814.51/651

The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in Guatemala ( Hawks )

No. 1234

Sir: Reference is made to the Legation’s confidential despatch No. 2753, dated February 5, 1930, in which it is reported that the President of Guatemala has requested the Legation to extend its assistance to the Government of Guatemala in its efforts to obtain a loan in the United States.

[Page 197]

This Government, as you are of course aware, cannot undertake to extend direct assistance in matters of this kind. It is accordingly suggested that you inform President Chacon of the Department’s regret at its inability to be of assistance to him in the present instance, and to suggest to him that he authorize his representatives in the United States to initiate direct negotiations with responsible banking institutions.

The Department, in this connection, can be of assistance and it will be very glad indeed to ascertain for the representatives of Guatemala in the United States the responsibility and standing of any such banking institutions in which they may become interested.

I am [etc.]

For the Acting Secretary of State
Francis White