763.72119/7121: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Guatemala ( Thurston )
Your Ocober 1, 9 a.m. Department has been informed that bill authorizing the sale of enemy property has been passed and that a public sale will be held on November 30. If so cable Department [Page 298] main provisions of bill and of regulations affecting sale. What properties will be sold on this date?
Certain Americans interested in purchase of these properties have intimated that they would be more ready to submit bids if regulations provided for (1) sealed bids (2) an award as soon as possible after acceptance of bids (3) that the government either guarantee title of property sold or allow period not exceeding 30 days after award for examination of title by purchaser, receiving deposit of percentage of purchase price meanwhile as guarantee of good faith. Unless such course seems to you impolitic, discreetly urge upon president desirability of incorporating these suggestions in regulations for sale.
Is government bound to accept highest bid. In case of sale of coffee or sugar plantations will sale carry with it pending crop. Cable reply.