882.00/1185: Telegram
The Chargé in Liberia (Wharton) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 18—8:55 a.m.]
63. Day before yesterday I informed President Barclay orally of the views contained in Department’s telegram No. 39, October 4, 7 p.m.
He said that he accepted them in good part, expressed thanks, and stated that: (1) Department’s observations on his country’s present international position is what he has held all along; (2) present internal trouble only flare-up by few disgruntled office seekers and entire opposition not over 100 men in area limited to Monrovia; (3) feels people are with him as will be shown and as evidenced by many letters expressing disgust at anonymous bulletins and letters and increasing number of delegations to Executive Mansion expressing confidence in him; (4) arrests at first caused stir but as people learned truth tension lessened; (5) because of evidence presented at preliminary hearings which ended October 8, men charged with sedition which is not bailable are being held for grand jury and entire matter proceeding regular course under complete jurisdiction of Department of Justice; (6) appreciates considerations on Cabinet vacancies and plans to send nominations to Senate.
Tension has lessened to some extent but dissatisfaction naturally continues despite letters and expressions of confidence some of which may be inspired.