890D.00/695: Telegram
The Consul General at Beirut (Palmer) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 2—1:30 p.m.]
Referring to my telegram of May 31, 5 p.m., Oriental Institute director at Antioch informs me situation tense, armored cars on main street, Moroccan patrols.
He reports that from his own and Princeton director’s sources of information which they consider reliable they understand that registrations actually suspended for 5 days may not be resumed; that if present disorders continue League Commission may withdraw; that High Commission delegate, faced with impossibility of maintaining impartial attitude in view of Paris commitments of which he is understood [Page 1034] to have been officially informed within the past few days and which allegedly have assured the Turks of a 55 percent majority, may resign.
He expresses opinion that neither expeditions nor investments are menaced, but he suggests that in view of generally disquieting situation and possibility of its continuance and uncertainty as to developments a consular officer on this spot as an observer and in constant touch with local authorities might be advisable. He and Princeton director offer to house any such officer detailed there.
Possibility of following the situation satisfactorily from Beirut seems extremely doubtful. If Farrell40 were free for detail at Antioch his presence there would be most helpful, but either Steger or Gwynn41 might advantageously be sent there temporarily. Instructions would be appreciated.