819.51/285: Telegram
The Minister in Panama ( Price ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4 p.m.]
7. Fiscal Agent submits following for response to Department’s 4.
“Fiscal Agent has arranged with Panaman President to remain until March 1st under terms of present contract so as to dispose of important matters now pending and permit time for selection of successor but does not desire to continue after that date unless at salary of $15,000. Suggest successor should be here to assume office March 1st.”
I do not believe refusal to pay $15,000 salary will be reconsidered by Panama. Bids for contracts building good roads will be opened February 18th. Fiscal Agent is a member of Commission. Panaman President yesterday gave notice in response to new proposal offered by International Banking Corporation to act as depository for year beginning next July that the Banco National of the Government would take over the work at that time. These and other indications show the urgent need for a strong and able Fiscal Agent and assistant.