740.0011 European War 1939/24616: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in Liberia (Hibbard)
265. For McBride. Your 319, October 2, 1 p.m. The Department does not perceive the need at this time of issuing a joint declaration of war aims with Liberia. It is believed that the preamble to our defense agreement will, when published, serve to express virtually the same sentiments as those contained in your suggestion. When announcement is made of the agreement, consideration can be given to issuing a brief supplementary statement by the Department which would be satisfying to the Liberians.
Unless there are reasons to the contrary of which we are unaware, it does not seem to us necessary for Liberia to make a declaration of war under present circumstances. Neither the War Department nor Firestone have favored such a move and the disadvantages would appear to outweigh the advantages. In order to allay any fears entertained by the Liberians as to their position after the war, you may inform President Barclay that the interests of Liberia are always kept fully in mind by this Government and that in any post-war settlement our policy would be to urge that Liberia be afforded an opportunity to state its case.
We shall be glad to discuss this matter further with you upon your return to the United States.