814.00/1197: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Minister in Guatemala (Hanna)

11. Your despatch 607, April 16. The Department is confident that in any conversations you may have had you have not given the impression that this Government is sympathetic with any effort which may be contemplated to alter the Guatemalan Constitution illegally or to continue President Ubico in office contrary to the provisions of the Constitution.

The relations between the United States and Guatemala are peculiarly close and friendly, and this Government has, of course, the [Page 620] highest esteem and regard for the present President of the Republic. It is for that reason that it is believed particularly desirable that no mistaken interpretation as to the attitude of this Government be permitted to arise.

The Department does not, of course, wish to convey the impression that it is endeavoring to advise President Ubico concerning the course he should follow. That is naturally a matter for his own decision. It does wish you to take whatever steps you deem necessary, however, to assure that the impression, if it exists, that this Government sympathizes with any plan to amend the Guatemalan Constitution illegally, or to continue President Ubico in power contrary to its provisions, be not allowed to remain uncorrected.

Hull