882.20/552: Telegram
The Chargé in Liberia (Wharton) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 28—2:33 p.m.]
104. From McBride. Department’s 68, March 25, 9 p.m. All changes in agreement suggested by State and War Departments approved by President Barclay except as follows:
Article VIb. He agrees to eliminate word “immediately” provided we will also agree to eliminate words “as soon as practicable”. He is insistent on this point.
Article VI thus reads.
“The Government of the United States undertakes, at the end of the war and the additional period provided in paragraph 5 of the preamble to this agreement, to withdraw all military forces of the United States. It is mutually understood and agreed that the jurisdiction hereby conferred on the Government of the United States over any airports and defense areas, and over military and civilian personnel under the provisions of article II of this agreement, shall continue until all matters calling for judicial determination, but undisposed of after the termination of this agreement, shall have been disposed of by the United States authorities, or, alternately, until the withdrawal of the United States forces shall be complete.”
That agreement will in no way prejudice commercial rights of Panair is covered in confidential letter to President Barclay.
Department’s 70, March 26, 8 p.m.
[Page 375]Proposed confidential letter to President Barclay will be changed to conform with War Department’s wishes and I will emphasize matter of million dollar program of assistance to Liberia.
Agreement will be signed morning of March 31 and confidential letter handed to Barclay, unless I am instructed to the contrary. I will prepare to leave a day or two thereafter. Please inform family.
I am deeply grateful for Department’s splendid assistance. [McBride.]