740.0011 European War 1939/26012: Telegram
The Chargé in Liberia (Hibbard) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4:37 p.m.]
392. Department’s telegram 303, November 21, 3 [5] p.m. The news of United Nations’ successes in North Africa and particularly the capitulation of Dakar and the neighboring French colonies has caused much enthusiasm here. The President and the Government have not been entirely satisfied that our force here was sufficient to protect the country from an attack. This danger is greatly lessened now.
It is evident, however, that they would welcome more protection particularly air forces. In a conversation with Secretary of State yesterday, he asked me what had become of the defense force which he and the President understood from Colonel McBride was about to embark at the time of his last visit. I said I had no information but presumed they had been delayed due to the tremendous movement of ships to North Africa.
He told me that he had recommended in his annual report to the Legislature just presented that Liberia should declare war on the Axis Powers. He felt that this was most necessary for Liberia’s future position. The President was in agreement with him and he hoped that action would be taken shortly. At the same time he expected to regularize this country’s relations with the Fighting French.
This and other indications in the President’s message to the Legislature on November 20 and the conversation of the people clearly show that Liberians generally feel we are on the way to victory.