763.72113/850: Telegram

The Chargé in Guatemala (Thurston) to the Acting Secretary of State

[For] Ely, War Trade Board.

Enemy property decree, which has been prepared by lawyer designated by the President and which I propose to present to him on receipt of your reply to this, provided [provides] moneys received by Custodian shall be deposited [in] bank designated by the President and removed only for investment in Guatemala and I believe that failing promise of loan referred to in my despatch number 9 of December 1816 the President will insist on this [provision]. I report this only because representative[s] Department of State War Trade Board in conference I attended objected to such disposition of funds. Personally cannot understand objection: damage enemy interest is the prime desideratum and disposition of funds cannot effect [affect] that and granting it is necessary safeguard funds as security for indemnities it is very unlikely President would make any such disposition of them as would antagonize United States and Allies. Immediate authority is requested therefore to accept provision. To reject it would be entirely inconsistent with the solicitude for sovereign rights of Guatemala which has prevented our forcing enemy property action. Ames.

Thurston
  1. Not printed.