822.00 Revolutions/88: Telegram

The Minister in Ecuador (Gonzalez) to the Secretary of State

64. Referring to my telegram No. 63, October 28, 8 p.m., Colombia and Mexico recognized yesterday. Peru, Great Britain, Panama, and Venezuela have indicated that they are awaiting action by the United States.

It is still not certain that present stability will continue for any considerable period. Attempts to reform, to punish former officials, [Page 475] and to lower the price of foodstuffs naturally will elicit opposition in some circles, but it is believed these measures will receive general approval. The holding of new elections would obtain the support of the political parties but this step probably will not be taken within the near future. Consequently it is my opinon that a military dictatorship under one guise or another will continue in power in Ecuador for some time to come with possible occasional changes in the supreme chief. The question, therefore, would seem to be the recognition of that form of government which apparently is accepted by the people of Ecuador because (1st) they have no other choice and (2d) they seem resigned to the fact that constitutional government cannot be had. Accordingly we shall probably have to continue to deal with this form of government.

Gonzalez