Arizona bank in which rebel authorities deposited certain funds be asked to deliver such funds to the Mexican Consul or to have such funds attached.
374
Mar. 30 From Senor Gerzayn Ugarte
Notification of his appointment by General Escobar as High Commissioner to represent the interests of the revolution near the U. S. Government; declaration of the purposes of the revolution; assurance that American lives and interests will continue to receive ample protection from the revolutionary forces.
375
Apr. 1 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Understanding that three airplanes purchased by the rebels crossed to Mexico from El Paso with American pilots; also, that much ammunition and materials are crossing to Mexico.
376
Apr. 1 To the Mexican Ambassador
Advice that, in accordance with a request by the Ambassador, the Agriculture and Treasury Departments have instructed their representatives at El Paso to permit residents of Naco, Sonora, to import 500 cattle to Naco, Arizona, for a temporary period.
377
Apr. 1 (1868) From the Mexican Ambassador
Request that coal, gasoline, petroleum, and other fuels be considered contraband of war and that free exportation thereof be prevented.
377
Apr. 1 (225) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Telegram to the Vice Consul at Agua Prieta (text printed) instructing him to be guided by telegram of March 29 with respect to attorneys’ request that matter of payment of taxes to de facto authorities by their clients be taken up with the Mexican Government.
378
Apr. 2 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Telephone conversation with the Mexican Ambassador in which he expressed regret that the American town of Naco had been bombed by a rebel airplane with resulting injury to American citizens.
378
Apr. 2 To the Secretary of War
Desire that telegraphic instructions be issued to Army authorities to release all Mexicans held at Fort Bliss to the custody of the Mexican Consul General at El Paso and to retain their arms and ammunition, in accordance with the President’s directions conveyed in Cabinet meeting.
379
Apr. 2 To the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Instructions to wire facts concerning injury to an American citizen in rebel bombing of Naco, Arizona.
(Similar telegram to Agua Prieta.)
379
Apr. 2 From the Vice Consul at Agua Prieta (tel.)
Information concerning damage to property in Naco, Arizona, and slight wound sustained by Mr. Harry Baker of Alliance, Ohio; advice that General Cocheu, commanding American troops in Arizona, warned General Topete that such acts would not be countenanced, and that the latter expressed regret and directed that damages be settled promptly.
380
Apr. 2 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Lack of any information regarding wounding of Mr. Baker further than that contained in press despatch.
380
Apr. 3 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Consul at Guaymas, April 2: Seizure by revolutionary forces of gasoline and lubricants belonging to the California Standard Oil Co.; advice that protest has been made to collector of customs.
380
Apr. 3 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Receipt of assurances from the de facto authorities concerning representations by the Consul in accordance with instructions contained in Department’s telegram of March 29.
381
Apr. 3 To the Mexican Ambassador
Suggestion that the Mexican Consul General at El Paso be instructed to communicate with the commanding general at Fort Bliss to arrange details for the release of refugee troops to the Consul General.
381
Apr. 3 To the Vice Consul at Agua Prieta (tel.)
Instructions to exercise caution so that no action on part of the Vice Consul may be construed as recognizing the belligerency of rebel forces.
382
Apr. 4 (233) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Statement to the press, April 3 (text printed), in which the Secretary of State warned that the U. S. Government could not protect American citizens who enlist in the rebel forces from the fate of traitors; instructions to call this announcement to attention of the Mexican Government, expressing the hope, however, that it will not consider any such person taken prisoner as guilty of treason, and to inquire whether or not any Americans are in the Federal Army.
383
Apr. 4 From the Vice Consul at Agua Prieta (tel.)
Information that rebel airplanes continue to bomb Naco; that two more bombs have fallen within American territory without damage; and that General Topete has again apologized to U. S. authorities.
384
Apr. 5 To the Mexican Ambassador
Advice that a Mexican Federal officer and ten soldiers arrested in Naco, Arizona, on April 3, will be relieved of their arms and turned back to Mexican territory; request that patrols remain on Mexican side of the border and that soldiers entering the United States for legitimate purposes come unarmed.
384
Apr. 5 (187) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Assurance by the Mexican President that any Americans who should be captured with the rebels will be treated with all consideration.
385
Apr. 5 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Opinion that the order issued by the District Director’s office at El Paso to the immigration office at Nogales to hold a board of inquiry to examine and exclude all civil and military officers of the revolution and their families, will result in unfavorable reaction to Americans and their interests in rebel territory.
386
Apr. 6 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Vice Consul at Ciudad Obregon, April 5: Report of rebel military activities; advice that arrangements have been made with the commander of the Robert Smith for protection of American lives in case of necessity.
386
Apr. 6 (188) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Advice that the Federal Government has issued instructions to accept no enlistments of Americans.
387
Apr. 6 To the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Information that no instructions have been issued by the Labor Department for a board of inquiry; that the responsibility of granting or refusing applications for immigration visas rests upon American consular officers; and that Department’s telegram of March 14 instructed the Consul in a sense that would require a strict enforcement of the Immigration Act.
387
Apr. 8 From the Vice Consul at Agua Prieta (tel.)
Nonresumption of fighting at Naco. Settlement of claim of Mr. Baker.
388
Apr. 8 (55639/550) From the Assistant Secretary of Labor
Information that the District Director of Immigration at El Paso had issued oral instructions that rebel officers, soldiers, civilian officials or their dependent families might be paroled upon claims of jeopardy if not wanted by U. S. Army or Justice Department authorities; advice that he has now been instructed to handle rebels seeking to come to the American side on legitimate business as other applicants of the kind are handled.
388
Apr. 8 (253) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Receipt of advice from the Consul at Monterrey that hospital supplies and nurses are urgently needed to take care of wounded soldiers; willingness of the American Red Cross to furnish hospital supplies upon request; instructions to ascertain decision of the Government.
389
Apr. 8 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Information that the District Director of Immigration has conceded modification of the blanket exclusion order and will now permit each case to be decided on its merits.
389
Apr. 9 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Consul at Guaymas: Arrival of the Robert Smith.
390
Apr. 9 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Arrival of the Federals at the outskirts of Juarez; probability that the city will turn over peacefully as soon as the rebel general leaves.
390
Apr. 9 (196) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information that the President expressed appreciation for the offer of aid at Monterrey but stated that adequate hospital preparations had been made in advance.
391
Apr. 10 To the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
To the Consul at Guaymas: Instructions to impress again upon rebel authorities the principles set out in Department’s telegram of March 29.
391
Apr. 11 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Consul at Guaymas: Fear of certain businessmen and Catholics of violence at the hands of Federals when they arrive; suggestion that a good effect might be produced by an official statement by the Mexican Government that full guarantees will be granted all innocent persons, particularly priests and nuns.
391
Apr. 12 To the Secretary of Labor
Information that the President’s directions at the Cabinet meeting on March 15 were that all rebels coming to the United States were to be arrested and detained by the Justice Department, or if necessary, by the Army; suggestion that instructions to the representatives of the Labor Department be amended so that they may be consistent with the instructions issued to representatives of the other Executive departments.
392
Apr. 12 From the Consul at Chihuahua (tel.)
Issuance by the Federal tax office of ultimatum that it does not recognize payment of taxes made to rebels and that taxpayers will be fined unless payments are made within a short period; request for instructions.
393
Apr. 13 To the Secretary of War
Request that Army authorities be instructed to release two Federal aviators and their airplanes detained at Fort Bliss upon landing there from Mexican territory.
(Footnote: Information from the Secretary of War, April 15, that the necessary instructions had been issued.)
393
Apr. 13 To the Mexican Ambassador
Information that the appropriate authorities have been requested to prevent the importation of cattle stolen by the rebels from Mexican owners.
394
Apr. 13 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Consul at Guaymas: Information that the Southern Pacific Railroad has suspended operations, creating a dangerous situation, and that 6,000 rebel troops are southbound, presumably for Guaymas or farther south; need for a destroyer at Guaymas at once.
394
Apr. 14 From the Consul at Chihuahua (tel.)
Publication by the State treasurer of notification declaring void all taxes paid from March 3 and demanding that they be paid again immediately.
395
Apr. 15 (2180) From the Mexican Ambassador
Advice that the necessary orders will be given to prevent Mexican soldiers from crossing the border in the future.
395
Apr. 15 To the Consul at Chihuahua (tel.)
Information that the Consul’s telegram of April 12 is being repeated to the Embassy with instructions to advise Americans not to pay except under protest and to demand receipts.
(Footnote: Information that the Embassy was instructed by telegram No. 288, April 15.)
396
Apr. 16 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Request for instructions as to how to advise Americans now being ordered by Federal authorities to repay taxes previously paid to rebel authorities.
396
Apr. 16 (210) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Delivery to the Foreign Minister of formal note in accordance with telegram No. 288 of April 15.
396
Apr. 17 To the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Information that Consul’s telegram of April 16 is being repeated to the Embassy with instructions to request that Federal authorities be directed not to insist on payment of taxes already paid by Americans to de facto authorities; instructions to advise American citizens not to pay except under protest and to demand receipts.
396
Apr. 18 To the Mexican Ambassador
Objection to the term “contraband of war” in the Ambassador’s note of April 1; advice that inquirers regarding the exportation of coal, gasoline, petroleum, and other fuels to rebel territory are being advised that the consignee in Mexico should make application for export licenses through the Mexican Embassy in Washington.
397
Apr. 19 From the Consul at Guaymas (tel.)
Advice that the situation in Guaymas and Empalme is calm and that the destroyer commander will render all proper assistance to refugees who desire it; also that previous representations have resulted in the cessation of seizures and threatened seizures of oil from American companies.
398
Apr. 20 From the Consul at Guaymas (tel.)
Report of satisfactory conference with rebel general; probability that rebel retreat is imminent.
398
Apr. 22 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs
Record of steps taken with the Justice and War Departments which resulted in decision that 18 armed rebels who entered the United States at Sasabe, Arizona, and were detained by immigration officers, were to be taken into custody by the Army.
398
Apr. 22 From the Consul at Guaymas (tel.)
Information that rebels have seized and are using Southern Pacific property and fuel oil at Guaymas and Empalme; advice that strong oral protest has again been made for the protection of American interests.
399
Apr. 22 From the Consul at Guaymas (tel.)
Advice that a Federal gunboat shelled rebel trains near Empalme and that Americans have been brought to Guaymas.
400
Apr. 23 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Consul at Guaymas: Desire that reply to telegram of April 22 be expedited, as similar case arises in connection with Standard Oil Co. stocks at Yavaros and it may be necessary to request that the Selfridge, en route to Guaymas to replace the Robert Smith, be ordered to Yavaros.
400
Apr. 24 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Consul at Guaymas, April 23: Advice that the Consul and the destroyer commander have obtained promise from gunboat officers not to bombard Guaymas and have protested proposed bombardment of Empalme as unnecessary from military viewpoint and ruinous to railway interests there.
400
Apr. 24 To the Consul at Guaymas (tel.)
Opinion that it would be unwise for destroyer to undertake to take charge of fuel oil at Guaymas.
401
Apr. 24 To the Secretary of Labor
Request that the Department of State be consulted prior to the taking of any action to deport Mexican insurrectionists from the United States.
401
Apr. 25 To the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
To the Consul at Guaymas: Inability to perceive a legal basis on which to base representations against bombardment of Empalme by Federal forces; advice, however, that representations of the strongest character may be made to rebels against injuries by them to American life and property; instructions to keep these distinctions in mind.
(Instructions to repeat to Ciudad Obregon for information of the Vice Consul and for his guidance if a similar situation should occur in his district.)
(Footnote: Repeated to the Ambassador in Mexico as telegram No. 328, with authorization to inform the Mexican Government if advisable.)
402
Apr. 26 To the Mexican Ambassador
Information that, in accordance with the Ambassador’s request, U. S. immigration authorities will permit the entrance into the United States at Sasabe of wounded and unarmed Mexican nationals seeking hospital or medical attention; pertinent paragraph of the Labor Department regulations (text printed).
403
Apr. 26 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
From the Consul at Guaymas: Advice from the Vice Consul at Ciudad Obregon that a Federal bomb dropped through roof of his office the previous day; information that the Federal general has been requested to prevent repetition of the incident.
404
Apr. 26 To the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
To the Consul at Guaymas: Instructions, should similar occurrences such as the bombing of the Consulate at Ciudad Obregon take place in the future, to notify the Department in order that it may make representations to Federal military commanders.
404
Apr. 27 (55665/176) From the Assistant Secretary of Labor
Nonintention to force the return to Mexico of an insurrectionist so long as his life would be jeopardized by such action.
405
Apr. 28 (344) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Telegram from the U. S. S. Moody at Guaymas, April 27, (text printed), stating that the rebels are leaving, that the Federals have warned they will raid Guaymas from the air on April 28, and that the destroyer will take Americans on board and assist in evacuating foreigners; instructions to bring Department’s telegram No. 328 of April 25 to the attention of the Mexican Government, suggesting that it may wish to undertake bombardment only upon urgent military necessity and after ample warning has been given.
406
Apr. 29 From the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Information that certain refugee rebel civilians who desire to regularize their entry for permanent stay do not dare to cross to the Mexican side to obtain visas at the Consulate; inquiry whether their applications could be taken at the boundary.
406
Apr. 30 (231) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Communication to President Portes Gil of information that the U. S. Government will soon advise that it can no longer supply certain war materials; opinion of the President that this will be satisfactory and that no further supplies are needed.
407
Apr. 30 (351) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Probability that Nogales will soon surrender to the Federal forces; authorization to suggest, if it is deemed advisable, that the Mexican Government give favorable consideration to acceptance of surrender of Nogales, and Agua Prieta also, at the proper time and that it announce that it will accord lenient treatment to rebellious elements who may be in those cities if they surrender immediately and unconditionally.
407
May 1 To the Consul at Ciudad Juarez (tel.)
Advice that consular officers may not act in official capacity while in the United States; observation that as the Department of Labor does not intend to deport refugee rebel civilians to Mexico for the present, the plea of emergency would appear to be eliminated.
408
May 1 To the Collector of Customs at Douglas, Arizona (tel.)
Receipt of request from the Mexican Embassy that, in view of the surrender of Agua Prieta, no further restrictions be placed on exportation of food and other supplies; authorization to permit unrestricted exportation of such supplies.
(Sent, mutatis mutandis, to the Collector of Customs at Nogales, Arizona, mentioning Nogales, Mexico, as the place which surrendered.)
408
May 1 To the Secretary of War
Request that Army authorities continue to hold in custody the 18 armed rebels who recently crossed the border at Sasabe, Arizona, until the insurrectionist movement along the border has been terminated.
408
May 1 From the Consular Agent at Cananea
Advice that, following protest made in accordance with instructions of March 29, no forced loan was required of an American citizen.
409
May 1 (233) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Delivery to the President of suggestion contained in telegram No. 351 of April 30; information that the garrisons at Nogales and Agua Prieta surrendered the previous day.
410
May 2 (4) From the Consul at Agua Prieta
Details concerning the surrender of the city.
410
Undated [Rec’d May 3] From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Notification by the Federal tax office to all taxpayers, including Americans, to make preparations to pay the taxes already paid to de facto authorities; request for instructions whether to make protest.
(Repeated to the Embassy.)
412
May 3 (356) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to request that authorities in Sonora be instructed not to insist on repayment of taxes by Americans and to reiterate statements contained in telegram No. 217 of March 29; information that the Consul at Nogales is being advised and instructed to inform Americans not to make repayment except under protest and to demand receipts.
412
May 4 (WPD 3297–32) From the Secretary of War
Advice that Army authorities will continue to hold the 18 armed rebels in custody, and will not turn them over to immigration authorities without prior consultation with the Department of State.
413
May 4 To the Attorney General
Confirmation of arrangement reached at conference, April 13, with representatives of the Justice, Labor, and War Departments regarding the disposition of Mexican Federals or rebels entering the United States; advice that the arrangement would appear to be of no immediate practical value in view of the termination of the insurrection.
413
May 4 From the Consul at Nogales (tel.)
Notification to Americans by the Federal internal revenue inspector of the Government’s objection to their applying to Consuls or the Department of State for relief in regard to payment of taxes.
(Sent also to the Embassy.)
414
May 4 (237) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Discussion of taxation question with the Foreign Office upon receipt of undated telegram from the Consul at Nogales; information that the Ambassador is complying with instructions contained in telegram No. 356 of May 3.
414
May 6 (239) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Advice that the Foreign Office will telegraph suitable instructions to the authorities in Sonora in connection with telegram of May 4 from the Consul at Nogales; impression that Foreign Office feels the authorities in Sonora are not justified in taking the position they appear to have assumed.
(Repeated to the Consul at Nogales.)
414
May 7 (2822) From the Mexican Ambassador
Notification of the reopening of customhouses at Nogales, Agua Prieta, and Guaymas to international traffic.
415
May 8 (361) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions for possible representations in the matter of double taxation.
415
May 8 (364) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Telegram from the Consul at Nogales, May 7 (text printed), inquiring whether the instructions with regard to Sonora outlined in Department’s telegram of May 3, apply to Sinaloa as well; instructions to request that authorities at Sinaloa be instructed not to insist on repayment of taxes and to reiterate statement contained in telegram No. 217 of March 29; advice that Consul is being informed that the instructions of May 3 apply to all cases where repayment of taxes is demanded.
416
May 8 Press Release Issued by the Department of State
Removal of restrictions on the exportation of commercial aircraft to Mexico.
417
May 14 To the Mexican Ambassador
Advice that the U. S. Government, following the tenets of international law, considers that a foreign port in the hands of the enemies of the government to which such foreign port belongs is to be regarded as still open and international traffic is entitled to continue to flow through it without hindrance or molestation so far as the regular government is concerned except where ingress to or egress from such port is physically prevented, by blockade or otherwise.
417
May 18 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs
Information from the War Department that 19 rebels which had been admitted at Sasabe, Arizona, had been turned over to the Mexican Consul at Nogales on May 3 to be returned to Mexico.
(Footnote: Notations by Assistant Secretary of State Clark containing record of telephone conversation with the Mexican Ambassador in which he gave assurance that the men would be perfectly safe and promised to telegraph both to the Mexican Consul at Nogales and to Mexico City to guard against any peradventure.)
418
May 21 To the Mexican Ambassador
Advice that the Secretary of War has been requested to deliver to the Mexican Consul General at El Paso the arms and munitions of the Federal troops who were detained at Fort Bliss.
418
May 21 (1645) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Account of the military operations during the insurrection.
418
May 25 To the Vice Consul at Durango
Instructions to advise the Governor of Durango that the U. S. Government will regard all payments of taxes to de facto authorities as completely relieving American citizens from all further obligations in regard to such payments.
425
May 29 To the Mexican Ambassador
Acknowledgment of note of May 13 which states that, with the reopening of Yavaros, Sonora, to international traffic, none of the border or seacoast customhouses now remains closed; reference to the position of the Department of State set forth in note of May 14.
426
June 1 (101) From the Vice Consul at Durango
Information that the Governor accepted statement of U. S. position without discussion; lack of knowledge of any further attempts to collect taxes from American citizens who had already made payment to the de facto authorities.
426
June 7 To the Consul at Guaymas
Approval of the Consul’s action in displaying the American flag over the Consulate and advising American citizens to take similar action during the period when air raids by the Federals were probable.
427
June 11 (G–4/12846–1) War Department Memorandum for the Assistant Chief of Staff, G–2
List of Government property and value thereof sold to the Mexican Government.
428
July 2 (1722) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Discussion with the Foreign Office of request by authorities in Agua Prieta for payment by certain American companies of taxes paid to de facto authorities; information that instructions are being sent to Agua Prieta authorities not to insist on such payments.
429
July 2 (409) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Authorization to suggest to the Mexican Government that it request revocation of the Presidential proclamation of January 7, 1924, which imposed embargo on arms shipments to Mexico.
430
July 16 (287) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Oral request by the Acting Foreign Minister, July 5, that the arms embargo be lifted.
430
July 18 To President Hoover
Transmittal, for signature, of a proclamation lifting the embargo on arms shipments to Mexico; recommendation that it be issued without delay.
431
Aug. 8 To Consular Officers in Mexico
Proclamation No. 1885 issued by the President, July 18, lifting the embargo on the exportation of arms and munitions of war to Mexico (text printed).
431
Aug. 21 To the Mexican Ambassador
Information that the appropriate authorities have been requested to issue suitable instructions looking to the delivery to the Mexican Consul at Naco, Arizona, of certain arms and ammunition deposited with U. S. authorities by Mexican Federal forces.
432
Aug. 27 (1832) From the Chargé in Mexico
Transmittal of copy of Mexican decree of August 23 revoking decree of March 5 which declared invalid the payment of taxes to rebels.
433
Nov. 9 To the Secretary of Labor
Request that a certain Mexican wanted by the Mexican Government for alleged revolutionary activities be not deported at this time.
433
[Page LXV]

Conventions Between the United States and Mexico Extending Duration of Special and General Claims Commissions Provided for in Conventions of 1923, Signed August 17 and September 2, 1929

[Page LXVI][Page LXVII][Page LXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 June 17 To the Mexican Chargé
Transmittal of draft conventions extending the duration of the Special and General Claims Commissions provided for in conventions of 1923; draft convention extending duration of the General Claims Commission (text printed).
434
June 20 (402) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to expedite favorable decision on the draft conventions submitted to the Mexican Chargé; also to ascertain views on the appointment of a third commissioner to fill a vacancy and signature of a protocol providing for continuance of work of the joint secretaries and of the respective agencies of the two Governments.
436
July 15 (4124) From the Mexican Ambassador
Willingness to extend duration of the General Claims Commission provided article 9 of the convention of 1923 is modified to remove provision for immediate payment of awards.
437
July 16 To the Mexican Ambassador
Advice that views on proposal for modification of article 9 will soon be communicated; inquiry as to willingness to extend duration of the Special Claims Commission.
438
July 19 (418) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information that it was made clear to the Mexican Ambassador that there is practically no likelihood of the Department’s acceding to request for modification of article 9, as the Senate would probably not approve.
438
July 26 (297) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Suggestion that both conventions be extended without change, that endeavor be made to negotiate the en bloc settlement desired by the Foreign Office, and that assurance be given that for a definite period the Mexican agent would not present for hearing any land claims which might involve the operation of article 9.
439
July 29 (426) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to expedite extension of the two conventions, negotiations for an en bloc settlement, and Mexican acquiescence to proposal made to Mexican Ambassador that the Department undertake to request the Senate to authorize modification of article 9 of the general claims convention.
440
Aug. 3 (302) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s instructions to the Mexican Ambassador at Washington that no objection is seen to extension of the special claims convention and that general claims convention might be renewed upon an exchange of letters or protocol covering an interpretation of article 9.
441
Aug. 3 (428) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to obtain favorable decision on continuance of the joint secretariat and agencies in addition to the points covered by telegram No. 426 of July 29.
441
Aug. 6 (306) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Report of conference with the Acting Foreign Minister in which he stated willingness that work of the two agencies be continued but stated that formal protocol would not be necessary, and agreed to extension of the general claims convention upon condition that the Secretary of State sign a letter setting forth understanding with regard to article 9; suggested form of draft letter (text printed); advice that the appointment of a presiding commissioner was discussed but that the matter of an en bloc settlement was not discussed, as it can be taken up when the conventions have been signed.
441
Aug. 7 (435) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Concurrence in plans with respect to continuance of agencies and interpretative letter; instructions to submit letter to the Acting Foreign Minister with slight change in wording; approval of decision regarding en bloc settlement.
443
Undated Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Telephone conversation, August 7, with Senator William E. Borah in which he stated that he felt sure there would be no trouble from the Foreign Relations Committee if the Under Secretary were to give a note to Mexico interpretative of article 9 of the general claims convention.
443
Aug. 8 (437) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Opinion that it would be inadvisable to negotiate with respect to the appointment of a presiding commissioner until it is known definitely whether an en bloc settlement can be reached.
444
Aug. 13 (310) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Nonobjection of the Acting Foreign Minister to formula contained in the Department’s telegram No. 435 of August 7 and the Embassy’s telegram No. 306 of August 6; his intention to consult the President.
445
Aug. 15 (312) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Report of further negotiations with the Acting Foreign Minister; information that the Mexican Ambassador now has authority to sign both conventions at Washington.
445
Aug. 15 (443) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information that the Mexican Ambassador expressed the hope that matters of holding sessions of the Special Claims Commission in Mexico City, appointment of the third commissioner in accordance with procedure prescribed by the treaty of inter-American arbitration, and nondiscussion by the Special Commission of matters of domestic jurisdiction, be included in notes to be exchanged simultaneously with or prior to signature of convention.
447
Aug. 16 From the Mexican Ambassador
Receipt of instructions to sign the convention extending the Special Claims Commission on the understanding that the U. S. Government is disposed to continue discussing in a spirit of good will certain points intended to perfect the organization and facilitate operation of the Commission.
449
Undated Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs
Conversation with the Second Secretary of the Mexican Embassy, August 16, in which he presented the Ambassador’s note.
450
Aug. 17 To the Mexican Ambassador
Willingness to discuss questions of procedure under the special claims convention; confirmation of previous advice that the U. S. Government is agreeable that future meetings of the Commission be held in Mexico City.
451
Aug. 17 Convention Between the United States of America and Mexico
Extending duration of the Special Claims Commission.
451
Aug. 26 (455) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Nonobjection to signature at Mexico City of convention extending duration of the General Claims Commission; instructions to inform the Acting Foreign Minister that the Department is sending full powers; also, to comply with Mexican desire for note to be signed by the Secretary of State by delivering note along lines of that transmitted in telegram No. 306 of August 6 and modified by Department’s telegram No. 435 of August 7.
453
Aug. 26 (456) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Delivery by the Mexican Ambassador of note submitting list of candidates for presiding commissioner; his request for a note similar to the one sent at the time the convention was signed extending duration of the Special Claims Commission; his plan to submit note requesting that the U. S. Government undertake to discuss rules of procedure.
453
Aug. 26 From the Mexican Ambassador
Request that the U. S. Government agree to discuss certain points of procedure with reference to the General Claims Commission.
455
Aug. 27 To the Mexican Ambassador
Understanding with respect to article 9 of the general claims convention.
455
Aug. 27 (319) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Nonobjection by the Acting Foreign Minister to the procedure outlined in telegram No. 455 of August 26 for delivery of note respecting questions of procedure.
456
Aug. 28 (458) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Delivery to the Mexican Ambassador, August 27, of note regarding article 9 of the general claims convention; intention to reply to Ambassador’s note of August 26, respecting questions of procedure, by a note along lines of first paragraph of note of August 17,
456
Aug. 28 To the Mexican Ambassador
Willingness to discuss questions of procedure under the general claims convention.
457
Aug. 29 (460) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Confirmation of authorization by telephone to sigh convention with inclusion of the addition to article 1, paragraph 1, desired by the Mexican Government.
457
Aug. 30 (322) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Revised English draft of article 1 (text printed); inability of the Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs to sign the convention until September 2.
458
Aug. 31 (462) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Approval of revised English draft of article 1; intention to issue suitable instructions to American agent and American secretary of the General Claims Commission when convention is signed.
459
Sept. 2 Convention Between the United States of America and Mexico
Extending duration of the General Claims Commission.
460

Attitude of the Department of State Regarding an En Bloc Settlement of the Claims of American Citizens Against Mexico

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Mar. 27 (578) To the Ambassador in Mexico
Comments and instructions for guidance of the Ambassador in connection with any negotiations which he may undertake with a view to reaching an agreement with Mexico for a lump sum settlement of claims of American citizens against Mexico.
461
Dec. 31 (2104–A) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Advice that no occasion has yet arisen to make any formal or official representations to the Mexican Government.
472

Renewed Negotiations for a Settlement of the Dispute Over the Rio Grande Boundary

[Page LXIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 6 (766) From the Mexican Ambassador
Foreign Office approval, with certain conditions and reservations, of Minute No. 111 of December 21, 1928, of the International Boundary Commission, which recommends engineering feasibility of a preliminary plan for stabilization of the boundary and rectification of the Rio Grande, El Paso, and Juarez valleys.
473
May 13 To the Mexican Ambassador
Observations on the Mexican conditions and reservations; suggestion that the Mexican Boundary Commissioner be authorized to proceed with the American Commissioner toward preparation of a joint report and draft agreement or convention covering the entire matter of river rectification, boundary stabilization, and disposition of attached areas contemplated by the proposed engineering plan.
474
May 31 (3346) From the Mexican Ambassador
Protest against proposed construction of U. S. Government buildings on land located in the El Chamizal zone in El Paso, Texas, awarded to Mexico by arbitral decision in 1911.
476
Oct. 12 From the Mexican Ambassador
Restatement of view that the Commission should settle pending banco cases before entering into negotiations for an agreement for rectification of the river; request that appropriate instructions be issued to the American Commissioner.
476
Oct. 23 To the Mexican Ambassador
Reference to conversation, October 15, in which the Ambassador stated his Government’s willingness to proceed with the elimination of bancos and river rectification simultaneously and the Under Secretary of State advised that the American Commissioner would be requested to proceed on that basis; information that appropriate instructions have been issued; request that corresponding instructions be issued to the Mexican Commissioner.
478
1930 Jan. 7 To the Mexican Ambassador
Information that the selection of a site for a Federal building in El Paso will be held in abeyance for the time being.
479

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

Date and number Subject Page
1929 June 22 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs
Telephone conversation with Ambassador Morrow, June 21, in which he advised that the religious question had been settled.
479
June 22 To the Ambassador in Mexico
Congratulations from the President and the Secretary of State for assistance rendered by the Ambassador in the settlement of the religious question.
480
July 2 From the Ambassador in Mexico
Expression of appreciation for letter of June 22; opinion that the prompt and decisive action of the President and the Department at the time of the revolutionary crisis was an important element in adjustment of the religious question.
(Note: Excerpt from memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs of a conversation with the Mexican Ambassador, May 30, in which the former explained that Ambassador Morrow had acted purely in a private capacity.)
480
[Page LXX]

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 Feb. 18 (271) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Information that increase in pilotage dues at Casablanca was put into force without notice and has been collected from American vessels under protest; advice that American Diplomatic Agent recalled to the French Resident General that it was necessary to request and receive the U. S. Government’s assent before the increased taxes could be legally levied on American vessels; suggestion that consent be given on condition that the additional amounts levied prior to notification of consent be refunded.
482
Mar. 27 (469) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Authorization to give consent to application of the increased dues when refund has been made of unauthorized increases levied on American vessels up to the date of notification of U. S. consent.
483
1929 Jan. 25 (359) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Submittal of correspondence exchanged with the French Resident General since dispatch, on April 19, 1928, of note in accordance with the Department’s instructions; note to the Resident General, December 3, 1928 (text printed), presenting arguments overruling his objections to refund of the excess dues; advice that the Resident General has transmitted text of note of December 3, 1928, to his Government.
483
Feb. 26 (3076) To the Ambassador in France
Advisability of reminding the French Government that American treaty rights in Morocco, acquired by the Act of Algeciras and previous treaties, remain unimpaired; memorandum for the Foreign Office (text printed), stating that the position set forth in the Diplomatic Agent’s note of December 3, 1928, is fully endorsed by the U. S. Government and is in accord with that which has previously been set forth to the French Government, and stating also that the U. S. Government is constrained to withhold assent to application of the excess dues until such time as refund has been made of the excess taxes previously collected.
487
Sept. 5 (9811) From the Chargé in France
Presentation of memorandum, March 14; report of efforts to expedite action on this and other matters concerning American rights in Morocco.
490
Oct. 7 (4265) To the Chargé in France
Commendation of efforts to expedite action.
491

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

[Page LXXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 28 (1163) From the Chargé in Spain
Advice that the Spanish Government has approved the joint report of July 12, 1928, for settlement of American claims in the Spanish Zone, except in the Kittany case, concerning which the High Commission and the Ministry of War disagreed.
492
May 14 (10) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Information that the Diplomatic Agent and the High Commissioner have arrived at an ad referendum agreement revising downward the total amount of American claims; also, that the three claims which were reserved by the Spanish Government in the joint report will be settled subsequent to payment of the other claims and to U. S. recognition of the Spanish Zone; recommendation for approval of these propositions when presented by the Spanish Government.
(Copy to the Embassy in Spain.)
492
May 17 (392) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Amplification of telegram No. 10 of May 14.
493
May 18 (10) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Advice that the Department is awaiting formal presentation of Spanish proposition.
498
June 11 (29) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to expedite action on Spanish offer.
498
June 19 (41) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Understanding that ad referendum agreement is satisfactory to the Foreign Office and that it hopes the Government will also approve.
498
June 19 (410) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Advice that slight misunderstanding with respect to one claim has been adjusted and that total claim is reduced thereby; probability that matter will remain in abeyance until it receives the personal attention of the President of the Council of Ministers.
499
June 24 (1280) From the Ambassador in Spain
Information that delay is due to questions of principle involved.
(Copy to the Diplomatic Agent at Tangier.)
500
July 9 (37) To the Chargé in Spain (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to hasten action by the President of the Council during visit to Madrid of the Spanish High Commissioner.
500
Aug. 20 (1338) From the Ambassador in Spain
Foreign Office note No. 151, August 9 (text printed), setting forth the basis on which the Spanish Government will settle the American claims.
(Copy to the Diplomatic Agent at Tangier.)
500
Nov. 6 (637) To the Chargé in Spain
Opinion that the suggestions contained in the Spanish note of August 9 depart so radically from agreements and understandings already reached between the two Governments as to repudiate them; instructions to convey this view orally and informally to the Spanish Government.
(Copy to the Diplomatic Agent at Tangier.)
503
Nov. 25 (1416) From the Chargé in Spain
Information that U. S. views were communicated informally to the Secretary General and that he stated there was nothing to be done but let the matter drop; opinion that the Spanish Government will allow the question to slumber.
504
[Page LXXII]

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

[Page LXXIII][Page LXXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 Dec. 4 (343) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Receipt from the French Resident General of request for U. S. consent to application to American citizens and protégés of a proposed law empowering the Tangier Administration to impose increases in various taxes from time to time; opinion that this so-called “padlock law” is incompatible with observance of existing treaty provisions; receipt also of information concerning four fiscal measures proposed to be introduced in the near future in the preliminary application of the law, and of request for U. S. consent to application to American citizens and protégés.
505
Dec. 7 (573) From the British Ambassador
Desire for U. S. consent to application to American nationals of any legislative measures concerning taxation which may be passed by the Tangier Administration.
510
Dec. 10 From the Italian Ambassador
Desire for U. S. consent to application to American nationals of any legislative measures concerning taxation which may be passed by the Tangier Administration,
511
Dec. 20 (16) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Information concerning receipt of British and Italian notes; anticipation of receipt of similar French and Spanish notes.
512
Dec. 27 (17) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Unlikelihood of the Department’s acceding to proposed padlock law; inability to assent in advance to the proposed four taxation measures without examining the texts.
512
Dec. 31 (350) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Notes No. 360–D and No. 361–D from the French Resident General, November 23 (texts printed), transmitting texts of the proposed padlock law and the four draft regulations concerning increases in consumption and gate taxes.
512
1929 Jan. 3 From the French Ambassador
Desire for U. S. consent to application to American nationals of any legislative measures concerning taxation which may be passed by the Tangier Administration.
516
Jan. 7 From the British Embassy
Hope that the U. S. Government will consent to application to American nationals of the four specific taxation increases; advice that such consent would in no way prejudice U. S. decision on the padlock law.
517
Jan. 8 From thd Italian Embassy
Desire of the Italian Ambassador to associate himself with the British Ambassador’s request of January 7.
519
Jan. 16 To the British Embassy
Information that the Department is awaiting receipt of the requests from the French Resident General with respect to the padlock law and the four specific taxation increases.
(Copy to the Italian Embassy, January 25.)
519
Jan. 22 (4) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Authorization to give provisional consent to the application to American nationals and protégés of the four proposed taxation measures, to be effective upon their adoption by the Legislative Assembly, on understanding that American consular jurisdiction over Americans who may become involved in infractions of the new law remains unimpaired.
520
Jan. 28 (5) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Advice that consent to the padlock law will be refused.
521
Jan. 29 (505) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Note for the French Resident General (text printed), stating inability to consent to application to American nationals and protégés of the padlock law but declaring willingness to examine in advance the texts of any new draft laws with a view to prompt enforcement after adoption by the Legislative Assembly.
521
Jan. 31 From the Spanish Ambassador
Desire for U. S. consent to application to American nationals of any legislative measures concerning taxation which may be passed by the Tangier Administration.
522
Feb. 5 (3) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Information that the conditions of U. S. consent regarding the four fiscal measures were communicated to the French Resident General on January 25, and that he has replied that the measures are applicable as of February 1, having been adopted by the Legislative Assembly, promulgated by the Sultan’s representative, and countersigned by the President of the Committee of Control.
523
Feb. 9 (366) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Note No. 28–D, February 5, from the French Residency General (text printed), stating that application of the four fiscal measures will in no way impair American consular jurisdiction over American protégés; copy of note, February 2, from the President of the Committee of Control to the French Residency General (text printed) advising that the Committee has noted U. S. assent.
523
Feb. 14 (5) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Dispatch of the note contained in instruction No. 505 of January 29.
525
Feb. 27 To the British Ambassador
Inability to grant the consent requested in note No. 573 of December 7, 1928; transmittal of text of the note by which the American Diplomatic Agent informed the French Resident General of this position.
(Similar replies to the Italian and Spanish Ambassadors.)
525
Feb. 27 To the British Embassy
Information that U. S. consent has been given to application to American nationals and protégés of the four specific taxation measures.
(Similar replies to the Italian Embassy and to the Spanish Ambassador.)
526
Feb. 27 To the French Embassy
Advice that the U. S. Government has given consent to the application to American nationals and protégés of the four specific taxation measures, but that it cannot grant the consent requested concerning the padlock law; transmittal of text of the note by which the American Diplomatic Agent informed the French Resident General of the latter position.
526
Apr. 8 (201) From the British Ambassador
Expression of appreciation for the information of February 27.
527
1930 Jan. 8 (573) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Instructions to inform the French Resident General, in reply to his request for the application to American protégés of the registration and stamp taxes, that the U. S. Government consents, with the usual reservations, to the provisions respecting alcohols and beers, sugar, and immovable property, but cannot consent to provisions respecting transfers of movable property and stamp taxes.
528

Nonacquiescence by the United States in the Application to American Vessels of the Tariff of the Tangier Port Concession Company

Date and number Subject Page
1929 May 7 (389) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Note No. 111–D, April 13 (text printed), from the French Resident General, requesting that the tariff of the Tangier Port Concession Co. be made applicable to American vessels.
529
June 6 (11) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Inquiry as to when and how tariff of the Tangier Port Concession Co. was originally effected.
534
June 12 (403) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Information that the application of a tariff proposed by the Tangier Port Concession Co. becomes legal by approval of the Tangier Port Commission established under the Statute of Tangier of 1923; observation that the tariff must be approved by the U. S. Government before it can become legally binding on American citizens and protégés.
535
Nov. 16 (563) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Instructions to reply to the French Resident General’s note of April 13 by stating inability to acquiesce in application of the tariff to American vessels; observation that the U. S. Government has firmly protested the legality of the concession and has not adhered to the Statute of Tangier.
536
[Page LXXV]

Reservation of American Rights With Respect to Proposed Changes in the Administration of Cape Spartel Light

Date and number Subject Page
1928 Dec. 11 (345) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Information that, in submitting to the other members of the International Commission for the Maintenance of the Lighthouse at Cape Spartel a proposal of the Shereefian Government that the operation and administration of the lighthouse be confined to the Engineer and Technical Adviser of the Maghzen, under a double delegation from the Commission and the Government, the American Diplomatic Agent appended a statement (text printed) containing observation that such an arrangement would be in derogation of the Convention of 1865 providing for international administration; request for instructions in the event the matter should appear again in discussions of the Commission.
537
1929 Jan. 17 (502) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Approval of the observations made to colleagues; authorization to maintain this position in any future discussions.
538

NETHERLANDS

Arbitration Agreement With the Netherlands Further Extending the Duration of the Convention of May 2, 1908

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 27 Agreement Between the United States of America and the Netherlands
Extending the duration of the arbitration convention of May 2, 1908.
539

Interest of the United States in Maintaining Equal Rights for American Oil Companies With Those of Other Countries With Regard to Petroleum Mining Concessions

[Page LXXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Mar. 27 (650) To the Minister in the Netherlands
Instructions to render appropriate assistance to Mr. Francis B. Loomis, of the Standard Oil Co. of California, in efforts to obtain oil concessions in the Netherlands East Indies.
540
Apr. 29 (1873) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Report of assistance rendered to Mr. Loomis; understanding that, in response to Mr. Loomis’ inquiry regarding rumor that oil rights in the Indies had been apportioned between the Royal Dutch and the Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey, the Secretary General of the Colonial Ministry stated that there was an arrangement whereby the exploitation of certain districts had been reserved for the Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey, the Royal Dutch, and the Government.
540
May 29 (676) To the Minister in the Netherlands
Instructions to investigate and report fully on any agreements affecting American participation in exploitation of oil fields of the Netherlands East Indies.
543
June 19 (1931) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Opinion that the rumors are without foundation; observation that such an exclusive arrangement as has been intimated would be next to impossible under Netherlands law.
543
Oct. 28 To Certain Diplomatic and Consular Officers in the Netherlands and Its Dependencies
Instructions to investigate and report on the conditions under which foreign oil companies operate in the officer’s district with a view to ascertaining whether British companies enjoy advantages denied to American companies in such a manner as to be discriminatory against American companies.
(Footnote: Dispatch, October 23, of a similar instruction, mutatis mutandis, to certain American diplomatic and consular officers in Great Britain and its dependencies.)
546
Nov. 26 (10) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Advice that no discrimination in favor of British oil companies exists in Netherlands territories.
(Footnote: Information that a similar reply to the Department’s instruction of October 23 was received from the Embassy in Great Britain, in despatch No. 468 of December 3.)
547

NICARAGUA

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

[Page LXXVII][Page LXXVIII][Page LXXIX][Page LXXX]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 3 (6) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Recommendation by Admiral Sellers that Marine force in Nicaragua be reduced to 3500 men; President Moncada’s concurrence; his desire to assume more responsibility for suppressing banditry in the northern departments and to organize a small volunteer force under Guardia Nacional and Marine officers to conduct an active campaign against Sandino and make it unnecessary for the marines to continue their present active field work.
549
Jan. 9 (17) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Desire of President Moncada to establish martial law in the northern departments where bandits are operating; opinion that U. S. consent should be given.
550
Jan. 15 (8) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion that the establishment of martial law is a matter in which the decision and responsibility should rest on the Nicaraguan Government alone.
551
Jan. 21 (24) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Intention of President Moncada to request Congress to declare martial law for four of the northern departments.
(Footnote: Information in Legation’s telegram No. 40, February 4, that President Moncada signed law on February 2 putting martial law into effect immediately; subsequent communications from the Legation, April 11, June 17, August 8, October 4, and December 7, reporting 60-day extensions of the law.)
551
Mar. 12 (35) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to report in general on the military situation from time to time and in particular on the operations of the volunteer forces organized in January.
551
Mar. 16 (938) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Report on the military situation and operations of the volunteer forces.
552
Mar. 17 (72) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information from brigade headquarters concerning encounters between bandits and Marine and volunteer forces; belief that bandits crossed into Honduras.
(Repeated to Tegucigalpa.)
555
Apr. 1 (30) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Foreign Office note (text printed) requesting investigation of information from private sources that American forces in Nicaragua wish to provoke a conflict with Honduras.
(Repeated to Managua.)
555
Apr. 2 (26) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Foreign Office that the Department has no information which would indicate that there are any grounds for the report and to request information upon which the charges are based.
555
Apr. 2 (46) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Transmittal of text of telegram No. 26 sent to Honduras; instructions to report whether there has been any friction along the frontier which would afford a basis for the Honduran Government’s statements.
556
Apr. 3 (83) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice from Brigade Commander that there has been no friction along the border; also, that when hard-pressed by the marines, Honduran followers of the bandits cross into Honduras and their friends there report to Tegucigalpa that the marines have invaded Honduras.
(Repeated to Tegucigalpa.)
556
Apr. 3 (84) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Telegram from President Moncada to the President of Honduras, April 2 (text printed), regarding boundary difficulty between the two countries.
556
Apr. 6 (848) From the Minister in Honduras
Receipt of Foreign Office notes transmitting telegrams from General Sánchez in which he states he is in possession of a bomb dropped from American airplanes at Las Limas; observation that the Honduran Government is continually receiving exaggerated reports from the frontier.
557
Apr. 8 (89) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Telegraphic reply from the Honduran President to President Moncada, April 2 (text printed), requesting that Nicaraguan forces retire from Honduran territory; desire of the Nicaraguan Foreign Office that the Brigade Commander be instructed to avoid friction with the Honduran Government; assurances by the Brigade Commander that the Honduran border is being respected by the marines, guardia, and volunteer forces under his command.
(Repeated to Tegucigalpa.)
558
Apr. 9 (94) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Telegram from the Brigade Commander to the Commander of the Special Service Squadron (text printed), reporting circumstances at Las Limas under which airplanes of the border patrol which were fired on by bandits bombed and dispersed the attackers, and advising that Las Limas is so close to border that it is claimed by both countries.
(Repeated to Tegucigalpa.)
559
Apr. 9 (47) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Assumption that the assurances of the Brigade Commander contained in telegram No. 89 of April 8 have been conveyed to President Moncada.
559
Apr. 9 (28) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to supplement statements to the Foreign Office based on telegram No. 26 of April 2 with the assurances contained in telegram No. 89, April 8, from the Minister in Nicaragua.
559
Apr. 13 (53) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to keep the Department fully informed of a reported conference on the frontier between high Honduran officials and American Marine officers for the purpose of agreeing on measures to prevent “further invasions of Honduran territory.”
(Sent also to the Minister in Honduras.)
560
Apr. 15 (39) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Advice that the Subsecretary of the Interior, recently sent to investigate occurrences on the border, may possibly have conferred with Marine officers, but that no report from him has yet been received.
560
Apr. 15 (104) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that the only conference held was that of April 6 near Las Manos, when chiefs of the border patrols of the two countries met to discuss plans for closer and more effective cooperation in stamping out banditry along the border; also, that the Honduran Subsecretary of the Interior was present, but that there was neither complaint nor discussion of “past or further invasions of Honduran territory”.
560
Apr. 17 (108) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report that two of the bandit groups have been dispersed, that other chiefs are abandoning operations, and that in general the military situation is excellent; hope of Brigade Commander that a gradual reduction of Marine forces may be possible by July.
561
Apr. 19 (114) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Delivery to President Moncada, with expression of concurrence, of memorandum received from Admiral Sellers stating his intention to recommend a further reduction in Marine forces in Nicaragua of 800 men and officers; advice that the President approves.
561
Apr. 29 (122) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Discontinuance of a number of Marine posts in northeastern Nicaragua; preparations for withdrawal of 15 officers and 250 men from Nicaragua the following day.
562
May 6 (508) To the Minister in Nicaragua
Desire for comments on report sent from Costa Rica, April 12, by the Military Attaché (excerpt printed), with special reference to statement that the three commanders of Nicaraguan volunteer forces declared that the appalling destruction in the Segovias had been done, not by the marines, but by the bandit Sandino and his men.
562
May 6 (509) To the Minister in Nicaragua
Instructions to obtain from the Brigade Commander and forward to the Department a full report of conference at Las Manos on April 6 and of the agreement said to have been entered into with the Honduran representatives.
563
May 8 (133) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Desire of President Moncada that the Department make appropriate representations to the Honduran Government to prevent sympathizers in Honduras from furnishing arms and assistance to Nicaraguan rebels along the frontier.
564
May 10 (983) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Memorandum by the Brigade Commander, May 6, regarding the military situation (text printed).
564
May 24 (1008) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Report on the military situation; suggestion that road construction in the bandit-infested regions would facilitate military operations against the bandits and would also assist in restoring order by peaceful means through the steady employment it would give.
566
June 4 (154) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Commencement of bandit activities in the Matagalpa area.
570
June 7 (1028) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Letter from the Brigade Commander, June 4 (text printed), concerning the agreement reported to have been entered into at Las Manos on April 6.
571
June 10 (85) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion that volunteer forces should be disbanded and all field and police work taken over by the Guardia as soon as practicable; hope that Marine forces may be gradually withdrawn as the Guardia increases in strength and in accordance with existing conditions; advice that the Department would hesitate to suggest a road construction program calling for as large an expenditure as recommended; instructions to report further details on bandit raid in Matagalpa; also, to discuss these matters with American military leaders and submit further recommendations.
574
June 12 (160) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report on present status of volunteer, Guardia, and Marine forces; information concerning increase in bandit activity in the Matagalpa area; endorsement by Brigade and Guardia Commanders of suggested road construction plan.
575
July 17 (193) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Inability to concur in recommendation by the Commander of the Special Service Squadron for withdrawal of 1200 marines and officers.
576
July 23 (200) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Further arguments against reduction of Marine forces.
577
Aug. 22 (1127) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Departure of part of the allotted 1200 marines and officers, August 21; advice that the remainder of the group will leave soon.
579
Dec. 6 (1246) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Information concerning recent contacts between the Guardia and bandits; advice that apprehension of residents of the Matagalpa area has been increased by rumors that the Commander of the Special Service Squadron will recommend a further reduction in the Marine forces in Nicaragua.
579

Granting of Asylum in Mexico to General Sandino as a Political Refugee From Nicaragua

[Page LXXXI][Page LXXXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 31 (14) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Nonintention of the Mexican Government to resume diplomatic relations with the new Nicaraguan Government until the forces of occupation are withdrawn.
580
Feb. 21 (31) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Report of discussions with the Acting Foreign Minister and the President with regard to question of recognition of the Nicaraguan Government and request from General Sandino that he be granted asylum in Mexico.
581
Feb. 25 (33) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Opinion that the Mexican Government would be entirely within its rights in granting Sandino’s request but would have a moral responsibility to make sure that he did not use Mexico as a base of operations against the Nicaraguan Government nor as a safe refuge from which to direct or foment further revolutionary activities; authorization to communicate these views to the Mexican Government.
583
Mar. 1 (40) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Agreement of the President and the Acting Foreign Minister with U. S. views.
584
Apr. 10 (35) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Advice that the Mexican Minister has requested permission for Sandino to pass unarmed through Honduras on his way to Mexico.
(Repeated to Managua.)
584
Apr. 11 (30) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Authorization, if requested to give an opinion, to indicate U. S. nonobjection to the transit of Sandino from Nicaragua to Mexico; instructions to repeat telegram No. 35 of April 10 to Guatemala and El Salvador.
(Substance repeated to Guatemala, Nicaragua, and El Salvador.)
585
Apr. 24 (52) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that permission has been granted for Sandino to pass through Guatemala en route to Mexico.
(Repeated to Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador.)
585
Apr. 30 (230) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Intention of Sandino to take up residence at Merida, Yucatan; assurance by the Mexican President that Sandino will not be allowed to come to Mexico City en route to Yucatan.
585
May 4 (236) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Understanding that Sandino is still in Nicaragua pending final arrangements.
(Repeated to Nicaragua.)
586
May 8 (360) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Intention of the U. S. Government to instruct the forces in Nicaragua to avoid any interference with Sandino’s departure; inability, however, to assume responsibility for his safety.
(Substance repeated to Nicaragua.)
586
May 14 (32) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Information that Sandino will soon arrive in Tegucigalpa and will travel through El Salvador and Guatemala to Mexico.
(Repeated to Mexico City, Tegucigalpa, Managua, San José, and Guatemala.)
587
Undated Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Conversation with the Mexican Ambassador, May 17, in which he expressed apprehension about Sandino’s safety and advised that when Sandino was ready to come out the Mexican Government would inform the Department of State so that it might notify the proper persons.
587
June 28 (1718) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Understanding that Sandino entered Mexico on June 26 and is en route to Yucatan; renewal by the Foreign Office of assurances that Sandino will not be allowed to come to Mexico City.
588
July 11 From the Vice Consul at Progreso (tel.)
Information that Sandino arrived at Progreso and proceeded to Merida.
588
Nov. 7 (849) To the Ambassador in Mexico
Transmittal of copy of manifesto to the Nicaraguan people purporting to have been issued by Sandino; advice that the Department is particularly interested to know if and when Sandino contemplates returning to Nicaragua.
588
Dec. 4 (2034) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Advice that the Foreign Office has no information relative to the alleged plans of Sandino, and that the Mexican Government will do what it can to prevent Sandino’s leaving directly for Nicaragua.
589
Dec. 11 (539) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to obtain information about Sandino’s movements and plans, reporting this information to the Department and to the Legation at Managua.
589
Dec. 19 (382) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Understanding that Sandino is endeavoring to buy a farm near Merida on which to live and is having difficulty in securing the purchase money; also, that there is no indication that he plans to return to Nicaragua.
(Repeated to Nicaragua.)
589

Concern of the Department of State Over Repressive Measures of President Moncada

[Page LXXXIII][Page LXXXIV][Page LXXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Apr. 8 (93) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that the Government recently imprisoned some 16 men of known or reported Conservative leanings, but released them after a few days without having brought any legal charge against them.
590
Apr, 9 (48) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to report details of the arrests and imprisonments.
590
Apr. 10 (95) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that arrests were made by the Guardia upon the President’s order, that the Guardia was not informed of charges, that the prisoners were held in penitentiary under the Guardia, and that editor Gabry Rivas and two nephews of Chamorro are still detained.
591
Apr. 11 (96) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information from the President that the recent imprisonments were legal in every way, that no prisoners were detained beyond the period of 10 days permitted by the Constitution, and that he believed the persons arrested were conspiring to promote intranquillity and lack of confidence in his regime.
591
Apr. 11 (51) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion that the Guardia should not be asked to make arrests without having full information of the reasons therefor; instructions to confer with the Chief of the Guardia and report.
592
Apr. 12 (99) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that the Chief of the Guardia is investigating entire situation and is preparing a formal procedure for making arrests which he will present to the President.
592
Apr. 16 (105) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Declaration by the President that no prisoners are now being held at his order, but that Gabry Rivas and Adolfo and Enrique Vargas are being held by order of the criminal judge of Managua in connection with assault on the International Club on August 28, 1925.
592
Apr. 25 (961) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Further information concerning the series of arrests.
593
May 2 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation between the Nicaraguan Minister and the Secretary of State, in which the latter suggested, with regard to the Rivas and Vargas cases, that the Minister point out to President Moncada the advisability of living strictly up to the amnesty decree.
594
June 5 (1021) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Information that the Court of Appeals of Granada has ordered the release of Rivas and other persons involved in the assault on the International Club on the ground that the proceedings against them were not properly conducted by the criminal judge of Managua.
595
Aug. 24 (1130) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Information that on August 21 President Moncada ordered the arrest and confinement of Rivas and others on the charge of conspiracy to assassinate him.
595
Sept. 9 (1143) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Advice that Rivas and another were released after 9 days’ confinement.
596
Sept. 9 (1144) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Issuance by the criminal judge of Managua, September 9, of warrants of arrest against Rivas and others involved in the assault on the International Club; information that all presented bail and are at liberty.
596
Sept. 19 (1157) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Report of conversations with the President, the Vice President, and the Foreign Minister with regard to their concern over reports of plotting against the Government.
596
Sept. 25 (1170) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Report of conversation with the Foreign Minister, September 24, in which he stated that President Moncada was considering some repressive measure and might declare martial law to give it the appearance of legality.
598
Sept. 29 (238) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that on September 27, at President Moncada’s direction, a warrant was issued for the arrest of 13 persons in Managua and other cities, and that most of the arrests have been made and prisoners confined in the penitentiary.
599
[Oct. 1] (241) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Publication in the press of statement by President Moncada giving reasons for the recent arrests.
600
Oct. 3 (243) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Arrest of Ortega Diaz, editor of La Prensa; understanding that some of the prisoners recently arrested are to be deported and the remainder set at liberty if further investigation does not warrant their trial.
601
Oct. 4 (244) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that Gabry Rivas, Ortega Diaz, and six other prisoners have been sent to Corinto for deportation to a Mexican port on the steamship Colombia.
601
Oct. 9 (1185) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Report of successful efforts by the Consul at Corinto and the Chargé in inducing the master of the Colombia to accept the deportees as passengers.
602
Oct. 11 (1189) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Advice that local newspapers report that the Executive has removed the municipal governments in certain towns in the Department of Chontales and replaced them by juntas locales made up of Liberals.
602
Oct. 17 (254) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Understanding that the deportees were refused entrance to Mexico and are proceeding to San Francisco.
603
Oct. 26 (1203) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Information that Christino Paguaga Nunez, new director of La Prensa, was arrested and imprisoned October 4 by orders of President Moncada, because of an editorial attacking American policy in Nicaragua.
603
Oct. 29 (583) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Authorization to indicate to President Moncada that the Department would likely view with regret the initiation of a policy such as that reported in despatch No. 1189 of October 11.
604
Nov. 5 (1220) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Release of Paguaga Nunez from the local penitentiary after payment of fine.
604
Nov. 9 (591) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Instructions to advise President Moncada that any general policy of imprisoning or deporting persons whose political activities seem aimed against his administration would be unwise and might easily lead to greater evils, and to state that since detention and deportation would be executed by the Guardia, resentment would be deflected also toward the Guardia and its American officers.
605
Nov. 11 (158) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to advise ex-President Diaz, as the reply to his recent telegram to Minister Eberhardt, that the Department of State has advised the Department of Labor of nonobjection to the admission of the Nicaraguans, but that final decision rests with the Department of Labor.
606
Nov. 19 (1230) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Information that the jury in the case of Gabry Rivas and his associates in the assault on the International Club arrived at a verdict, November 15, pronouncing Alfred Rivas and Gabry Rivas guilty of the offenses with which they had been charged and declaring the others innocent.
606

Disinclination of the United States To Consent to Amendments to the Guardia Nacional Agreement

[Page LXXXVI][Page LXXXVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 23 (27) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Desire for authorization to state to President Moncada that the Department has firm faith in his willingness and power to effect the early passage by Congress, without amendment, of the agreement between the United States and Nicaragua, signed December 22, 1927, for the establishment of the Guardia Nacional.
606
Jan. 25 (12) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions for statement to the President as suggested in telegram No. 27 of January 23.
607
Jan. 26 (31) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that President Moncada expressed again his desire to cooperate with the Department, but furnished copy of the amended Guardia agreement as passed by the Chamber of Deputies, on which he is desirous of having the Department’s approval of changes which he considers clarifications rather than amendments; observation that it has been indicated to the President that the amendments change the agreement so radically that the Department can hardly but refuse to accept them.
607
Jan. 28 (16) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to request that no further action be taken on the Guardia agreement until the Department has had an opportunity to study the proposed amendments.
609
Jan. 29 (18) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to advise whether request for postponement of action on the Guardia agreement is being complied with, and also personal opinion on other factors entering into the matter.
609
Jan. 30 (907) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Report on the history of the Guardia agreement so far as its consideration by Congress is concerned; receipt of assurance that further action will be postponed until the Department has had an opportunity to study proposed amendments.
610
Jan. 31 (34) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion of President Moncada that he will be able to secure passage of the bill unamended.
612
Feb. 9 (46) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Understanding that further amendments are contemplated; inability of Commander of the Special Service Squadron and Brigade Commander to see why satisfactory amendments should not be accepted; request for instructions.
613
Feb. 14 (48) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Increasing evidence of President Moncada’s intention to make the Guardia a partisan organization.
614
Feb. 14 (26) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Nonobjection to acceptance of certain of the amendments if it will help to bring about passage of a satisfactory agreement; instructions to impress upon President Moncada the necessity of his fulfilling the obligations of the Tipitapa Agreement with regard to the establishment of the Guardia Nacional.
615
Feb. 15 (27) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to withhold action on telegram No. 26 of February 14 pending further instructions.
617
Feb. 16 (29) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that, in view of telegram No. 48 of February 14, the Department cannot accept certain of the proposed amendments; instructions to emphasize to President Moncada that if he persists in his present attitude toward the Guardia he will make himself responsible for the disorder and turbulence which is bound to follow.
617
Feb. 18 (49) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President Moncada’s assurance that if the Department will accept a single amendment to article 5 he will have no difficulty in securing passage by Congress; request to be advised whether the Department can accept this amendment.
618
Feb. 20 (51) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Passage by both Houses, February 19, of Guardia agreement with important amendments; declination of the President to withhold Executive approval pending receipt of the Department’s views requested in telegram No. 49 of February 18.
619
Feb. 21 (52) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that the amended agreement contains the modifications described in telegram No. 31 of January 26, with certain exceptions.
620
Feb. 21 (53) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Signature by the President of the amended agreement.
620
Mar. 7 (68) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that when the Minister reminded the President that the new Guardia bill would not become effective until agreed to by the United States, the President replied he would act in accordance with that theory but that he maintained that technically the new agreement was law as soon as published; his desire to be informed of Department’s attitude toward the amended bill.
621
Mar. 27 (45) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to confer with the Chief of the Guardia and report fully regarding the present situation of the Guardia and President Moncada’s attitude toward it; assumption that President Moncada understands that the proposed amendments are still under consideration by the Department.
621
Mar. 30 (942) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Report on present situation of the Guardia and President Moncada’s attitude toward it; amended Guardia Nacional agreement of February 21 (text printed).
622
May 29 (519) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Objections to certain of the amendments; suggestion that many of the objections might adequately be dealt with by a proposed exchange of notes (texts printed).
630
June 6 (521) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Further views with regard to objectionable features of article 5.
636
July 2 (1066) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Suggestions for changes in the proposed notes as a consequence of completion of a study of the strength and cost of the Guardia; memorandum setting forth results of the study (text printed).
637
July 9 (1069) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Transmittal of copy of articles for government of the Guardia prepared by the Chief of the Guardia and approved by President Moncada on July 5.
(Note: Letter from the Assistant Secretary of State to Mr. Allen Dulles, December 5 (excerpt printed), advising that the Department had not yet acquiesced in the amendments but had in mind certain modifications.)
641

Objections to Nicaraguan Law Granting Courtesy Rank of Minister to Certain Officers of the United States Navy and Marine Corps

[Page LXXXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 7 (13) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Signature by the President of a law, effective January 4, giving the Commander of the Special Service Squadron and the Commander of the Marine Brigade the precedence accorded to ministers plenipotentiary on special mission; information that the law has aroused resentment among the other members of the Diplomatic Corps.
642
Jan. 9 (16) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Understanding that at a meeting on January 8 the other members of the Diplomatic Corps decided not to make any protest but merely to transmit to their governments the Foreign Office note conveying the text of the law.
643
Jan. 10 (7) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that the Department regrets that such a law should have been passed; instructions to make it plain that the law was not enacted at the Department’s instigation or with its approval.
643
Jan. 25 (30) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Law of January 4 (text printed).
643
Feb. 2 (22) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information from the Secretary of the Navy that the present Brigade Commander and Chief of the Guardia Nacional are being replaced; advice that he agrees that passage of the law of January 4 was unfortunate, and that he is giving specific instructions to the new appointees regarding their relationship to the Legation and the Nicaraguan Government.
644
Apr. 24 (59) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Government, before leaving Managua, that in the Minister’s absence the Chargé will take precedence over both the Commander of the Special Service Squadron and the Brigade Commander.
645
Apr. 29 (124) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Observation that precedence of the Chargé over the admiral and the commanding general will also give him precedence over foreign chargés d’affaires if the latter take precedence after the admiral and general as provided in the recent law; opinion that this is likely to result in disagreeable incidents.
645
May 1 (61) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that the American Chargé will take precedence with respect to his colleagues in accordance with universal practice and the local protocol, and that the American military representatives will take precedence after him.
645
May 7 (982) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Information that the new Brigade Commander agrees with the Department’s views and has requested that the Nicaraguan Government be informed that, in view of the opinion of the Navy Department that the special rank conferred by Congress applied only to the officers who occupied the positions at the time and not to their successors, he could not accept the honor conferred by the legislation; intention of President Moncada to allow the legislation to stand but to disregard it in practice.
646

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

[Page LXXXIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 13 (914) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Foreign Office note No. 64, February 12 (text printed), conveying request by the President of Nicaragua that the President of the United States designate an American citizen for appointment as president of the National Board of Elections.
646
Mar. 16 (937) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Transmittal of text of law of March 15 governing the holding of municipal elections; information that municipal elections will be held on the first Sunday of November and every two years thereafter.
648
May 13 (71) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information concerning the changes which would be required in the existing electoral law.
648
May 16 (138) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Concurrence of President Moncada in the Department’s views, and his readiness to discuss the necessary changes.
649
June 28 (177) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Intention of President Moncada to appoint a Nicaraguan member as temporary president of the National Board of Elections with the understanding that he will vacate the position if the Department desires to name an American as president; concurrence of the Chargé in Foreign Minister’s opinion that effective American supervision cannot be had under the Dodd law of 1923 and that American supervision is not desirable unless it is effective; information from the Foreign Minister that situation will be adequately corrected at the next session of Congress; preference of President Moncada for permanent supervision but, in the event the Department deems supervision impracticable for municipal elections, his desire for supervision in any event for congressional and presidential elections.
(Footnote: Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs (excerpt printed), advising that Dr. H. W. Dodds was unable to accept appointment as president of the National Board of Elections and to undertake the redrafting which his original law appeared to require.)
650
June 29 (178) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Acceptance by the Supreme Court of the resignation of General McCoy as president of the National Board of Elections and appointment of Dr. Albino Roman y Reyes as his successor.
(Footnote: Instructions to the Minister in Nicaragua, May 8, 1930, to inform President Moncada that Capt. Alfred Wilkinson Johnson, U. S. N., had been designated for appointment as president of the Board of Elections and that the Department was considering the necessary changes in the 1923 electoral law.)
650

Assistance by the Department of State in Reorganizing the Finances of Nicaragua

[Page XC][Page XCI][Page XCII][Page XCIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 July 27 (111) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Understanding that President Moncada insists that the National Bank make a loan which the manager feels would be unsound business; instructions to investigate the matter and, if the facts are as stated, to point out to the President the danger of administering the bank on any but sound business principles and of interfering with the technical staff in such matters.
651
July 29 (206) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice from President Moncada that it has never been his intention to do more than indicate his desire that the loan be made, provided it could be made on sound business principles.
652
Aug. 26 (217) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that at the regular meeting of the advisory board of the bank on August 14, President Moncada expressed opinion that refusal to grant the loan was unjust and announced that he would refrain from attending further meetings and would delegate his powers to the Minister of Hacienda.
652
Sept. 3 (123) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion of Guaranty Trust Co. and Seligman & Co. that they will have to withdraw their representatives from the directorate of the bank because of President Moneada’s attitude; belief of the Department that withdrawal of the present management would make it difficult for the Nicaraguan Government to find an equally strong and reputable group which would be willing to take over the management; instructions to inform the President of these views.
653
Sept. 5 (222) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Hope of President Moncada that the present banking group will continue its management, but insistence that the Nicaraguan Government have more influence in shaping the policy; his opinion that the situation is the result of misunderstandings, and his desire that the subject be discussed in a conference between a representative of Nicaraguan Government, the bankers, and the Department.
654
Sept. 30 (228) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that Mr. Thomas Soley Guell has been appointed Nicaraguan representative for the proposed conference and will proceed with an official of the Department of Hacienda to the United States.
654
Sept. 30 To Mr. Earl Bailie of J. & W. Seligman & Co.
Disinclination to urge Mr. Bailie and Mr. Loree to withhold their resignations as directors of the bank.
655
Oct. 7 (141) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that the American directors and officers of the bank and the Pacific Railway will present their resignations on October 9, that the J. G. White Management Corporation will at the same time give notice that it desires to terminate management of the railway properties, and that Brown Brothers and Seligman are advising the Corporation of Foreign Bondholders that they intend to withdraw as bankers under the Financial Plans.
655
Oct. 29 (258) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice from President Moncada that the White Corporation intends to terminate its management of the railway on November 9; his hope that the company will continue its management until the entire matter has been adjusted.
656
Oct. 31 (148) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Understanding that the White Corporation stated it would terminate its management November 9 or at such date prior to December 31 as the board of directors of the railway might decide; assumption that the Nicaraguan Government will have full opportunity to make other arrangements.
656
Nov. 1 (260) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Intention of President Moncada to proceed on the assumption that the White Corporation will continue its management until the end of the year.
657
Nov. 9 (268) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Issuance of Presidential decree, November 8, appointing the local manager of the railway as acting manager, with the obligation to deposit all funds of the railway in the National Bank to the order of the Government; advice that the manager is requesting instructions from the White Corporation.
657
Nov. 12 (159) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to point out to President Moncada that any disposition of the railway should be made in a legal manner through action by the board of directors and not by arbitrarily assuming control of the property and of the funds; advice that the board of directors will meet in a few days.
657
Nov. 13 (271) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Plan of President Moncada to instruct his representative to say that it was not intention of the Nicaraguan Government to proceed in an illegal manner when it issued the decree nor to terminate contract with the railway managers.
658
Nov. 22 (160) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Resignation of the American directors of the railway, November 13, because of the decree; understanding that the railway company is now being dissolved; expression of concern over these developments and opinion that the Department should have more definite information regarding the President’s plans for the bank and the railway before asking the new bankers to spend further time and money in considering the situation. Instructions to take up the matter with the President.
658
Nov. 23 (274) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Intention of President Moncada to instruct the board of directors of the railway not to dissolve the company or take any further action with respect to the railway or the bank without the knowledge and prior approval of the Department.
659
Nov. 25 (275) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that the order from the Finance Minister directing that railway funds be placed to the order of the Government was later countermanded by President Moncada; suggestion that the new board of directors instruct the bank from time to time to place certain funds essential for operating needs at disposal of the Government or local railway officials.
660
Dec. 3 (167) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Inability to assume the initiative in suggesting to President Moncada that he send another representative to the United States for the purpose of adjusting relations with the American banks or suggesting to the bankers that they reconsider their intention to withdraw.
661
Dec. 6 (283) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Intention of President Moncada to instruct his agents to cease negotiations with the bankers; his desire that the Secretary of State name a person to confer with the present banking group or a new group; and request that the Secretary ask the present group to remain beyond December 31 until definite arrangements have been made.
661
Dec. 9 (171) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to emphasize that the Department cannot endeavor to persuade the present bankers to continue their connection with Nicaraguan affairs, and that the new group which is preparing a plan should be heard; also, to state that the Department could not carry on negotiations on behalf of the Nicaraguan Government; advice that the bankers’ proposals and recommendations could be submitted through the Nicaraguan Legation in Washington or through the American Legation in Managua; opinion that the Department would be willing to ask the present group not to withdraw definitely until a short time after December 31 if a delay proved necessary but feels that request can best be made when negotiations with the other bankers are further advanced.
662
Dec. 13 (285) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Desire of President Moncada that the bankers’ proposals and recommendations be submitted through the American Legation.
663
Dec. 18 (173) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Preliminary agreement for the management of the bank, submitted by the new bankers (text printed); authorization to discuss the matter with President Moncada.
663
Dec. 20 (287) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion that bankers’ instructions to the manager to turn over management to the senior Nicaraguan officer on December 26 may result in a run on the bank; urgent suggestions that the Department request the bankers to stay on until the new group takes over.
665
Dec. 20 (174) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that, if President Moncada approves the preliminary agreement and it seems likely arrangements will be concluded in the near future, the Department would feel justified in requesting the present bankers to continue their management for the short time remaining until the bank is taken over by the new group; instructions to report President Moncada’s views.
666
Dec. 20 (288) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Receipt from President Moncada of a counterproposal to the preliminary agreement.
666
Dec. 21 (289) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Observation by President Moncada that his counterproposal was in the nature of a suggestion and that he would not insist on points unacceptable to the bankers or the Department; his request that the Secretary transmit request that the present bankers stay on temporarily.
667
Dec. 23 (175) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Suggestion that President Moncada instruct his representative to present the counterproposal or invite the bankers to send a representative to Nicaragua; information that the Department has informally stated to the present bankers that it would be helpful if they would continue their connection with the bank for a time.
668
Dec. 27 (292) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Telegram from President Moncada to his representative in the United States (text printed), directing him to present the counterproposal to the bankers and to sign the proposed preliminary agreement embodying such of the suggested changes as are acceptable to the bankers and meet the approval of the Department.
669
Dec. 27 (176) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that at meeting of board of directors of the bank on December 24 the Nicaraguan representatives made no request that the American directors continue after December 31 and that the bankers continued with their plans to turn over management to the two senior Nicaraguan officers on December 26.
670

Assistance by the Department of State in the Establishment of the Provisional Claims Commission

[Page XCIV][Page XCV][Page XCVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 1 (20) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to investigate and report plans of the Nicaraguan Government to reestablish the Claims Commission and to issue internal bonds which presumably will be used to pay the claims.
670
Feb. 5 (41) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President Moncada’s request for early appointment of the American member in order that the Claims Commission may resume work.
671
Feb. 8 (25) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Readiness to consider selection of a suitable American representative when tne time comes for the new commission to be created; instructions, in the meantime, to discuss with President Moncada the question of the reconvening of the Claims Commission and the preparation of new legislation if any seems necessary.
671
Feb. 16 (917) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Receipt of Foreign Office note stating intention to reconvene the Claims Commission established by law of December 3, 1926, and requesting designation of the American member; preference of President Moncada to reconvene the Commission by means of Executive decree after Congress has adjourned.
672
Apr. 22 (57) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that the law of 1926 would require amendment to remove requirement that president of the Commission be the American member of the High Commission; necessity of further amendments; instructions to suggest to President Moncada the desirability of presenting the matter of necessary legislation to Congress at the forthcoming special session.
675
Apr. 23 (119) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Recommendation that the whole matter of reconvening the Commission and settling claims be approved by the Legation, the High Commission, and the bankers before submittal to Congress, and that, on account of the short time remaining of the special session, it be submitted to the next regular session of Congress.
677
May 1 (128) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Desire of President Moncada to create a temporary claims commission by Executive decree to study and classify claims, pending creation by Congress in its next session of a permanent commission with authority to adjudicate claims.
677
May 2 (63) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Preference for immediate constitution of a commission authorized to settle the claims; instructions to inquire whether it would not be possible to submit the legislation to Congress as soon as prepared.
678
May 7 (131) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Plan of President Moncada to constitute by Presidential decree a claims commission to receive and settle all the claims arising since October 25, 1925, as the result of the civil strife; information that the work of the commission will be revised and the amount of claims definitely fixed by another similar commission to be established by Congress in its next regular session.
678
May 21 (143) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that President Moncada is anxious to constitute the proposed claims commission and is only awaiting designation of the American member.
679
May 25 (80) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that upon receipt of formal request from President Moncada the Department will be glad to consider designation of an American member; desire for copy of decree the President proposes to issue and for information as to procedure for appointing Nicaraguan members.
679
May 27 (146) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that there has been a misunderstanding and that President Moncada states it is and has been his intention to create the commission under authority of the law of 1926 and not under authority of a decree.
680
June 7 (156) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Plan of President Moncada to have the two Nicaraguan members appointed by the respective political parties.
680
June 7 (84) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that Department considers it impracticable for American member of the High Commission to serve on claims commission but is prepared to designate a suitable member if notwithstanding article 2 of the law of 1926 the Nicaraguan Government feels it can do so.
681
June 8 (157) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Recommendation against the Department’s appearing as a party to loose interpretation of law in Nicaragua.
681
June 20 (171) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Request by the Minister of Hacienda to the directing boards of the Liberal and Conservative Parties for designation of five persons each from whom the President may appoint the representatives on the commission.
682
June 20 (92) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to explain to President Moncada why the Department is unwilling to accept the American member of the High Commission as president of the claims commission.
682
June 25 (174) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that, as it appears impossible at present to create the commission under the law of December 3, 1926, President Moncada proposes the creation by Executive decree of a provisional commission to receive and prepare claims for final adjudication by the claims commission to be created in accordance with a new law to be enacted by the next Congress; outline of the provisions to be contained in the decree.
682
July 2 (95) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Approval of President Moncada’s proposal; readiness to nominate an American commissioner when opportunity has been had to examine the proposed decree; instructions to telegraph views with respect to present organization of the Conservative Party and the representative status of the Junta Directiva.
683
July 11 (1072) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Transmittal of draft decree; request for Department’s views.
684
July 12 (188) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report on the discussions being carried on by the Conservative and Liberal Parties.
686
July 24 (201) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Intention of President Moncada to appoint Conservative member of the Commission from the five candidates who have been selected by the Conservative Party.
687
July 27 (110) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Nonobjection to provisions of draft decree; proposal of Mr. J. S. Stanley as the American member of the Commission.
687
July 30 (207) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Receipt of formal notification that the Government will appoint Mr. Stanley as American member.
(Footnote: Publication in La Gaceta, September 11, of the Presidential decrees naming members of the Commission.)
688
Aug. 2 (1100) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Decree of July 30 establishing a Provisional Claims Commission (text printed).
688
Aug. 26 (553) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Information that Mr. Stanley has been notified of his appointment and will depart for Nicaragua on September 5; instructions to advise the Department of the date on which peace is officially declared.
692
Oct. 11 (1187) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Advice that Mr. Stanley took oath of office October 8 and that the Commission held its first meeting on October 9.
693
Oct. 29 (1210) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Opinion of the Chargé and the American Commissioner that in view of the international character of the Commission and the international agreement in which it finds its authority, the Commission should be free to interpret the decree creating it and that it could not permit the Nicaraguan Government to instruct it in the manner set forth in reply to the Minister of Hacienda to an inquiry by the Commission. Information that claims may be submitted for a period of six months after the date of official declaration of peace, which has not yet been determined.
693
Nov. 14 (593) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Information that the Commission’s status and jurisdiction are determined solely by Nicaraguan legislation and that it does not appear inappropriate for the Commission to consult with the Nicaraguan Government regarding matters of procedure and policy.
(Note: Legislation creating a permanent Claims Commission was passed by the Congress and signed by President Moncada on February 6, 1930.)
695

Assistance by the United States in Making Surveys for Roads in Nicaragua

[Page XCVII][Page XCVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 June 13 (162) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Existence among Nicaraguans of strong impression that construction of good roads in the bandit regions would result in elimination of banditry; Chargé’s opinion that President Moncada would offer no objection other than the difficulty of finding the necessary funds.
696
June 13 (164) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion in the Jinotega, Matagalpa, and Ocotal districts that road construction is the logical corrective measure for the bandit situation.
696
June 14 (89) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Request for report describing the roads it is contemplated to build, the number of persons who would be employed, and related features.
697
June 16 (167) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Need for good roads in every section of Nicaragua for economic development, but especially in the bandit regions for elimination of banditry; probability that every $25,000 monthly set aside would cover cost of employing 1,000 men and paying all incidentals; suggestion that Marine commander might begin road construction at the same time with Marine funds; opinion that technical assistance by U. S. military engineers would be welcomed by President Moncada.
697
June 20 (91) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Nonobjection to discussion with President Moncada of the road building plan; advice that no funds are available to the Marine forces for road building in Nicaragua.
698
June 28 (176) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Request by President Moncada for detail of U. S. Government engineers for service in connection with the road building program.
699
July 9 (183) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information from President Moncada that the engineers will be needed for at least six months and that he proposes to spend $25,000 monthly for road construction in the bandit area.
699
July 24 (107) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to advise President Moncada that it might be most effective and economical for the Government of Nicaragua if Army or Navy engineers were assigned to duty with the Canal Survey forces or the Marine or Guardia forces.
700
July 26 (204) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that President Moncada will be grateful for either Army or Navy engineers.
700
Aug. 1 (115) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Willingness of the Navy Department to assign Comdr. Ralph M. Warfield and Lt. Rufus C. Harding to duty with the Guardia Nacional for road construction work.
701
Sept. 11 (126) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Suggestion that, in view of the existing financial situation, Commander Warfield not propose any large road construction program to President Moncada without giving the Department an opportunity to consider it and the manner in which funds are to be obtained. Desire for submittal of preliminary report.
701
Sept. 30 (239) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Expectation of forwarding Commander Warfield’s preliminary report in time for its consideration at the approaching conference regarding Nicaraguan finances.
702
Oct. 5 (1180) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Preliminary report by Commander Warfield (text printed).
702

Nicaraguan Canal Survey

Date and number Subject Page
1929 June 12 (21) To the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.)
Instructions to request permission for U. S. Engineer troops to enter Costa Rican territory when necessary in connection with proposed investigation and survey of a canal route through Nicaragua.
703
June 12 (88) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to request consent for Engineer troops to take such stations as they may select and conduct such operations as may be necessary in connection with the canal survey.
704
June 13 (163) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Foreign Office note (text printed) granting the requested permission.
704
June 19 (43) From the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.)
Foreign Office note (text printed), granting the permission requested.
(Note: Information that field work on the canal survey began on August 29, 1929, and, except for a continuation of the hydrographic and meteorological work, was finished before July 1, 1931.)
705

NORWAY

Arbitration Treaty Between the United States and Norway, Signed February 20, 1929

[Page XCIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 Mar. 10 (1) To the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Information that draft treaty of arbitration extending the policy of arbitration enunciated in the treaty of April 4, 1908, has been handed to the Norwegian Minister.
706
Apr. 27 From the Norwegian Minister
Desire of the Norwegian Government for certain modifications in draft treaty.
706
May 24 To the Norwegian Minister
Hope that the Norwegian Government will accept the treaty in the form proposed in order that it may be uniform with other arbitration agreements already entered into by the United States.
707
July 2 From the Norwegian Minister
Willingness to accept, in principle, the draft treaty proposed on March 10 as a basis for negotiation of a new treaty; further observations on modification of phraseology.
707
Nov. 26 To the Norwegian Minister
Explanation of the interpretation of the provisions for which modifications were suggested.
709
1929 Jan. 4 From the Norwegian Minister
Hope that suggested rewording of a portion of article I will be acceptable.
710
Feb. 20 Treaty Between the United States of America and Norway
Enlarging the scope and obligations of the arbitration convention of April 4, 1908.
711

Annexation by Norway of the Island of Jan Mayen

Date and number Subject Page
1929 May 9 From the Norwegian Minister
Notification that by a Royal decree of May 8 the Arctic island of Jan Mayen was placed under the sovereignty of Norway.
713
June 28 To the Norwegian Minister
Advice that the contents of note of May 9 will be communicated to the appropriate departments of the Government for their information and guidance; expression of confidence that the Norwegian Government will not fail to respect the rights of Mr. Hagbard D. I. Ekerold and the Polarfront Co.
713
Aug. 7 From the Norwegian Chargé
Information that the occupation of Jan Mayen is in no way intended to cause changes in the rights which exist according to civil law; reference to previous correspondence between the two Governments concerning the Polarfront Co.
714
1930 Mar. 28 (1614) From the Minister in Norway
Enactment by the Storting of a law defining more clearly the status of Jan Mayen (text printed).
714

Assertion by Norway to Sovereignty Over Bouvet Island and Other Specified Regions in the Antarctic

[Page C]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 Nov. 21 (3189) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Decision of the British Government to waive claim to Bouvet Island in the South Atlantic in favor of Norway.
715
Dec. 12 From the Norwegian Minister
Information that Bouvet Island was placed under the sovereignty of Norway by Royal decree of January 23.
716
1929 Jan. 28 To the Secretary of War
Inquiry whether any American interests might be jeopardized by recognition of Norway’s action in placing Bouvet Island under her sovereignty.
(Similar communication to the Secretary of the Navy.)
716
Feb. 5 From the Acting Secretary of War
Information that the War Department knows of no American interest that would be jeopardized by recognition of Norway’s action.
(Footnote: Receipt of a similar reply from the Navy Department, February 1.)
717
Apr. 15 From the Norwegian Minister
Assumption that the U. S. Government does not intend to base possible claims to sovereignty or claims of priority to sovereignty in the South Polar regions upon the flights of the Byrd Antarctic Expedition; observation that the Norwegian Government considers that the discovery and annexation by Norwegian explorers of certain specific territories constitute a valid basis for a claim of priority to acquire such territories when the requirements of international law have been fulfilled.
717
May 13 To the Norwegian Minister
Advice that the information contained in note of December 12, 1928, has been transmitted to the appropriate authorities of the Government for their information.
718
Dec. 7 To the Norwegian Minister
Acknowledgment of note of April 15; observation that reference to claim of priority to sovereignty over certain territories has been noted but that no comment by the Department would seem to be called for at the present time.
718

PANAMA

Request by the Government of Panama That the Unperfected Treaty of July 28, 1926, Be Reconsidered in Its Entirety

[Page CI]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Apr. 22 (1998) From the Minister in Panama
Request for instructions concerning reply to be made to Foreign Office note of April 11 which protests sales made by the Cristobal commissary to three officers of an English ship.
720
May 13 (33) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Instructions to reply that there is nothing in the treaties now in force to prevent the U. S. Government from making sales at the Canal commissaries to anyone to whom it chooses to extend the privilege of purchasing there, although it has been U. S. policy to restrict the privilege to certain classes of persons, and to state that the matter remains entirely within jurisdiction of the U. S. Government so long as the treaty signed July 28, 1926, remains unratified.
721
May 20 (2027) From the Chargé in Panama
Foreign Office note of May 16 (text printed), stating that such sales are prohibited by article 13 of the treaty of 1903 and pointing out that the treaty signed July 28, 1926, should not be considered as pending ratification in its present form, inasmuch as the Department of State has not replied to the most recent Panaman representations concerning its provisions.
721
July 16 (767) To the Chargé in Panama
Note for the Foreign Office (text printed), observing that U. S. position with regard to exercise of jurisdiction over the Canal Zone under the treaty of 1903 was clearly set out in U. S. notes of October 24, 1904, and October 15, 1923, and stating that many of the Panaman Government’s apprehensions regarding the treaty of July 28, 1926, are due to a misunderstanding of the intent of the treaty and could be set at rest by an exchange of notes if Panama so desired.
723
Sept. 21 (3062) From the Minister in Panama
Foreign Office note No. 1481, September 17 (text printed), reiterating nonconcurrence in thesis that the commissaries may sell without restriction, and stating desire that the treaty of July 28, 1926, be reconsidered in its entirety.
726
Oct. 14 (809) To the Minister in Panama
Note for the Foreign Office (text printed), stating willingness to enter upon new discussions of the treaty of July 28, 1926, and to consider any proposals for a new treaty which the Panaman Government may wish to present.
727

Agreement Between the United States and Panama for Regulations Governing Commercial Aviation in Panama

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Apr. 22 (1999) From the Minister in Panama
Information that notes were exchanged with the Foreign Minister effecting an agreement for regulations governing commercial aviation in Panama; copy of the American note (text printed).
728

Reservation by the United States of Its Right of Control of Radio Communication Throughout Panama

[Page CII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 June 4 (36) To the Chargé in Panama (tel.)
Note for the Foreign Office (text printed), observing, in connection with concession recently granted to the Panama Corporation, Ltd., which contains a provision authorizing the company to establish radio stations, that no final reply has been received to the Legation’s note of February 16, 1927, which referred to a similar provision in the Tonosí Fruit Co. concession and stating that the Panaman Government should make it clear that previous consent of U. S. Government to such establishment is required by the Panaman decree of August 29, 1914.
730
June 8 (2048) From the Chargé in Panama
Report of conversation with the Foreign Minister in which he stated that the question of radiotelegraphy would be taken up at the next Cabinet Council.
731
June 24 (2066) From the Chargé in Panama
Foreign Office note No. 1096, June 21 (text printed), stating that the Tonosí Fruit Co. and the Panama Corporation concessions must necessarily be understood to be subject to the decree of 1914, as must a radio station which the Panaman Government contemplates establishing on Coiba Island.
732
Sept. 14 (791) To the Minister in Panama
Instructions to address note to the Panaman Government asking that the Legation be given immediate notice in the event the Panama Corporation proposes to take any action under article of concession respecting establishment of radio stations; also to report any information from American military or naval authorities concerning the radio station proposed to be erected on Coiba Island.
735
Sept. 26 (3066) From the Minister in Panama
Information that the military and naval authorities are presumably awaiting a request from the Department of State, through the War and Navy Departments, before submitting their views regarding the proposed Coiba Island station.
737

PERSIA

Attitude of the Department of State With Respect to the Persian Nationality Law of 1929

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Aug. 26 (682) To the Chargé in Persia
Comments on the proposed new Persian nationality law.
739
Oct. 30 (964) From the Chargé in Persia
Report of discussions with the Foreign Office with regard to interpretation of the nationality law passed by the Medjliss on September 7 and signed by the Shah on September 15; probability that law will be amended as a result of verbal and written representations made by the various Legations.
(Footnote: Information from the Minister in despatch No. 130, August 1, 1930, that Legation’s note of October 15 requesting statement of Persian attitude toward dual nationality had not yet been acknowledged, but that he had learned that the Government would decide on the matter by virtue of a special law but would not take steps to do so at the present time.)
741
[Page CIII]

PORTUGAL

Arbitration Treaty Between the United States and Portugal, Signed March 1, 1929

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Mar. 1 Treaty Between the United States of America and Portugal
Enlarging the scope and obligations of the arbitration convention of April 6, 1908.
(Footnote: Information that a draft of this treaty had been submitted to the Portuguese Legation on March 21, 1928, and had been accepted without change.)
745

RUMANIA

Treaties of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Rumania, Signed March 21, 1929

Date and number Subject Page
1928 Apr. 21 (17) To the Chargé in Rumania (tel.)
Information that draft treaties of arbitration and conciliation have been handed to the Rumanian Minister.
747
Aug. 10 (30) To the Chargé in Rumania (tel.)
Information that Rumanian Minister has stated his Government’s willingness to negotiate the proposed treaties and hopes to be able to sign promptly. Instructions to inform Foreign Minister of readiness to cable texts of Rumanian full powers to Washington when received.
747
Aug. 11 (33) From the Chargé in Rumania (tel.)
Advice from the Foreign Minister that full powers cannot be granted until reply has been received to minor differences in the arbitration treaty which are being submitted to the Department of State by the Minister at Washington.
748
Sept. 7 Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Treaty Division
Conversation with the Secretary of the Rumanian Legation concerning his proposal that the arbitration treaty provide specifically that its provisions concern only differences between governments, and not private disputes between individuals.
748
Nov. 13 Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Treaty Division
Conversation with the Rumanian Minister in which he stated that his Government had instructed him to insist on one point only—limitation of subject matter of arbitration to differences between governments—but observed that the new Rumanian Government might take a different view in the matter.
750
1929 Mar. 21 Treaty Between the United States of America and Rumania
Of arbitration.
751
Mar. 21 Treaty Between the United States of America and Rumania
Of conciliation.
753
[Page CIV]

Proposal by the United States To Conclude a Commercial Treaty Following Denunciation by Rumania of the Agreement of February 26, 1926

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Nov. 27 (31) From the Minister in Rumania (tel.)
Denunciation by Rumania, effective March 1, 1930, of the provisional commercial agreement of February 26, 1926.
755
Dec. 11 (19) To the Minister in Rumania (tel.)
Instructions to propose immediate initiation of negotiations for a treaty of commerce and navigation based on articles 7 to 11 of the U. S.-German commercial treaty of 1923.
755
Dec. 20 (33) From the Minister in Rumania (tel.)
Foreign Office acceptance of proposal to negotiate commercial treaty and desire that draft treaty be submitted immediately; understanding that, in case of necessity, the time can be extended six months after March 1 for those countries which have actually begun negotiations.
756

Settlement of the Claim of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey Arising Out of the Destruction of Property in 1916

Date and number Subject Page
1929 July 6 (237) From the Minister in Rumania
Information that an agreement was signed in June by the Rumanian Government and the Romano-Americana, a subsidiary of the Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey, as to the amount and method of payment for the settlement of claim arising out of destruction of property of the Romano-Americana in 1916; possibility that the Government may now be able to make the cash payment which was due in June.
757
Aug. 28 (265) From the Chargé in Rumania
Receipt by the Romano-Americana, August 24 and 26, of the cash payment and balance of the claim in Government bonds.
758

SIAM

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

[Page CV]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 July 31 To the Siamese Minister
Transmittal of draft treaties of arbitration and conciliation.
759
1929 Mar. 26 (1611/71) From the Siamese Chargé
Counterproposal for negotiation of a single treaty of arbitration to provide for the settlement of all differences not settled by diplomacy or by mutual agreement; willingness, however, if this is unacceptable, to accept the U. S. draft treaties as a basis for negotiation.
760
June 4 To the Siamese Minister
Preference for negotiation on the basis of the two draft treaties.
761
Undated [Rec’d Nov. 30] From the Siamese Legation
Expression of views concerning Siamese counterdraft of arbitration treaty submitted with this aide-mémoire; information that no counterdraft of the conciliation treaty is submitted.
(Note: Treaty Division memorandum of July 14, 1930 (excerpt printed), stating that negotiations have remained in abeyance for more than a year, because the Department believes it unwise to sign a new treaty based on the general treaty of inter-American arbitration, as suggested by Siam, until that treaty has been approved by the Senate; information that the inter-American arbitration treaty was not approved by the Senate until April 1, 1935.)
762

SPAIN

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

[Page CVI][Page CVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 9 (1125) From the Chargé in Spain
Refusal of General Primo de Rivera to accept French Ambassador’s proposal of November 30, 1928, for arbitration of questions arising out of expropriation of foreign petroleum interests by the Spanish petroleum monopoly; opinion of the French Ambassador that the Spanish Government is sure to make concessions in the end if continued pressure is applied by the French and U. S. Governments.
768
Jan. 14 (1) To the Chargé in Spain (tel.)
From the Ambassador: Inquiry concerning a report that an agreement had been reached with French interests and a payment made to them.
770
Jan. 15 (1) From the Chargé in Spain (tel.)
For the Ambassador: Information that no agreement has yet been reached by French or American petroleum interests but that British Shell interests have accepted settlement; possibility that report may refer to Standard Oil subsidiary, Sociedad Compras y Fletamentos, which has accepted offer of payment in monopoly shares now selling at a premium of 50 percent.
770
Feb. 7 (1146) From the Chargé in Spain
Information that the Foreign Office has replied to the Embassy’s representations of December 3, 1928, and quotes text of Spanish communication to the French Ambassador, January 16, 1929, in which right to appeal to arbitration and right to additional compensation for goodwill and going concern value were denied; also, that the French Ambassador still believes that continued pressure may induce the Government to give more favorable treatment to the interests involved.
771
Feb. 14 (516) To the Chargé in Spain
Desire of the Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey for energetic action by the Embassy in behalf of their properties in Spain; authorization for further representations when the political situation warrants action.
773
Feb. 25 (7) To the Chargé in Spain (tel.)
Receipt by the Standard Oil Co. of telegram from representative in Paris, February 21 (text printed), reporting French intention to take retaliatory action against Spain by applying charge for identity cards for Spanish subjects; instructions to investigate and report.
775
Mar. 1 (14) From the Chargé in Spain (tel.)
Information that the idea of retaliatory action has been abandoned by the French Government and that, as a result of further efforts by the French Ambassador, Primo de Rivera has agreed to reexamine the French claims in the Council of Ministers; advisability of postponing any further action until the outcome of the French note is known.
776
Apr. 12 (1198) From the Ambassador in Spain
Advice that the more important negotiations are now being conducted between the French Foreign Office and the Spanish Ambassador in Paris, but that there are as yet no definite developments; report of conversation with the Finance Minister, April 5, in the interest of immediate issuance of monopoly shares provided in the Sociedad Compras y Fletamentos settlement, and with regard to the valuation of the Standard Oil Co. subsidiary, Babel and Nervion, recently resubmitted by the French Ambassador.
777
Apr. 15 (14) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Opinion of Standard Oil representative in Paris that the moment is opportune for the Embassy in Spain to press for settlement of the Babel and Nervion claim; authorization for such action as may be deemed appropriate.
780
May 2 (27) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Decision of Babel and Nervion to accept the latest Spanish offer of settlement made through the French Foreign Office; advice that the settlement amountsto a payment of approximately 25 percent for goodwill but that the two French companies are holding out for an additional 5 percent; possibility that the Spanish Government may agree to a separate settlement with Babel and Nervion.
781
May 9 (1227) From the Ambassador in Spain
Insistence of the French Foreign Office that American and French claims be dealt with as a unit; information that the most recent development is notification by the three companies that they will accept a round sum of 55,000,000 pesetas; possibility that the Spanish Government may decide to meet this figure in order to settle the matter once and for all.
781
June 15 (33) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Instructions to report final action taken by Standard Oil representative in Spain regarding the Spanish offer to pay approximately $4,396,000 at the current rate of exchange over a period of six months.
784
June 21 (1278) From the Ambassador in Spain
Information that the Spanish Government made an offer of 53,500,000 pesetas which all three companies decided to accept in principle, but that definite settlement is being delayed pending arrival at solution for converting payment in pesetas into dollars or francs; intention to submit to Finance Minister American interests’ plan for marketing their share over a period of three to six months.
784
July 15 (1302) From the Chargé in Spain
Acceptance by the Finance Minister of plan of payment proposed by American interests; understanding that the French companies have decided to accept a similar method of settlement.
(Footnote: Information from the Chargé in despatch No. 1315, July 29, that the Finance Minister had issued a Royal order dated July 19 making these arrangements effective.)
787

Spanish Representations With Regard to Alleged Grievances Arising From Difficulties Encountered in Export Trade With the United States

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Apr. 26 (24) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Inquiry as to the status of various Spanish commercial grievances which have been brought to the attention of the Department.
788
Apr. 30 (1215) From the Ambassador in Spain
Note No. 83, April 26, from the President of the Council of Ministers (text printed), referring to grievances against U. S. customs and other restrictions applied to Spanish products and suggesting that the Spanish Government might be obliged to denounce the existing commercial modus vivendi.
789
May 3 (545) To the Ambassador in Spain
Information concerning the present status of the various Spanish grievances which have been brought to the attention of the Department.
791
May 3 (547) To the Ambassador in Spain
Advice that quarantine action which has been taken in the past for the protection of American produce has not been confined to action against foreign countries but has been taken just as drastically with respect to U. S. territorial possessions and also between the several States; letter from the Secretary of Agriculture, June 17, 1927 (excerpt printed), stating that there has been no discrimination against the entrance of Spanish fruit as compared with Argentine fruit.
794
May 18 (26) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Reply for the Foreign Office (text printed), stating that note of April 26 is receiving careful consideration and suggesting that informal discussions cannot fail to clarify the situation; instructions to discuss the matter on the basis of Department’s instruction of May 3.
795
[Page CVIII]

Arrangement Between the United States and Spain for the Settlement of Reciprocal Claims

Date and number Subject Page
1927 Aug. 24 To the Spanish Chargé
Suggestions concerning an arrangement for the informal consideration of such claims as either Government may desire to bring to the attention of the other.
796
1929 May 13 To the Spanish Ambassador
Inquiry whether the Spanish Government concurs in the arrangement proposed in note of August 24, 1927.
797
June 20 (80/23) From the Spanish Ambassador
Information that the Spanish Government agrees to begin a study of the reciprocal claims.
798

Reciprocal Exemption From Taxation and Customs Duties on Motor Vehicles Belonging to Consular Officers

Date and number Subject Page
1928 Aug. 16 (439) To the Ambassador in Spain
Instructions to request exemption from taxation on motor vehicles belonging to American consular officers in Spain.
798
Sept. 20 (1031) From the Ambassador in Spain
Refusal by the Foreign Office of the Embassy’s request, on the ground that Wisconsin, Indiana, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, the Philippine Islands, and Puerto Rico refuse a like exemption to Spanish consular officers.
799
1929 May 3 (544) To the Ambassador in Spain
Information that exemption is granted to Spanish consular officers in the Philippines and Puerto Rico, that Pennsylvania grants exemption from motor vehicle registration fee, and that in the event Spanish consular officers should be stationed in Wisconsin, Indiana, or Minnesota they will be exempt from automobile taxation; instructions to renew request for exemption of American consular officers in Spain.
800
June 18 (1276) From the Ambassador in Spain
Foreign Office note No. 108, June 10, advising that if the U. S. Government concedes exemption in all the States, exemption will be conceded in Spain to American consular officers, and requesting to be informed whether the registration fee in Pennsylvania includes all automobile taxes, and Embassy’s reply No. 763, June 18, stating that the registration fee is the only tax imposed on automobiles in Pennsylvania (texts printed).
801
[Page CIX]

TURKEY

Treaty of Commerce and Navigation Between the United States and Turkey, Signed October 1, 1929

[Page CX][Page CXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Feb. 25 (676) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Willingness of Foreign Minister, in view of inability to accede to Ambassador’s proposal for conclusion of agreement by means of exchange of notes of indefinite duration providing for mutual unconditional most-favored-nation treatment in customs matters, to enter into a simple treaty covering such treatment, and, by means of exchange of notes, to extend until January 1, 1930, the present commercial modus vivendi due to expire on April 10, 1929. Request for instructions.
803
Mar. 18 (15) To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister that proposal for negotiation of a commercial treaty is acceptable, on the understanding that the period of most-favored-nation treatment in customs matters be extended as suggested.
809
Mar. 24 (17) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Proposal by the Foreign Minister that a new commercial modus vivendi to run for one calendar year from April 10, 1929, be concluded on April 4 by exchange of notes similar to the notes exchanged May 19, 1928, with certain modifications; request for instructions.
810
Mar. 27 (17) To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Instructions to proceed with the proposed exchange of notes.
812
Apr. 3 (22) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Information that the Foreign Office has altered phrase “convention de commerce” to read “convention de commerce et de navigation”; opinion that it would be desirable to accept change and proceed to exchange of notes.
812
Apr. 3 (1) To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Nonobjection to reference to convention of commerce and navigation.
813
Apr. 4 (2) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Confirmation by the Foreign Minister of the Ambassador’s supposition that proposed alteration is merely to conform to the texts of notes to be exchanged with other powers.
813
Apr. 9 (24) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Information that the notes were exchanged on April 8.
814
Apr. 10 (706) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Observation that the note signed by the Foreign Minister contains last-minute alterations in phraseology which, however, do not modify meaning or intention of the original draft; request for instructions. Notes exchanged April 8 (texts printed).
814
Apr. 27 (727) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Receipt of Foreign Office note advising names of the Turkish representatives to negotiate the proposed commercial treaty and requesting names of U. S. representatives.
819
May 17 (146) To the Chargé in Turkey
Opinion that the notes of April 8 adequately serve the purpose and that no fundamental objection is seen to the alterations in phraseology in the Turkish note.
820
June 6 (37) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Desire of the Foreign Minister and treaty delegation that there be included in the proposed commercial treaty a provision for the mutual application of most-favored-nation treatment to navigation as well as to customs matters; request for instructions.
820
Aug, 6 (167) To the Ambassador in Turkey
Advice that Department has decided to accommodate the Turkish Government in its desire for inclusion of navigation; short draft treaty of commerce and navigation for presentation to the Turkish Government (text printed); transmittal of full powers to sign such a treaty.
821
Sept. 8 (5) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Information that the Ambassador has begun treaty negotiations and that proposed Turkish alterations appear to be chiefly clarifications rather than matters of principle.
825
Sept. 11 (54) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Suggestion that some of the points at issue might be satisfactorily clarified in a procès verbal, protocol, or exchange of notes if the Department would prefer; information in detail concerning the alterations proposed by the Turkish delegation; request to be advised where ratifications should be exchanged.
825
Sept. 17 (55) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Request by Turkish delegation that precise meaning of a 1 phrase in article 1 be defined in a protocol.
829
Sept. 21 (48) To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Views on changes proposed by the Turkish delegation; nonobjection to exchange of ratifications at Angora; hope that Turkish delegation will not insist on the protocol mentioned in telegram No. 55 of September 17.
830
Sept. 24 (6) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Turkish views on the Department’s proposals contained in telegram No. 48 of September 21.
832
Sept. 25 (9) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Amplification of telegram No. 6 of September 24; desire of Turkish delegation that the Ambassador make declarations regarding certain of the points requiring interpretation, to be recorded in the minutes of the final plenary session.
833
Sept. 27 (49) To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Views on the latest Turkish suggestions; nonobjection to declarations in the minutes of the final plenary session.
835
Sept. 28 (12) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Information that if the complete assent of the Turkish delegation to the treaty and minutes as finally approved in Department’s telegram No. 49 of September 27, can be obtained, the Ambassador will sign the treaty on October 1.
836
Sept. 30 (52) To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Department’s understanding of what article 3 (b) (2) now contains.
837
Oct. 1 (14) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Information that the treaty was signed in precise accord with the Department’s instructions.
837
Oct. 1 Treaty Between the United States of America and Turkey
Of commerce and navigation.
838
Undated Minutes of the Meeting of October 1, 1929, Held at Angora
Declarations by the American and Turkish delegations regarding interpretation of the treaty.
(Note: Information that on April 8, 1930, notes were exchanged to renew the commercial modus vivendi from April 10, 1930, until the date of exchange of ratifications of the treaty; also, that the exchange of ratifications took place on April 22, 1930.)
841

Turkish Declaration to the United States Respecting the Turco-Soviet Protocol of December 17, 1929

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Dec. 20 (903) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Information from the Foreign Office that the Turkish Ambassador in Washington has been instructed to read to the Secretary of State an explanatory declaration (text printed) respecting the protocol signed December 17 renewing the Turco-Soviet treaty of friendship and neutrality.
842
1930 Jan. 7 (194) To the Ambassador in Turkey
Copy of declaration made by the Turkish Ambassador to the Secretary of State on January 2 (text printed); observation that the text differs in some particulars from the text furnished the American Ambassador.
(Footnote: Information that in despatch No. 939, of February 6 (excerpt printed), the Ambassador in Turkey stated opinion that the protocol could not in any way affect Turco-American relations or interfere with any treaties which might be negotiated between the two countries in the future.)
844

UNION OF SOUTH AFRICA

Establishment of Direct Diplomatic Relations Between the United States and the Union of South Africa

[Page CXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 Dec. 27 (610) From the British Ambassador
Inquiry whether the U. S. Government would agree in principle to the establishment of a Legation in Washington to handle the affairs of the Union of South Africa.
846
1929 Jan. 8 To the British Ambassador
Assurance that the U. S. Government would be happy to receive a diplomatic representative of the Union of South Africa; inquiry as to what rank he would hold.
846
Feb. 6 (66) From the British Ambassador
Information that the diplomatic representative would hold the rank of envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary.
847
July 29 (424) From the British Ambassador
Advice that it is desired to establish a Legation of South Africa in Washington.
847
July 29 (425) From the British Ambassador
Inquiry whether the appointment of Mr. Eric Hendrik Louw as Minister of the Union of South Africa would be agreeable.
848
Aug. 6 To the British Ambassador
Assurance that appointment of Mr. Louw will be agreeable; inquiry whether the British Government would agree to establishment of American diplomatic representation in the Union of South Africa.
848
Aug. 28 (481) From the British Ambassador
Assurance that the establishment of an American Legation in the Union of South Africa would be warmly welcomed.
(Note: Information concerning Mr. Louw’s presentation of letters of credence to the President on November 5, appointment of the American Consul General at Cape Town as Minister Resident on December 19, and subsequent appointment as Minister Plenipotentiary, and removal of Legation to Pretoria, June 20, 1930.)
849

VENEZUELA

Establishment of Cable Service With Venezuela by All America Cables, Incorporated

[Page CXIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 Feb. 19 (1486) From the Chargé in Venezuela
Report of the efforts of All America Cables, Inc., since 1922, to extend its activities to Venezuela; request for information regarding present status of the negotiations in Paris between All America Cables and the French cable company which holds an exclusive concession expiring May 11, 1929.
850
Apr. 10 (1231) To the Chargé in Venezuela
Understanding that negotiations are still going on between All America Cables, the French cable company, and the French Government.
853
1929 May 13 (36) From the Chargé in Venezuela (tel.)
Information that the French cable company continues to operate under a provisional permit, and that, although All America Cables has agreement with the French to take over the cables immediately, the Venezuelan Government has so far declined to consent to the transfer; suggestion that it may be necessary to remind the Venezuelan Government informally of the U. S. Government’s interest in the establishment of an effective cable service between the two countries.
854
May 17 (16) To the Chargé in Venezuela (tel.)
Authorization to take the action suggested in telegram No. 36 of May 13 if the Chargé believes it necessary.
854
May 19 (1860) From the Chargé in Venezuela
Fear that a deadlock has been reached; intention to take action as authorized in telegram No. 16 of May 17.
854
Aug. 3 (112) From the Chargé in Venezuela (tel.)
Information that in spite of repeated assistance to the company, the Chargé feels that an impasse has been reached and has advised them to confer with the Department as to what further action the Legation might take.
858
Oct. 26 (172) From the Chargé in Venezuela (tel.)
Advice that All America Cables has been granted permit to operate the French cable to Venezuela and to lay a new cable, and that this brings the negotiations to a successful conclusion.
858
Nov. 11 From the President of All America Cables, Inc.
Desire that the company’s expression of thanks and appreciation for the assistance rendered be conveyed to the Chargé in Venezuela.
858
Nov. 14 To the Secretary to the President
Request by All America Cables that President Hoover send a message of greeting to President Perez of Venezuela upon the occasion of commencement of operation of the cable system by the company; draft message (text printed) and recommendation for approval.
(Footnote: Information that the message was approved, transmitted to the company, and delivered by them to President Perez on December 5.)
859
Dec. 7 From President Perez to President Hoover (tel.)
Expression of appreciation for message of December 5.
860

YUGOSLAVIA

Treaties of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Yugoslavia, Signed January 21, 1929

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Jan. 21 Treaty Between the United States of America and the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes
Of arbitration.
861
Jan. 21 Treaty Between the United States of America and the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes
Of conciliation.
863