817.812/748
The Acting Secretary of State to the Secretary of War ( Woodring )
My Dear Mr. Secretary: The Government of Nicaragua is anxious to conduct a study of the possibility and probable cost of canalizing the San Juan River from Lake Nicaragua to the mouth of the river in the Atlantic Ocean, to permit navigation by vessels of ordinary draft, and has asked the assistance of this Government in that connection. The President of Nicaragua has been informed that this Government would be happy to be of assistance to him in obtaining competent engineering advice and assistance in this connection.
It is understood that the Nicaraguan Government is desirous that this study should be performed without cost to it.
I should appreciate your letting me know whether under the circumstances the War Department could lend to Nicaragua the services of the number of engineers considered necessary to carry out such a study.
Sincerely yours,