832.00 Revolutions/199: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Brazil (Morgan)
78. Your 139, November 4, 3 p.m. I recognize how difficult it is to appraise the present situation in Brazil and, for that reason, I am going very slowly in making a decision regarding the question of recognizing the present authorities in Brazil. The Department’s information is extremely meager, and now, when this very important matter is under consideration, I need especially very careful advice from you based not only on your long experience as a diplomat, but also on your long residence in Brazil and your knowledge of the situation [Page 448] in Brazil. I desire to receive from you, therefore, an appraisal of the present situation, based not only on your present information, but also on your long residence in Brazil, as to the causes of the revolution and the hold that the present administration has on the Brazilian people. Your statement in this respect should be based not on the assertions of the present members of the Government but on your estimate of their past history and character. While Brazil is a large country with scanty means of communication, I desire, nevertheless, as complete information as you can furnish with regard to the attitude of the various states toward the new administration, and whether there is likely to be any counterrevolution or independent uprising against its authority. I also desire your views regarding the ability of the present administration to maintain its control throughout the country, to protect life and property, and its willingness and readiness to recognize international obligations.
Owing to the large extent and difficult character of the country, scantiness of communications, etc., it is my view that we should go slow; and we will not be hurried by Great Britain in determining what is the proper action for us to take; but in this matter I desire your full and frank views and recommendations. I shall not be able to come to a proper determination of the matter without complete information, and rely on you to keep me fully informed in regard to everything which bears in any way on the situation. For instance, the press reported that the present administration would ask for a recount of the votes cast during the last election on the charge that Senhor Prestes was elected by fraud. If this is done and should the recount show that Senhor Vargas was constitutionally elected, this would, of course, materially alter the situation after November 15, when the term of office will regularly begin. Again I say that I am relying on you for full information and suggestions in the premises.