882.20/449: Telegram
The Minister in Liberia (Walton) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 10—5:35 p.m.]
31. French representatives left for Dakar today on military plane. Secretary Simpson called today and gave me copy of Liberian Government’s aide-mémoire with reference to the aide-mémoire submitted May 8 by French Chargé d’Affaires.
Tentatively agreed that 12 French non-commissioned officers assist in training Liberian defense force. France to put at Liberia’s disposal arms and ammunition, terms to be decided upon.
The American Government is to be kept informed of discussions.
I informally expressed opinion to Secretary Simpson that in my judgment all discussions of French cooperation for internal defense should have been deferred until matter had been referred to United States Government and Firestone.