890F.515/33: Telegram
The Minister Resident in Saudi Arabia (Moose) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 5—7:31 a.m.]
112. Cairo’s 1572, September 1, 10 a.m., and my 75, July 29, 6 p.m. Saudi Minister of Finance is still in India and is not expected back in Arabia for another month. Reliable information about signatures and confirmation by decree can be had only by consulting local officials but it seems likely that the King will sign on behalf of Saudi Arabia only where the President signs on behalf of the U.S. Please advise what signatures will be necessary on behalf of U.S. Government and who is to be authorized to sign.
[Page 895]Signature of Amir Faisal the Foreign Minister can be had if documents arrive before he departs for the U.S.91 Another possibility would be for Amir Faisal to sign papers in Washington. In that case he should be advised now to secure authorization from King.
Alternatively signature of Acting Foreign Minister can be had or signature of Acting Finance Minister.91a In latter event Acting Foreign Minister might try to interfere. He has already upset an arrangement made by Finance Minister and Mr. Kirk for direct communication between Legation and Finance Minister in matters relating to lend-lease.
Probably the King would confirm contract signed by any Minister though I would recommend that decree not be required if it can be avoided.
Acting Foreign Minister is at present in Jidda and Acting Finance Minister in Mecca. If Ministerial signatures to request and contract are acceptable it appears that documents might be completed here.
Repeated to Cairo.