839.415/95: Telegram
The Ambassador in Haiti ( White ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:52 p.m.]
29. Your No. 34, February 4, 8 p.m. Present Haitian-Dominican tension in my opinion consists 90% of animosity between two Chiefs of [Page 173] State originating in jealousy and disappointment of Trujillo that Lescot has successfully obstructed his ambitions to dominate in this Island. I do not see that a memorial would satisfy Trujillo’s frustration and if not it would merely represent useless expense with ample possibilities for further disagreements as to erection.
As the centenary is Dominican and Trujillo appears to be aggressor I consider that any initiative should come from him as a peace offering and gauge of future friendship.
I suppose that if the Department really pressed for its erection and his face could be saved Lescot would consent to memorial and meeting without, however, any illusions as to their value. Remember that last meeting between the two Presidents though reported cordial did not check deterioration in relations.