Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, Volume V, Microfiche Supplement, American Republics

BL–4. Telegram from the Chargé in Bolivia (Coerr) to the Secretary of State¹

La Paz, February 19, 1958, 7 p.m.

487. Department telegram 295.²

Today orally conveyed to President Siles substance reference telegram, stressing its highly confidential nature, on basis carefully prepared Spanish translation. I felt he took negative possibility increase U.S. aid beyond original 1958 figure, as body blow. His only comment, “What are we going to do now?”

I emphasized that 1958 program now gathering momentum and mentioned Victor Rose³ expected arrival tomorrow, as factors which should help substantially.

President gravely predicted, without specifying, considerable political and labor problems coming up in next few days; as well as widespread continuing heavy labor demands for increased compensation. Later, on parting, thanked me for message.

Coerr

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 824.10/2–1958. Confidential; Priority. While Bonsal was in Washington for consultation, Wymberley D.R. Coerr was Chargé.
2. A description of telegram 295, February 12, was not declassified. Telegram 295 is in Department of State, Central Files, 824.10/2–1958.
3. Rose was an economic adviser with the International Cooperation Administration, who was serving as Executive Director of the Bolivian National Stabilization Council.