882.20/448: Telegram

The Minister in Liberia (Walton) to the Secretary of State

29. Two French representatives arrived May 5th to form military alliance with Liberia, conversations held 6th, 8th, and 9th. While Liberian Government has kept me informed I have differed from Secretary of State and military adviser on points I consider of paramount importance. France proposes to furnish aerial and naval assistance, arms and ammunition. Desires Liberia to raise army of 8,000 to be trained by French officers for internal defense.

I have vigorously contended: (1) Liberia should refrain from entering into any agreement in which Great Britain does not play as important role as France; (2) to officer Liberian soldiers with other than Americans is questionable; (3) that it would be in contravention of loan agreement for Liberia to become indebted to France or Great Britain for arms and ammunition as no provisions are in budget for such expenditure.

Assurance has been given me no final agreement will be made until the United States is apprised. I have maintained there should not even be a tentative agreement until information of terms is conveyed to my Government.

French exhibiting far more active interest than British.

Walton