817.1051/872: Telegram

The Minister in Nicaragua (Lane) to the Secretary of State

144. The attitude of General Somoza towards the President’s advisers and their attitude toward him apparently continue to be unfavorable. [Page 564] (Am reporting by air mail regarding conversation with Somoza August 14th.)77 Vice President told me this morning that rumor is being circulated that my departure Saturday is for purpose of giving Somoza free rein.

Under the circumstances I respectfully repeat the recommendations for changes in the procedure for granting export permits for shipments of arms and ammunition from the United States to Nicaragua made in my despatch No. 316 of July 16th. If such modified procedure be adopted I suggest that details thereof might appropriately be given publicity by the Department for convenience of and for reasons mentioned in last paragraph of my 316.

Lane
  1. Despatch No. 399, August 16, from the Minister in Nicaragua, not printed.