702.6282/42: Telegram
The Chargé in Liberia ( Hibbard ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11 a.m.]
355. My telegram 348, October 15, 6 p.m. The German Consul yesterday informed the Secretary of State that he had received instructions from Berlin to the effect a Vichy French plane would arrive in Monrovia October 23, to take him and his staff to Abidjan.
He has asked the Secretary to secure a safe conduct for the party from the British and American Governments to cover the journey from Monrovia to Germany. I have told Mr. Simpson that I could not issue any such document but that I would request the commanding officer of air forces here to afford full protection in Liberian territory provided the plane did not fly over our defense areas. Arrangements for a safe conduct for the remainder of the journey would have to be made by the Vichy or German Governments with the American and British Governments through the appropriate channels.
The Germans have arranged to take with them about $50,000 in gold.