851B.20/144: Telegram
The Consul General in Martinique (Malige) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 9—1:44 a.m.]
473. From Reber. I have just delivered message from Cominch,8 received through Admiral Hoover this morning, to the High Commissioner who replied giving me his positive assurance that in consequence he will maintain all existing agreements and insure that no action is taken in these possessions detrimental to security of the United States.
He is informing his Government that he reached agreement on terms of accord with the United States yesterday afternoon and that he is bound by it. In this way he will forestall efforts on the part of Wiesbaden to force a change in position and proposes to maintain the existing situation as regards these territories in accordance with the accord. I informed him I was prepared to accept the agreement and to consider that the formality of signing was the only part lacking. I should appreciate immediate instructions on this point and authority, if necessary, to initial the accord as of November 7 as in this way only is it possible to obtain the binding assurances we desire.
If this can be accepted, the formal signature might be delayed until he can agree to sign without appearing to reach a new agreement subsequent to the landing in North Africa.9 He regrets signature did not occur yesterday.
Although Vichy is now delaying departure Sagittaire, Robert asked that the Guadeloupe, which is about to leave Pointe-à-Pitre, might come here without interference. I agreed and have so informed Admiral Hoover. Please confirm.
All quiet here up to now and, in view of assurances received from us, Robert is apparently taking no military precautions. [Reber.]