724.3415/3424: Telegram
The Minister in Bolivia (Des Portes) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received 1:50 p.m.]
95. The League Commission held sessions on 7th and 8th considering historical questions; keynote of welcome was Foreign Minister Calvo’s statement “Bolivia has never sought foreign territory, never initiated war of conquest”. Military members expect to leave for Chaco probably 12th; others may remain here 10 days more. It is reliably reported that a severe Bolivian reverse was suffered on 8th at Fort Arce and with the previous loss of one entire battery of artillery, still kept secret, conditions said to be critical. Reserves of soldiers and artillery are going forward to the front.
Expectations in official quarters are that Seventh Conference will undoubtedly give full cooperation to League Commission.
Above also sent to Montevideo and Asunción.