721.23/1878: Telegram
The Chargé in Colombia (Dawson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:30 p.m.]
59. Sometime ago Panama suggested orally to Colombia and Peru that Panama City be site of negotiations envisaged in the second of the League recommendations. Panaman Minister now tells Olaya Peru is willing to accept suggestion but prefers Lima.
Olaya thinks Bogotá would be best meeting place as he could be in personal contact with delegates. The Department is aware, of course, of his conciliatory spirit. Furthermore, Lopez (whose ideas Benavides knows) could be Colombian delegate; if conference is held elsewhere latter could not attend because of internal politics (Congress in which he is liberal leader meets July 20th).
Olaya hopes the Department will see its way clear to suggest to Peruvian Government through Freyre or Dearing that meeting be in Bogotá in view of these factors.
[Page 545]If his suggestion is not practicable Olaya is willing to accept Panama but prefers Washington; he will not accept Lima.
He expresses gratification with new Peruvian Cabinet (especially Polo) which he terms liberal, civilista and conciliatory.