715.1715/525: Telegram

The Chargé in Nicaragua (Castleman) to the Secretary of State

89. Last night I communicated to the Minister of Foreign Affairs the contents of the Department’s telegram No. 50, including the penultimate paragraph.

He dictated to me in English:

“President Somoza is very pleased with the appreciation [evaluation] of his attitude and wishes to let you know that he has not done more than fulfill his duty as President of Nicaragua and a loyal friend of the United States, in whose hands he wishes to put the arbitration of the whole question.”

He stated that the Honduran note is so strong and categorical that reply to it forces upon his Government a firm statement of the Nicaraguan position, but that certainly Nicaragua’s note will leave the door open to conciliation. I am to receive copies of the exchange of notes and will forward them. He stated that in view of Honduran preparations his responsibility is such that he must now look to defence of the Nueva Segovia frontier and he plans day after tomorrow to reinforce his weak forces with 30 men led by Atocotal and Somoto. This will be the first Nicaraguan military move. In my opinion fear of political consequences, if war comes and he is caught unprepared, makes him take the step. He is definitely for peace.

Doctor Debayle actively engaged in matter and is a considerable influence on peaceful side.

Castleman