819.51/284: Telegram

The Minister in Panama ( Price ) to the Acting Secretary of State

4. The following is sent for Fiscal Agent Ruan.

“Fiscal agent advised Panaman President he had decided that, upon expiration of his contract February 1st, he would not seek a renewal thereof. Panaman President replied that he would greatly regret to lose services of Ruan and requested him to reconsider his decision. After conferring with Fiscal Agent, American Minister called on the President and explained that Fiscal Agent felt that his salary of $10,000 without allowances of any kind was inadequate; that, in fact, for the past two years it had not covered his expenses, and in view of the present excellent condition of the Panaman treasury, he considered that a salary of $15,000 would be only commensurate with the duties and expenses of his position as well as a just recognition of the results of his past work. Panaman President did not seem inclined to look upon this suggestion with favor, but after some discussion said that he would submit the matter to his Cabinet. At a session of the Cabinet held today the suggested increase was not approved, in view of which Fiscal Agent requests me to inform the Department that he desires to leave Panama upon the expiration of his contract, or as soon thereafter as his successor may be designated. Morris [Morrell],1 Assistant Fiscal Agent, already has accepted a position with a commercial firm and has notified the Panaman Government that he desires to leave not later than March 1st.”

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Price
  1. Major A. R. Morrell.