Foreign Relations of the United States Diplomatic Papers, 1938, The British Commonwealth, Europe, Near East, and Africa, Volume II

882.635 Neep/52: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Liberia ( Wharton )

Washington , March 3, 1938—5 p.m.

9. Your 14, February 21, 4 p.m.

1. We are gratified to learn President Barclay’s views and that he has decided to suspend approval of the concession until geological reports become available and the situation generally becomes more clarified.

2. We see no objection to President Barclay’s proposal to inform Amsterdamsche Bank through Liberian Minister in Paris of his desire for substantial American participation.

3. The director of the Amsterdamsche Bank has already discussed informally and in confidence with the American Minister at The Hague the question of possible American participation. Our Minister at The Hague has already suggested that the Amsterdamsche Bank approach direct certain American concerns which might be interested and he will of course be glad to continue to extend his informal good offices toward placing the Bank in touch with such concerns.

Hull