724.3415/2291: Telegram
The Bolivian Minister for Foreign Affairs (Gutiérrez) to the Chairman of the Commission of Neutrals (White)
[Received 9:55 a.m.]
In reply cable of the 14 we answer as follows: Bolivia again states that she is disposed to suspend hostilities but points that, facing a strong Paraguayan offensive, she cannot lay down her arms nor withdraw to 10 kilometers without compromising her situation. There should be a mutual agreement. Moreover, with regard to the [Page 90] withdrawal, we point out that it is impossible in view of the circumstances of the terrain. We consider that when once the suspension of hostilities has been accepted there can be no fear of further encounters because neither of the parties would fail to keep its pledged word and if any guaranties were deemed necessary they could be given. We confirm our proposal to enter into negotiations on the settlement of the fundamentals of the controversy.