817.00/8272: Telegram
The Minister in Nicaragua (Lane) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:23 p.m.]
68. Apprehension evident in governmental circles regarding political banquet to be tendered to Somoza September 14 in Managua at which from 600 to 800 supporters are to attend from all parts of the country (repeated to me by the President and Minister for Foreign Affairs). Current report is that on September 15 (Nicaraguan national holiday) officers of the Guardia will call on President and request him to support Somoza’s candidacy and that in case of refusal, action against President will be taken.
Somoza has just admitted to me that there was such a plan but stated that by his orders, the President will not be so approached. He assured me that there will be no trouble.
While discountenancing apprehension, I feel that I must transmit above information in view of its official source.