818.00N/81: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Minister in Costa Rica ( Hornibrook )

67. Your telegram no. 88, July 12, 3 p.m., and despatch no. 2312 of July 2.23 The Department has conferred with the Navy Department with regard to the continued presence of a naval vessel at Puntarenas and believes that unless there is imminent danger it may be embarrassing to keep a United States naval vessel in the port of Puntarenas for an indefinite stay. Arrangements have been made, however, to have a naval vessel put in to Puntarenas from time to time for brief visits and in case of emergency a naval vessel can be sent there immediately.

As you may be aware, existing law and procedure do not authorize Government credit for arms purchases. However, it is anticipated that within the next few days the President will recommend to Congress that the necessary authorization be granted.

You may inform the President of Costa Rica that the United States is disposed to cooperate with Costa Rica in every possible way in connection with its defense requirements, that you have already taken up the matter with the Department, and that you hope to be in a position to inform him definitely at a very early date.

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  1. Latter not printed.