814.00/10–2444: Telegram
The Chargé in Guatemala ( Affeld ) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 25—1:24 a.m.]
727. The Department may find useful a summary of my impressions of the political situation to date. The movement which overthrew Ponce was well planned and efficiently executed as has been the effort to restore public order and confidence. The behavior of the Junta and its volunteer police has been correct in regard to citizens’ private property. Private property entered by forces of the Junta include the residence of ex-President Ubico, home and meat market of Alfred Denby,29 the house of David Ordonez former chief of police and one or two others considered by the people and particularly by the Revolutionary Junta as enemies of the people. These properties were searched for arms and radio, but were not looted.
[Page 1143]The Revolutionary Government as is issued today is made up of sound and responsible persons with emphasis on the younger elements. We have not had complete reports as to the extent of control exercised in the provinces although I believe they may generally be considered quiet. The members of the Court of Appeals have all resigned and I understood that many members of the legislative assembly have also resigned and many of those remaining are expected to. Mendizábal, the president of the assembly, is in the Chilean Embassy.
- Alfred E. Denby, American citizen, President and General Manager of Aerovias de Guatemala, S.A.↩