822.00/9–247: Telegram
The Ambassador in Ecuador (Simmons) to the Secretary of State
urgent
375. Mancheno at 11 a.m., today sent message asking asylum this Embassy. I declined citing our general position in such matters. His message delivered to me by Mrs. Salinas wife of Major Salinas of our military ground mission at whose house he now is. I suggested possibility other Embassies here. Mancheno troops at Ambato reported demoralized. Guayaquil confirmed in opposition hands. In other words Mancheno is through although situation highly confused as to who [Page 670] will now take power. Possibility exists civil disturbance Quito which now has no adequate police or military protection. Crowds now milling in center city. Atmosphere tense.