List of Papers

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

COLOMBIA

Legislation in Colombia Affecting American Petroleum Interests

[Page X][Page XI]
Date and number Subject Page
1930 May 23 To Mr. George Rublee
Advice to Mr. Rublee, American lawyer, that Department has suggested him to Dr. Olaya, President-elect of Colombia, as a competent adviser to assist in matter of petroleum legislation in Colombia.
1
Sept. 19 (116) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Request by President Olaya for Minister’s observations on draft petroleum bill.
2
Sept. 22 (117) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Opinion that it would be unwise to make observations requested regarding draft petroleum bill; President Olaya’s desire that Rublee be asked to come to Colombia at once.
2
Sept. 23 (1655) From the Minister in Colombia
Transmittal of copies of new oil bill and memorandum of comments by Dr. Urueta, who is preparing a revised bill at request of President Olaya.
2
Sept. 26 (50) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that Rublee will depart for Colombia on October 14.
3
Oct. 4 (1724) From the Minister in Colombia
Conferences between President Olaya and Ministers of Government and Industries and representative of Texas Oil Co., who was asked to give his opinion on main points involved in oil bill.
4
Oct. 8 (1740) From the Minister in Colombia
Continuation of discussions between President and Ministers and Texas Oil Co. representative.
4
Oct. 9 (1743) From the Minister in Colombia
Further interviews between Government officials and American oil representatives regarding oil bill.
5
Oct. 11 (126) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Announcement by President Olaya of Rublee’s appointment.
6
Oct. 13 (128) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Defense of Rublee contract by Foreign Minister and Minister of Industries in speeches before Congress in which Foreign Minister set forth Government’s new petroleum policy and policy of friendship with United States.
6
Oct. 31 (1845) From the Minister in Colombia
Information that Rublee arrived in Bogotá on October 27 and is studying petroleum project.
7
Nov. 6 (1863) From the Minister in Colombia
Further report on work of Rublee, who has had a number of conversations with Government officials and with representatives of oil companies.
8
Nov. 11 (1883) From the Minister in Colombia
Continuation of conversations between Rublee and Colombian officials; request by Minister of Industries for Rublee’s written opinion on two questions.
9
Dec. 13 (141) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that petroleum bill has been approved by Council of Ministers and Interparliamentary Petroleum Commission and will be sent to Congress next week.
10
1931 Jan. 2 (2059) From the Minister in Colombia
Information that Petroleum Commission has agreed to include in petroleum bill additional recommendations by Rublee.
10
Jan. 14 (2115) From the Minister in Colombia
Assurances by President Olaya, in view of recently developed opposition to oil bill, that he appreciates the essentiality of a satisfactory bill for the renewal of prosperity and will use every effort to so persuade Congress.
11
Jan. 28 (10) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Passage of petroleum bill by Senate in third debate on January 26, and by House in first debate on January 27.
11
Jan. 31 (2183) From the Minister in Colombia
Information that Rublee does not intend to bring to the attention of President Olaya a memorandum of protest signed by representatives of American oil companies.
11
Jan. 31 (2184) From the Minister in Colombia
Information that a number of changes instigated by Rublee and recommended by oil company representatives were made in the oil bill while before the Senate.
12
Feb. 12 (2226) From the Minister in Colombia
Minister’s efforts to keep before President Olaya the importance of securing adequate oil legislation at this time; necessity for a firm stand because of opposition in the House of Deputies.
12
Feb. 20 (18) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that House of Deputies has been urged by President Olaya to expedite consideration of the oil bill.
13
Feb. 25 (22) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that petroleum bill was passed by the House February 23 and should receive vote in the second debate February 25.
14
Feb. 26 (23) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Rublee’s intention to remain in Colombia until March 26 at request of President Olaya to assist in drawing up regulating decrees under new petroleum law.
14
Feb. 26 (25) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Passage of petroleum bill by the House in the second debate.
14
Feb. 27 (26) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that petroleum bill was passed by the House in the third debate and returned to the Senate for consideration of the House’s modifications.
14
Mar. 4 (30) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Advice that President Olaya has signed petroleum bill.
15
Mar. 5 (2316) From the Minister in Colombia
Comments on President Olaya’s courage and friendly attitude in expediting passage of petroleum bill.
15
Mar. 9 (221) To the Minister in Colombia
Commendation of Minister for his efforts in securing successful passage of petroleum legislation.
16
Mar. 24 (2376) From the Minister in Colombia
Expectation that Rublee will leave Bogotá on March 26 for United States; comment that his stay has been an unqualified success.
16
Mar. 26 (2381) From the Minister in Colombia
Expression of appreciation by President Olaya for Rublee’s work in Colombia.
16
June 10 (78) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that President Olaya, prior to issuance of oil bill regulations, has sent copy to Rublee for his comments.
17
July 24 (100) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Opinion that regulating decree, if published in present form, will be highly satisfactory.
17
July 29 (102) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Signature of petroleum regulating decree by the President and the Minister of Industries.
17
July 30 (103) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that petroleum regulating decree was published July 29 and is highly satisfactory.
18

Settlement of the Barco Petroleum Controversy

[Page XII][Page XIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 13 (2105) From the Minister in Colombia
Information that Mr. George Rublee, Petroleum Adviser to Colombian Government, upon request of President Olaya, has begun his study of the Barco petroleum controversy.
18
Jan. 15 (2117) From the Minister in Colombia
Attempts by Rublee to find satisfactory formula for a contract between South American Gulf Oil Co. and Colombian Government for developing Barco Concession.
18
Jan. 16 (5) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Rublee’s opinion that royalty matter is principal difficulty in Barco case; offer by Gulf of 5½ percent at port, and Government’s insistence on 6 percent royalty.
19
Jan. 26 (9) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Rublee’s hope that Department can intimate to Gulf Co. the desirability of a quick decision in royalty matter, to facilitate agreement on rest of contract.
19
Jan. 29 (11) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Rublee’s opinion that Gulf must act promptly in Barco matter.
20
Jan. 30 (5) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Acceptance by Gulf Co. of 6 percent royalty on understanding received from their representative that Colombian Government would thereby accept solution of all points.
20
Feb. 17 (17) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Memorandum by Rublee (text printed) for transmittal to Gulf Co. regarding five modifications of Barco contract, of which the two most important are: (a) maintenance of agreed minimum production, and (b) fixing of definite term at close of which exploitation must begin.
20
Feb. 18 (8) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Gulf reply to Rublee’s memorandum that it has already agreed to point (a) but feels that it is impossible to agree to point (b).
22
Feb. 25 (21) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Suggestion that Department use its good offices with Gulf Co. to induce it to accept at least the first of the following changes suggested by President Olaya: (1) clause regarding settlement of disputes in royalty payments, and (2) clause fixing 10-year term following which exploitation must begin or contract be terminated.
22
Feb. 26 From the Assistant Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs to the Assistant Secretary of State
Explanation of first point requested by President Olaya, regarding method of settling disputes in royalty payments.
23
Feb. 26 From the President of Colombia to the Colombian Legation (tel.)
Message for transmission to the Department (text printed), appealing for cooperation in securing Gulf Co.’s acceptance of the two additional clauses.
24
Feb. 27 (10) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Understanding that Gulf Co. will accept first recommendation on certain conditions and will offer counterproposal on second point.
25
Mar. 4 (29) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that Barco contract was signed March 4.
25
Mar. 11 (223) To the Minister in Colombia
Commendation on use of good offices in securing successful settlement of controversy.
26
Apr. 16 (50) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Indication that present Congress will not ratify contract without modifications; President’s desire to close Congress and resubmit contract in new Congress in July, if Department does not object.
26
Apr. 18 (51) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Opinion that President should close Congress at once in view of unfriendly elements in power.
27
Apr. 20 (22) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Explanation that matter of adjournment of Colombian Congress rests entirely with President Olaya.
27
June 20 (44) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Authorization, upon signature of contract, to express informally to President Olaya the Department’s gratification at satisfactory settlement of question.
(Footnote: Signature, on June 20, of bill approving contract.)
28

Good Offices of the Department of State in Resolving Differences Between the Colombian Government and American Bankers

[Page XIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Mar. 12 (36) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Refusal of American bankers to make promised payment of $4,000,000 on grounds that British Minister is insisting on prior payments on Supía Marmato claim.
28
Mar. 16 (16) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that $4,000,000 will be paid to Colombian Government March 16; summary of bankers’ defense, explaining a confusion of two credits involved in the settlement of the claim.
29
Mar. 17 (39) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Belief that President’s prestige has suffered and his confidence in American businessmen has been shaken because of bankers’ action; concern that present measures affecting American business interests will not receive President’s wholehearted support.
30
Mar. 18 (2359) From the Minister in Colombia
Comment that efforts of Department and diplomatic missions to improve relations with Latin American Republics may be almost nullified by prejudicial activities of American business concerns.
31
May 12 (59) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
President Olaya’s report that bankers are refusing payment of second $4,000,000 until budget is reduced again, which is impossible; prospect that he will be forced to resign if American bankers fail to cooperate; desire that bankers be made to understand situation.
31
May 14 (26) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Discussion with National City Bank official, who advised that balanced budget was not a new condition but part of original agreement; instructions to report further developments.
32
May 16 (61) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
President’s agreement with bankers’ figures for balanced budget, but inability to accede to desire for monthly revision of budget in accordance with revenues.
33
June 11 (80) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Belief of local representatives that New York principals will reach final favorable decision within a few days.
34
June 19 (83) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
New condition desired by bankers, to increase interest rate on renewal of whole loan on June 30; concurrence in President’s opinion that such an increase now would have disastrous effect on present friendly attitude toward United States.
34
June 22 (45) To the Minister in Colombia (tel).
Explanation of bankers’ position in requesting increase in interest; their willingness not to insist on increase provided President makes some gesture toward meeting amount of expenses involved in the negotiations.
35
June 23 (88) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Belief that President would resent having to pay any part of bankers’ expenditures.
36
June 26 (47) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Advice from bankers that contract for additional $4,000,000, will be signed on June 29, and the outstanding credits renewed for 90 days.
36
July 1 (91) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Payment to Colombian Government of $4,000,000; 90-day renewal of outstanding credits at same interest rate with the understanding that question of increased rate will be taken up again September 30.
37
Oct. 2 (63) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Advice from Mr. George Rublee, Financial Adviser of Colombian Government in United States, that Federal Bank is not inclined to make a proposed loan to the Banco de la Republica since the receipt of an urgent telegram from President Olaya requesting $12,000,000 loan to National Government to meet foreign debt services; inquiry as to political developments behind President’s action.
37
Oct. 4 (121) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Explanation of present difficult financial situation in Colombia; President’s feeling that he has failed to receive from United States the help he deserved for his many successful efforts on behalf of American interests.
38
Oct. 6 (65) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Department’s position that it cannot exert pressure on private banks, nor on Federal Reserve system: instructions to explain position to President Olaya and to express hope that he will not take any impulsive measures which will adversely affect Colombia’s future credit standing.
39
[Page XV]

CUBA

Political Unrest in Cuba

[Page XVI][Page XVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 8 (3) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Meeting between President Machado and General Menocal, leader of non-cooperating faction of the Conservative Party, to discuss Cuban political problem; refusal by Ambassador to participate in conference.
41
Jan. 8 (493) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Report of minor political disturbances and efforts of authorities to suppress them.
41
Jan. 16 (513) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Report of political events and extraordinary measures adopted by authorities to maintain order; President’s suspension of negotiations with the Opposition.
43
Jan. 20 (517) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Conversation with President Machado regarding political and economic situation of Cuba.
44
Jan. 27 (22) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Congressional approval of measure authorizing indefinite suspension by the President of constitutional guarantees.
46
Feb. 5 (31) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Approval by the President of law authorizing indefinite suspension of constitutional guarantees.
47
Feb. 7 (27) To the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Instructions to investigate status of political prisoners, especially in regard to possible violations of civil rights.
47
Feb. 13 (38) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Opinion that Government has apparently not exceeded its authority in regard to rights of individuals.
47
Mar. 17 (596) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Continuation of negotiations between the President and Opposition groups on basis of proposed changes in Cuban Constitution.
48
Mar. 30 (64) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Further report on political negotiations and plan for joint meeting between leaders of various parties.
50
Apr. 8 (637) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Information that Military Court has exonerated Major Espinosa. President Machado’s former Aide de Camp, of all responsibility in connection with the placing of a bomb in the palace on February 23.
50
Apr. 10 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation between the Secretary of State and the Cuban Ambassador regarding Cuban political situation; U. S. attitude of responsibility under Piatt amendment.
51
Apr. 21 (662) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Memorandum, April 10 (excerpt printed), regarding results of conferences with political leaders, and efforts to persuade the President to find a compromise reform plan.
55
Apr. 24 (61) To the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Instructions not to participate in any way in negotiations between the Opposition and the Government.
56
Apr. 28 (672) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Additional memoranda, April 23 (excerpts printed), of conversations with various persons; intention to be guided by Department’s instructions of April 24, telegram No. 61.
56
May 6 (680) From the Chargé in Cuba
Restoration of constitutional guarantees in provinces of Santa Clara and Camaguey.
59
May 13 (64) To the Chargé in Cuba (tel.)
Information that Navy Department has received confidential telegram (text printed) reporting that revolution in Cuba is imminent.
60
May 14 (90) From the Chargé in Cuba (tel.)
Opinion that Opposition, while growing in strength, is not prepared to start a revolution.
60
May 29 (712) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Conversations with President Machado regarding political situation; opinion that in view of attitude of Opposition, Government should on its own initiative pass reform measures adequate to satisfy public opinion.
60
June 8 (722) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Memorandum, June 1 (text printed), of conversation with President Machado, in which he announced his intention to carry out constitutional reforms.
62
June 24 (754) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Supreme Court decision in case of Sr. Hevia, and interpretation by Opposition elements as extending privilege of writ of habeas corpus to all cases of unwarranted detention by both military and civil authorities.
63
July 1 (761) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Expectation of further anti-Government activities as result of Supreme Court decisions refusing to declare present Government unconstitutional; President’s announcement of his intention to govern with a Liberal-Popular coalition.
64
July 31 (804) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Memorandum, June 8 (excerpt printed), of conversation with the President regarding execution of reform program.
66
Aug. 10 From the Ambassador in Cuba
Discovery of conspiracy to overthrow Government; information that President claims to have situation under control.
67
Aug. 11 (113) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Suspension of constitutional guarantees throughout Republic and other measures to control revolutionary movement.
68
Aug. 12 (115) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Report that country is now under martial law and that rebels appear to be unsuccessful; whereabouts of alleged rebel leaders, Menocal and Mendieta, still uncertain.
69
Aug. 14 (118) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Opinion that while Opposition leaders are still at large situation remains serious.
69
Aug. 15 (119) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Information that Menocal and Mendieta and their staff have been taken prisoner and are en route to Habana where they will be jailed.
70
Aug. 17 (120) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Information that Cuban officials are withdrawing note regarding arms embargo by United States.
70
Aug. 17 (121) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Information regarding limited military activities; President Machado’s intention to continue reform program.
71
Sept. 2 (840) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Conversation with President Machado regarding Cuban crisis, and proposal that he present reform program to the people through an address to representatives of various public organizations; President’s feeling that he cannot make agreed-upon announcement of his retirement from office in September 1932.
71
Sept. 9 (847) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Delivery of President’s message regarding constitutional reforms to people and to Congress, substantially as agreed upon, except for elimination of reference to President’s retirement.
75
Nov. 12 (930) From the Chargé in Cuba
Indications of understanding between Government and Opposition elements.
77
Nov. 13 (931) From the Chargé in Cuba
Efforts of Opposition members to obtain release from prison of leaders of August revolution, and interposition of Liberal politicians to persuade President against such a course.
78
Nov. 20 (937) From the Chargé in Cuba
Lack of progress in political rapprochement between Government and Opposition; favorable press reception of passage of bill creating Superior Electoral Tribunal; failure of Senate to expedite consideration of Constitutional Reform Bill.
79
Dec. 24 (969) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Announcement by President Machado of his determination to remain in office until the end of his term; review of political situation.
80
Dec. 30 (973) From the Ambassador in Cuba
Communication by Cuban Superior Court to lower courts on present conflict of jurisdiction between civil courts and military authorities, because of suspension of constitutional guarantees.
82
[Page XVIII]

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Failure of the Dominican Government To Obtain a Loan in the United States

[Page XIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 26 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Interview with officials of the Dominican Financial Commission, who desire Department’s authorization for negotiation of loan by the Dominican Republic; Department’s objections to granting requested authorization, and suggestion that concrete proposal be submitted for Department’s approval.
84
Feb. 3 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Interview with Mr. Gann, legal counsel for the Dominican Republic, who presented proposal of J. G. White and Co. for $5,000,000 loan to the Dominican Republic.
85
Feb. 9 From the Dominican Minister
Desire to know Department’s decision regarding Dominican Republic’s request for authorization for $5,000,000 loan and proposal of J. G. White and Co.
87
Feb. 12 Memorandum by Mr. W. R. Scott of the Division of Latin American Affairs
Interview with Dominican Minister and Secretary of Legation, at which Department’s objections to J. G. White proposal were presented.
88
Feb. 12 (7) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Instructions to inform President Trujillo regarding general principles formulated by Department as to Dominican financing and action taken on tentative proposal of J. G. White and Co.; request for information on report that President Trujillo has appointed financial adviser.
90
Feb. 14 (14) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Information that the President has been informed of Department’s views; also that he has not yet appointed a financial adviser.
91
Mar. 5 (332) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic
Reported interest of Lee, Higginson and Co. in floating a loan, and details of loan plan desired by Dominican Republic; proposal by Dominican Government for modification of point 4 of Department’s general principles, regarding procedure for control of expenditures.
92
Mar. 6 (9) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Summary of Dominican financial situation; willingness of Lee, Higginson and Co. to consider moderate short-term loan on fulfillment of certain conditions; information that Department will recommend Mr. William E. Dunn as financial adviser if the President desires such an official.
95
Mar. 9 (21) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Acceptance by President Trujillo of Lee, Higginson proposal provided Department will agree to proposed modification of point 4 of Financial Principles; request for information regarding salary and other arrangements for Dunn as Financial Adviser.
98
Mar. 12 (14) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Department’s non-objection to requested modification of point 4; information that Dunn can sail from New York on March 19.
(Footnote: Dunn’s arrival in Santo Domingo on March 24.)
99
June 9 From Lee, Higginson & Company
Résumé of financial negotiations with Dominican Republic and outline of suggested financial program, including future financing.
99
June 16 To Lee, Higginson & Company
Advice that letter of June 9 is receiving careful consideration, and request for information regarding refunding loan referred to in financial program.
104
June 20 From Lee, Higginson & Company
Requested information on the refunding loan.
104
June 30 To Lee, Higginson & Company
Department’s disinclination to undertake any increased responsibilities in finances of Dominican Republic; suggestions for modifying financial plan to eliminate participation by U. S. Government; request to be advised of any specific proposal made to Dominican Republic.
106
July 23 From Lee, Higginson & Company
Information that since both Department and Dunn have indicated unwillingness to agree to certain points in financial program, company has advised Dunn by cablegram (text printed) that they are not interested in proceeding further with loan plan, but will be glad to reopen discussions should the Dominican President later wish to reconsider program recommended.
108

Suspension of Amortization Payments on the External Debt of the Dominican Republic

[Page XX][Page XXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Aug. 25 (25788) From the President of the Dominican Republic to President Hoover
Outline of financial difficulties and plan (text printed) to meet domestic expenses and maintain foreign credit by means of an exchange of bonds of foreign debt for new conversion bonds to be issued in accordance with terms of Dominican-American Convention of 1924; request for immediate U. S. approval of plan as emergency measure.
110
Sept. 3 (31) To the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Opinion that there are insuperable objections to plan as stated. Instructions to urge delay in passage of law; also to urge sending of Mr. William E. Dunn, Financial Adviser, to Washington by plane for conference.
116
Sept. 4 (55) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Information that law was passed, but not promulgated by President, who is returning it to Congress for amendment; that Dunn will leave by plane September 6.
117
Sept. 5 From President Hoover to the President of the Dominican Republic
Acknowledgment of President Trujillo’s letter of August 25 and assurance of sympathetic and prompt consideration of Dominican financial problems.
117
Sept. 15 (59) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Senate amendment of emergency law, in violation of Department’s advice of September 3.
118
Sept. 17 (32) To the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Information that Senate amendment will probably be superseded by plan which Dunn is taking back to the Dominican Republic after discussion with Department and with legal counsel in New York.
118
Sept. 28 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Telephone conversation with Judge Schoenrich, counsel for Dominican Government, regarding Department’s objections to proposed bond exchange plan and suggestion to withhold final action pending complete discussion.
118
Oct. 6 (65) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Information that Dunn consulted Legation, on behalf of President Trujillo, as to propriety of promulgation of emergency law passed by Congress and was told there was no objection to promulgation.
119
Oct. 7 (66) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Dunn’s intention to recommend formal communication to fiscal agents stating inability of Dominican Republic to meet debt service deficit; opinion that emergency measure may be suspended pending outcome of proposed conversion negotiations.
120
Oct. 7 (67) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Dominican Government’s notification to fiscal agents (text printed) of inability to meet debt service deficit and suggesting formation of bondholders committee for 1926 and 1922 bonds to discuss terms of readjustment.
120
Oct. 11 (70) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Announcement that Enabling Act was promulgated October 10.
121
Oct. 14 (72) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Intention of Dominican Government to inquire whether National City Bank would object to Dominican Government’s asking Lee, Higginson and Co., fiscal agents, to step aside and allow National City Bank to carry out refunding plan.
121
Oct. 14 (38) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Instructions to advise Department as to basis of Dunn’s belief that first series of 1926 bonds have prior lien over second series, since Department’s records and bank circular indicate equal rank.
122
Oct. 15 (74) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Basis for Dunn’s belief regarding priority of first series of 1926 bonds over second series.
123
Oct. 16 (76) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Information that negative reply has been received from National City Bank to Dominican Government’s request reported in telegram No. 72, October 14, and that Lee, Higginson and Co. also declined to act as requested.
123
Oct. 20 (80) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Acting Receiver General’s report on remittance to fiscal agents, representing deficit on amortization of 1926 bonds of $77,589.43.
123
Oct. 20 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation with Dominican Minister, who presented note from his Government regarding financial situation and proposed laws.
124
Oct. 20 From the Dominican Minister
Report on financial crisis and measures proposed to meet it; proposed emergency laws (texts printed) regarding debt service and budget payments.
124
Oct. 23 To the Dominican Minister
Acknowledgment of note of October 20, and advice that U. S. policy will be guided by an understanding of the special circumstances set forth.
131
Oct. 24 From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Passage and signature on October 23 of emergency law and amendment to finance law.
132
Oct. 26 From the Dominican Minister
Acknowledgment of Department’s note of October 23.
133
Oct. 27 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation with Dominican Minister in which arrangements were made for clearing up a discrepancy found to exist in Dominican notes of October 20 and October 22.
133
Nov. 9 From Lee, Higginson & Company
Request for information, for communication to bondholders, as to U. S. policy and action in view of temporary modification by Dominican Government of terms of U. S.-Dominican Convention.
134
Nov. 10 To Lee, Higginson & Company
Information that U. S. Government is not disposed at this time to take any action other than to continue to follow with attention and care developments in the Dominican Republic, in belief that this policy would be best for all concerned.
134
Nov. 12 From Lee, Higginson & Company (tel.)
Introductory comments (text printed) to be included in letter to bondholders; request for Department’s suggestions.
136
Nov. 17 (188) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic
Transmittal of Lee, Higginson and Co. telegram of November 12; information that Department made no comments on proposed statement.
137
[Page XXII]

ECUADOR

Political Unrest in Ecuador

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Aug. 24 (37) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Resignation of President Ayora and appointment of Colonel Luis Larrea Alba as Minister of Gobernacion, who thus automatically under Constitution becomes Acting President; comment that appointment is not well received by the people.
138
Aug. 24 (38) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Information that President Ayora and his family are guests of the Legation until danger to the personal safety of the President has passed.
138
Aug. 25 (39) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Information that Colonel Larrea Alba appears to have situation well in hand and to have support of entire army.
138
Aug. 25 (40) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Opinion that, under the circumstances, question of recognition of present Ecuadoran Government does not arise, and Legation should deal with it as lawfully constituted successor of that previously in power; request for Department’s views.
139
Aug. 25 (41) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Information that former President Ayora and family have left Legation and returned to their home.
139
Aug. 25 (16) To the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Acquiescence in sheltering former President Ayora and family in Legation during emergency.
139
Aug. 26 (17) To the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Concurrence in opinion that question of recognition does not arise and that Legation may deal with present Government as constitutional successor to that of President Ayora; request to be informed when elections will be called.
140
Sept. 1 (44) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Information that Presidential elections have been called for October 20 and 21, in compliance with article 81 of the Constitution.
140
Oct. 15 (55) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Information that Larrea Alba has declared himself dictator and is meeting with both military and popular opposition.
140
Oct. 15 (56) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Collapse of dictatorship, resignation of Larrea Alba, and assumption of Executive power by Minister of Gobernacion, former President Alfredo Baquerizo Moreno.
140
Oct. 16 (57) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Report that city is quiet and that assumption of executive power by Baquerizo Moreno has been received satisfactorily by all sides.
141
Oct. 18 (58) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Names of newly appointed Cabinet Ministers and information that Presidential elections will be held October 20 and 21 as planned.
141
Oct. 22 (59) From the Chargé in Ecuador (tel.)
Election of Bonifaz in orderly, free, and fair elections October 20 and 21.
141
[Page XXIII]

EGYPT

Equality of Representation as Among the Principal Capitulatory Powers on the Mixed Courts of Egypt

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Feb. 3 (15) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Note for the Egyptian Government expressing U. S. Government’s position with respect to principle of equality of representation of the principal capitulatory powers on the Mixed Court judiciary.
(Footnote: Information that note was presented under date of March 3, 1931.)
142
June (29/7/1 (45)) From the Egyptian Minister for Foreign Affairs to the American Minister in Egypt
Explanation of Egyptian Government’s viewpoint that apart from arrangements with certain powers to select from their nationals a certain number of judges, Egyptian Government remains entirely free to choose judges for supplementary seats.
143
Oct. 28 (108) To the Minister in Egypt
Authorization to request audience with High Commissioner to enlist his support and to advise that American position is subject to precognition of special rights of Great Britain; instructions to telegraph reply of High Commissioner, and suggestions as to character of future representations.
144
Nov. 16 (2395) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Discussion of U. S. position with head of Egyptian Affairs Division, who said that not until Foreign Office and Residency at Cairo had had an exchange of views could he make a statement in the matter and agreed to communicate with Chargé as soon as possible.
146
Dec. 9 (109) From the Minister in Egypt
Substance of High Commissioner’s oral statement expressing personal views unfavorable to U. S. position; Minister’s suggestions as to future U. S. action.
147
Dec. 22 (346) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to make another informal approach to Foreign Office before preparation of its definitive reply to recent representations regarding U. S. representation on Egyptian Mixed Courts.
148

Reservation of American Rights Under the Terms of Notes Exchanged in 1930 With Egypt Relating to the Egyptian Customs Regime

[Page XXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1930 Dec. 16 (111) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Information that Egyptian Government has increased import duties on certain articles; request for Department’s views as basis for conversations with colleagues regarding position of Egyptian Government under provisional commercial accords with capitulatory powers.
150
Dec. 22 (73) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Department’s desire not to take the lead in questioning Egypt’s right to change tariff rates Without consulting capitulatory powers, but willingness to consider making similar representations should other powers decide to press the issue.
152
1931 Feb. 18 (22) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Imposition of increased customs duty on matches; recommendation that Legation be instructed to present aide-mémoire following position taken by other capitulatory powers.
152
Feb. 19 (24) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Views of principal capitulatory powers regarding Egyptian tariff increases; opinion that it would not be advisable to raise tariff issue at this time.
153
Feb. 21 (23) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Request for additional information regarding Egyptian decree before issuance of any instructions.
154
Feb. 25 (27) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Information regarding the tariff decree.
155
Feb. 28 (25) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Instructions to seek interview with Foreign Minister and inform him orally of this Government’s reservation of its rights under provisional commercial agreement of May 24, 1930.
157
Mar. 4 (26) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Minister that U. S. Government makes full reservations of its position pending study of texts of the new tax law and decree.
157
Mar. 19 (36) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Request for authorization to inform Foreign Office of non-objection to levying of tax on U. S. citizens, in response to oral request of Egyptian Government.
158
Mar. 23 (31) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Authorization to address written communication to Foreign Minister agreeing to application of tax to U. S. citizens.
158
Apr. 14 (40) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Intention not to discuss matter further with Egyptian Government at present time.
159
May 6 (50) To the Minister in Egypt
Authorization to engage in informal conversations with French, Italian, and Belgian colleagues regarding conclusion of permanent commercial conventions with Egyptian Government.
160

Proposal of the Egyptian Government for an International Conference To Regulate Cotton Production

[Page XXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Aug. 25 (92) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Egyptian Government’s desire for an international conference regarding regulation of cotton production.
160
Aug. 26 (93) From the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Discussion with Prime Minister of proposed cotton conference.
161
Aug. 29 (84) To the Minister in Egypt (tel.)
Information that Egyptian proposal for cotton conference has been referred to appropriate authorities.
163
Sept. 18 To the Egyptian Minister
Information that since U. S. Government would be unable to apply program of production limitation and limitation and control of cotton exports, it would be unable to participate in a conference having such objects in view; suggestion for informal discussions between an Egyptian Government representative and American Farm Board regarding formulation of methods of cooperation.
163
Sept. 22 (6538) From the Egyptian Minister
Proposal of Egyptian Government to send two delegates to Washington, and request for date to be fixed for meeting with representatives of American Farm Board.
164
Sept. 25 To the Egyptian Minister
Information that Farm Board will be glad to start discussions at any time convenient to Egyptian representatives.
(Footnote: Information that discussions took place in Washington in 1933.)
165

Agreement Between the United States and Egypt for Arbitration of the Claim of George J. Salem, Signed January 20, 1931.

Date and number Subject Page
1931 (Note: List of published documents relating to claim of George J. Salem (Salm) against Egypt, including correspondence between U. S. and Egyptian Governments.) 165
Jan. 20 Agreement Between the United States of America and Egypt
Text of Executive agreement for arbitration of the claim of George J. Salem against Egypt, signed at Cairo.
166

EL SALVADOR

Revolution in El Salvador

[Page XXVI][Page XXVII][Page XXVIII][Page XXIX][Page XXX]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Dec. 3 (97) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Information that revolution broke out night of December 2 and now controls city.
169
Dec. 3 (98) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Comment that leaders of revolution appear to have no fixed plan beyond getting rid of present government; arrangements for 2-hour truce.
169
Dec. 3 (100) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
President Araujo’s refusal of revolutionists’ demands, of which only important one is his resignation; President’s promise of truce until 10 a.m., December 4.
170
Dec. 3 (63 bis) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s receipt of telegram from military junta of El Salvador; decision of Guatemalan Government to adhere to terms of 1923 treaty and to take no action except in agreement with United States.
170
Dec. 3 (55) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Inquiry as to who is leading revolution.
171
Dec. 3 (101) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Departure of President from Santa Tecla to Santa Ana; expectation that he will enter Guatemala sometime on December 4.
171
Dec. 3 (102) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Report that President reached Santa Ana and was given command of the town by Army Commander; belief that his chances are hopeless.
171
Dec. 4 (64) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Efforts of President Araujo to obtain war materials; intention of Guatemalan Foreign Minister to refuse all such requests under article 4 of 1923 treaty.
171
Dec. 4 (56) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Assumption that U. S. policy of being guided by 1923 treaty provisions regarding nonrecognition of governments coming into power through revolution has been made clear to leaders of revolution.
172
Dec. 4 (105) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Information regarding leaders of revolution.
172
Dec. 4 (65) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that President Araujo transferred Presidential powers to Third Designate, Dr. Olano, and crossed Guatemalan border at 2 p.m., December 4.
173
Dec. 4 (88) To the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Explanation of U. S. policy in regard to revolution in El Salvador, and instructions to make the position known in conversation with Government officials and other political leaders of the country.
(Repeated to Nicaragua and Costa Rica.)
173
Dec. 4 (32) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to make known informally to various Government officials Department’s policy in El Salvador.
174
Dec. 5 (187) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Information that Honduran Government will await action of U. S. Government before making a decision in regard to recognition of present Salvadoran Government.
174
Dec. 5 (106) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Summary of decree by General Martínez as constitutional Vice President announcing his assumption of the Presidency.
174
Dec. 5 (60) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Request for information as to part played in revolution by Vice President Martínez and the three designados, and whereabouts of the latter.
175
Dec. 5 (61) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Request for views and recommendations as to steps necessary to bring about a constitutional government in El Salvador which could be recognized under the 1923 treaty.
175
Dec. 5 (67) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Conversation with President Araujo, who said that he had not resigned the Presidency but had merely deposited his powers with Olano as the Constitution gave him the right to do.
176
Dec. 5 (56) From the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s refusal to commit himself in respect of eventual Costa Rican attitude as to recognition of new Salvadoran regime.
176
Dec. 5 (21) From the Minister in El Salvador
Detailed report of revolution, its causes, and constitutional and international problems created by it.
177
Dec. 6 (108) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Information in reply to Department’s request, regarding Vice President Martínez and the designados.
185
Dec. 6 (109) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Explanation of constitutional procedures under 1923 treaty; recommendation that recognition be delayed because of certain indications that Martínez is as yet little more than a mask for the military directorate.
186
Dec. 7 (188) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s request to be informed as soon as U. S. decision is made regarding recognition of Martínez regime, so that Honduran Government may act in conformity with United States.
187
Dec. 7 (63) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Request for further facts as to President’s departure, and as to implication in the revolution of Vice President and designates.
187
Dec. 7 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation with Salvadoran Minister, who was told that no decision would be made on recognition of Provisional Government until further information was received on the subject.
189
Dec. 7 (111) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Report that conditions are apparently becoming more settled.
189
Dec. 8 (190) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s desire to know Department’s decision regarding recognition of present Salvadoran Government.
190
Dec. 8 (113) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Information requested in Department’s telegram No. 63, December 7; recommendation that recognition be withheld pending dissolution of military directorate.
190
Dec. 8 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Request by Counselor of French Embassy to be informed of Department’s decision in regard to recognition of present Salvadoran Government, as French Government would like to follow U. S. lead.
192
Dec. 8 (35) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Department’s intention to notify Minister as soon as decision is reached regarding recognition.
(Instructions to repeat to Nicaragua and Costa Rica.)
192
Dec. 8 (90) To the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to assure Foreign Minister of Department’s intention to advise Honduran and other Central American Governments as soon as its course of action regarding El Salvador has been decided on.
193
Dec. 9 (191) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Willingness of Honduran Foreign Minister to await Department’s decision.
193
Dec. 11 (115) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Additional information regarding implication of Martínez in revolution.
193
Dec. 11 (67) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Instructions to seek suggestions and views of Martínez as to manner of placing government on basis that will allow its recognition by U. S. and Central American Governments.
194
Dec. 13 (116) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Informal conversation with Martínez, who said that his government was now entirely constitutional, since military dictatorship was dissolved on December 11.
195
Dec. 14 (196) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Feeling among Honduran officials that present regime in El Salvador should not be recognized under 1923 treaty; that recognition would have bad effect on unsettled conditions in Honduras.
196
Dec. 14 (71) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that Foreign Minister, in reply to Salvadoran request for recognition, had stated his intention to be guided by the treaties.
196
Dec. 15 To the Minister in Honduras (cir. tel.)
Conversation with Honduran Minister regarding Salvadoran request for recognition; hope that Honduran reply may be deferred until Department receives sufficient information on which to base its decision.
(Instructions to repeat to Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica).
197
Dec. 15 (26) From the Minister in El Salvador
Corrections of certain reports made on events of first days of revolution.
197
Dec. 15 (27) From the Minister in El Salvador
Facts indicating that Martínez Government is entitled to recognition under treaty; comment that undue delay in granting recognition might lead to attempt by other Presidential aspirants to overthrow existing Government.
198
Dec. 16 (120) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Martínez’ urgent desire to obtain U. S. recognition.
200
Dec. 16 (68) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Decision to send Jefferson Caffery to El Salvador as Special Representative of the Department to assist in determining constitutionality of Salvadoran Government.
201
Dec. 16 (69) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Inquiry concerning reported recognition by Mexico of Martínez regime.
201
Dec. 16 (121) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Advice by Mexican Minister that in accordance with Estrada doctrine relations between Mexico and El Salvador have not been interrupted, but that he has taken no action beyond acknowledging receipt of note regarding change of government.
202
Dec. 18 (221) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that Foreign Minister will await U. S. decision on recognition.
202
Dec. 18 (70) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
For Caffery: Intention to delay proposed telegram to Central American Missions until receipt of recommendations by Caffery.
202
Dec. 19 (122) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
From Caffery: Recommendation that proposed telegram be sent immediately.
203
Dec. 20 (42) To the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.)
Reasons why Department cannot recognize Martínez regime; instructions to so advise orally the Government to which accredited and report its attitude.
(The same to Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.)
203
Dec. 21 (199) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information that Honduran Government will not recognize Martínez, and does not intend to recognize government of El Salvador until it is constitutionally reorganized.
204
Dec. 21 (58) From the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.)
Information that Costa Rican Government will not alter policy of non-recognition for the time being, but will continue discussion of matter with other Central American Governments for harmonious action; inquiry as to whether reservations made by El Salvador to 1923 treaty are effective.
204
Dec. 21 (73) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Agreement of Guatemalan Government with Department’s viewpoint.
205
Dec. 22 (45) To the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.)
Information that Salvadoran reservations to 1923 treaty relate to El Salvador alone and do not appear to affect obligations of other signatories.
205
Dec. 22 (61) From the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.)
Informal notification by Foreign Minister of Costa Rican intention not to recognize present regime in El Salvador.
205
Dec. 22. (123) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
From Caffery: Attitude of Martínez on being informed that Department is unable to recognize him; other factors involved in political situation.
206
Dec. 23 (124) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
From Caffery: Request for instructions as to eligibility of General Castaneda as successor to Martínez; also, regarding the Martínez proposal to deposit Presidential power in hands of a new First Designate for a specified period of time.
207
Dec. 24 (223) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Nicaragua’s decision not to recognize present de facto regime in El Salvador.
208
Dec. 24 (62) From the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.)
Decision of Costa Rican Government not to recognize present regime in El Salvador.
208
Dec. 24 (125) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Visit to Foreign Minister of the de facto government to make clear Department’s policy of nonrecognition of Martínez.
208
Dec. 28 (127) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
From Caffery: Inquiry regarding interpretation of certain treaty phrases as regards Castaneda.
209
Dec. 29 (75) To the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
For Caffery: Department’s opinion regarding eligibility of Castaneda as successor to Martínez.
209
Dec. 30 (128) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
From Caffery: Informal conference with leaders of revolution at which Department’s policy was explained and plan suggested for securing constitutional government.
210

Burglary and Assault Committed at the Salvadoran Legation on May 13, 1931

[Page XXXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 May 13 To the Salvadoran Chargé
Expression of regret at recent injuries suffered by the Chargé, and assurance that police will make every effort to apprehend offenders.
212
May 14 From the Salvadoran Chargé
Gratitude for note expressing sympathy for injuries received in attack by housebreakers on May 13.
212
May 27 (L.D. No. 730) From the Salvadoran Minister for Foreign Affairs
Account of burglary and assault committed at Salvadoran Legation on May 13, during which Dr. Leiva, the Chargé, suffered serious injuries.
213
June 18 To the Salvadoran Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs
Assurances that appropriate authorities are making every effort to apprehend those guilty of assault, and that measures are being taken for adequate protection of Legation; information that as an act of courtesy, U. S. Government intends to defray expenses incurred by Dr. Leiva as result of attack.
(Footnote: Department’s note of July 24, 1936, to Salvadoran Minister, indicating that appropriate authorities have been unable to obtain sufficient evidence to institute criminal proceedings against any known person in connection with the burglary and assault.)
215
July 15 From the Salvadoran Second Secretary in Charge of Legation
Note from Salvadoran Foreign Minister, July 7 (text printed), expressing gratitude for assurances in Secretary’s note of June 18 and for courtesy of assumption of Dr. Leiva’s expenses.
216

ETHIOPIA

Proposed Revision of Basic Treaty Governing Ethiopian Relations With Foreign Powers

[Page XXXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 22 (156) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Department’s views regarding reported intention of Ethiopia to denounce Franco-Ethiopian Treaty of 1908, which forms basis of extraterritorial rights in Ethiopia; instructions to discuss with Foreign Office possible action by French Government in event treaty is denounced. Instructions to repeat to Great Britain and Italy for similar consultation with Foreign Office.
217
Apr. 23 (208) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Conversation with Foreign Office official, who said that France would make energetic protest in case the treaty is denounced.
218
Apr. 25 (121) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Foreign Office agreement with Department’s views.
219
May 1 (68) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Foreign Office agreement in general with Department’s views; willingness to go along with action agreed upon by other powers.
219
May 2 (708) From the Minister in Ethiopia
Report that diplomatic corps sent note invoking article 7, regarding extraterritorial jurisdiction, in protest against application to foreigners of municipal decree of October 22, 1930; informal ion that U. S. Minister took no active part in question.
220
May 7 (8) To the Minister in Ethiopia (tel.)
Opinion that new excise tax decree of March 30 is not violation of Franco-Ethiopian treaty, and instructions not to support further protest against it; approval of any action which may be taken to liberalize article 3 of treaty, regarding customs matters.
220
June 10 (No. J 1768/983/1) From the British Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to the American Chargé in Great Britain
Agreement with U. S. views regarding desirability of modification of article 3; suggestions for protection of extraterritorial rights.
221
June 17 (746) From the Minister in Ethiopia
Information that other members of the diplomatic corps have now received instructions to discuss revision of articles 3 and 7, but that no action has yet been taken.
223
July 8 From the Second Secretary of the French Embassy
Memorandum (text printed) summarizing French viewpoint regarding tariff and jurisdiction reforms to be established in Ethiopia.
224
July 15 (197) To the Minister in Ethiopia
Conclusion that municipal decree mentioned in despatch No. 708, May 2, contravenes provisions of article 7 of treaty, and instructions to join in protest of diplomatic corps.
225
July 20 To the Second Secretary of the French Embassy
Acknowledgment of memorandum of July 8.
226
July 28 (201) To the Minister in Ethiopia
Authorization to join with colleagues of diplomatic corps in discussing modifications of articles 3 and 7 of treaty.
227
July 28 (875) To the Chargé in Great Britain
Instructions to inform Foreign Office that Department concurs in desirability of modifying treaty and has issued appropriate instructions to Minister in Ethiopia.
228
Aug. 1 (880) To the Chargé in Great Britain
Request for information regarding new attitude which Great Britain is reported to have adopted in reference to proposed modifications of treaty.
228
Aug. 1 (776) From the Minister in Ethiopia
Information that diplomatic corps intends to send note to Ethiopian Government protesting recent excise tax law; request for confirmation of original instructions not to protest, or for amended instructions.
229
Aug. 25 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs
Conversation with Counselor of Italian Embassy concerning U. S. attitude toward protest against recent Ethiopian tax decree and possible denunciation of Franco-Ethiopian treaty.
230
Sept. 30 (22) To the Minister in Ethiopia (tel.)
Information that Department perceives no reason to alter its previous instructions not to protest regarding Ethiopian tax decree.
231
Oct. 3 (827) From the Minister in Ethiopia
Report concerning note of protest against excise tax law submitted to Ethiopian Government by British, French, and Italian representatives, and understanding that reply of an unsatisfactory nature has been received.
232
Oct. 12 (835) From the Minister in Ethiopia
Informal conversation with Emperor regarding negotiations for revision of articles 3 and 7 of Franco-Ethiopian treaty; decision of diplomatic corps to await action by Ethiopian Government.
233

Lack of Jurisdiction by American Consular Court in Ethiopia Over Aliens in Behalf of Whom the United States Extends Its Good Offices

Date and number Subject Page
1931 July 7 (196) To the Minister in Ethiopia
Information regarding extraterritorial jurisdiction of U. S. consular officers in Ethiopia and lack of judicial authority over certain non-nationals.
234
[Page XXXIII]

FRANCE

Visit of Pierre Laval, President of the French Council of Ministers, to the United States, October 22–26, 1931

[Page XXXIV][Page XXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Sept. 19 (584) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information that newspaper reports favor an interview between Prime Minister Laval and President Hoover and suggest that Laval would be agreeable if invited.
237
Sept. 19 (455) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Authorization to extend verbally to Laval President Hoover’s invitation and his opinion that such a visit would be of value.
238
Sept. 21 (588) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Laval’s request that any final decision on the proposed visit be withheld until he has conferred with President Doumer.
238
Sept. 21 (591) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
President Doumer’s approval of the visit, final decision to be made at Cabinet meeting. Laval’s statement to the press (text printed) in appreciation of President Hoover’s invitation; suggestion that the Department might now extend an official invitation to Laval.
239
Sept. 24 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Inquiry by the German Ambassador concerning Laval’s proposed visit, and his expression of hope for progress in the coming conversations between Laval and the German Chancellor.
240
Sept. 24 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Inquiry by the Italian Ambassador concerning Laval’s proposed visit and its effect on disarmament.
240
Sept. 25 (599) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Conversation with the British Ambassador to France concerning his discussion with Laval of the latter’s proposed visit to the United States and his review of the possibilities upon which he thought France might join in a real disarmament program.
241
Sept. 25 (600) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Council of Ministers’ approval of Laval’s visit; delivery of the invitation, with covering note to Briand (texts printed).
243
Sept. 26 (606) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Transmittal of Laval’s formal acceptance of President Hoover’s invitation (text printed).
243
Oct. 1 (622) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Conversation with the Minister of Finance, who unofficially brought up the questions of (1) elimination of Germany’s conditional reparation payments, (2) security to France in return for armament limitation, and (3) U. S. action against a power violating the Kellogg-Briand Pact.
244
Oct. 1 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Bulgarian Minister, who remarked as to the importance of Laval’s visit and commented on the European “hypnos” for reparations, expressing his hope for U. S. help in clearing away the latter.
247
Oct. 9 (654) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Report on conversation with Laval in which Ambassador mentioned the desirability of Laval’s going to the United States without limited or definite prospects in mind for his conversations with President Hoover.
247
Oct. 17 (670) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Transmittal of the principal points on intergovernmental debts, disarmament, reparations, and security, as published in Le Matin, allegedly proposed by Laval’s experts for his use in Washington.
248
Oct. 21 (673) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Conversation with the Finance Minister regarding French action in the raid on the dollar and discussion of questions mentioned in the Embassy’s telegram No. 622 of October 1; his hope that French and U. S. determination to maintain the gold standard would be announced.
249
Oct. 21 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Conversation with the British Ambassador; who conveyed the Foreign Secretary’s hope for the success of Laval’s visit.
251
Oct. 25 Joint Statement by President Hoover and Prime Minister Laval
Indication of general agreement on world problems and on the importance of restoring economic stability, particularly monetary stability and the maintenance of the gold standard in France and the United States.
252
Oct. 26 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the British Ambassador, who was informed that the Laval conversations were satisfactory except in regard to disarmament and the adjustment of political instability in Europe.
253
Oct. 28 (312) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Advice that President Hoover desires to settle the debt and reparations problems by direct negotiation with individual debtors rather than by a conference but is willing to consider a monetary conference.
254
Oct. 29 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Inquiry by the Netherlands Minister concerning the Laval negotiations on the consultative pact and reparations, and advice to him that the method of approaching the latter had been agreed upon.
256
Nov. 4 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the French Ambassador in which he was informed that in the Laval conversations, the Secretary had made no suggestion of a four-power naval pact, but that the discussions had concerned the Franco-Italian negotiations.
256
1933 Jan. 5 From Senator David A. Reed
Inquiry as to the accuracy of a statement by Senator Borah that Laval had been assured of some readjustment of debts on the part of the United States, if France cancelled German reparations.
257
Jan. 5 To Senator David A. Reed
Information that during the Laval conversations no assurances or commitments on debts or reparations were asked for or given by either side.
257

Informal Representations to the French Government With Respect to Discriminatory Restrictions on the Importation of Nitrates

[Page XXXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 May 12 (200) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information that the Barrett Co., a subsidiary of Allied Chemicals, and recently exporters of nitrate of soda to France, desire to continue their trade, but that a new French decree permits such trade only under license. Instructions to express hope for favorable consideration to the American company.
258
May 16 (261) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Assurances of Minister of Agriculture to Acting Commercial Attaché that there will be no discrimination.
258
Sept. 5 (435) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to investigate and make representations if Barrett Co.’s allegations that French license and contemplated tax discriminate against U. S. nitrates, as compared with German and Chilean, are substantiated.
259
Sept. 8 (667) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information that issuance of nitrate licenses will probably be by quotas of which a small contingent has been assured Barrett Co.; that tax is in view of lower Belgian prices on nitrates and appears not to favor Germany; opinion that further U. S. action should await a decision on terms for fixing contingents.
259
Sept. 15 (452) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information from Barrett Co. that French corporation will distribute nitrate licenses on quota basis and will pass foreign contributions on to French nitrogen producers and agricultural interests. Desire for full report with a view to vigorous protest if method outlined is confirmed.
260
Sept. 17 (582) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Advice that no decision on nitrate licenses has been reached, but that subsidizing of French producers with proceeds of customs duties is possible. Request for Department’s attitude.
261
Sept. 22 (457) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
U. S. Government’s opinion that French policy on nitrates and other products is at variance with the spirit of international economic cooperation; that pressure for U. S. retaliation is likely. Instructions to make representations to French authorities.
262
Sept. 28 (616) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information from Foreign Office that adoption of contributions plan is doubtful but that quotas, in emergency, are not unlikely; Foreign Office promise to obtain an increased quota for American interests, if possible.
263
Nov. 23 (785) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Information that Norway and possibly Chile will protest payment of contributions, now fairly certain to be required of nitrate interests, but that Germany has agreed; request for Department’s attitude as to a formal protest.
264
Nov. 23 (590) To the Chargé in France (tel.)
Instructions to make no formal protest.
265
Nov. 25 (802) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Confirmation that U. S., Chilean, and reportedly Norwegian interests were refused licenses upon declining to pay contributions.
265
Dec. 30 (671) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Position of Barrett Co. that it did not receive equality of treatment in recent nitrate contracts, but that it desires to compete for next purchase. Instructions to endeavor to obtain fair commercial opportunity for the company.
265
Dec. 31 (914) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Facts concerning treatment received by Barrett Co., and conclusion that responsibility for company’s failure to negotiate would seem to rest directly with the company. Assurance of Embassy’s cooperation in connection with future purchases.
266

Extension of Customs Immunities to American Religious and Philanthropic Institutions in Syria and the Lebanon

[Page XXXVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 Aug. 30 From the American Consul General at Beirut to the Chief of the Diplomatic Bureau of the French High Commission at Beirut
Suggestion of terms for the proposed modus operandi regulating customs immunity of American religious and philanthropic institutions in Syria and the Lebanon.
267
Dec. 11 (2994) To the Chargé in France
Review of discussions and proposals at Beirut on customs immunities for American philanthropic institutions and their personnel, and instructions to discuss the matter with the Foreign Office, suggesting Department’s willingness to consider a plan similar to Consul General Knabenshue’s if Italy is also agreeable.
268
1929 Aug. 22 From the French Ministry for Foreign Affairs to the American Embassy in France
Disinclination of Foreign Ministry to consider regulations in customs matters incompatible with assurances of M. Poincaré’s note of November 2, 1923.
269
Sept. 6 (9819) From the Chargé in France
Conversation with Foreign Office official concerning the conditional agreement of Knabenshue and French authorities at Beirut.
271
Sept. 24 (4258) To the Chargé in France
Instructions to express to the Foreign Office the hope for their further consideration of Mr. Knabenshue’s proposals.
272
1930 June 6(469) From the Consul at Beirut
Conversation with the Chief of the Diplomatic Bureau of the High Commission, who said that his office had been instructed in the customs matter by the French Foreign Office but had asked for clarification.
273
1931 Mar. 12(153) From the Consul at Beirut
Information from the Chief of the Diplomatic Bureau of the High Commission that the French Government has accepted the U. S. point of view on unlimited customs exemption of U. S. institutions under the Poincaré-Herrick agreement, but has yet to draw up suitable regulations; also that steps are being taken to refund duties previously paid by institutions.
274
Mar. 13 (1336) From the Chargé in France
Transmittal of note from Foreign Office which advised of granting of customs exemptions to U. S. institutions in the Levant and of the release of sums held by the Consul General as a guarantee for unpaid duties.
278
Apr. 20 To the Consul General at Beirut
Verification of settlement of the customs question in accordance with views of U. S. Government; general authorization to negotiate with French High Commission for settlement of questions of procedure.
279

GERMANY

Moratorium on German Payments Under the German-American Debt Agreement of June 23, 1930

[Page XXXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 July 16 (214) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
For Gibson: Observation that German obligations for army of occupation costs fall within President Hoover’s debt moratorium proposals but that German-American Debt Agreement does not; opinion of Treasury that there is no difference in the character of claims covered by German payments under the debt agreement and of U. S. payments awarded to German nationals by Mixed Claims Commission. Instructions to take up matter with Committee of Experts with a view to securing their consent to the continuation of the two latter classes of payments.
(Footnote: Information that Hugh S. Gibson, Ambassador to Belgium, was in London as American observer at the London Conference of Experts, held July 17–August 11.)
280
July 30 (281) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Gibson: Information that British and French representatives have no objection but the latter wishes to consult the French Finance Minister before the matter is brought up before the Committee.
281
Aug. 3 (291) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Transmittal of American delegation’s memorandum presented to the Committee (text printed), stating U. S. desire for postponement of German obligations for occupation costs but for continuation of payment of German-American Mixed Claims awards.
282
Aug. 12 (503) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Information that French Finance Minister does not agree to non-postponement of payments under the German-American Claims Agreement, and that Foreign Office will probably indicate this attitude formally.
283
Aug. 12 (399) To the Chargé in France (tel.)
Instructions to urge French reconsideration of decision, pointing out advantages to Germany.
283
Aug. 12 (505) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Transmittal of note (text printed) giving Foreign Office’s objections to non-postponement.
285
Aug. 13 (400) To the Chargé in France (tel.)
Observations in reply to the French note.
286
Aug. 19 (516) From the Chargé in France (tel.)
Conversation with Finance Minister, who saw no possibility of defending the proposal before Parliament; his suggestion that some other plan be worked out to allow Germany the advantage of the excess payments.
287
Aug. 28 (423) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to discuss the matter personally with Prime Minister Laval, and to suggest, if the French Government manifests a desire for a solution, that the U. S. Government is ready to consider the French suggestion in any practicable form enabling the whole body of claims to be discharged.
288
Sept. 2 (558) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Proposal of Laval (text printed) for delayed payment to U. S. claimants, which would, in his opinion, involve only the interpretation of U. S. law. Opinion that further representations would not change French position.
290
Sept. 4 (562) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Transmittal of note to Laval (text printed) advising of U. S. Treasury’s refusal of French proposal.
291
Sept. 9 (440) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to advise French Government of Treasury’s decision to waive 90-day required notice if Germany gives notice of postponement of payment, and not to consider Germany in default, thereby permitting payment in regular course to German claimants.
292
Sept. 23 From the Secretary of the Treasury
Reply to Department’s notification of German postponement, and request that German Ambassador be advised the required advance notice is waived respecting payment due September 30 and that the Treasury will recommend postponement of payments for occupation costs due during the fiscal year 1931–1932.
292
[Page XXXIX]

Negotiations for the Sale of Surplus American Wheat and Cotton To Strengthen the Financial Position of Germany

[Page XL]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 July 16 (123) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Information that the Department has formulated a possible plan for the sale on credit at low interest of surplus wheat and cotton to Germany through the Farm Board in order to give material assistance to the German Government and people. Request for expression of opinion.
293
July 20 (126) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Desire that the Ambassador approach some German official with the suggestion, as if it were his own, that a proposal might be arranged along lines set forth in telegram No. 123; advisability that initiative in the proposal be taken by German Government.
295
July 21 (139) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Account of conversation with the Minister of Agriculture. Opinion that wheat sale would benefit Germany but that Department’s plan regarding cotton might be more of a hindrance than a help to German finances.
296
July 22 (130) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Suggestion on deliveries of goods and changed viewpoint on prices; belief that German credit would be strengthened by the transaction. Instructions to express to the German Government the opinion that upon its inquiry something might be worked out on the lines indicated.
298
July 24 (147) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Conference with Government officials but opinion that any decision will await a satisfactory conference with Chancellor Bruening; information that a fixed price on cotton presents difficulties because of daily competition.
299
July 31 (155) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Conference, in the presence of Bruening, with Acting Minister of Economics and Minister of Agriculture, the latter stating that requirements of imported wheat would be reduced in view of increased domestic production; request for additional price data.
300
Aug. 1 (146) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Transmittal of statement to the press (text printed) in view of reports of the negotiations from Berlin; instructions to inform the German Government that further negotiation is the province of the Farm Board, which would deal with an appointed German agent.
301
Aug. 4 (157) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Effects of the release of news on cotton and wheat transaction in Berlin and elsewhere; information that German Government has no one available in the United States to act as agent but desires to continue discussions in Berlin.
302
Aug. 5 (159) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Transmittal of German proposal on cotton (text printed) not providing minimum or maximum price but with alternatives for price fixing; information that the German Government is preparing a proposal on wheat.
302
Aug. 7 (148) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Advice that German proposition has been sent to the Farm Board without comment but that it is apparently impossible for the Board to accept without a minimum price; that it appears necessary for Germany to appoint an agent, possibly the German Consul in New York.
304
Aug. 7 (150) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Advice that Farm Board has turned down German proposal on cotton, giving out explanatory statement (text printed).
305
Aug. 8 (163) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Information that Foreign Office has been informed of Department’s views on the appointment of an agent, and as it is hopeful of doing business in both wheat and cotton will take the matter up with the Chancellor.
306
Aug. 10 (166) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Receipt of Germany’s proposal on wheat and suggestion by the Embassy that it be reconsidered by the German Government, as it contained no provision for maximum and minimum prices; possibility that German Government will appoint agents and that Farm Board will be able to insist on the condition of maximum and minimum prices.
307
Sept. 3 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Conversation with the German Ambassador, who outlined difficulties in wheat negotiations.
307
Sept. 11 Memorandum by the Economic Adviser
Conversation with the First Secretary of the German Embassy concerning points of difference on wheat, and ascertainment that Farm Board would agree on financial guarantee and that Germans would give in on price; arrangements for signature of necessary papers.
308

Opposition in Germany to the Showing of the Motion Picture “All Quiet on the Western Front

[Page XLI]
Date and number Subject Page
1930 Dec. 17 (654) From the Ambassador in Germany
Details of the decision of Appellate Board of Film Censors prohibiting further showing of “All Quiet on the Western Front,” and controversial newspaper comments; indications that National Socialist Party instigated demonstrations and used the picture as a political issue, dealing a blow to Government prestiee.
309
1931 Mar. 11 (26) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Report of resolution, passed by the Reichstag during withdrawal of Hugenberg Nationalists and Nazis, declaring prohibiting of “All Quiet on the Western Front” unjustifiable. Reasons for opinion that showing at present time would cause unfortunate repercussions.
314
Mar. 17 Memorandum by Mr. P. T. Culbertson of the Division of Western European Affairs
Suggestion to Major F. L. Herron of Motion Picture Producers and Distributors of America, Inc., of commercial disadvantage outlined in Ambassador’s telegram No. 26, and Major Herron’s opinion that film industry would not press for further showing of the picture in Germany.
315
Sept. 12 (1135) From the Ambassador in Germany
Report that Film Censorship Bureau in Berlin reversed its decision after the deletion of a few scenes and the receipt of a letter from American Universal Pictures Corporation stating the expurgated German version would be adopted; continued protest by Nazis, but indication that Government no longer feels bound to make concession to them.
316

Arrangement Between the United States and Germany Regarding Reciprocal Recognition of Load Line Certificates Effected by Exchange of Notes, Signed September 11 and December 16, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Sept. 11 (585) From the American Ambassador in Germany to the German Minister for Foreign Affairs
Provisions for mutual recognition of load-line marks and certificates, and information that receipt of a note from German Government expressing concurrence in this understanding will constitute agreement.
317
Dec. 16 From the German Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs to the American Ambassador in Germany
Confirmation of understanding.
318

Status of Naturalization Treaties Between the United States and the Grand Duchy of Baden, Signed July 19, 1868, and Württemberg, Signed July 27, 1868

Date and number Subject Page
1930 Oct. 28 (567) From the Chargé in Germany
Despatch from the Consul General at Stuttgart (text printed) inquiring whether naturalization treaties between United States and Baden and Württemberg, prior to formation of German Empire, are considered in force.
319
Dec. 4 (487) To the Ambassador in Germany
Information that these treaties were not renewed after the World War as provided by treaty and were, therefore, no longer in force after May 11, 1922; that Department has refrained from expressing an opinion on the status of treaties with Germany from April 6, 1917, to May 11, 1922; that, however, the treaties with Baden and Württemberg were applicable to women naturalized in those countries.
(Copy to Stuttgart.)
320
[Page XLII]

Petitions for Rehearings in the So-Called Sabotage Cases: Black Tom and Kingsland

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 12 From the Solicitor for the Department of State to the Assistant Secretary of State
Information of the filing of a motion for a new trial in Black Tom explosion case on grounds of newly discovered evidence, and other reasons.
(Footnote: Information of filing in Kingsland case on January 22.)
322
Jan. 15 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation with the German Ambassador, who expressed concern over the motion by Mr. Bonynge, U. S. Agent, for retrial of the Black Tom case, as it opened the way for retrial of other cases; his desire to end the matter quickly by sending for Mr. Boyden, Umpire for the Mixed Claims Commission, as had been suggested by the Under Secretary of State.
322
Undated [Rec’d Jan. 15] From the German Embassy to the Department of State
Opinion that the procedure in the Black Tom case was regular and in accordance with agreement of August 10, 1922, and with the Rules of the Commission.
323
Jan. 16 Memorandum by the Solicitor for the Department of State
Suggestion by the Counselor of the German Embassy that Mr. Boyden arrive earlier to facilitate a disposal of the petition before the German Agent’s departure on January 21; his opinion that German Government will cooperate with any request for interpretation of claims agreement; solicitor’s opinion that early hearing will be desirable but that disposition should be left to the Commission.
325
Jan. 17 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation with the German Ambassador, who was informed that Department was requesting Mr. Boyden’s earlier arrival in Washington and that the Commission itself should decide on the question of procedure.
(Footnote: Arrival of Mr. Boyden on January 19.)
326
Jan. 22 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the German Ambassador, who was advised that the Department’s practice was to leave all control to the U. S. Agent and that it was hoped the Commission would settle the question of procedure, but that everything would be done to expedite settlement.
327
July 1 From the Agent for the United States
Notification of the filing of supplemental petition for rehearing on basis of new evidence.
328
Nov. 18 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a Telephone Conversation With the German Ambassador, November 17, 1931
Information that German Government concurs in the agreement reached in Washington, that appointment of an umpire is unnecessary at the moment, as the Commissioners might reach an agreement without one, but, in any case, prompt decision on the appointment would be easy.
(Footnote: Death of Mr. Boyden, October 25, 1931; appointment of Owen J. Roberts, of U. S. Supreme Court, March 24, 1932.)
328
[Page XLIII]

Admission to the United States of German Student Laborers

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 30 (St. D.E. 4/31) From the German Embassy
Request that a final decision on the admission of additional German work-students be made as soon as possible, without waiting until April 1, in view of time required for selection of students and for necessary travel arrangements.
329
Mar. 10 From the German Embassy
Expression of hope that Department will not suspend the exchange of German-American student laborers.
330
Mar. 26 To the German Ambassador
Reply to German inquiries giving Secretary of Labor’s decision (text printed) to discontinue temporarily the student laborer arrangement because of employment conditions.
331
Apr. 16 (St. Dep. A 16) From the German Embassy
Request for reconsideration of decision of Immigration Commissioner at Ellis Island, in which German student laborers now in United States were refused the extension of stay usually granted.
332
Apr. 22 To the German Embassy
Confirmation of information that the requests of 29 students to remain in the United States for a further period are under consideration, as the German Embassy has been informed.
333
Nov. 12 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Request by the First Secretary of the German Embassy that 19 German students be granted another extension of time; refusal of extension by Department of Labor on basis that the students are holding jobs which could be filled by Americans.
333
Dec. 16 (VI W 9435) From the German Ambassador
Proposal that U. S. Government admit German industrial students under certain specified conditions.
334
Feb. 9 To the German Ambassador
Quotation from Labor Department’s communication advising that German proposal cannot be given favorable consideration at this time.
335

GREAT BRITAIN

Extradition Treaty Between the United States and Great Britain and Exchanges of Notes Extending the Applicability of the Treaty to Palestine and Trans-Jordan, Signed December 22, 1931

[Page XLIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 Nov. 19 (3182) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Foreign Office note (text printed) proposing a new extradition treaty of comprehensive character, in reply to U. S. earlier suggestion of a supplementary treaty.
337
1929 Mar. 14 (1734) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Conclusions and suggestions regarding British draft of extradition treaty; instructions to bring to the attention of the Foreign Office.
340
1930 June 24 (996) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Foreign Office reply (text printed) giving views on revisions suggested by United States.
344
Aug. 11 (471) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Instructions to inform Foreign Office of U. S. withdrawal of certain proposals and of attitude on others.
348
1931 Jan. 20 (1573) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Foreign Office note (text printed) accepting in substance qualifications proposed by the United States and requesting U. S. reconsideration of two points.
350
Feb. 9 (662) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Advice that U. S. Government agrees to the two points and that full powers for signing the treaty will be forwarded.
351
Oct. 1 (949) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Advice of agreement to further British amendments and to suggested exchange of notes making treaty applicable to Palestine and to Trans-Jordan.
352
Dec. 22 (468) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information that treaty was signed and notes exchanged December 22.
353
Dec. 22 Extradition Treaty Between the United States of America and Great Britain and Exchanges of Notes
Texts of extradition treaty and exchanges of notes signed at London.
353
(Note: Data on subsequent extension of the treaty provisions to various parts of the British Empire.) 361

Proposed Revision, With Respect to Muscat and Oman, of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce Between the United States and Muscat (Oman) Signed September 21, 1833

[Page XLV]
Date and number Subject Page
1930 May 3 (182) From the British Ambassador
Request that United States waive its right under article 3 of treaty of 1833 with Muscat in order to allow an increase of flat tariff rates to 7½ percent and 15 percent on alcohol and cigarettes, in view of financial difficulties of the State of Muscat and Oman.
362
May 23 To the British Ambassador
Non-objection in principle to a general increase in tariff rates, and proposal of conclusion of new treaty modifying article 3 of 1833 treaty and providing for unconditional most-favored-nation treatment in import and export duties and other matters.
365
June 11 To the British Ambassador
Advice that Department would probably not have occasion to protest the suggested limited non-discriminatory increase in import duties, pending conclusion of a new treaty.
365
Aug. 18 (320) From the British Ambassador
Willingness to negotiate a new treaty on most-favored-nation lines and to receive U. S. draft.
366
Oct. 4 To the British Ambassador
Transmittal of draft treaty (text printed).
366
1931 Sept. 9 (304) From the British Chargé
Information that Muscat State Council feels that negotiations on U. S. draft would entail delay while financial situation is urgent; suggestion that 1833 treaty be modified by exchange of notes allowing 10 percent duty with 25 percent maximum duty on liquor and tobacco; expectation of British to grant the same concession subject to U. S. and French concurrence.
368
Oct. 10 To the British Chargé
Information that constitutional requirements preclude amendment of an existing treaty by exchange of notes; advice that modification of 1833 treaty would be considered only on most-favored-nation basis.
369

GREECE

Extradition Treaty Between the United States and Greece, Signed May 6, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1929 Nov. 27 (310) To the Minister in Greece
Comments on changes proposed by the Greek Government in U. S. draft treaty of extradition; suggestions for rewording of certain articles (texts printed).
371
1930 Feb. 24 (351) To the Minister in Greece
Citation to Revised Statutes in connection with Foreign Office inquiry as to the meaning of a phrase in the draft; further comments on changes proposed by Greek Government.
373
Oct. 10 (431) To the Minister in Greece
U. S. acceptance of majority of Greek modifications; willingness to accord Greece most-favored-nation treatment as to articles 9 and 11, and suggestion that such provision be effected by exchange of notes.
375
1931 Mar. 9 (472) To the Minister in Greece
Proposal of slight changes in language in notes to be exchanged; authorization to exchange notes, and full powers to sign treaty.
377
May 6 Extradition Treaty Between the United States of America and Greece, Together With Exchange of Notes Concerning Most-Favored-Nation Treatment and Protocol of Exchange of Ratifications
Texts of treaty and exchange of notes, signed at Athens; protocol of exchange of ratifications, signed at Washington, November 1, 1932.
378
[Page XLVI]

Exemption From Alleged Military Obligations Accorded by Greece to American Citizens of Greek Origin

[Page XLVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Nov. 26 (1158) From the Minister in Greece
Official information of extension to December 31, 1930, of the period exempting from military obligations American citizens of Greek origin and Greek citizens returning from United States.
385
1930 Oct. 30 (23) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to express informally to Prime Minister Venizelos the U. S. Government’s appreciation of the military exemption arrangement for 1930 and the hope for a similar arrangement for 1931.
386
Nov. 7 (1525) From the Chargé in Greece
Foreign Minister’s favorable attitude toward the amnesty arrangement, and his promise to urge its continuation by the Council of Ministers.
387
1931 Jan. 28 (456) To the Minister in Greece
Department’s hope that the amnesty arrangement may be extended pending the coming into force of the Protocol Relating to Military Obligations in Certain Cases of Double Nationality, which was signed at Geneva in 1930 by both U. S. and Greek representatives.
387
Feb. 11 (1623) From the Minister in Greece
Information that the Greek Government has been urged to put the principle of the Protocol into effect pending its ratification.
388
Apr. 3 (1682) From the Minister in Greece
Conversation with Foreign Minister following Hellenic Government’s agreement in writing to extension of amnesty arrangement through 1931; Foreign Minister’s assurance of cooperation but inability to negotiate a treaty at present.
389
Aug. 4 (1817) From the Chargé in Greece
Transmittal of a note verbale allowing military exemption for children of Greek citizens, domiciled in the United States, who return to Greece for educational purposes.
390
Aug. 28 (1840) From the Chargé in Greece
Information of an act making all Greeks who have resided abroad for 10 years continuously, liable to 4 months’ military service upon return to Greece, or payment of a fee averaging $52, a reduction of the amount formerly demanded.
390
Sept. 30 (30) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Need for information as to Greek attitude for use in the publication “Notice to Bearers of Passports” for 1932; instructions to discuss matter with the Foreign Minister and to advise him of the appropriate publicity given by the Department to his Government’s present liberal attitude.
391
Oct. 15 (42) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Information that military exemption will not be granted to individuals but possibly to organized groups of excursionists; suggestion that the new pamphlets include the reduced term of service and payment.
391
Oct. 26 (1899) From the Chargé in Greece
Clarification, at Department’s request, of despatch No. 1840, August 28, regarding military obligations of Greeks residing abroad.
(Note: Department’s statement to the press February 12, 1932 (text printed), concerning discontinuance of military amnesty and advising American citizens of Greek origin who contemplate visiting Greece, to consult Greek consular officers.)
392

GUATEMALA

Recognition of Constitutional Government in Guatemala

[Page XLVIII][Page XLIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 2 (2) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Report that conditions are returning to normal, following President Chacon’s resignation and assumption of Provisional Presidency by Reina Andrade; request for instructions.
393
Jan. 2 (1) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to report whether the resignations of Palma and Chacon and the elections of new Designates were voluntary or under compulsion.
393
Jan. 2 (3) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that Reina Andrade apparently will retain Orellana Cabinet, but that changes can probably be effected in case of two members who took part in recent events if Department desires and offers immediate recognition.
394
Jan. 2 (4) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Report of constitutionality of new government; recommendation of recognition after the two cabinet changes and the call for elections.
394
Jan. 2 (289) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Report of satisfaction with which Nicaraguan Government received news of Department’s refusal to recognize Orellana government, as such action would have violated 1923 treaties.
394
Jan. 3 (5) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Report of German Minister’s authorization to recognize Andrade, but opinion that he will await U. S. action.
396
Jan. 3 (2) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information of Guatemala’s formal notification to Nicaraguan Government of Chacon’s resignation and the appointment of Andrade; Foreign Minister’s request for U. S. attitude on recognition.
396
Jan. 3 To the American Missions in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua (cir. tel.)
Department’s disposition to extend recognition to Andrade government after its publication of the call for new elections; instructions to ascertain the attitude of the respective Governments, as it is desirable that U. S. action be harmonious with the signatories of the 1923 treaties.
396
Jan. 3 (2) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Advice as to Department’s disposition toward recognition if other Central American Governments agree; opinion that suggested Cabinet changes would be unwise as a sine qua non to recognition; instructions to cable regarding stability of Andrade government.
397
Jan. 3 (6) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Report that conditions are practically normal but that Cabinet changes would be unwise; that decree calling elections will be issued soon.
397
Jan. 4 (3) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Disposition of Nicaraguan Government to recognize Andrade government.
398
Jan. 4 (3) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Extension of recognition to Reina Andrade by Salvadoran Government.
398
Jan. 5 (2) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Desire of Government of Honduras to grant recognition simultaneously with United States.
398
Jan. 5 (7) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Issuance of decree calling elections for February 6, 7, and 8.
399
Jan. 6 (2) From the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.)
Report that President and Foreign Minister are conferring and will give a statement on recognition soon.
399
Jan. 6 (4) From the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.)
Disposition of Costa Rica to extend recognition conditional upon calling of elections.
399
Jan. 6 (3) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to extend recognition January 8, and to inform Central American colleagues of the action so that they may join if they desire.
400
Jan. 6 To American Missions in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua (cir. tel.)
Instructions to inform respective Governments of proposed recognition on January 8.
400
Jan. 7 (8) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that coalition of parties has launched Gen. Jorge Ubico for president and there is as yet no opposition candidate.
400
Jan. 7 (9) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Note to Foreign Office (text printed) extending recognition; request for approval.
401
Jan. 7 (5) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Approval of proposed note.
401
Jan. 17 (8) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Inquiry if Central American Governments have extended recognition.
401
Jan. 17 (14) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information of recognition by Costa Rica, Salvador, and Nicaragua simultaneous with United States, and of Honduran notification by telegram.
401
Feb. 14 (16) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that General Ubico took office as constitutional president February 14.
402

HAITI

Agreement Between the United States and Haiti for Haitianization of the Treaty Services, Signed August 5, 1931

[Page L][Page LI][Page LII][Page LIII][Page LIV][Page LV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 14 (30) To the Minister in Haiti
Advice that plan for Haitianization of Treaty Services presented in Haitian memorandum of December 2, 1930, is not entirely acceptable; authorization to initiate formal discussions according to general outline of Department’s attitude.
403
Jan. 24 (51) From the Minister in Haiti
Transmittal of communications (texts printed): (1) note from Haitian Government with a memorandum giving somewhat more radical proposals for Haitianization; (2) Minister’s reply setting forth U. S. position on fulfillment of existing treaties pending working out of Haitianization program; (3) Minister’s tentative plan for the Haitianization of Service Technique.
406
Feb. 7 (9) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Recommendation that Public Works Service be almost completely Haitianized, and request that Department authorize working out of details.
414
Feb. 7 (59) From the Minister in Haiti
Further reply (text printed) to the Haitian proposals, with advice that U. S. Government desires to replace Americans in Treaty Services with Haitian personnel as soon as practicable in order that U. S. personnel may be withdrawn entirely not later than 1936.
415
Feb. 9 (7) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Authorization to proceed with virtually complete and immediate Haitianization of Public Works Service.
419
Feb. 26 (73) From the Minister in Haiti
Report on progress of discussions, and opinion that Haitianization of Public Works Service should not be accelerated as contemplated, and that consideration of Financial Service should be postponed; information that public sentiment presents difficulties to discussion but that further U. S. concessions would merely bring more demands.
419
Mar. 11 (17) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Recommendation of inclusion of a clause (text printed) proposed by Foreign Minister, or a similar provision for a special accord on financial control to be constituted after 1936.
425
Mar. 14 (18) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Suggestion of a paragraph (text printed) conceding the issuance of commissions to Haitian employees in the Customs Service.
426
Mar. 18 (14) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Advice that Department is considering a revised convention to confirm and extend financial control throughout the life of present outstanding bonds and to provide for return to Haitian control of nonfinancial services excluding the Garde.
427
Mar. 20 (22) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Opinion that the proposal of a new treaty for continuance of financial control would not be wise at this time as progress in the discussions is satisfactory and a change in general policy would do more harm than good.
428
Mar. 26 (18) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Haitian Government that upon its approval of the proposed Convention (text printed), the Department will be ready to put into immediate effect a program of Haitianization (substance printed) of the nonfinancial services, with exception of the Garde.
431
Mar. 30 (25) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Opinion that it would be difficult to justify a demand that a new convention be ratified before a plan of Haitianization is put into effect; recommendation that the Minister and Financial Adviser be instructed to proceed to Washington about April 12 for personal discussion with Department, and that an effort be made to conclude before that time an accord on Haitianization.
438
Mar. 31 (21) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Authorization to proceed to Washington, but advice that Department cannot authorize any agreement such as quoted in telegrams Nos. 17 and 18, March 11 and 14; instructions to discuss fully with Haitian Government, without commitments, the U. S. point of view on all outstanding matters.
440
Apr. 4 (94) From the Minister in Haiti
Progress of discussions with Foreign Minister on Haitianization; transmittal of formulas, of note from Foreign Minister enclosing observations and counterproposals relative to the Garde, and of Minister’s draft of agreement concerning the Garde (texts printed).
441
Apr. 22 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Outline of proposed Haitianization plan; draft of proposed Convention (text printed); memorandum by the Minister in Haiti (text printed) concerning supplementary Haitianization agreement regarding the financial services.
454
Apr. 23 (25) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Non-objection to proposed paragraph for commissioning of customs employees.
461
May 5 (113) From the Minister in Haiti
Explanation of Department’s point of view and proposals to the Foreign Minister, who felt that ratification could be obtained during the present session of Haitian Congress.
461
May 5 (114) From the Minister in Haiti
Transmittal of general outline of proposed financial convention (text printed) presented to the Foreign Minister and his observations for Department’s comment; request for authorization to accept minor changes.
465
May 16 (31) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Department’s disinclination to agree to limiting number of American officials in the Financial Services to two; non-objection to other Haitian proposals, and authorization to accept minor changes.
468
May 18 (40) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Explanation that recommendation was not to limit the number of Americans in the Customs Service but the number nominated by the President of the United States.
469
May 26 (44) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s threat of a Cabinet crisis over U. S. insistence on Colvin’s appointment as Director General of Service Technique as a condition precedent to Haitianization. Opinion that internal political questions hold more interest than Haitianization and that conflict with United States for political purposes is possible.
469
May 29 (46) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that Colvin’s appointment has been rejected, but that if Colvin would resign, Haiti would be willing to pay him an indemnity; recommendation that Department decide at once, as an impasse on the question might cause serious difficulties.
471
June 1 (47) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Recommendation that if all Americans are to be released from Service Technique by January 1, 1932, they be paid 6 months’ salary as an indemnity.
473
June 1 (49) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Recommendation that if Department accepts the proposal regarding Colvin, its acceptance be conditional upon explicit assurances of enforcement of treaty provisions governing the Garde, in view of Haitian attitude toward appointment of American officers and promotion of Haitian officers.
474
June 2 (34) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Minister that Department acquiesces in the proposal regarding Colvin; advice that Department is agreeing in order to facilitate Haitianization negotiations and desires to be informed if this result is not expected.
474
June 3 (52) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that internal political situation may prevent prompt conclusion of Haitianization negotiations; recommendation that United States proceed with whatever appears advisable in each Service while continuing general negotiations.
475
June 3 (36) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to inform President Vincent that U. S. acquiescence in the Colvin compromise is conditional upon assurances that the Garde treaty provisions will be respected and that Haitianization discussions must be confined to limits of 1915 treaty.
476
June 3 (37) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Authorization to work out a plan for indemnities to American personnel in connection with Haitianization of Service Technique.
478
June 4 (53) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that a law giving members of Congress an expense allowance retroactive to November 10, 1930, has been passed disregarding President Vincent’s promise of a balanced budget prior to enactment. Advice that Financial Adviser is withholding funds, upon Minister’s instruction, and that this action may create serious situation in Congress; inquiry if Department approves action taken.
478
June 6 (39) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Advice that Department prefers some agreement for Haitianization but will, if agreement fails, carry out withdrawal in its own manner.
479
June 6 (40) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Approval of position outlined in Legation’s telegram No. 53, June 4, and instructions to inform Haitian authorities of U. S. insistence on full observance of treaty commitments affecting Financial Service.
480
June 13 (41) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Preference for employees in Customs Service to be appointed by Haitian President upon nomination by President of United States; instructions to make clear U. S. Government’s accord as to the desirability of the withdrawal of Americans as soon as feasible.
480
June 18 (61) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that Haitian Government will agree to general assurances provided the United States does not insist on the commissioning of Captain Aarons; recommendation that proposal be refused on principle.
481
June 18 (62) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Recommendation that, in view of attitude of Government and public and the possibility of a definite break in negotiations over the Aarons case, United States have a plan of its own ready to be announced if negotiations break down.
482
June 19 (64) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Authorization to Financial Adviser to refuse Finance Minister’s order to pay the expense allowances to members of Congress; discussion with Foreign Minister of possible modification of 1918 agreement on condition that laws relating to financial affairs be submitted to the Financial Adviser.
483
June 20 (66) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Report that Aarons was cleared of charges by Board of Investigation.
484
June 22 (44) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Authorization to conclude an agreement as suggested in telegram No. 64, June 19, provided that financial legislation and projects affecting Services headed by Americans be submitted to the respective heads of the Services before presentation to the Legislature.
484
June 22 (43) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Opinion that Aarons case would not justify jeopardizing Haitianization program; instructions to acquiesce in the President’s refusal to commission Aarons provided written assurances are received on certain points.
484
June 23 (68) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Outline of Haitianization plan for public health work; inquiry as to Department’s attitude and if Navy Department will cooperate as indicated in plan.
485
June 25 (69) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Further explanation of Haitian proposal reported in telegram No. 61, June 18, of considerations in Aarons case, and of plan recommended in case of break in Haitianization negotiations.
486
July 3 (47) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Retention of opinion, after reconsidering situation, that Aarons case does not warrant rupture of negotiations; instructions to draw up and submit in writing to Haitian Government the entire program for Haitianization, and to discuss it as a whole instead of piecemeal in order to avoid trouble over individual cases.
488
July 3 (48) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Outline of conditions of Navy Department’s acquiescence in public health program, and authorization to discuss plan with Haitian authorities as part of general Haitianization agreement.
490
July 4 From the President of Haiti to President Hoover (tel.)
Expression of good will on U. S. independence day and appeal for more vigorous execution of the recommendations for Haitianization.
491
July 7 (75) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Letter from President of Haiti to Commandant of the Garde (extract printed) stating disposition to reconsider Aarons case. Intention to present note to Haitian Government in compliance with Department’s telegram No. 47 of July 3.
492
July 8 (168) From the Minister in Haiti
Memorandum embodying general plan of Haitianization (text printed) handed to the Foreign Minister, who objected to the form and the substance and especially to the U. S. attitude that 1915 treaty is still valid.
492
July 9 From President Hoover to the President of Haiti (tel.)
Acknowledgment of President Vincent’s telegram of July 4.
497
July 9 (49) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Message to be conveyed to President Vincent, if deemed advisable, that President Hoover appreciates his desire for settlement of problems between the two countries and considers that program outlined in Department’s telegram No. 47, July 3, is in accord with recommendations of Forbes Commission and will expedite Haitianization.
497
July 10 (76) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Outline of Haitian counterproject in reply to Legation’s general Haitianization plan. Request for Department’s views on a protocol of disoccupation and on the relinquishment of martial law rights.
497
July 10 (77) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Report of President’s agreement to sign Aarons’ commission when Haitianization agreement is reached.
499
July 13 (51) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Disapproval of any consideration of a protocol of disoccupation prior to execution of Haitianization agreement; willingness to withdraw martial law proclamation after conclusion of Haitianization agreement.
499
July 14 (78) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Request for Department’s views on unsettled points, including sanitary control at Port-au-Prince and Cape Haitien, indemnities of non-commissioned personnel, Haitian Co-director in Internal Revenue, and further discussion on military disoccupation.
500
July 15 (80) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Request for Department’s views on Financial Adviser’s proposal that Haitianization of state lands administration be offered in place of a Haitian Co-director in Internal Revenue. Inquiry as to authorization to sign agreement without submitting final text to the Department.
500
July 17 (53) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Disapproval of concessions in sanitary control at Port-au-Prince and Cape Haitien, and in Financial Service; conditional agreement to waive indemnities for non-commissioned personnel, to Haitianization of state lands administration, and if essential, to an accord on evacuation. Authorization to effect agreement without submitting final text to the Department if necessary.
501
July 24 (57) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Authorization to waive indemnities for Public Works employees if desirable.
502
July 25 (86) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Transmittal for Department’s approval of formula (text printed) suggested as final concession to be made to Foreign Minister in view of his insistence on abrogation of 1918 accord regarding the visa of the Financial Adviser.
502
July 30 (59) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Approval of tentative draft of Haitianization agreement; suggestion of two modifications, if obtainable.
503
Aug. 5 (94) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that accord has been signed, that letters are being exchanged on indemnities and on service payments (text printed), and that martial law has been repealed by proclamation.
504
Aug. 6 (187) From the Minister in Haiti
Haitianization Agreement signed August 5 (text printed).
505
Aug. 10 From the Haitian Minister
Expression of Haitian Government’s gratitude to the Secretary and to President Hoover, its great pleasure over the happy conclusion of its pourparlers with the United States, and hope for success in the coming negotiations.
508
Aug. 11 (99) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Information that the President has signed Aarons’ commission.
509
Aug. 17 To the Haitian Minister
Acknowledgment of Haitian Minister’s note, and expression of U. S. satisfaction over the successful outcome of the negotiations.
509

Objections by the United States to Haitian Budgetary Laws Passed Without Prior Accord of the Financial Adviser

[Page LVI][Page LVII][Page LVIII][Page LIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 July 17 (81) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that Haitian Government has presented the budget to Congress without the Financial Adviser’s accord and presumably with many objectionable features; recommendation of strong protest and of demand for withdrawal of the budget.
510
July 20 (54) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to inform Haitian Government of U. S. concern over Haitian action in contravention of 1915 treaty and 1919 protocol, and to request formally the withdrawal of the budget from Congress.
512
July 20 (82) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Haitian Government’s assertion that it can withdraw the budget only by concluding the Haitianization agreement at once and using it as a pretext; Minister’s willingness to accept such a solution provided a satisfactory agreement is signed promptly.
513
July 28 (87) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Opinion of the Foreign Minister that budget withdrawal is impossible; his plan to obtain a grant of power authorizing the President to make changes in the budget after enactment. Opinion that the matter should be treated separately from Haitianization agreement.
513
July 29 (90) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Receipt of a note from the Foreign Office defending Haitian budget action but not denying Financial Adviser’s rights. Opinion that Haitian Government will not reach an accord with Financial Adviser until it has to.
514
Aug. 4 (92) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that Chamber of Deputies passed the budget with transitory article (text printed) authorizing the President to change and adjust it provided Haitianization accord is reached in whole or in part.
515
Aug. 7 (95) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that measure for extraordinary Presidential powers has passed both Houses; assurances of Foreign Minister that provision is adequate to meet Financial Adviser’s requirements.
515
Aug. 26 (101) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Information that President has promulgated two more laws providing extra expenditures without submitting them to Pixley, Deputy Financial Adviser, who had orally promised approval of one; assurance of Foreign Minister that Finance Minister will communicate immediately with Financial Adviser.
516
Sept. 8 (104) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Résumé of the law of ways and means and the law of expenditures covering the budget, as submitted to Pixley, who will make thorough study of them and confer with Minister of Finance.
517
Sept. 15 (107) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s indication that Government is determined to promulgate the budgetary laws regardless of U. S. objections but that the President has promised assurances that provisions of the laws contrary to the treaty and the accord will be set aside. Request for instructions.
518
Sept. 19 (110) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Report of formal promulgation of budgetary laws without Financial Adviser’s accord; advice from Foreign Minister that Government intends to give the assurances promised by the President.
518
Sept. 22 (111) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Information that Haitian Government will not issue extraordinary credit for indemnities to retiring treaty personnel before October 1; opinion that refusal is intended to force U. S. accord on financial laws and budget.
519
Sept. 23 (65) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions, for discretionary use, to inform President Vincent that the Financial Adviser will be instructed to make payments after October 1 only to American Treaty Services and for essential expenses unless the budgetary laws are satisfactorily modified.
521
Sept. 24 (112) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Information that Government cannot pay indemnities September 30, that it proposes budget reduction if funds are furnished from the reserve; uncompromising Haitian attitude that if proposals are unacceptable, United States could suspend payments October 1; request for instructions on developments and on Department’s telegram No. 65, September 23.
521
Sept. 25 (66) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
From De la Rue for Pixley: Inquiry if detailed budget has been officially submitted to Financial Adviser’s office in accordance with August 5 agreement.
523
Sept. 25 (67) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to advise Haitian authorities that United States insists that August 5 agreement be carried out and if indemnities are not provided by September 30, the Financial Adviser will make the payments agreed to.
523
Sept. 25 (68) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to take action outlined in Department’s telegram No. 65, September 23, as issue is not the technical budget but Haitian obligations under Haitianization Agreement of August 5.
524
Sept. 26 (114) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For De la Rue from Pixley: Information that budget has been submitted.
525
Sept. 26 (69) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions from De la Rue to Pixley regarding indemnities, and information that Legation will authorize payment if Haitian Government has not provided for it by September 30. Instructions to Chargé regarding preparations.
525
Sept. 26 (115) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Communication of the sense of Department’s telegrams Nos. 65 and 67 to President Vincent and the Foreign Minister, both of whom objected to U. S. requirements for balancing the budget and desired some action on Haitian propositions; opinion of the President that some arrangement could be made for indemnity payments.
525
Sept. 29 (116) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Information that, at Pixley’s suggestion of budget reductions, Finance and Foreign Ministers were more conciliatory and promised some arrangement on indemnities.
526
Sept. 29 (72) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Haitian Government that, if no accord is reached by October 1, the Financial Adviser will be instructed to make payments for certain Treaty Services under the 1915 treaty and for essential Government expenses; instructions to take these emergency steps pending an accord on the budget; advice that Department deems it necessary that budgetary laws as modified and suitable revision of the preambles be promulgated in substitution for present legislation.
527
Sept. 30 (117) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Information of Cabinet’s refusal to eliminate increases in budget figures and of its proposal of a general cut; U. S. insistence on elimination of all increases and on submittal of revised budgets for Haitianized Departments.
528
Oct. 2 (119) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Information that Pixley presented to the Government an emergency budget for October; that the Foreign Minister has been informed of views in Department’s telegram No. 72, September 29; that he proposes publication of the budget with statement promising modifications.
528
Oct. 2 (73) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Authorization, if no objection is perceived, to approve extraordinary credit for repair of National Legislative Chambers if adequate provision is made in the new budget; assumption that increase in salaries of Chamber of Deputies is under discussion.
529
Oct. 3 (75) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Advice that Department cannot recognize any budget legislation containing objectionable statements in the preambles; also that publication of the budget prior to an accord with Financial Adviser’s office would be undesirable.
529
Oct. 3 (120) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Letter to Pixley from the Finance Minister (text printed) offering no objection to Pixley’s emergency budget, pending computations under decision to balance the budget; information of impossibility of promulgating any budget laws with modifications but possibility of some satisfactory solution; recommendation that the Government be allowed to work on a douzième based on 32,000,000 gourdes budget.
529
Oct. 6 (76) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions that Pixley should make payments only to Financial Service and Garde in absence of an accord except under Finance Minister’s countersignature.
530
Oct. 7 (121) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Pixley’s recommendations to Haitian officials for budget reduction; opinion that Government will agree when it realizes U. S. attitude on the emergency budget precluding allowances to Congress; Foreign Minister’s advice that although Government would not dare publish anything on the modification of the finance laws, it would give its assurances in writing that objectionable parts of the laws would not be enforced.
531
Oct. 13 (78) To the Chargé in Haiti
General exposition of Department’s views on budget discussions, with authorization for further budget adjustments provided Pixley’s provisional douzième is not departed from; desire to have final arrangements in writing and letters concerning general budget legislation and the preambles.
532
Oct. 26 (126) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Review of situation and recommendation that Minister be authorized to make best settlement possible without delay; request for Department’s approval of emergency payments, if necessary.
533
Oct. 28 (81) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Department’s views on questions covered in Legation’s telegram No. 126, October 26, and general approval of progress as a whole; authorization to work out formal statement on the preamble for adequately protecting U. S. rights; approval of emergency payments.
536
Oct. 29 (127) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that Foreign Minister and Finance Minister appear to have accepted the continuation of payments to American Treaty Services and, as an informal general agreement on budget reduction has been reached, an exchange of notes covering objections to the preambles and finance laws will be discussed.
537
Nov. 7 (131) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Report that satisfactory exchange of notes has been effected and that detailed budget of 32,000,000 gourdes is nearing completion.
538
Nov. 18 (261) From the Minister in Haiti
Transmittal of notes exchanged (texts printed) and report of satisfactory conclusion of financial discussions, with establishment for the time being of principle of Financial Adviser’s accord prior to budget legislation.
538
Nov. 27 (138) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Report of Financial Adviser’s accord given to the budget.
545
Nov. 28 (90) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Department’s congratulations.
545

Desire of the Government of the United States for an Early Withdrawal From Haiti of the Forces of Occupation

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 28 (34) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Insistence of Foreign Minister upon some statement of U. S. intentions regarding withdrawal of Marines.
545
Apr. 29 (27) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Authorization to inform Foreign Minister that United States desires to withdraw occupation forces at earliest possible moment but that it does not consider fixing a definite date or program advisable at the moment.
546

HEJAZ AND NEJD

Recognition by the United States of the Kingdom of the Hejaz and Nejd and Proposal for a Commercial Agreement

[Page LX]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Feb. 10 (666) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Review of Department’s position on recognition of Hejaz and Nejd; instructions to inform Hejazi Minister in London of U. S. readiness to consider the question and interest in concluding a commercial treaty providing unconditional most-favored-nation treatment; desire for information on legislation in Hejaz and Nejd governing foreigners.
547
Apr. 1 Memorandum by the First Secretary of Embassy in Great Britain
Information that U. S. suggestions regarding recognition are acceptable and that when the Minister has received full instructions he will communicate with the American Ambassador.
550
Apr. 14 (1832) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Transmittal of a note from the Minister of Hejaz and Nejd (text printed) stating his Government’s thanks for U. S. consideration and its willingness to enter into a commercial treaty; information on laws governing treatment of foreigners.
550
May 1 (113) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Hejazi Minister that the United States extends full recognition to the Government of Hejaz and Nejd and its Dependencies and desires to enter into an exchange of notes pending negotiation of a commercial treaty.
551
May 4 From the Minister of the Hejaz and Nejd in Great Britain to the American Ambassador in Great Britain
Advice that the Government of Hejaz and Nejd has been informed of U. S. recognition and is prepared to enter into the suggested exchange of notes.
552
Oct. 12 (953) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Instructions for proceeding with the proposed exchange of notes.
552
Oct. 26 (421) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information from Hejazi Minister that his Government will insist upon a clause naming Arabic as well as English as official text.
553
Oct. 27 (311) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Transmittal of clause regarding official text (text printed) which will be acceptable to Department.
(Footnote: Signature of provisional agreement, November 7, 1933.)
554

HONDURAS

Insurrection in Honduras

[Page LXI][Page LXII][Page LXIII][Page LXIV][Page LXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 18 (58) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of imminent uprisings and unrest on Northern Coast due to unemployment, and of danger to Americans; suggestion of President Colindres that courtesy visit of U. S. warship would be desirable, and Minister’s concurrence.
555
Apr. 18 (59) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Transmittal of communication from Ceiba (text printed) requesting U. S. warship for protection of Americans; recommendation of action.
555
Apr. 18 (60) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of imminent trouble at Ceiba and of President Colindres’ request for use of marine bombs from Nicaragua; inquiry as to decision on warship.
556
Apr. 19 (23) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information that U. S. S. Memphis has been ordered to Ceiba.
556
Apr. 19 (24) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to inform President Colindres that bombs are not available.
556
Apr. 19 From the Vice Consul at Puerto Cortes (tel.)
Information of armed uprisings around San Pedro and of reported participation of General Ferrera.
556
Apr. 19 (61) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Receipt of telegram from Tela (text printed) requesting Marines; recommendation that warships be sent to Tela and Truxillo as well as Ceiba.
557
Apr. 19 (25) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Advice that three cruisers have been ordered to north coast.
557
Apr. 19 (63) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of insurrectionary movements in Tela, Puerto Castilla, and Truxillo districts, apparently recruited from unemployed, communists, riffraff and criminals of Northern Honduras, and of instructions to Consuls for appropriate measures for American protection.
557
Apr. 20 From the Vice Consul at Puerto Cortes (tel.)
Report of fighting in Department of Yoro led by secretary to General Ferrera; assurances from Commandante of San Pedro Sula of protection to foreign life and property.
558
Apr. 20 (29) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that General Zelaya and four companions on their way to join Honduran revolution have been arrested.
559
Undated Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Current Information of Press Conference by the Secretary of State, Monday, April 20, 1931
Secretary’s review of the situation in Honduras and elaboration on a press release statement (text printed) that U. S. forces will limit themselves to protection of American lives and property and not take part in warfare.
559
Apr. 21 (16) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to express U. S. gratification at Guatemalan observance of 1923 treaty and of good neighborliness in the arrest of Zelaya group.
561
Apr. 21 (65) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of movement of rebels toward Quimistan-San Pedro Sula highway, possibly to join with General Ferrera; of beneficial effects of presence of U. S. warships in northern ports, and of Honduran gratitude for good offices of the American Legation at Guatemala in the arrest of Zelaya and his companions.
562
Apr. 22 (66) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information from United Fruit Co. of Honduran Government’s efforts to use company’s vessels for transport of troops, and company’s willingness to make one ship available, with Department’s sanction.
562
Apr. 22 (67) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Telegram (text printed) from Boston office of United Fruit Co. authorizing use of one or two vessels for troop transportation on written order from the President or the Minister; request for instructions.
563
Apr. 22 (27) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Non-objection to informal acquiescence to proposal of United Fruit Co. provided unnecessary restrictions on company property be lifted and adequate compensation for use of property is paid.
563
Apr. 22 (68) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of comparative quiet, and expectation that insurrection will drag into weeks or months, as neither rebels nor Government troops show any disposition to take the offensive; movement of U. S. S. Memphis from Ceiba to Tela.
564
Apr. 23 (69) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information that Government has agreed to use United Fruit Co. equipment only when essential for immediate military use and on payment.
564
Apr. 23 (71) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of continued calm and rebel withdrawal from San Pedro Sula area and opening of the railroad.
565
Apr. 24 (72) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Retirement of rebels west and southwest, apparently followed by Government troops; murder of an American citizen on Lerida farm of United Fruit Co.; resumption of normal operations of fruit companies in most districts.
565
Apr. 27 (75) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Desire of Honduran President that Major Geyer, U. S. Naval Attaché go as observer in United Fruit Co. plane to reconnoitre rebel forces; request for instructions.
565
Apr. 27 (78) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Telegram from Major Geyer at San Pedro Sula (text printed) reporting firing by bandits on outposts, and his intention to stand by for establishment of neutral zone if necessary.
566
Apr. 27 (30) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions that U. S. Naval Attaché should not take part in any military or political affairs; apprehension at use of American-owned airplane.
566
Apr. 28 (79) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Compliance with Department’s telegram No. 30; information that President is contemplating purchase of United Fruit Co. plane for observation purposes.
566
Apr. 28 (32) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Approval of Major Geyer’s action (as indicated in Legation’s telegram No. 78, April 27), and desire to have him remain in San Pedro Sula for evacuation of Americans if necessary.
567
Apr. 28 (80) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of breaking of deadlock at San Pedro Sula with General Ferrera’s withdrawal, and belief that two warships on the north coast are sufficient; imposition of news censorship by the President; Legation’s emphasis on fact that the present disturbance is not a revolution.
567
May 2 (83) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of Ferrera’s massacre of Santa Rosa de Copan garrison and civilian officials; arrival of U. S. naval officers on courtesy call, and excellent impression made by their visit.
568
May 6 (88) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Concern of Honduran President and press over reported declaration by U. S. Secretary of State of political nature of Honduran trouble and U. S. position of strict neutrality.
568
May 7 (37) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Advice that memorandum of Secretary’s press conference has been forwarded, and that President Colindres may be informed of Secretary’s views and of his emphasis on fact that the question of recognition of belligerency was not involved.
568
Undated [Rec’d May 7] From the Manager in Honduras of the United Fruit Company to the United Fruit Company (tel.)
Report on the use of company planes by Government only on regular passenger route; suggestion that one plane be kept strictly for company use and for American Legation mail.
569
May 12 To the Attorney for the United Fruit Company
Department’s approval of United Fruit Co.’s proposed policy of refusing both parties the use of its vessels and equipment in revolutionary disturbances.
569
May 12 (91) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Inquiry concerning Associated Press report published locally (text printed) in which Secretary allegedly referred to Honduran trouble as a genuine political revolution; comments of local press.
570
May 13 (40) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to inform Honduran authorities that U. S. Government continues to give its moral support to constituted Government of Honduras; advice that Secretary’s statement was to indicate the internal character of the trouble and U. S. nonparticipation except for protection of American and foreign interests.
571
May 14 (95) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Desire of President Colindres upon being informed of Department’s telegram No. 40, to make the information public.
572
May 15 (41) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Non-objection to Honduran Government’s publication of information in Department’s telegram No. 40, May 13, provided text is examined by Minister.
572
May 17 (100) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Expectation of attacks by Ferrera on Progreso and on Tela; request for warship and for Department’s approval of Minister’s measures for protection of Americans and foreigners.
572
May 17 (42) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Approval of course outlined in Legation’s telegram No. 100.
573
May 19 (102) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of eastward movement of bandits without attacking Tela and of return of U. S. S. Marblehead from Tela to Puerto Cortes; concern of Government over situation as Ferrera forces are growing.
573
May 20 (105) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information that position outlined in Department’s telegram No. 40, May 13, evoked favorable press comments and President Colindres’ appreciation.
573
May 20 (106) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Opinion that one warship on north coast is sufficient and another not necessary at present.
574
May 21 (107) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information from Honduran authorities that munitions destined for rebels have been shipped from Belize and that authorities desire interference by U. S. vessels; request for instructions.
574
May 23 (45) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Improbability of illicit transport of munitions by a United Fruit Co. vessel; impossibility of use of U. S. warships for patrol, as their function in Honduran waters is the customary protection of American lives and property.
574
May 25 (235) From the Minister in Honduras
Information that the Honduran Government has been informed of U. S. attitude on function of U. S. warships; opinion that the vessel mentioned is not of United Fruit Company, but one of small vessels which engage in “gun running” from Belize to Honduras or Nicaragua; information on patroling by U. S. warships of Bay of Fonseca in 1927 to prevent “gun running”.
575
June 3 (113) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information that young American pilot has contracted services of himself and plane to Honduran Government for 15 flying days of military operations.
577
June 4 (114) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of comparative inactivity of armed forces; rumors that Ferrera will join Sandino; financial embarrassment of Honduran Government.
577
June 5 (48) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Inquiry concerning American pilot and information for him and Honduran Government that the intent of the U. S. neutrality laws is to discountenance enlistment of American citizens in foreign armed forces.
578
June 5 (115) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of possible trouble from Ferrera near Puerto Castillo, of danger to United Fruit Co. property and of Government’s orders for delivery of gasoline there for the bombing plane.
578
June 6 (49) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions that Honduran Government should be advised at Minister’s discretion of U. S. objections to employment of American aviators and of U. S. expectations of protection to American lives and property; that American pilot should be warned against indiscriminate bombing.
579
June 10 (122) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information from American pilot of Government’s plan for bombing attack on Ferrera’s forces; communication of U. S. objections to President Colindres, who stated that the pilot would be instructed to carry no more bombs and inquired as to U. S. attitude toward purchase of the plane.
579
June 12 (50) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to thank President Colindres for his considerate attitude and to advise him that United States has no control over sale of the plane; also to report further on Krupp bombs recently received by Honduran Government.
580
June 15 (127) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of trip to north coast and arrangements with U. S. S. Richmond for protective measures.
580
June 17 (51) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Advice that American citizens should present claims for losses to Honduran Government and that Legation should request Foreign Office to give them prompt consideration.
581
June 19 (128) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information of Ferrera’s decisive defeat at Jaral.
581
June 19 (130) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report that Honduran Government has purchased American plane.
581
June 21 (133) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Inquiry if U. S. Government would object to the American pilot’s purchasing a plane and machine gun in the United States for Honduran Government and his flying the plane back.
581
June 23 (54) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Non-objection to an American citizen’s acting as purchasing agent for Honduran Government, and advice that application for the necessary export licenses will be considered when received.
582
June 27 (135) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report that Ferrera has been killed by Government troops.
582
July 9 (57) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Request for views on Commander Special Service Squadron’s recommendation of withdrawal of remaining warship from Nicaraguan and Honduran coasts.
582
July 10 (137) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Opinion that naval vessels can be withdrawn and advice that Commander of Special Service Squadron was so advised on July 6.
583
[Page LXVI]

Restrictions on the Export of War Material to Honduras

[Page LXVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 22 (90) To the Minister in Honduras
Review of purchase of arms and munitions since 1925 by Honduran Government in view of its request for additional supplies. Instructions to inform the Government that U. S. Government does not feel free to continue such supplies in the absence of evidence that they will be retained under official control, and suggests establishment of a regular disciplined force to assure such control.
583
Jan. 30 (8) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain what use the Honduran Government expects to make of cartridges recently requested.
585
Feb. 3 (28) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information that cartridges are for public sale and will probably reach El Salvador or Guatemala ultimately; suggestion that embargo be continued.
586
Feb. 14 (187) From the Minister in Honduras
Information that munitions imported into Honduras are being smuggled into El Salvador and Guatemala and that Honduran Government is aware of the situation but is granting licenses for public sale in order to reduce its indebtedness; opinion that American embargo is facilitating these conditions.
586
Mar. 20 (117) To the Minister in Honduras
Instructions to inform Honduran Government that pursuant to the President’s proclamation of May 15, 1924, and in accordance with Limitation of Armaments Convention of 1923, the Department will not approve munitions exports to Honduras except for legitimate commercial or governmental purposes.
588
Mar. 27 To Certain Firms Exporting Arms and Ammunition
Advice of Department’s restrictions on arms export to Honduras.
589
Apr. 19 (62) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Inquiry if Department will approve the Honduran Government’s purchase in the United States of a bombing plane for use in insurrection.
590
Apr. 20 (26) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Advice that Department will approve the export license for the plane.
590
Apr. 23 (70) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information that Honduran Government is low on ammunition and, in view of urgent need in the insurrection, desires to borrow from U. S. stocks in Nicaragua.
590
Apr. 24 (28) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Advice that Department considers furnishing ammunition from Nicaragua inadvisable but is referring matter to the War Department.
591
Apr. 25 (73) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Recommendation that export license for Honduran Government’s order from Remington Arms Co. be approved.
591
Apr. 25 (29) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Improbability of Honduran Government’s receiving munitions from official U. S. supplies; inquiry concerning California Arms Co.’s communication with Honduran Legation on sale of munitions.
592
Apr. 27 (77) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Information that Honduran Government has ordered arms from other American firms and will probably not deal with California Arms Co.
592
May 4 (36) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Inquiry as to results of any representations made in compliance with Department’s instruction No. 90, January 22.
592
May 5 (85) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Reply to Department’s No. 36, that discussions with Government officials concerning establishment of constabulary have brought little result and that matter will be taken up again after the insurrection when advantages may be more apparent.
592

HUNGARY

Refusal of the Department of State to Endeavor to Secure Financial Assistance for Hungary

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Undated Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State of a Telephone Conversation With the Hungarian Chargé, July 16, 1931
Concern of the Chargé over suspension of arrangements with American bankers for financial support to Hungary, and his understanding that the Department could aid through the Federal Reserve Bank; Assistant Secretary’s reply that the Department is unwilling and unable to control or participate in banking transactions of this nature.
593
Undated [Rec’d July 17] From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Transmittal of a telegram from the Minister at Budapest (text printed) indicating Hungarian Prime Minister’s concern over financial situation and his request that the Secretary intervene with Briand, as the French Government’s refusal to permit French banks to carry out a recent agreement is holding up American and British credit and will precipitate Hungary’s financial collapse.
594
July 24 (14) To the American Minister in Hungary (tel.)
Information of Hungarian Charge’s request for U. S. intervention with Italy, France, and Great Britain on the 5 million-pound loan and of U. S. refusal to approach either bankers or other governments on any specific loan; instructions to clarify U. S. position to Hungarian Government.
595
Dec. 22 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Hungarian Minister, who said that Hungary had declared a moratorium on the transfer of its foreign loans and submitted an aide-mémoire (printed infra) outlining financial program.
595
Dec. 22 From the Hungarian Legation
Outline of Hungary’s financial program for one year.
596
[Page LXVIII]

IRAQ

Assent by the United States to the Anglo-Iraq Judicial Agreement of March 4, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 22 [E 1920/38/93] From the British Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to the American Ambassador in Great Britain
British desire that the United States agree to substitute for the Agreement of March 25, 1924, the Judicial Agreement of March 4, 1931, which was approved by the Council of the League of Nations in a resolution of January 22 (text printed), and to the latter’s application to U. S. nationals in Iraq in place of the existing regime.
597
Apr. 25 (104) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Advice that Department has unofficial information of League’s approval and of the consent of necessary powers to the recent Anglo-Iraq Judicial Agreement but that consent of the United States has never been requested; instructions to call this to attention of the British Foreign Office.
599
Apr. 27 (122) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information that British Foreign Office considered U. S. consent unnecessary, as the League resolution was adopted prior to effective date of Tripartite Convention of January 9, 1930.
600
May 21 (1967) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Foreign Office note (text printed) inquiring if U. S. decision on the Anglo-Iraq Judicial Agreement could be hastened in order to shorten the period during which U. S. nationals in Iraq will be on a different legal basis from other nationals, and suggesting advantages of the new agreement.
600
June 9 (810) To the Chargé in Great Britain
Instructions to convey informally U. S. difference of views on ineffectiveness of Tripartite Agreement until the exchange of ratifications; also to advise the Foreign Office of U. S. consent to the substitution of the Judicial Agreement and to its application to U. S. nationals.
602
July 3 (200) To the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to disregard first part of Department’s instruction No. 810, June 9, as the Department feels that further discussion is unnecessary.
603
July 9 (2096) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Information that Department’s instruction No. 200 has been complied with and that the matter may be considered closed; Foreign Office note (text printed) acknowledging U. S. consent to application of the judicial agreement and advising that ratifications were exchanged on May 24 and that agreement is in force.
603
[Page LXIX]

IRAQ

Right of American Interests to Equal Opportunity To Bid for Oil Concessions in Iraq

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 22 (103) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information concerning granting of oil concessions in Iraq; instructions to inform the British Foreign Office that, in view of the Tripartite Convention of January 9, 1930, the United States is confident of equal opportunity for American firms, and in the event of other developments would rely on the British Government to intervene for the protection of American treaty rights.
604
May 27 (273) From the Consul at Baghdad
Discussion concerning oil concessions with the Foreign Minister, who promised unofficially that Iraq would soon announce adherence to the open-door policy; information that one American firm has been notified of the Government’s readiness to consider definite offers.
605
June 22 (8) From the Chargé in Iraq (tel.)
Press announcement of June 21 that Iraq Government is prepared to accept applications for oil concessions.
606
June 29 (9) From the Chargé in Iraq (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s confirmation of information in telegram No. 8.
606
July 18 (2122) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Foreign Office note of July 17 (text printed), which gives interpretation of Tripartite Convention and Anglo-Iraq treaty of 1922 as not requiring concessions to be put up for public tender, and refers to Iraq press announcement of June 21 inviting offers on the concessions.
607
Nov. 27 (1011) To the Chargé in Great Britain
Instructions to make informal representations to the Foreign Office concerning interpretation of Tripartite Convention and Anglo-Iraq treaty in order to obviate the possibility of any future misunderstanding.
608
Dec. 22 (17) From the Chargé in Iraq (tel.)
Information that British Oil Development Co. was awarded concession.
610
Dec. 24 (2479) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Foreign Office note (text printed) advising that British Government remains of the opinion expressed in its note of July 17 and considers further discussion of academic rather than practical importance, as U. S. nationals were given reasonable opportunities for competition.
610
[Page LXX]

IRISH FREE STATE

Arrangement Between the United States and the Irish Free State Regarding Reciprocal Recognition of Load Line Certificates, Effected by Exchange of Notes Signed September 21 and November 18, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Sept. 21 (380) From the American Chargé in the Irish Free State to the Minister for External Affairs of the Irish Free State
Acceptance of Irish Free State’s proposal that reciprocal load-line agreement be concluded with the United States pending the coming into force of the International Load Line Convention signed July 5, 1930; specifications; suggestion that upon receipt of Irish Free State’s note of concurrence, the agreement will enter into force.
612
Nov. 18 From the Minister for External Affairs of the Irish Free State to the American Minister in the Irish Free State
Concurrence in U. S. terms and in immediate effectiveness of the agreement.
613

ITALY

Treaty Between the United States and Italy Modifying the Terms of Article II of the Treaty To Advance the Cause of General Peace of May 5, 1914, Signed September 23, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1930 Sept. 30 From the Italian Chargé
Suggestions regarding the wording of the draft treaty providing for alteration of the Treaty for Advancement of Peace, May 5, 1914, so as to make terms of office of the members of the International Commission of indefinite duration.
614
1931 Apr. 16 To the Italian Ambassador
Information that Italian suggestions are in considerable part acceptable to the United States, but that the Secretary does not agree to either party’s withdrawal of its consent to members designated by the two parties jointly; or to the fixing by each party of allowances for its respective appointees.
615
July 21 From the Italian Embassy
Agreement to U. S. views on the fixing of allowances, and suggestion that the United States might accept a provision fixing a time limit for the replacement of the member designated in common and revoked by one party.
616
Aug. 12 To the Italian Ambassador
Agreement in principle to Italian suggestion, with proposal of two alterations in the draft treaty.
617
Sept. 23 Treaty Between the United States of America and Italy
Text of treaty signed at Washington.
618
[Page LXXI]

Agreement Between the United States and Italy Regarding Reciprocal Recognition of Certificates of Inspection of Vessels Assigned to the Transportation of Passengers, Effected by Exchange of Notes, Signed June 1, 1931, and August 5 and 17, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1931 June 1 To the Italian Chargé
Willingness of the United States to accord recognition to unexpired Italian certificates of inspection for passenger vessels, provided reciprocal exemption is given U. S. vessels; suggestion that this note and Italian reply be evidence of agreement.
620
Aug. 5 (Uff.Em. 4608) From the Italian Ambassador
Information of the Italian Government’s assurance of reciprocal recognition of U. S. certificates and of its desire that the agreement (to be made effective in Italy by decree) become effective on August 15.
621
Aug. 17 To the Italian Ambassador
Information that United States accepts August 15 as effective date of the agreement and has made arrangements accordingly; request for copy of Italian decree.
621

Arrangement Between the United States and Italy Regarding Reciprocal Recognition of Load Line Certificates Effected by Exchange of Notes Signed September 8, 1931, and June 1, 1932

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Sept. 8 (F.O.693) From the American Chargé in Italy to the Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs
Notification of U. S. understanding regarding reciprocal recognition of load-line certificates pending the coming into force of the load-line convention, signed July 5, 1930; suggestion that upon receipt of a note expressing concurrence of the Italian Government, the agreement be considered in effect.
622
1932 June 1 From the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the American Embassy in Italy
Note verbale giving Italian Government’s agreement and desire that the State Department be informed.
623

Arrangement Between the United States and Italy Regarding Air Navigation, Effected by Exchange of Notes Signed October 13 and 14, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Oct. 13 To the Italian Chargé
Transmittal of reciprocal arrangement (text printed), agreed upon in previous negotiations, for the admission of civil aircraft, the issuance of pilots’ licenses, and the acceptance of certificates for aircraft and accessories imported as merchandise; suggestion that if the Italian Government concurs, the arrangement become effective October 31.
623
Oct. 14 From the Italian Chargé
Confirmation of understanding as set forth, and of October 31 as effective date of arrangement.
628
[Page LXXII]

Representations to the Italian Government Regarding Unjustified Arrests of American Citizens in Italy

[Page LXXIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 July 25 (118) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister of U. S. concern over the arrest of American citizens; over their long incarceration without the knowledge of U. S. Consuls, and over the instances in which Consuls have been prevented from carrying out their duties specified in the Consular Convention of 1878; also to secure a dismissal of the case pending against Nickola Slavich if possible.
629
July 27 (138) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Information that situation was discussed with the Foreign Office, which gave certain assurances regarding trials, regulations, and permits for consular officers to visit prisoners, and intimated that Slavich case might be dropped, that a communication is being addressed to the Foreign Minister in the sense of Department’s telegram No. 118.
630
July 29 (139) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Information from Naples that there were no other arrests among the passengers arriving with Slavich.
632
July 30 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph C. Green of the Division of Western European Affairs
Notes on the cases of Nickola Slavich, James Tancredi, and Frank Rossi, American citizens arrested and detained in Italy.
632
July 31 (141) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Report of the release of Slavich, and suggestion that it would not now be advisable to send the note prepared in accordance with Department’s instruction No. 118, July 25, as the situation can probably be clarified in conversation with the Foreign Minister.
633
July 31 (120) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Presumption that in the interest of clarity and accuracy and in Ambassador’s discretion, a note verbale might be left with the Foreign Minister covering the points mentioned in the conversation; instructions to report on results of conversation.
634
Aug. 20 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Conversation with the Italian Ambassador, who was vigorously informed that arrest cases of American citizens were becoming too numerous; that the attitude of Italian authorities might result in press stories which would react against Italy.
634
Sept. 1 (164) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Information from the Foreign Minister that Consuls have no rights beyond the limited terms accorded a defense attorney, but that the matter is being discussed anew and errors and abuses would probably be reduced to a minimum in the future.
635
Sept. 4 (133) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Instructions to continue representations until the procedure suggested by the Foreign Minister is established, stressing that the United States will be satisfied only with recognition of the right of a Consul to see an American citizen alone within 24 hours after his detention.
636
1931 Sept. 10 (172) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Compliance with instructions in Department’s telegram No. 133; information that Ministries concerned have reviewed the procedure of detention and arrest of foreigners but no final report has been sent to Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
636

Representations by the Italian Ambassador Regarding Newspaper Attacks in the United States Against the Italian Government

Date and number Subject Page
1930 Dec. 18 From the Italian Ambassador
Request that measures be taken to stop criminal propaganda such as contained in an article published in Il Martello, November 29 (text printed).
637
1931 Mar. 18 To the Italian Ambassador
Letter from Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt of New York (excerpt printed) stating that the article in Il Martello would not be subject to such interpretation as would warrant legal action under New York State law. Information also that the Postmaster General is investigating the matter.
638
Apr. 24 From the Postmaster General
Information that prosecution of the publishers of Il Martello does not appear to be warranted under U. S. Code.
639
June 11 To the Italian Ambassador
Information from the Department of Justice that there does not appear to be any action which can be taken against Il Martello under U. S. laws.
639
June 16 From the Italian Ambassador
Acknowledgment of Department’s note of June 11 and citation to an anti-Mussolini statement of June 6 (text printed) published in Il Martello.
639
July 2 To the Italian Ambassador
Acknowledgment of Italian note of June 16, and advice that under freedom of the press it is difficult to initiate judicial proceedings in such cases.
640

Expression of Regret by the American Government for Remarks of Major General Smedley Butler Regarding the Prime Minister of Italy

[Page LXXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 27 To the Secretary of the Navy
Quotation of a telegram (text printed) received by the Italian Ambassador from Prime Minister Mussolini demanding public reparation for uncomplimentary remarks made by Major General Smedley Butler.
640
Jan. 29 Press Release Issued by the Department of State
Announcement that a note (text printed) has been sent to the Italian Ambassador expressing regret for the unauthorized remarks of Major General Butler.
641
Jan. 30 From the Italian Premier to the Italian Ambassador in the United States (tel.)
Instructions to communicate the Premier’s satisfaction at U. S. attitude and to inform press of Italian acknowledgment.
(Footnote: English text received by the Secretary on January 30.)
641
Feb. 1 (8) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Report that papers state that Italy is completely satisfied over handling of the Butler incident and considers it closed.
642
Feb. 2 From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Conversation with the Foreign Minister, who inquired as to Department’s attitude toward a request by Mussolini for grace in the Butler incident.
642
Feb. 3 (17) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Advice that international aspects of Butler incident no longer exist and that Mussolini’s request is inappropriate.
642

Visit of Dino Grandi, Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs, to the United States, November 16–27, 1931

[Page LXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Oct. 3 (631) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
From the Ambassador to Italy: Information that Foreign Minister Grandi desires to visit the United States and would appreciate public invitation being made in certain terms (text printed); recommendation that invitation be extended.
643
Oct. 5 (476) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Authorization to advise Grandi that on definite assurance of his acceptance he will receive a written invitation; transmittal of suggested wording of the latter and of statement for the press (texts printed).
644
Oct. 10 (204) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Grandi’s acceptance of invitation (text printed).
645
Nov. 17 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a Conversation With the Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs
Discussion of world problems, in which Grandi set forth Italian attitude on disarmament, debts and reparations, the Polish Corridor, revision of treaties, the situation in Germany, and Russia’s place in world trade.
645
Nov. 19 Joint Statement by the Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Secretary of State
Announcement of discussions of various world problems to the clarification of points of mutual interest and establishment of sympathetic understanding of these problems.
648
Dec. 10 (235) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Transmittal of speech to be made by Grandi before the Senate emphasizing that the purpose of his visit to United States was to promote general welfare and mutual understanding and Italy’s desire to cooperate in restoring confidence and prosperity to the world.
649
Dec. 11 (161) To the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Appreciation of Grandi’s courtesy in advancing a copy of his speech and in his generous remarks.
650

LIBERIA

Proposed International Committee of Control in Liberia and Continued Nonrecognition of the Barclay Administration

[Page LXXVI][Page LXXVII][Page LXXVIII][Page LXXIX][Page LXXX]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 2 (2) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Information that Liberian Consul General called at the Department and was informed that, in view of conditions disclosed by the International Commission of Inquiry, the U. S. Government had no interest in partial reforms or in measures falling short of compliance with adequate enforcement provisions.
651
Jan. 2 (1) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Promise of Acting President Barclay to submit a declaration of Liberia’s intentions in regard to acceptance in full of Commission’s report.
651
Jan. 6 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs of a Conversation Between the Secretary of State and the British Ambassador
Secretary’s opinion that some sort of international endeavor such as suggested by the British Ambassador in December 1930 would seem satisfactory.
652
Jan. 6 (2) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Receipt of declaration (text printed) referred to in telegram No. 1, January 2; comment that it hardly seems to fulfill conditions imposed.
653
Jan. 6 (2) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Views of Sottile, Liberian representative at Geneva, respecting the status of relations between United States and Liberia.
654
Jan. 10 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs
Conversation with British Ambassador concerning his Government’s hope that Liberia would request action by the League Council to carry out Commission’s recommendations. Indication that United States would have no objection to such a request but could not urge it upon Liberia.
655
Jan. 12 (6) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
U. S. inability to consider a proposal by Sottile that Liberia request U. S. financial assistance. Instructions regarding U. S. nonobjection to a Liberian request for advice and assistance from the League Council to carry out Commission’s recommendations.
656
Jan. 14 (9) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Liberian communication to League (text printed) setting forth acceptance in principle of the Commission’s recommendations.
656
Jan. 15 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs of a Conversation With the British Ambassador, January 14, 1931
British Government’s contemplated suggestion to Liberian Government that it ask the League for an international commission of control to take over the country; also that it request a loan from the League.
657
Jan. 16 (9) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Inquiry concerning instructions contained in Department’s telegram No. 6, January 12.
659
Jan. 16 (20) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
British Embassy’s receipt of instructions from London to support any U. S. representations to French Government for cooperation in Liberian slavery situation.
659
Jan. 16 (11) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Substance of conversation between Assistant Secretary of State and Ambassadors of France, Germany, Italy, and Japan indicating U. S. policy of nonobjection to a Liberian request for international control.
659
Jan. 17 (12) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Reply to Chargé’s inquiry in his telegram No. 9, January 16.
660
Jan. 20 (11) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Substance of formal letter from Sottile to the League denying rumors of alleged Liberian reprisals against witnesses who had testified before the Commission.
660
Jan. 21 (11) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Representations to Acting President Barclay by the Chargé and his British and German colleagues regarding the partial and unsatisfactory nature of Liberia’s program for compliance with Commission’s recommendations.
661
Jan. 22 (12) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Expectation that Barclay will request League’s aid but will not include a request for a control commission.
662
Jan. 22 (15) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report on League Council’s consideration of the Liberian question at morning session (decisions being adjourned to a later date).
663
Jan. 23 (16) From the British Ambassador
Information of British Government’s expression of displeasure to Liberian Government over the small measure of support accorded to Dr. Smith as Chief Medical Adviser to Liberia.
665
Jan. 23 (19) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Significant portions of probable report by the rapporteur to the Council suggesting ratification by Liberia of the 1930 Convention on Forced Labor and designation of a small interim committee to study questions of administrative and financial assistance necessary to carry out reforms.
666
Jan. 23 (14) From the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Liberian identic memoranda (text printed) handed to U. S., British, and German representatives stating Liberia’s decision to apply to League Council for advisers in various spheres of administration.
667
Jan. 24 (21) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Council’s adoption of report summarized in telegram No. 19, January 23.
668
Jan. 26 (16) To the Chargé in Liberia (tel.)
Notification of Council’s appointment of the interim committee to study questions of administrative and financial assistance.
669
Jan. 31 (18) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Council’s invitation to United States to participate in meetings of the interim committee (text printed).
669
Feb. 2 (16) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
U. S. acceptance of invitation (text printed), and appointment of Samuel Reber, Jr., Chargé in Liberia, as representative on the committee.
671
Feb. 13 (22) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Receipt from League of notification (for Reber) of convocation of the Liberian committee at London, February 26.
671
Feb. 14 (31) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Liberia’s ratification of the 1930 Convention on Forced Labor.
672
Feb. 15 (22) From the Vice Consul at Monrovia (tel.)
Departure of Attorney General Grimes to collaborate with Sottile at Geneva on slavery matters.
672
Feb. 20 (24) To the Vice Consul at Monrovia (tel.)
Instructions for the Minister, upon his arrival in Monrovia, not to present his credentials at this time, and to maintain relations with Liberian administration on informal basis.
(Footnote: Information that the Minister, Charles E. Mitchell, assumed chargé of Legation on February 22.)
672
Feb. 24 (53) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Reber: Postponement of meeting of committee until February 27. Indications that League Secretariat wishes to send two experts to Liberia to make study and report to Liberian committee; unfavorable attitude of Reber toward this plan, and request for instructions.
673
Feb. 25 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State of a Conversation With the French Counselor of Embassy, February 24, 1931
French Government’s desire that it be understood in League discussions that what was being done was at request of Liberia.
674
Feb. 25 (47) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
For Reber: Desire not to make a decision, in advance of the committee meeting in London, either for or against sending further investigators to Liberia.
674
Feb. 27 (55) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Reber: Meeting of the committee, at which consideration was given to question of sending experts to Liberia to make detailed study; adjournment until March 2 for drafting of proposed instructions to experts.
675
Feb. 28 (56) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Reber: Substance of the draft instructions to experts, as determined by informal discussions.
676
Feb. 28 (57) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Reber: Liberian committee’s inquiry, for transmittal to Finance Corporation, if loan funds can be made available to a health officer in Monrovia.
677
Feb. 28 (53) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
For Reber: Transmittal of message to Finance Corporation; U. S. belief that Liberian Government should itself arrange for the requisite funds for a health officer in Monrovia.
678
Feb. 28 (54) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
For Reber: Information that United States would raise no objection to the sending of further expert investigators to Liberia, although it had hoped the data available to the committee would be sufficient.
678
Mar. 2 Memorandum by Mr. Ellis O. Briggs of the Division of Western European Affairs
Trans-Atlantic telephone conversation between Mr. Reber in London and Mr. Marriner in Washington regarding the proposed sending of further experts to Liberia.
679
Mar. 3 (59) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Reber: Liberian committee’s acceptance in principle of the draft instructions to experts as outlined in telegram No. 56, February 28.
679
Mar. 4 (61) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Reber: Committee’s approval of instructions to experts and resolutions as to immediate sanitary measures.
680
Mar. 11 (70) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Reber: Expected arrival in Monrovia of Dr. Howells, British health officer, about March 12; receipt of further queries as to funds.
681
Mar. 19 (75) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Finance Corporation’s assertion that no request for funds for sanitation has been received from Liberian Government.
681
Mar. 30 (54) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of information and viewpoint conveyed to the Consul by League officials; request for instructions on attitude to be assumed if again approached by them respecting Liberia.
681
Apr. 10 (35) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Opinion that it would not be desirable for Consul to discuss Liberian matter with League officials; instructions as to reply to be made if again approached.
683
May 2 (33) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to telegraph summary of political situation following Liberian elections, with recommendations as to desirability of presenting credentials.
683
May 6 (36) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Report that incomplete returns indicate election of Edwin Barclay to the Presidency; belief that presentation of credentials would be desirable.
683
May 8 (55) From the Chargé in Switzerland (tel.)
Intention of the League to put before the Council the report on the work so far accomplished by the Liberian Committee; League’s desire to be informed in case United States wishes to arrange participation in Council meeting.
684
May 8 (52) To the Chargé in Switzerland (tel.)
Desire to be informed by League of any further meeting of the Liberian Committee sufficiently ahead of time if possible to enable an American representative to be present.
685
May 21 (72) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Résumé of the League Council’s consideration of report of the Liberian Committee.
685
May 26 (45) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Election of Edwin Barclay as President of Liberia and James S. Smith as Vice President, inauguration to be January 4, 1932.
687
May 29 (41) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to continue relations with the present Liberian administration on an informal basis.
687
June 8 (44) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions for guidance in relations with the experts soon to arrive.
687
July 14 (80) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Instructions to convey informally to Drummond (Secretary General of League) that U. S. Government is in sympathy with what it understands the experts are endeavoring to accomplish in the nature of reforms.
688
July 24 (59) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Information that experts are leaving July 26, having completed investigation.
689
Aug. 14 (100) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Enumeration of chief points contained in a communication from Sottile to Drummond indicating probable position of Liberian Government when matter comes before next meeting of Liberian Committee or Council.
690
Aug. 17 (106) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Improbability that experts’ report can be transmitted to interested countries in time to permit the Liberian Committee to meet and submit recommendations to the forthcoming session of the Council.
691
Aug. 19 (92) To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Concern over delay in consideration of experts’ report; inquiry if fixing of date of Committee meeting is imminent.
692
Aug. 20 (108) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Information that United States will be consulted as to meeting date for Committee; that the hope is for a date toward end of September.
692
Oct. 3 (79) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
President Barclay’s inquiry as to U. S. willingness to receive a special envoy from Liberia to ascertain terms upon which Liberia may obtain formal recognition from United States.
693
Oct. 6 (52) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Belief that no useful purpose would be served by visit of a special envoy prior to next meeting of the Liberian Committee.
694
Oct. 16 (139) To the Chargé in Switzerland (tel.)
Communication from Reber to Under Secretary General of the League (text printed) expressing U. S. concurrence in proposal for meeting of Committee in January, prior to next session of the Council.
694
Oct. 31 (104) From the Minister in Liberia
Further indications of Liberian Government’s desire for formal recognition by U. S. Government.
694
Nov. 24 (113) From the Minister in Liberia
Receipt of the experts’ report.
695
Dec. 9 (86) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Report of appeal from a council of native chieftains to the League (through U. S. and British Legations) for protection against the administration’s alleged inhuman treatment.
696
Dec. 12 (167) To the Chargé in Switzerland (tel.)
Message for Drummond (text printed) indicating that American member of the Liberian Committee is prepared to participate in the Committee’s meeting in January.
697
Dec. 17 (57) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Receipt of information through Consul at Geneva of Liberian efforts to have meeting of Committee postponed until April 1932; Department’s reply to Consul (text printed) giving opinion that postponement would be most unfortunate.
697
Dec. 18 (88) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Information that new administration will take office on January 4.
698
Dec. 21 (58) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Receipt of information from Consul at Geneva that League Secretariat still plans to hold meeting of Committee in January.
698
Dec. 21 (59) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions not to participate in inaugural ceremonies, in view of U. S. nonrecognition of the Barclay Administration.
699
[Page LXXXI]

MEXICO

American Assistance Following Destruction of Towns in Central and Southern Mexico by Earthquake of January 14, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 15 From the Consul General at Mexico City (tel.)
Report of earthquake over wide area; belief that no American citizens were hurt.
700
Jan. 19 From the Acting National Director of Insular and Foreign Operations, American Red Cross
Allotment of $5,000 for relief of earthquake sufferers, and request that Department transmit the money to the Mexican Red Cross through the American Ambassador.
700
Jan. 19 (24) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Suggestion that Department may wish to send message of sympathy to Mexican Government, in view of the number of deaths (over 200).
700
Jan. 19 (21) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions for delivery of the $5,000 from American Red Cross.
701
Jan. 20 From President Hoover to the President of Mexico (tel.)
Message of sympathy to the Mexican people.
701
Jan. 21 From the President of Mexico to President Hoover (tel.)
Appreciation for message of sympathy.
701
Feb. 21 (211) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Transmittal to the Foreign Office of two contributions raised by Consul Richard F. Boyce, of Nuevo Laredo, for the earthquake sufferers; receipt of note of appreciation from Mexican Government for Boyee’s action.
702

Representations Against Action of Military Prosecutor in Summoning American Consular Officer To Give Testimony Without Affording Him Opportunity To Consult American Government

[Page LXXXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1930 Nov. 8 (114) From the Vice Consul at Guaymas
Receipt of an order to appear before the Military Prosecutor in connection with an investigation being made of alleged activities of General Pascual Gónzalez during insurrection of 1929; account of appearance and testimony given.
702
Dec. 4 (7) To the Ambassador in Mexico
Instructions to bring to attention of the Foreign Office the Department’s disagreement with the procedure followed by the Military Prosecutor in summoning the American consular officer to give testimony without allowing time for consulting his Government.
704
Dec. 22 (67) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Request for instructions as to exact representations to be made.
704
1931 Jan. 27 (79) To the Ambassador in Mexico
Transmittal of exact form of representations to be made (text printed).
705
Apr. 30 (389) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Foreign Office reply to U. S. representations (text printed), expressing view, with reference to the Prosecutor’s order to Vice Consul to testify in this case, that compliance with such a request is optional.
706

Shooting of Manuel García Gómez and Emilio Cortéz Rubio, Mexican Citizens, at Ardmore, Oklahoma, by Deputy Sheriffs

[Page LXXXIII][Page LXXXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 June 8 (02373) From the Mexican Chargé
Report of the fatal shooting of two Mexican students by a traffic policeman at Ardmore, Oklahoma; request for Department’s influence with appropriate authorities toward an early investigation to determine responsibilities in the case.
708
June 8 To the Governor of Oklahoma (tel.)
Request that, in view of possible international complications, a minute investigation be made and results telegraphed to the Department.
708
June 8 From the Governor of Oklahoma (tel.)
Information that complete investigation has been ordered, and that the bodies will be prepared for shipment to Mexico at State’s expense.
709
June 8 (164) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Message from President Hoover for transmittal to President of Mexico (text printed) expressing regret over the killing of the two students.
709
June 8 (184) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Visit to the President and Foreign Minister, transmitting President Hoover’s telegram and expressing regrets of the Department and the Ambassador.
709
June 8 From the Governor of Oklahoma
Letter sent to the Mexican Consul at Oklahoma City (text printed), expressing regret over the occurrence.
709
June 9 From the Governor of Oklahoma (tel.)
Details of initiation of the investigation and of arrangements for Colonel Clowe to accompany the bodies to Mexico City.
711
June 9 (186) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Message from President Ortiz Rubio (text printed) expressing appreciation for President Hoover’s message.
711
June 9 To the Mexican Chargé
Expression of regret over deplorable incident, and assurance that results of investigation will be communicated as soon as possible.
711
June 10 (188) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Advice from Foreign Office, in reply to oral inquiry, that it would be advisable for Colonel Clowe to accompany the bodies only to the border, in view of possibility of hostile demonstration against United States upon arrival of bodies in Morelia.
712
June 10 From the Governor of Oklahoma (tel.)
Report of detailed arrangements to alleviate the strained relations between the two countries.
712
June 11 (188) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Report that the press has treated the killings with forbearance and moderation, although the occurrence has caused considerable ill feeling against the United States.
713
June 13 (12) From the Consul at Nuevo Laredo
Detailed account of the transport of the bodies across the border, with no demonstrations either at Laredo, Texas, or Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.
713
June 15 To the Governor of Oklahoma
Appreciation for the Governor’s prompt action in arranging for investigation.
715
June 18 (02502) From the Mexican Chargé
Gratitude of the relatives of the two students for courtesies extended by President Hoover, the Department, and the Governor of Oklahoma.
715
June 23 (213) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Visit from Salvador Cortés Rubio (eyewitness to the tragedy) and his father concerning the former’s returning to Oklahoma to testify at the trial of the deputy sheriffs and the expenses of the trip.
716
June 24 To the Mexican Chargé
Reply, to Mexican request for continuation of the investigation, that Oklahoma authorities are proceeding with all due dispatch required by law.
716
June 25 (183) To the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Information from Governor of Oklahoma that expenses of Salvador Cortés Rubio (as a witness at the trial) would be fully taken care of.
717
June 30 (219) From the Ambassador in Mexico (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s statement to the press (text printed) indicating that Mexican Government is awaiting an investigation by U. S. Federal authorities, following acquittal by the jury in Ardmore of the deputy sheriff on the chargé of murdering Emilio Cortes Rubio.
717
Aug. 8 To the Mexican Chargé
Résumé of all facts in case, gathered from study of stenographic reports of the trial of Deputy Sheriff Guess and other documentation; advice that trial of Deputy Sheriffs Guess and Crosby will take place in early fall.
718
Nov. 20 (04374) From the Mexican Ambassador
Mexican Government’s representations based on U. S. responsibility in the case, and alleged negligence thus far in securing punishment of the police officers involved.
(Footnote: Information that the second trial was in progress at this time; that on November 22 the jury acquitted the defendants.)
723
Nov. 30 To the Mexican Ambassador
Acknowledgment of Ambassador’s note of November 20.
(Note: U. S. provision of $30,000, by Act of Congress February 25, 1933, for the families of Gómez and Rubio ($15,000 each), “as an act of grace …”)
725

Representations by the Government of Mexico Against the Arrest and Sentence of Mexican Vice Consul at Chicago for Contempt of Court

Date and number Subject Page
1931 July 7 To the Governor of Illinois (tel.)
Request that investigation be made of reported arrest of Mexican Consul at Chicago and that steps be taken to effect his release.
726
July 7 From the Governor of Illinois (tel.)
Advice that an immediate investigation is being made.
727
July 8 From the Mexican Ambassador
Protest against the action of Judge Thomas Green in arrest and sentence of Vice Consul Domínguez.
727
July 9 From the Governor of Illinois (tel.)
Statement issued by Judge Green (text printed) that he has entered an order expunging the order of July 7 which held Domínguez in contempt of court.
728
July 10 To the Mexican Ambassador
Advice that the action against Domínguez is definitely terminated.
729

Suit in the Supreme Court of the State of New York Involving the Interests of the Mexican Government

[Page LXXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 16 From the Mexican Ambassador
Position of the Mexican Government, in connection with action brought in Supreme Court of New York against Thomas W. Lamont and others and the United Mexican States, that Mexico as a sovereign country does not recognize the jurisdiction of any foreign court in affairs concerning the nation.
729
Apr. 27 To the Governor of New York
Request that appropriate action be taken to effect dismissal of the suit against the Mexican Government.
730
Apr. 27 To the Mexican Ambassador
Advice concerning Department’s communication to the Governor of New York.
730
May 15 From the Acting Governor of New York
Communication from the Attorney General of the State of New York (text printed) pointing out the court’s right to adjudicate as to property within its jurisdiction and as to the parties before it, without action being binding on the Mexican Government but with certain results as to the fund or property involved.
731
June 26 (02628) From the Mexican Ambassador
Understanding that the defendants have appealed the decision of Justice Valente with respect to funds involved in the suit, and request that at the time appeal is heard the court be informed (1) that Government of Mexico declines to appear in the suit, and (2) that the funds involved are the property of the Government of Mexico and therefore not subject to seizure.
732
June 29 To the Attorney General
Desire that the appropriate United States attorney be instructed to appear before the Appellate Division of the court and present the position of the Mexican Government as indicated in Mexican Ambassador’s note of June 26.
733
June 29 To the Mexican Ambassador Advice of Department’s request to the Attorney General. 735
July 1 From the Attorney General
Compliance with Department’s request of June 29.
736
July 15 From the Attorney General
Decision of the Appellate Division (text printed) reversing the order of the Lower Court.
736

MOROCCO

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

[Page LXXXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1930 Jan. 17 From the American Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier to the French Resident General in Morocco
Protest against application of a Vizirial Decree dated July 6, 1929, which would prohibit, as from January 23, 1930, the importation or sale of imported canned foods into the French Zone unless name of country of origin is stamped on the metal containers. Reminder also that such measures cannot legally be enforced on American nationals until assent of U. S. Government is secured.
737
Feb. 21 From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Information that enforcement of decree of July 6, 1929, has been postponed for 6 months.
739
Mar. 5 From the American Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier to the. French Resident General in Morocco
Suggestion that a formal request be made for U. S. Government’s assent to each and all of legislative measures to which U. S. adhesion is desired.
739
Apr. 29 (594) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Instructions to maintain for the present the position taken with regard to application of decrees to American ressortissants.
740
May 8 (596) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
U. S. consent, with reservations, to the application to American nationals of a dahir or patente tax, dated December 12, 1929.
741
Dec. 10 (569) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Observations on discriminations involved in certain dahirs decreeing new and increased consumption taxes on petroleum products, frozen meats, and edible oils; recommendations as to representations to be made.
742
Dec. 12 (574) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Opinion concerning a decree dated June 24, 1930, purporting to eliminate objectionable requirement of the decree of July 6, 1929, relative to importation of canned foods.
744
1931 Jan. 28 (587) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Note from the Consul at Casablanca (text printed) pointing out discriminatory features of a dahir in the matter of taxation on petroleum products.
745
Mar. 5 (625) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Department’s position that objection to dahir dated December 28, 1930, should be based on the protective feature of the tax on frozen meat.
746
Oct. 26 (656) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Request from French Resident General for application to American nationals of dahirs concerning requisition for military purposes of motor vehicles, animals, and animal-drawn vehicles. Suggestion that Department not give its assent, but indicate its willingness to consider temporary compliance in an exceptional situation.
747
Dec. 8 (668) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Instructions to address note to French Resident General in accordance with suggestion in despatch No. 656, October 26.
749

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

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 21 (268) From the Ambassador in Spain
Aide-mémoire left at the Foreign Office (text printed) stating U. S. willingness to submit claim of Dris-El-Quettani to legal determination in a competent court; memorandum (text printed) of interview with Foreign Office official.
750
Oct. 22 89/14 From the Spanish Chargé
Spanish Government’s request for U. S. consent to the application to American nationals in Spanish Zone of certain new urban tax levy regulations.
752
Nov. 28 To the Spanish Chargé
Advice that Department is unable to give consideration to Spanish Government’s request pending U. S. recognition of the Spanish Zone in Morocco; that such recognition is contingent upon settlement of American claims in the Spanish Zone.
(Footnote: No further developments until 1934.)
753
[Page LXXXVII]

Representations Regarding American Rights With Respect to Concession by the Tangier Administration in Morocco

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 7 (628) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Outline of U. S. position with regard to the electric light concession in Tangier, for informal and confidential communication to the Foreign Office.
753
Feb. 5 (1635) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Informal note from the Foreign Office (text printed) stating that British Government would be glad to get U. S. support in safeguarding the principle involved, and suggesting possible U. S. notification to Shereefian Government of agreement to the concession as an exception, instead of a protest against its grant without adjudication.
755
Mar. 12 (708) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Department’s willingness, in view of practical considerations involved, to accept grant of the concession as an exception; suggestion of possible procedure for notifying the Shereefian Government.
756
Mar. 30 (W3334/24/28) From the Head of the League of Nations and Western Department of the British Foreign Office to the American First Secretary of Embassy in Great Britain
Motion adopted by the Committee of Control (text printed) indicating its position respecting the electricity concession.
757
Apr. 2 (599) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Efforts of Committee of Control to induce French Resident General to request U. S. assent to an exceptional derogation of the principle of public adjudication, in respect of the concession in question.
758
Apr. 30 (635) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Authorization to assent to exceptional derogation if the Protectorate authorities request it.
758
July 13 From the American Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier to the French Resident General in Morocco
Acknowledgment of Resident General’s notes expressing the hope that U. S. Government will withdraw its opposition in the premises; promise to recommend favorable action, upon receipt of request in the customary form.
(Footnote: Notification, July 29, of U. S. assent in accordance with instruction No. 635, April 30.)
759

Attempt by the Tangier Mixed Tribunal To Assume Jurisdiction Over Alien Employees of the American Diplomatic Agency

[Page LXXXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1930 Oct. 8 (551) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Résumé of incident of two employees of the Diplomatic Agency (British subjects) being cited to appear before the Tangier Mixed Tribunal; notification to the Tangier Administration, based on U. S. position taken in the Scott case (1872), that the employees are under jurisdiction of U. S. Consular Court. Letter to British Consul General at Tangier (text printed) summarizing the situation.
Information that Tangier Administration appears disposed to question position taken by United States in the Scott case, and request for instructions.
759
1931 June 6 (641) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Approval of action taken; statement that Department’s position on jurisdiction over alien employees of U. S. Diplomatic Agency is set forth in its note of April 5, 1872, to the British Minister (text printed).
766
Oct. 2 (652) From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Exchange of unofficial communications with the British Consul in Charge (texts printed) concerning the British position; comments on possible eventual policy of the French authorities in French Zone.
768

NETHERLANDS

Arrangement Between the United States and the Netherlands Regarding Reciprocal Free Entry Privileges for Consular Officers

[Page LXXXIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1930 Mar. 25 (40) To the Minister in the Netherlands
Instructions to communicate with the Foreign Office with a view to arranging for reciprocal free entry privileges for consular officers.
771
June 23 (205) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Note addressed to the Foreign Minister, April 7 (text printed), in accordance with Department’s instructions, and reply dated June 17 (text printed) indicating Netherlands acceptance of U. S. proposal with understanding that gold and silver articles imported by Dutch consular officers will be exempt from excise tax.
772
Aug. 20 To the Netherlands Chargé
Advice that no excise tax is assessed on gold and silver articles imported for personal or family use; that Department will proceed with arrangements for the free importation privileges in question.
774
Aug. 20 (87) To the Minister in the Netherlands
Instructions to advise Foreign Office of U. S. intentions to proceed with arrangements as indicated in Department’s note to the Netherlands Chargé.
774
Sept. 23 (325) From the Chargé in the Netherlands
Note of September 19 (text printed) extending free importation privileges on a reciprocal basis, with assumption that exemption from excise taxes to Dutch consular officers would be granted.
775
1931 Mar. 19 (151) To the Chargé in the Netherlands
Treasury Department’s position that exemption from excise taxes cannot be included in the free entry privileges, in the absence of appropriate treaty provisions. Instructions to convey this to Netherlands authorities, together with the understanding that as a matter of practice, however, excise taxes are not levied on goods imported free of duty by foreign consular officers.
777
May 19 (1645) From the Netherlands Legation
Inquiry as to the possibility of concluding a reciprocal arrangement for exemption of consular officers from the excise taxes in question.
778
June 30 To the Netherlands Legation
Department’s willingness to take up the matter with the Treasury Department should it develop that consuls of the Netherlands are required to pay excise taxes.
778

NICARAGUA

American Assistance Following the Destruction of Managua by the Earthquake of March 31, 1931

[Page XC][Page XCI][Page XCII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Mar. 31 (24) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Request for report on earthquake announced in the press.
780
Undated [Rec’d Mar. 31] (67) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Radio report of Managua’s destruction by earthquake. Information of U. S. naval vessels nearby.
780
Mar. 31 From President Hoover to the President of Nicaragua (tel.)
Expression of sympathy to the President and people of Nicaragua.
780
Mar. 31 To the President of Nicaragua (tel.)
Expression of sympathy.
781
Mar. 31 To the Nicaraguan Minister for Foreign Affairs (tel.)
Expression of sympathy.
781
Undated [Rec’d Mar. 31] From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that Legation personnel is safe, but Legation badly damaged; request for American Red Cross assistance.
(Footnote: Absence of the Minister and his wife in Guatemala City on March 31; their return to Managua on following morning.)
781
Mar. 31 (25) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
For the Minister: Meeting of representatives of Red Cross, State, War, and Navy Departments to initiate American relief measures; decision that Minister should take chargé of coordinating measures pending arrival in Managua of Ernest J. Swift, of the Red Cross; instructions to draw a preliminary grant of $10,000 by Red Cross.
781
Mar. 31 From the President of Nicaragua (tel.)
Gratitude for expressions of condolence.
782
Undated [Rec’d Mar. 31] From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report on excellent relief work of Brigade Commander; no reported casualties among U. S. civilians.
782
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 1] From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that $10,000 will not begin to give adequate relief.
783
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 1] From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report that Legation is in flames and all archives lost.
783
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 1] From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Names of three casualties among military personnel.
783
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 2] From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report on various phases of the emergency situation, including water problem, sanitary work, and evacuation of wounded to other cities.
783
Apr. 1 (27) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that Mr. Swift will make recommendations with respect to requirements for relief funds beyond the $10,000 already advanced by Red Cross.
784
Apr. 1 (56) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Advice that Naval Attaché Geyer has been sent to Managua to assist relief work.
784
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 1] From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report on coordination of relief activities pending arrival of Mr. Swift.
785
Apr. 1 From the President of the Pan American Airways, Inc. (tel.)
Offer of all available aircraft to assist in relief work.
785
Apr. 1 To the President of the Pan American Airways, Inc. (tel.)
Appreciation of company’s fine cooperation.
786
Apr. 1 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs
Second meeting of representatives of Red Cross, State, War and Navy Departments at which reports were made of relief measures already taken.
786
Apr. 1 From the President of Nicaragua to President Hoover
Gratitude for expressions of sympathy.
787
Apr. 2 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report of fires still burning, lack of water and high winds making control difficult; further evacuation of wounded; feeding of refugees; arrangements for vaccination against disease. Praise for work of Marines and Guardia.
788
Apr. 2 (36) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that Marines due to leave Managua on April 3 will be retained in Nicaragua for the present.
788
Apr. 2 (42) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that International General Electric Co. is sending F. J. Gianotti, its representative at Panama, to Managua to tender his expert services in rehabilitation of light and power facilities.
789
Apr. 3 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President Moncada’s expression of gratitude to the Red Cross for its expression of sympathy.
789
Apr. 3 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Arrival of Mr. Swift; appointment of central and local relief committees; comments on general situation.
789
Apr. 4 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Assertion that reports of bandit activity connected with the catastrophe are totally unfounded.
790
Apr. 4 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Expression of gratitude from the city of Granada for assistance of American forces in the disaster.
791
Apr. 4 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that airplanes of the Pan American Airways have rendered great service in evacuating American families to Corinto for embarkation.
791
Apr. 4 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Continued exodus from Managua; reports of favorable progress in various phases of relief, and turning of attention toward problem of restoring normal conditions.
791
Apr. 5 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Outline of relief organization, including specific responsibilities and activities of the various committees, the Marines, the Guardia, and other groups.
792
Apr. 5 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Appreciation for action of Commanding General, Canal Zone, in issuing Army subsistence stores without chargé to Navy transport for Nicaraguan relief, as supplies were urgently needed without delay.
794
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 6] From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Commendation from Major Mitchell, commanding aircraft forces of Marine Brigade, for cooperation of Pan American Airways planes, mentioning specially the splendid work of certain individuals.
794
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 6] From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report of work of the committee in chargé of sanitation of Managua.
795
Apr. 6 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Progress in restoring water system, organizing food distribution, providing shelter before the rainy season, and fire control.
795
Apr. 6 From the Nicaraguan Minister
Expression of gratitude to the United States, including President Hoover, Departments of State, War, and Navy, and American Red Cross.
796
Apr. 7 To the President of the Pan American Airways, Inc.
Transmittal of texts of the telegrams of April 4 and 6 from the Minister in Nicaragua concerning the great assistance rendered by Pan American Airways; expression also of Department’s appreciation.
796
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 7] From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that relief measures continue satisfactorily and that efforts of Central Relief Committee are being concentrated on restoring normal living and commercial conditions.
796
Apr. 10 (1) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that President Moncada and certain Government offices will remain in Managua, while remaining offices will be established temporarily in Masaya.
797
Apr. 10 (2) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Debt of gratitude owed to Will Rogers by entire community for his visit, which brought cheer and hope to everyone.
797
Apr. 10 (3) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
For the Red Cross from Swift: Belief that $100,000 is a reasonable contribution for the Red Cross, in view of abnormal difficulties of the situation, particularly the urgent need for providing employment and shelter.
798
Apr. 10 (4) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Hope that Department will support and stimulate efforts to obtain financial assistance for Central Relief Committee and Government of Nicaragua, because of urgent need for employment and reconstruction.
798
Apr. 11 (69) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Message for Swift from McClintock of the American Red Cross (text printed) authorizing expenditure of $100,000 as requested.
799
Apr. 14 (10) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Telegram sent to U. S. Legations in Central America (text printed) declaring that reports concerning many persons having been killed for looting after the earthquake are grossly exaggerated.
799
Apr. 15 (16) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Message for McClintock expressing appreciation for the relief work done by Swift.
800
Apr. 15 (21) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Expression of admiration for wonderful work performed by U. S. military organizations in Nicaragua and by the Guardia Nacional, with special mention of various individuals.
800
May 13 (160) From the British Ambassador
Appreciation of British Government for assistance of U. S. Marines in protecting lives and property of British subjects.
801
June 18 (404) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Communication to President Moncada, June 11 (text printed), concerning work of Central Relief Committee of the American Red Cross and its plans for the near future; Moncada’s reply, June 18 (text printed), setting forth his gratitude for relief work being done by American Red Cross, and containing message of appreciation to Government of the United States.
802
[Page XCIII]

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

[Page XCIV][Page XCV][Page XCVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 13 From the Vice Consul at Bluefields (tel.)
Flare-up of bandit activities at Logtown, 60 miles from Puerto Cabezas; preparations of Guardia to protect Puerto Cabezas, and expected arrival of two U. S. naval vessels at that port.
805
Apr. 14 (14) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that Foreign Minister reports a tender of good offices from the Presidents of Guatemala and El Salvador in the restoration of order in Nicaragua, provided U. S. Government is in accord.
805
Apr. 14 (76) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that Commander of the Asheville has been instructed to land forces at Puerto Cabezas to protect Americans until a Guardia detachment can take over the situation.
806
Apr. 16 (80) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Inquiry as to whether any plans are contemplated for transporting reenforcements from Managua to the east coast, as bandits appear to be making their way eastward.
807
Apr. 16 (81) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to advise American citizens that U. S. Government cannot undertake general protection of Americans throughout Nicaragua with American forces, and to recommend that they withdraw from the country or at least to the coast towns.
808
Apr. 17 From the Vice Consul at Bluefields (tel.)
Message from Puerto Cabezas (text printed) that all Americans are evacuating by first available transportation.
808
Apr. 17 (26) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Message from Guardia officer at Puerto Cabezas (text printed) requesting instructions as to action in case of evacuation of Americans and departure of naval vessels.
809
Apr. 17 (27) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Data on distribution of the Guardia for opposing banditry; success of Guardia patrols in stopping advance on Puerto Cabezas; cooperation of Marine air service with the patrols; report that reenlistment of trained men recently discharged was the only speedy way of obtaining reenforcements for the Guardia.
810
Apr. 18 To the Vice Consul at Bluefields (tel.)
Advice that naval vessels now on duty at east coast ports will remain until the present difficulty is over.
812
Apr. 18 (85) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
U. S. desire that the Guardia take over situation on the east coast as soon as possible so the American vessels may be withdrawn.
812
Apr. 18 From the Vice Consul at Bluefields (tel.)
Information that a group of Guardia are being sent from Bluefields to El Gallo in view of rumors of threatened bandit attack.
813
Apr. 19 From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Indications that the situation on the east coast is complicated by labor unrest and subversive propaganda involving unusual danger for foreigners.
813
Apr. 20 (89) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Understanding from the Navy that further planes for transportation can soon be made available for the Guardia.
814
Apr. 20 (90) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Statement issued to the press, April 18 (text printed), regarding the problem of bandit activities in Nicaragua emphasizing points of difference between the present situation and that of 1926, with particular reference to the Guardia.
814
Apr. 20 (91) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that Minister may inform his British colleague that U. S. naval vessels on duty on the east coast will remain until present difficulty is over.
816
Apr. 21 (93) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Department’s preference not to express approval or disapproval of plan referred to in Minister’s telegram No. 14, April 14.
816
Apr. 21 (34) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Telegram from General Matthews, Jefe Director of Guardia. to the Guardia Commander at Bluefields (text printed) instructing that he request U. S. forces to reembark as soon as Guardia is able to control the situation.
816
Apr. 21 (36) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report that 18 enlisted Guardia were transported by marine airplane to Puerto Cabezas, April 21.
817
Apr. 28 From the Vice Consul at Bluefields (tel.)
Belief of Guardia Commander of eastern area that most of bandits have left the area; assertion that conditions on the coast are rapidly returning to normal due to presence of naval vessels.
817
Apr. 29 (53) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that most of Marines in northern area have been withdrawn to Managua; General Matthews’ increasing confidence in ability of the Guardia to handle situation.
818
May 15 (119) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Committee of the Foreign Colony of Matagalpa, in view of protest from them against withdrawal of U. S. Marines from that region, of the U. S. Government’s views concerning competency of the Guardia to protect foreign lives and property.
818
May 15 (378) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Report of various clashes occurring between April 23 and May 10 between Guardia patrols and small groups of bandits.
819
June 2 (391) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Further clashes between Guardia patrols and bandits, May 10–May 25.
820
June 22 (408) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Report on an encounter on June 9 between a Guardia patrol and a group of 50 bandits.
821
June 24 (412) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Two further encounters between Guardia patrols and bandits, June 14 and 15.
821
July 16 (139) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Rumors of considerable bandit movement toward the east coast.
822
July 20 (140) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report of bandit attack, July 17, on a Guardia patrol reconnoitering from Cape Gracias up the Coco River.
822
Undated [Rec’d July 20] From the Consul at Bluefields (tel.)
Telegram to Legation at Managua (text printed) describing situation at Bluefields and Puerto Cabezas.
822
July 20 (431) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Encounter, July 9, between a Guardia patrol and small group of bandits near Telpaneca.
823
Aug. 3 (146) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that Mr. Scott, Manager of the Bragmans Bluff Lumber Co. at Puerto Cabezas, desires airplanes stationed there to cooperate with the Guardia; that practicability of the plan is being considered.
823
Oct. 29 (191) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Telegram to Commander of Special Service Squadron (text printed) recommending that he send a warship to Puerto Cabezas, as it will reassure the population and be of assistance to the Guardia.
824
Nov. 2 (193) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Belief that a war vessel should remain continuously at Puerto Cabezas until the contemplated permanent air patrol on the east coast is established.
824
Nov. 23 (202) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Increased activity of bandits in Leon and Chinandega; President Moncada’s alarm and desire to organize a volunteer force of Nicaraguans outside the Guardia to put down the bandits.
825
Nov. 24 (203) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Possibility that armed guards will have to be placed on passenger trains and bridges between Managua and Corinto; inquiry if Department would object to use of Marines for this purpose.
826
Nov. 25 (202) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Message for President Moncada (text printed) expressing confidence that Guardia can handle situation, and opinion as to inadvisability of creating any outside force.
826
Nov. 25 (203) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Authorization for placing of the armed guards on passenger trains and bridges as indicated in Charge’s telegram No. 203, November 24, if the situation requires it.
827
Nov. 25 (204) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Guardia’s belief that bandits have withdrawn to the north away from the railroad; observation that bandit situation appears very grave.
827
Nov. 27 (206) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Declaration of martial law in Leon and Chinandega. Moncada’s allocation of additional funds to order of Guardia for maintenance of 200 auxiliaries to operate under Guardia command.
828
Nov. 27 (83) To the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to point out to President of Honduras the insistent reports that arms have been reaching Nicaraguan bandits from Honduran territory. Inquiry if Major Fassett has visited the frontier where acts are alleged to have taken place.
829
Nov. 28 (209) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report of two clashes between Guardia patrols and bandit groups in Chinandega.
829
Nov. 28 (207) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Gratification over Moncada’s allocation of funds for maintenance of auxiliaries.
830
Dec. 1 (182) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s opinion that Honduran Government should do all in its power to prevent aid to bandits from Honduras, but intimation that little could be done in present state of impecuniousness and political uncertainty. Plans of Major Fassett to visit the Danli region December 3.
830
Dec. 1 (211) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Clash between Guardia patrol and bandits at El Cuadro, November 29; capture and looting of town of Rota by bandits, November 30.
831
Dec. 2 (85) To the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Approval of Major Fassett’s visit to Danli region.
(Note: Report from the Chargé, December 10, that the bandits were believed to have “definitely withdrawn into their accustomed areas in northern Nicaragua”.)
831

Assistance of the United States in Strengthening the Guardia Nacional Preparatory to the Withdrawal of Marines From Nicaragua

[Page XCVII][Page XCVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 5 (5) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President Moncada’s proposal of a military force of 500 to serve as a temporary auxiliary to the Guardia for combatting recently intensified bandit activities; also a road construction program in the bandit territory if a loan can be arranged through the National Bank.
832
Jan. 8 (6) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Conference with Marine and Guardia Commanders and Lt.-Col. Matthews, who will succeed to command of the Guardia, at which unanimous opinion as to acceptability of Moncada’s proposal was expressed.
833
Jan. 9 (5) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Concurrence in Moncada’s suggestions; emphasis on fact that the new military force must be completely subject to exclusive control of the Jefe Director of the Guardia.
834
Jan. 10 (11) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
General McDougal’s estimate of cost and proposed organization of the auxiliary force.
835
Jan. 14 (12) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Moncada’s dissatisfaction with estimates; his counterproposal for a small temporary force. Existence in the press and elsewhere of propaganda for creation of a so-called national army independent of Guardia—an idea considered as unsound by the military commanders.
835
Jan. 21 (18) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information from National Bank that million-dollar loan would be granted by International Acceptance Bank with certain stipulations as to expenditures.
839
Jan. 22 To the Secretary of the Navy
Request that Guardia Commander be instructed to give special attention to training up of Nicaraguan officers so as to leave no obstacle to complete withdrawal of Marines from Nicaragua after 1932 elections.
839
Jan. 28 To the Secretary of the Navy
Secretary’s assertion (in reply to an inquiry from Secretary of the Navy) that he has no suggestions to make regarding proposed order to Marine officer in chargé of Guardia.
840
Feb. 5 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Statement of policy in Nicaragua, setting forth basis on which U. S. Government is willing to continue, for temporary periods specified, to maintain Marine forces in Nicaragua and Marine officers in the Guardia.
(Footnote: Memorandum subsequently initialed by President Moncada.)
841
Feb. 14 (16) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Statement issued to the press, February 13 (text printed), summarizing the plan developed at conferences in Washington for increase in Guardia, withdrawal of majority of Marines by June, and road construction in bandit provinces.
844
Feb. 24 From the Secretary of the Navy
Advice that Commander of Second Brigade will be instructed to withdraw into Managua his outlying forces, other than aviation, as rapidly as feasible, preparatory to withdrawing them from Nicaragua in accordance with present plan.
845
Mar. 12 (360) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Account of progress being made by Marine and Guardia Commanders in carrying out plan for reducing Marine forces, and of effective cooperation of Nicaraguan Government.
846
Mar. 17 (363) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Report that project for withdrawal of Marines has aroused mixed feelings among Nicaraguans. Declaration by President Moncada (text printed) issued soon after the announcement of the intended withdrawal.
848
Apr. 27 (47) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Difficulties encountered by General Matthews in obtaining funds for current maintenance of Guardia; opinion that the million-dollar loan or some substitute is imperative.
850
Apr. 28 (103) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to convey to President Moncada information obtained from International Acceptance Bank that funds for Guardia are available as arranged in February, and U. S. insistence that money be paid promptly to General Matthews for the Guardia.
852
Apr. 29 (54) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report of representations made to Moncada, as instructed, emphasizing positive attitude of U. S. Government concerning future maintenance of the Guardia.
853
Apr. 30 (56) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that General Matthews has received $65,000 for Guardia pay for April and maintenance for half of May.
854
June 4 To the Secretary of the Navy
Expression of opinion, in reply to inquiry, that Marine aviation forces in Nicaragua should continue to operate with the Guardia as they have been operating before the Marines were concentrated at Managua.
855
Aug. 3 (456) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Data on amounts of money furnished to General Matthews by Nicaraguan Government for the Guardia since June; also amounts allotted from the million-dollar loan in the period March 27–July 15.
857
Sept. 12 From the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs to the Assistant Secretary of State
Information that total number of U. S. Marine and naval forces in Nicaragua as of September 1 was 1,005.
858

Insistence of the Department of State That So Long As the Guardia Nacional Is Directed by American Officers It Should Not Try Nicaraguan Civilians

[Page XCIX][Page C]
Date and number Subject Page
1929 Dec. 27 (614) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Advice that Department cannot approve trial of Nicaraguan civilians by members of the Guardia so long as the Guardia is directed by American officers. Instructions to suggest to President Moncada the apparent need for improvement of the Nicaraguan judiciary system.
859
1930 Jan. 7 (3) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Inquiry as to whether Department does not consider banditry a military offense.
860
Jan. 10 (2) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Department’s understanding of a military offense as an offense committed by a member of military forces in violation of military regulations.
860
Jan. 15 (8) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion of Marine and Guardia Commanders in favor of courts martial by members of the Guardia in cases involving organized armed resistance (banditry) in areas where martial law has been declared by the Government.
860
Jan. 15 (9) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that a Guardia court martial will try Sergeant Larios for mutiny, sedition, etc.
861
Jan. 16 (4) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Department’s reiteration of policy of unwillingness to have American officers exercise judicial functions with respect to Nicaraguan civilians. Inquiry whether there is any obstacle to Government’s establishment of civil courts adequate to deal with situation.
862
Jan. 17 (5) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Department’s willingness for American officers to sit on the court in the case of Sergeant Larios, as it is a case of discipline of a member of the Guardia.
862
Jan. 21 (1290) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
President Moncada’s concurrence in Department’s views as to inefficiency of the courts; agreement of Marine and Guardia Commanders as to advantages of Department’s idea, but doubts as to possibility of success. Memorandum by General McDougal, January 18 (text printed), stressing urgent necessity to dispose in some way of bandits now in custody of the Guardia.
863
Jan. 29 (10) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to indicate to President Moncada the Department’s feeling that death sentence should not be carried out if, as rumored, such sentence has been passed, on Sergeant Larios.
866
Feb. 18 (1328) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Memorandum prepared for Moncada (text printed) for presentation to Supreme Court; embodying substance of Department’s telegram No. 4, January 16. Private opinion of President of Supreme Court that solution of problem would be a total reform of the Constitution.
866
Mar. 11 (638) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Instructions to make no suggestion or comment on the matter of revision of the Constitution except under specific instructions from the Department.
869
1931 Sept. 17 (175) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to see that death sentences if imposed are not carried out in the case of two bandits tried by Guardia court martial, reported from Bluefields.
869
Sept. 18 (167) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Assurance from Acting Jefe Director of Guardia that death sentences, if imposed, will not be carried out.
870
Sept. 21 (173) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that no death sentences were applied in the case in question. Assurances from Acting Jefe Director that measures will be taken to prevent trials of civilians by the Guardia.
870
Sept. 22 (179) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to state to appropriate authorities the Department’s position, in view of reports from Bluefields on courts martial before the Guardia.
870
Sept. 24 (511) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Opinion that further representations at this time might result in the subject’s being merged with various projected constitutional reforms.
871
Oct. 12 (245) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Advice that, in view of the assurances from the Acting Jefe Director, the Department concurs in opinion that any present representations will be unnecessary.
872

Appointment of Major Charles F. B. Price, U. S. M. C., To Observe Municipal Elections in Nicaragua

[Page CI]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Mar. 7 (135) To the Minister in Nicaragua
Instructions as to arrangements to be made in connection with the desired designation of Major Price as alternate to the Chairman of the National Board of Elections, so that he may assume the duties of Captain Alfred W. Johnson in the latter’s forthcoming absence.
873
May 11 (115) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Inquiry as to whether President Moncada has designated Major Price as suplente to Chairman of National Board of Elections.
874
May 12 (74) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Assertion that it is embarrassing to propose the contemplated arrangement because of the salary which Nicaraguan Government will be expected to pay Major Price.
875
May 26 (87) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that reply to telegram No. 74, May 12, is being awaited before taking up with Moncada the designation of Major Price.
875
May 27 (125) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to comply with Department’s instruction No. 135, March 7, insofar as Major Price’s appointment as Vice Chairman of National Board of Elections is concerned. Decision to defray expenses incurred by Major Price on his mission in Nicaragua.
875
May 27 (126) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Department’s inability to see how rumored appointment of Dr. Aguado as Chairman of National Board of Elections could be effected, with Captain Johnson still holding position.
876
May 29 (91) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion of Supreme Court members that Department’s proposed plan would be illegal for certain specified reasons; no opposition to general purpose of the plan, however. Minister’s suggestion of a possible procedure.
876
June 3 (129) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Inquiry as to whether National Board normally functions in connection with municipal elections and has jurisdiction over them.
878
June 5 (98) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that National Board does normally function in connection with municipal elections, with explanation of extent of functioning and laws involved.
878
June 11 (135) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Impracticability of proceeding further at present with proposed appointment of Major Price to the National Board; instructions to inform appropriate authorities of this, and to express U. S. opinion that Major Price should be present in Nicaragua prior to and during municipal elections of 1931 to observe and report on them (expenses to be defrayed by United States).
879
June 12 (105) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Inquiry if Nicaraguan Government may be informed that Captain Johnson will resign the position of President of the National Board.
880
June 15 (139) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that Nicaraguan Government may be informed, in a separate communication, of Department’s willingness to request Captain Johnson to resign so that a Nicaraguan may be appointed in his stead; also of Department’s desire for assurances that the required measures will be taken in time to arrange for an American to supervise the 1932 elections.
881
June 20 (405) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Transmittal of correspondence addressed to Moncada in accordance with Department’s several instructions, and Moncada’s replies, including letter of June 18 (text printed) accepting U. S. proposal to have Major Price observe elections of 1931 and expressing opinion that Captain Johnson’s resignation is desirable; Minister’s acknowledgment of this letter (text printed) correcting certain inaccuracies.
881
July 14 (203) To the Minister in Nicaragua
Transmittal of Captain Johnson’s letters tendering his resignation to U. S. Secretary of State and to the Nicaraguan President, the latter to be delivered to Moncada.
887
July 22 (434) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Delivery of Johnson’s resignation to Moncada, who in turn delivered it to Supreme Court; latter’s acceptance, July 21, and appointment of Dr. Aguado as President of National Board of Elections.
887
[Page CII]

NORWAY

Refusal of a Consul To Recognize Jurisdiction of a Norwegian Court With Respect to the Delivery of a Passport

Date and number Subject Page
1931 June 2 (92) From the Chargé in Norway
Résumé of facts in regard to a court decree ordering U. S. Consul at Stavanger to withhold delivery of passport and other papers belonging to an American citizen pending settlement of a case concerning an alleged debt and of Consul’s refusal to recognize jurisdiction of the court; refusal of judge to withdraw court order at request of Foreign Office official (following Charge’s discussion with the latter). Request for Department’s opinion in the premises.
888
July 15 (45) To the Minister in Norway
Approval of action of the Chargé and the Consul, based on treaty stipulations with respect to inviolability of consular archives.
889

PANAMA

Revolution in Panama

[Page CIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 2 (96) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Report that revolutionists are in control of Panama City; that Supreme Court is leading effort to find peaceful solution; that American troops have not been called up as yet.
890
Jan. 2 (98) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Resignation of President Arosemena and assumption of the government by Harmodio Arias as Prime Minister, following conferences held by Supreme Court with representatives of various groups.
890
Jan. 2 (1) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Approval of action in not calling out troops unless necessary for protection of American lives. Instructions to make arrangements with proper authorities so that no political activities can be carried on from Canal Zone.
891
Jan. 2 (9) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Inquiry if permission should be granted in case those in control of government wish to transport troops across Canal Zone into interior, or to Colon via Panama Railway.
891
Jan. 3 (2) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Department’s willingness to leave to Minister’s discretion the granting of the right of transit in question to the de facto authorities for purposes of pacification.
892
Jan. 3 (15) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Desire for instructions on question of recognition by the Panama Canal authorities of signatures of authorities of present Panama government.
892
Jan. 3 (4) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Advice that there is no objection to recognition of signatures of the de facto authorities if it is made clear that this does not mean recognition of authorities as the de facto government.
892
Jan. 4 (19) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Receipt of note signed by Arias Paredes, Minister for Foreign Affairs (excerpt printed), concerning arrangements for the executive power pending arrival of Dr. Alfaro (Minister to United States) to take over Presidency. Request for instructions as to wording and form of reply.
893
Jan. 5 (6) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Instructions to make no reply at present; advice that the delay in regard to recognition arises from question of whether new regime will have sufficient stability to remain in office.
894
Jan. 6 (307) From the Minister in Panama
Detailed report of the revolutionary disturbances on January 2 and subsequent developments; summary of present situation and of problems confronting the new government.
894
Jan. 9 (28) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Recognition of the new government, either by establishment or continuation of diplomatic relations, by Spain, Italy, Peru, Ecuador, and Chile.
902
Jan. 10 (29) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Support of new administration by majority of people in Panama City and probably in Colon; probability that people in interior will take little interest in the change in government.
902
Jan. 14 (32) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Continuation of diplomatic relations by Costa Rica, Germany, Colombia, and Mexico; expected arrival of Alfaro, January 15, to take office January 16.
903
Jan. 15 (12) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Authorization to attend inauguration and to carry on normal diplomatic relations thereafter with the new government, in view of its apparent stability.
903
Jan. 17 (33) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Alfaro’s inauguration January 16; Minister’s attendance.
904
Jan. 19 (37) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Inquiry if Department’s telegram No. 12, January 15, is to be considered authorization to acknowledge receipt of note quoted in Minister’s No. 19, January 4.
904
Jan. 19 (15) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Reply to telegram No. 37 in the affirmative.
904

PERU

Revolution in Peru

[Page CIV][Page CV]
Date and number Subject Page
1930 Oct. 11 (240) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Report of increasing discontent among Army, Navy, and civilians, and of rumored possibility of coup d’état originating among deposed generals.
905
1931 Feb. 20 (48) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Report that Navy has revolted, seized Callao, and demanded, in accord with certain Army elements, that the President resign.
905
Feb. 21 (57) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Indications of revolutionary outbreak at Arequipa. Information that it is too early to estimate the force of the southern movement.
906
Feb. 27 (71) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Summary of present situation, with opinion that it amounts to practical civil war.
908
Mar. 1 (72) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Seizure of two Johnson-Shippee planes by Chief of the Flying Service, and orders issued to their pilots to make a flight with military officers to Pisco. Protest to Foreign Minister, with request for release of planes and pilots.
909
Mar. 1 (77) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s promise to see the President at once concerning the Ambassador’s protest.
909
Mar. 1 (78) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Resignation of Sanchez Cerro and entire junta government.
910
Mar. 1 (79) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Information that the Johnson-Shippee pilots have been released.
910
Mar. 3 (87) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Meeting of diplomatic corps, at which decision was made to ignore Sanchez Cerro; majority opinion that meeting was premature and ill-considered.
910
Mar. 5 (91) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Report that coup d’état has taken place, March 5, planned and executed by Jimenez, and that civil war is again a possibility.
911
Mar. 6 (97) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Visit from Sanchez Cerro, who said he was suspicious of Jimenez, and asked Ambassador to use his influence toward creating a demand for his (Cerro’s) return; Ambassador’s reply that he could not interfere in internal Peruvian politics.
912
Mar. 13 (116) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Foreign Office note (text printed) declaring that international engagements will be honored by the provisional junta.
912
Mar. 14 (119) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Further developments indicating increasing dissension and financial situation growing worse.
913
Mar. 17 (126) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Report that country now appears quiet and unified; also that no government has yet announced recognition of the present junta.
914
Mar. 17 (127) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Information from the new Foreign Minister that he will receive members of the diplomatic corps on March 18.
915
Mar. 18 (13) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Authorization to attend Foreign Minister’s reception if deemed advisable, but to state orally that presence is not in representative capacity.
915
Mar. 18 (130) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Attendance at reception, with oral explanation in accordance with Department’s instructions.
915
Mar. 23 (143) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Report of fighting and firing in central part of Lima; observation that situation is very dangerous.
916
Mar. 24 (145) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Advice that government has dominated situation and that city is quiet.
917
Apr. 10 (127) To the Ambassador in Peru
Appreciation for Embassy’s industry in procuring information regarding recent political developments in Peru.
917
Apr. 10 (128) To the Ambassador in Peru
Assertion that Department is unfavorable toward any idea of mediation in Peruvian affairs (especially in concert with European powers) or of joint action with League of Nations or the Vatican.
918
May 8 (30) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Request for additional information prior to reaching a decision in the matter of recognition of the present Peruvian government.
918
May 15 (224) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Detailed information in reply to Department’s telegram No. 30, May 8, with recommendation for immediate recognition.
919
May 19 (35) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Instructions to notify Peruvian Government that United States will continue full diplomatic relations.
921
July 2 (872) From the Ambassador in Peru
Information that Sanchez Cerro has obtained official permission to return to Peru in order to take chargé of his campaign for the Presidency, and that he is expected to arrive July 2.
921
July 2 (282) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Disorders incident to arrival of Sanchez Cerro, several persons being killed and several wounded.
922
Nov. 29 (367) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Election of Sanchez Cerro as President of Peru.
922
Dec. 2 (67) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Instructions to extend to Sanchez Cerro, at time of his inauguration, the congratulations and best wishes of President Hoover.
923
Dec. 8 (381) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Inauguration of Sanchez Cerro, December 8, without untoward incident.
923
[Page CVI]

POLAND

Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Consular Rights Between the United States and Poland, Signed June 15, 1931

[Page CVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1928 May 24 (1752) From the Minister in Poland
Memorandum (text printed) of a conversation with Polish officials, May 17, concerning question of a trade treaty with United States.
924
July 2 (49) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Verbal proposal made by Polish officials (text printed) with reference to indirect trade; intimations that acceptance of the proposal would remove principal obstacle to continuing negotiations for the commercial treaty.
926
Aug. 10 (50) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Instructions to try to persuade Polish authorities to remove the obstacles to indirect trade now existing; U. S. inability to accept certain points of the Polish verbal proposal, and explanation of position.
927
Sept. 15 (61) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Presentation of U. S. position in accordance with instructions; opinion that time has arrived to press for a decision; and consequent intention to present a strong note within 2 weeks.
930
Sept. 24 (55) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Approval of course of action outlined in telegram No. 61.
931
Oct. 4 (57) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Information that Counselor of Polish Legation is leaving for Warsaw in effort to effect acceptance of U. S. point of view in matter of indirect trade; suggestion to defer presentation of proposed note until he has discussed matter with his Government.
931
Oct. 20 (63) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Instructions to lodge vigorous protest against an order of October 11 which is unjust to the exporters concerned.
931
Oct. 21 (71) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Polish concern over unfavorable balance of trade, and discussions regarding a possible temporary arrangement until certain aspects can be studied further.
932
Oct. 24 (65) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Authorization to state to Polish authorities that United States will refrain from pressing matter for 4 months on certain specified conditions.
933
Oct. 31 (75) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Report that formal action in accordance with Department’s telegram No. 63, October 20, has been taken.
934
Nov. 21 (2030) From the Minister in Poland
Memorandum from the Foreign Ministry, October 30 (text printed), indicating decisions of the Economic Council of Ministers relative to the policy to be adopted by Polish Government in the negotiations for a commercial treaty with the United States.
935
1929 Jan. 21 From the Polish Minister
Undertakings of the Polish Government for the period pending conclusion of the treaty.
936
Jan. 21 To the Polish Minister
U. S. readiness, in view of understanding as set forth in Polish Minister’s note of this date, to resume treaty negotiations immediately.
(Footnote: Information that the negotiations were conducted in Washington.)
937
1931 June 15 Treaty Between the United States of America and Poland
Text of commercial treaty signed at Washington.
938
June 15 To the Polish Ambassador
Text of notes exchanged as provided for in tenth paragraph of article VI of the treaty (the exchange of notes comprising an agreement concerning proof of the origin of imported merchandise)
(Footnote: Identic note from the Polish Ambassador.)
955

Indemnity by the Polish Government for Mistreatment of an American Citizen by Polish Soldiers

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 9 (135) From the American Ambassador in Poland to the Polish Minister for Foreign Affairs
Summary of facts in case of Mr. Justyn Fedoryszyn, an American citizen, who was beaten by uniformed soldiers of the Polish Army, October 9, 1930. Request that adequate compensation be paid to Mr. Fedoryszyn and that the persons responsible be punished.
957
Feb. 5 Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Division of Eastern European Affairs
Information from Counselor of Polish Embassy that U. S. demands have been acceded to and that the lieutenant in question is being court-martialed.
960
May 11 (52) From the Ambassador in Poland (tel.)
Note from the Foreign Minister (text printed) expressing Polish Government’s regret over the incident, and stating that the lieutenant responsible has been sentenced to 3 months and 2 weeks in a fortress.
960
June 18 To the Polish Ambassador
U. S. opinion that the sum of 10,000 zlotys proposed by the Polish Government as indemnification is not adequate; request that $4,000 be paid to Mr. Fedoryszyn.
961
Sept. 17 Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation With the Polish Chargé
Polish Chargé’s information that his Government is ready to pay the indemnity as proposed by United States.
962
Dec. 11 (327/T/31) From the Polish Ambassador
Transmittal of check for $4,000.
962
Dec. 15 To the Polish Ambassador
Acknowledgment of the $4,000 in full settlement of the claim.
963
[Page CVIII]

PORTUGAL

Decision of the American Government Not To Be a Party to Mediation Between the Portuguese Government and Insurgent Forces in Madeira

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 6 (4) From the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Report that Funchal, Madeira, is in hands of rebels.
964
Apr. 8 (7) From the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Information from Consul at Funchal that revolutionary leaders have agreed to meet representatives of Central Government to discuss situation and that Consul has suggested U. S. Consulate as meeting place if arrangements can be made. Request for Department’s authorization concerning the suggestion.
964
Apr. 9 (8) To the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Belief that it would be unwise for U. S. Government to aid in mediation as suggested.
964
Apr. 10 From the Consul at Funchal (tel.)
Expression of regret if plan has caused Department embarrassment, and willingness to make full apologies if desired.
965
Apr. 11 To the Consul at Funchal (tel.)
Advice that no embarrassment has been caused and no apology is necessary.
965

Representations Regarding Discriminatory Charges in Portuguese Ports

[Page CIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Feb. 7 (294) From the Minister in Portugal
Apparent need for the maritime powers to consult with each other looking toward retaliatory measures, in view of Portuguese disinclination to do away with certain discriminatory charges in Portuguese ports.
965
July 7 (21) From the Chargé in Portugal (tel.)
Decree of July 1 which extends national treatment in respect of maritime and port dues to foreign merchant vessels but creates new tonnage dues which are discriminatory.
966
Sept. 21 (459) From the Minister in Portugal
Decree No. 20,304 of September 12 (text printed) whereby Portuguese Government professes to abandon in principle its position in respect of flag discrimination, but specifies only the first of successive steps necessary for elimination of the discrimination.
966
Oct. 1 (352) From the British Chargé
British Government’s request for U. S. support of its representations with regard to provisions of Portuguese decree No. 20,304.
968
Oct. 7 (23) To the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Request for comments as to desirability and possible success of U. S. representations in accordance with British request.
969
Oct. 9 (35) From the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Opinion that success of representations will depend on degree of pressure the British are prepared to exercise.
970
Oct. 16 (24) To the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Instructions to make representations indicating that United States would appreciate information as to Portuguese plans to make effective the abolition of discriminatory rates; that in the absence of such information, decree No. 20,304 would appear an inadequate remedy for existing inequalities.
970
Oct. 20 (484) From the Minister in Portugal
Delivery to the Foreign Minister of note in the sense of Department’s instructions; Foreign Minister’s hope that United States and other Powers will be forbearing in view of present economic crisis.
971
Nov. 7 (496) From the Minister in Portugal
Foreign Minister’s reply, November 4 (text printed); U. S. Minister’s opinion, based on the note, that it is established policy of Portuguese Government to discriminate in every way against foreign shipping.
972

RUSSIA

Citizenship Status of American Nationals Exercising Political Rights in Russia

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Feb. 4 (7469) From the Minister in Latvia
Inquiry as to citizenship status of certain Americans who, in recent elections held at the Stalingrad Tractor Works, were elected members of “a Soviet.”
975
May 5 (824) To the Minister in Latvia
Advice that acceptance of membership in the Soviets would not result in loss of American citizenship unless such acceptance should constitute naturalization or involve an oath of allegiance to a foreign state.
975

Issuance of Non-Immigration Visas for Entry Into the United States of Persons Coming From Russia

[Page CX]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 July 18 To the Consul General at Berlin
Instructions as to procedure to be followed in obtaining non-immigration visas for particular aliens who are found to be inadmissible under provisions of law, but whose entry would be to the advantage of the public or economic interests of United States.
(Similar instructions to Riga, London, and Paris.)
977
July 18 (Diplo. 2024) To Diplomatic and Consular Officers
Instructions entitled “Changes in Consular Regulations and Notes No. 73” regarding refusal of visas to aliens who are excluded from United States by law.
978
July 18 (Diplo. 2023) To Diplomatic and Consular Officers
Instructions entitled “Application of the Act of October 16, 1918, As Amended by the Act of June 5, 1920,” giving explanatory notes which are applicable in the case of all aliens desiring to come to United States.
980
Nov. 24 To the Consul General at Berlin
Clarification of paragraph of Diplomatic Serial No. 2023 concerning grounds for refusal of a visa without reference to the Department.
(Similar instructions to Riga, London, and Paris.)
983

SPAIN

Recognition by the United States of the Provisional Government of Spain

[Page CXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 16 (22/87) From the Spanish Embassy
Proclamation of the Republic in Spain; information as to the composition of the new government.
985
Apr. 16 (21) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Opinion that immediate recognition of the new regime is not advisable.
985
Apr. 16 (22) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Information that a document in which the King has defined his position makes it clear that he has not “abdicated.”
986
Apr. 16 (10) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Request for information and comment concerning legal status of the monarchy and the provisional government, apparent stability of the latter, and policy which European Governments intend to pursue with regard to recognition of the new regime.
987
Apr. 17 (145) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Request for information as to local reaction toward situation in Spain; also as to what decision has been taken by the Government to which accredited with regard to recognition.
(Footnote: Similar message to the Embassies in Germany, Great Britain, and Italy.)
987
Apr. 17 (24) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Opinion that Provisional President Zamora is very confident that his government is strong enough to handle any situation.
988
Apr. 18 (180) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information that French Government has recognized the Spanish Republic.
988
Apr. 18 (50) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Advice that German Government is not disposed to rush recognition of Spanish provisional government.
989
Apr. 18 (25) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Note from the Foreign Minister (text printed) requesting U. S. recognition of the new regime.
990
Apr. 18 (113) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
British Government’s intention to extend recognition as soon as replies to its cables have been received from Dominions.
991
Apr. 18 (58) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Advice that there have been no announcements in the press relative to Italy’s recognition of the new Spanish government.
991
Apr. 18 (26) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Recognition of provisional government by France, Czechoslovakia, Mexico, Uruguay, and Chile. Comment that on the surface provisional government appears stable but not enough time has elapsed as yet to make a fair evaluation.
992
Apr. 19 (11) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Request for opinion and comments on certain questions relative to stability of new regime and desirability of immediate recognition.
993
Apr. 20 (27) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Replies to Department’s questions with recommendation for immediate recognition.
993
Apr. 21 (12) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Instructions to deliver a note to the Foreign Minister as soon as British colleague has taken action according U. S. recognition to the Provisional Government of Spain.
994
Apr. 22 (28) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Action taken by British colleague at 12:30; appointment with Foreign Minister at 4:30 for delivery of note authorized by Department.
995
Apr. 22 (30) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Advice that Department’s instructions in telegram No. 12, April 21, have been carried out.
995

Efforts To Remove Spanish Tariff Discriminations Handicapping American Trade

[Page CXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 Nov. 10 (92) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Decision of Spanish Government that reduction in rates on certain commodities accorded France by the new Franco-Spanish commercial agreement (effective November 10), are not to be applied to United States. Intention to see Foreign Minister in an effort to modify the Spanish stand.
995
Nov. 11 (93) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Conversation with Foreign Minister to urge reconsideration of Spanish decision; Ambassador’s request, upon seeing Spanish Government’s determination to bargain, for a suspension of decision to give Department time to consider reports and possibly make proposals.
996
Nov. 13 (94) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Information that Spanish Government cannot allow the postponement requested; comment that in case Department decides that no concessions can be made, it may be ready to resort to retaliatory measures.
997
Nov. 13 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Receipt of memorandum from Spanish Chargé concerning attitude of his Government toward the commercial modus vivendi with United States in relation to the new agreement with France.
997
Nov. 13 (95) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Memorandum received from Foreign Office (text printed) outlining Spanish position as to the modus vivendi.
998
Nov. 14 (63) To the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Request for opinion as to the validity of the Spanish contention that their action does not contravene the modus vivendi.
999
Nov. 17 (98) From the Ambassador in Spain (tel.)
Opinion that the Spanish argument is technically sound. Suggestion of line of argument which might be followed effectively by United States.
1000
Nov. 17 (527) From the Chargé in Spain
Memorandum of Spanish “trade grievances” (text printed) received from Ministry of State.
1001
Dec. 31 (229) To the Ambassador in Spain
U. S. memorandum (text printed) in reply to the Ministry of State’s memorandum of “trade grievances.”
1002

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

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Apr. 13 Press Release Issued by the Department of State
Announcement of conclusion with Government of Spain of an agreement for the informal consideration by representatives of both countries of all outstanding diplomatic claims between the two Governments.
1007
(Note: Information as to interruption in the informal discussions, and that no diplomatic action toward settlement of the claims has been taken since September 1931.)

SWEDEN

Refusal of the Swedish State Railways To Pay Dexter and Carpenter, Inc., Judgment Granted by a United States Court

[Page CXIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 May 13 (54) To the Minister in Sweden
Instructions to communicate to Foreign Office U. S. Government’s expectations that the claims of Dexter and Carpenter, Inc., against the Swedish Government (for losses due to its failure to pay a court judgment rendered against the Swedish State Railways in favor of the corporation) will be adjusted by the payment of the amount of the judgment with interest.
1009
July 23 (305) From the Minister in Sweden
Communication from the Foreign Minister, July 18 (text printed), stating that Swedish Government cannot see its way clear to inviting the Swedish State Railways to pay the court judgment.
1014
Sept. 16 (21) To the Minister in Sweden (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office that Department will be greatly disappointed if some settlement is not arrived at during the visit to Sweden of Mr. Haight, of the firm of attorneys for Dexter and Carpenter.
1016
Sept. 17 (346) From the Minister in Sweden
Information that Mr. Haight arrived September 15, without an appointment with Swedish attorneys or with anyone at Foreign Office; that he made a short visit to Legation, outlining the case and leaving certain data; that he left for United States the same day.
Minister’s opinion that he should have a conference with Department (at his forthcoming visit in Washington) and with Mr. Haight before making further representations to the Swedish Government.
1017

SWITZERLAND

Treaty of Arbitration and Conciliation Between the United States and Switzerland, Signed February 16, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1930 June 21 To the Swiss Minister
Information that Department’s recent draft of the proposed arbitration and conciliation treaty is believed to embody provisions which will satisfactorily meet the questions raised by the Swiss Government; that, in juridical disputes United States prefers to leave the two Governments free to a choice between arbitration and conciliation.
1019
Nov. 13 To the Swiss Minister
Further U. S. agreement to verbal changes suggested by the Swiss Government.
1020
Dec. 8 From the Swiss Minister
Transmittal of French text of draft which has been forwarded to Swiss Government for approval.
1021
1931 Feb. 2 From the Swiss Minister
Information of receipt from Swiss Government of full powers for signing of treaty and of its concurrence in leaving a choice to contracting parties in juridical disputes with the understanding that in other conflicts recourse to the Conciliation Commission would be obligatory.
1021
Feb. 16 Treaty Between the United States of America and Switzerland
Text of arbitration and conciliation treaty signed at Washington.
1022
Feb. 24 To the Swiss Minister
Concurrence in Swiss Government’s interpretation of the treaty as set forth in the Swiss Minister’s note of February 2.
1025
[Page CXIV]

Right of Consuls To Receive Funds From Estates for Transmission to Non-Resident Nationals

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 15 (1239) To the Minister in Switzerland
Explanation that the Department interprets the most-favored-nation clause of U. S.-Swiss convention of 1850 as reciprocal in application, and questions if Swiss law gives American consular officers an unqualified right to receive funds from estates for transmission to non-resident nationals as provided by the U. S.-German treaty of 1923. Instructions to obtain a categorical answer from Swiss authorities as to whether the same rights granted under the U. S.-German treaty would be granted U. S. consular officers.
1026
Feb. 5 (1880) From the Minister in Switzerland
Information that Department’s instruction No. 1239 has not been complied with pending Minister’s submission for Department’s consideration of certain points on the unconditional application of the clause and an excerpt from Swiss Federal Council’s letter of January 5, 1852, to U. S. Special Agent (text printed).
1028
Feb. 17 (1895) From the Minister in Switzerland
Invitation of Department’s attention to a pertinent passage from Samuel B. Crandall’s Treaties—Their Making and Enforcement.
1030
May 9 (1398) To the Minister in Switzerland
Citation of incidents showing Department’s long-established policy of applying the clause in matters of consular rights upon reciprocity. Instructions to inform Swiss authorities of views expressed in Department’s instruction No. 1239 and if Swiss assurance of reciprocity is forthcoming the Department will not insist on a definite agreement as to a general interpretation of the most-favored-nation clause.
1031
Oct. 6 (2270) From the Chargé in Switzerland
Compliance with Department’s instruction No. 1398 and receipt of Federal Political Department’s reply indicating that Swiss law does not prevent consular activities as provided in U. S.-German treaty of 1923.
1036

TURKEY

Treaty of Establishment and Sojourn Between the United States and Turkey, Signed October 28, 1931

[Page CXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1931 May 12 (1268) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Discussion with the Foreign Minister of a statement proposed at the time of the interruption of the negotiations and to be made in the form of a letter from the U. S. Ambassador and initialed at the time of the signature of the treaty of residence and establishment; information that Foreign Minister will suggest minor changes on his return from Geneva.
1037
July 10 (24) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Transmittal of the letter with modifications proposed by the Foreign Minister (text printed); information regarding means proposed by the Foreign Minister for giving immediate effect in the form of a modus vivendi to the treaty provisions pending ratification. Inquiry if Department would authorize signature of the treaty within 6 or 8 weeks.
1038
July 27 (28) To the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Advice that Department is prepared to accept Turkish proposals concerning text of the letter but desires that signature be put off until mid-October or late September at earliest; impossibility of concluding modus vivendi in view of necessity of Senate’s ratification before putting the treaty into force.
1040
Aug. 28 (34) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Information that the treaty, with the preamble preferred by the Department, was initialed August 27.
1041
Oct. 28 (9) From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.)
Notification of treaty’s signature with no alterations and no procès-verbal.
1041
Oct. 28 Treaty Between the United States of America and the Turkish Republic
Text signed at Ankara.
1042
Oct. 30 (1362) From the Ambassador in Turkey
Transmittal of letter to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, as approved by the Department, and of the Minister’s acknowledgment (texts printed).
1043

UNION OF SOUTH AFRICA

Arrangement Between the United States and the Union of South Africa Regarding Reciprocal Recognition of Certificates of Airworthiness for Imported Aircraft, Effected by Exchange of Notes, Signed October 12 and December 1, 1931

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Oct. 12 (68) From the American Minister in the Union of South Africa to the Minister for External Affairs of the Union of South Africa
Transmittal of the arrangement (text printed) agreed to in the negotiations between the United States and the Union of South Africa providing for reciprocal acceptance of certificates of airworthiness for aircraft; information that upon receipt of note confirming understanding of the arrangement as set forth, it will be considered in effect.
1045
Dec. 1 (P. M. 66/80) From the Minister of External Affairs of the Union of South Africa to the American Minister in the Union of South Africa
Confirmation of understanding of the arrangement.
1046
[Page CXVI]

URUGUAY

Policy of the Department of State of Non-Interference With Use by Foreign Borrowers of Loans Obtained in the United States

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Sept. 30 (47) To the Minister in Uruguay
Reply to Legation’s telegram concerning International Telephone and Telegraph Corporation’s difficulties in obtaining a contract from Uruguayan Government, and to Legation’s suggestion that any funds obtained in the United States should not be paid on contracts awarded to other than American firms. Advice that Department continues its policy of non-interference in the usage of funds obtained in the United States by foreign borrowers.
1048

YUGOSLAVIA

The Protection of Naturalized American Citizens Who Return to Their Native Country and Are Impressed Into Military Service

Date and number Subject Page
1931 Jan. 19 (976) From the Minister in Yugoslavia
Information that Yugoslav Government considers Peter Nikolich, naturalized American citizen, as a Yugoslav subject and not eligible for release from the Army until the completion of required military service; that this position is based on Yugoslav law for the organization of the Army and Navy (excerpt printed).
1050
Sept. 4 (315) To the Minister in Yugoslavia
Instructions to enter a protest as a matter of principle with the Yugoslav Government against induction into military service of naturalized American citizens; also to take up the question of concluding a naturalization treaty between the United States and Yugoslavia.
1054
1932 Jan. 30 (1252) From the Minister in Yugoslavia
Yugoslav disinclination to enter into a naturalization treaty; possibility, however, of an informal understanding whereby naturalized Americans of Yugoslav origin will be free from molestation on visits to Yugoslavia.
1057