724.3415/2480 ½
The Paraguayan Delegate (Soler) to the Chairman of the Commission of Neutrals (White)
My Dear Mr. White: In order that the negotiations of which you have chargé may obtain the success which we desire in the interest of peace, which is the interest of all, I beg you to give consideration to the following viewpoints.
What Paraguay desires is not a mere truce, a period of waiting between hostilities, but a final peace which will permit the countries in conflict to work for their welfare and growth, free of suspicion and concern on the score of an unfriendly neighbor.
Looking at the question with which we are concerned from this point of view any solution would be difficult if not impossible for Paraguay, unless provision is specifically made for the total withdrawal from the Chaco of the Bolivian army and for guarantees capable of preventing any further aggression. At your request I do not insist upon the use of word demilitarization, because the important thing is not the words but the ideas. One assurance which I can give you, is that Paraguay, even if victorious, for you have probably observed that I did not draw argument from our advantageous military [Page 105] situation at the last meeting nor do I do so now, Paraguay, I repeat, will not fail to submit her boundary dispute with Bolivia to arbitration, and in general, to any juridical means of settlement.
As to the clause relative to compensation charged to Bolivia, for the families of the victims and the disabled veterans of this war which we did not desire nor provoke, I have to inform you that according to new instructions received, I cannot withdraw it. I ask that you be good enough to convey this reply to the knowledge of all those who formulated and supported the request at the last meeting. The reasons which the Government of Paraguay had for this clause have not changed and instead of becoming weaker tend very justly and obviously to become stronger.
Receive again, Mr. White, the assurances of my high consideration and great personal esteem.