List of Papers

[Unless otherwise specified, the correspondence is from or to officials in the Department of State.]

GERMANY

Treaty between the United States and Germany Establishing Friendly Relations, Signed August 25, 1921

[Page VIII][Page IX][Page X]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 15 (56) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Information that Germany would welcome a peace declaration by the United States and suggestion that a separate peace treaty could be negotiated.
1
Feb. 16 (284) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Instructions to deny any authorization to conduct peace discussions with German officials or any knowledge of U. S. attitude or policy.
2
Feb. 19 (176) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Disavowal of peace discussions with German officials; public denial by German Foreign Office of peace discussions.
2
July 5 (1231) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Joint Congressional Resolution of July 1 (text printed) terminating state of war between United States and Germany and Austria-Hungary, reserving rights and privileges.
3
July 5 (1234) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain whether Germany will enter protocol confirming U. S. rights and privileges as stipulated in Treaty of Versailles, including participation in Reparation Commission, etc., so far as U. S. Government may wish to participate; resumption of diplomatic relations dependent upon German attitude thereupon.
5
July 22 (628) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s note (text printed) assuming that the United States will recognize responsibilities which, under Versailles Treaty, are connected with assertion of rights and privileges.
6
July 22 (629) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Foreign Office memorandum (text printed) expressing German willingness to confirm by protocol U. S. rights and privileges growing out of Treaty of Versailles and Congressional resolutions.
7
July 22 (630) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
German proposal that memorandum of July 22 be published simultaneously in Germany and America, together with a U. S. declaration that German property in hands of Alien Property Custodian will be restored.
8
July 23 (1305) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Inquiry as to meaning of term “responsibilities” referred to in Foreign Minister’s note. Preference for publication of substance of German memorandum of July 22. Confirmation of view that Congress alone has power to deal with property in hands of Alien Property Custodian.
9
July 27 (638) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s explanation of term “responsibilities”; his advocacy of including in protocol specific enumeration of rights and privileges claimed by the United States together with their conditions and limitations in favor of Germany. Inquiry as to publication of summary of German memorandum of July 22.
9
July 28 (1315) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Desire for short agreement according to the United States rights specified in Resolution of Congress with particular reference to those portions of Versailles Treaty United States is willing to accept. Instructions for expediting conclusion of agreement, draft of which will be sent, in order that diplomatic relations can be resumed without delay. Inadvisability of making public statement until agreement is consummated.
10
Aug. 1 (645) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Presentation of draft treaty to Foreign Minister; his objections on ground of omission of any language securing conditions, limitations, or rights in favor of Germany. Consideration of treaty by Cabinet.
12
Aug. 6 (650) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Modifications of draft treaty desired by Germany: (1) recognition of rights in favor of Germany connected with rights claimed by United States, (2) insertion of part 13 of Versailles Treaty, (3) interpretation of clauses of Versailles Treaty as to which doubt had already risen, (4) statements regarding resumption of diplomatic relations and negotiation of points not covered by treaty, (5) redraft of article 2, paragraph 5.
12
Aug. 6 (651) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Recommendations concerning points 1 and 5 of the German modifications, they being only obstacles to signature of treaty.
13
Aug. 8 (1350) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
U. S. agreement to slight change in article 2, paragraph 1, of draft treaty as concession to first point in German suggested modifications; refusal to agree to points 2, 3, 4, and 5.
14
Aug. 10 (656) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Further discussion of point 1 and request for exact construction of articles 1 and 2 of draft treaty.
15
Aug. 10 (657) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Urgent plea by Foreign Minister for U. S. President to recommend to Congress that alien property fund be restored.
16
Aug. 11 (1361) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Concessions to Germany in regard to language of articles 1 and 2 of proposed treaty, and intimation that delayed conclusion of treaty cannot be helpful to Germany. President’s inability to deal with alien property fund.
16
Aug. 12 (662) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s submission of U. S. concessions to Cabinet, urging prompt signature.
17
Aug. 19 (674) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Foreign Office note (text printed) regarding prospect of negotiations, upon coming into force of treaty, in regard to construction of treaty provisions; redraft of article 1; construction of article 2, paragraph 5; preamble change.
17
Aug. 19 (1373) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Authorization to state that if Germany desires speedily to resume diplomatic relations, no question should be raised respecting reference in treaty to peace resolution.
18
Aug. 20 (1376) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
U. S. assurances concerning resumption of diplomatic relations and negotiations with relation to commerce, etc., upon signature of treaty; refusal to make changes in article 1; accession to Germany’s construction of article 2, paragraph 5, and to preamble change.
19
Aug. 22 (680) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Arrangements for ratification in anticipation of early signing of treaty; German request for note embodying U. S. understanding.
20
Aug. 23 (682) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Proposed German statement regarding negotiations for treaty (text printed), submitted for Commissioner’s approval.
21
Aug. 23 (1380) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Instructions to cable text of proposed note to Germany on U. S. understanding.
22
Aug. 24 (1381) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Inquiry regarding exact text of articles 1 and 2 of treaty and regarding certain phrases in proposed German statement. Instructions to cable as soon as signed so that publication may be simultaneous in both countries.
23
Aug. 25 (688) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Satisfactory clearing up of language of treaty and German statement; date proposed for signature.
24
Aug. 26 (505) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information that treaty with Germany has been signed and published with expectation of prompt ratification; desirability of understanding with Allied Powers by exchange of notes conveying approval and recognition of U. S. rights to which treaty refers.
(Instructions to repeat to Brussels, Paris, and Rome.)
24
Sept. 6 (539) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French view that Allies must be consulted and identic action taken, Belgium having already been informed.
26
Sept. 7 (412) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
General attitude of approval of treaty on part of Allies; no need to press for answer as tacit approval is taken for granted.
26
Oct. 21 (2048) To the Commissioner at Berlin Transmittal of President’s instruments of ratification, also of full power to effect exchange and protocol attesting exchange. Further instructions as to details. 27
Nov. 12 (1300) From the Commissioner at Berlin
Exchange of ratifications and signing of protocol of exchange, thus consummating treaty.
28
Aug. 25 Treaty between the United States and Germany
Establishing friendly relations, also ratification by President Harding containing Senate reservations.
29
Nov. 14 (1527) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Notification that diplomatic relations may be resumed and instructions to request recognition as Chargé ad interim, pending arrival of letters of credence. Arrangements for staff.
33
Nov. 16 (793) From the Chargé in Germany (tel.)
German expression of readiness to resume diplomatic relations and recognition of Dresel as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim.
(Footnote: confirmation by Senate of Dresel’s nomination as Chargé and letter of credence presented to German Chancellor.)
34
Nov. 23 (806) From the Chargé in Germany (tel.)
Inquiry whether “the end of the war” was fixed by President’s peace proclamation.
35
Nov. 26 (1547) To the Chargé in Germany (tel.)
Termination of war between the United States and Germany on July 2, 1921, by Executive proclamation.
35
Dec. 8 (816) From the Chargé in Germany (tel.)
Submission of names of Dr. Karl Lang as German Chargé d’Affaires in Washington and Dr. Kraske as counselor of legation.
(Footnote: Presentation of credentials by Lang, December 31, Department having no objections.)
35

German Appeal to the United States for Mediation in the Reparation Settlement with the Allied Powers

[Page XI][Page XII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Mar. 14 From the British Embassy
Imposition of sanctions upon Germany by Inter-Allied Conference in view of Germany’s failure to accept Paris decisions respecting reparations or to make counter-offer.
36
Mar. 23 (165) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
For Allen at Coblenz: Instructions to place no obstacles in way of enforcement of customs control in American zone by way of sanctions, although U. S. Government will take no part therein.
37
Mar. 23 (318) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
German memorandum (text printed) expressing intention to afford reparation to limit of German ability to pay. Possibility that memorandum is endeavor to start new negotiations.
37
Mar. 29 (553) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Note for Foreign Minister (text printed) recognizing German desire to reopen negotiations with Allies on new basis and expressing hope that negotiations may lead to prompt settlement.
(Instructions to transmit to Allied representatives in Berlin German statement in telegram no. 318 and above reply.)
40
Apr. 20 (421) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Decision to transmit unofficially further German memorandum regarding reparations.
40
Apr. 20 (423) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
German memorandum (text printed) petitioning the President of the United States to mediate reparation question and to fix sum to be paid by Germany, when consent of Allies is secured.
41
Apr. 20 (424) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Résumé of conversations with Foreign Minister at time of delivery of memorandum, which throws important light on subject.
42
Apr. 21 (433) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
German memorandum of reparation proposals (text printed) forwarded for U. S. confidential information.
43
Apr. 21 (717) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Note for Foreign Minister (text printed) refusing to mediate question of reparations; willingness, however, to bring to attention of Allies any German proposals as basis for discussion in order that negotiations may speedily be resumed.
44
Apr. 21 (718) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Instructions to express U. S. willingness to take part in negotiations, with concurrence of Allies, if Germany seeks to resume such on sound basis.
45
Apr. 24 (442) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Confidential nature of the German reparations proposals being transmitted.
45
Apr. 24 (443) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
First half of German memorandum containing reparations proposals (text printed).
46
Apr. 25 (445) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Last half of German memorandum containing reparations proposals (text printed).
47
Undated Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the British and French Ambassadors, April 25, 1921
Unofficial presentation of German reparations proposals for opinion whether they furnish basis for further negotiation.
48
Undated Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the Japanese Ambassador, April 25, 1921
Unofficial presentation of German reparation proposals for opinion whether they furnish basis for further negotiations.
50
Undated Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the Italian Ambassador, April 26, 1921
Unofficial presentation of German reparations proposals for opinion whether they furnish basis for further negotiations.
50
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the British Ambassador, April 28, 1921
Declaration of Ambassador that German proposals were unacceptable, but that question of using them as basis for discussion was still under consideration.
51
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the Counselor of the French Embassy, April 28, 1921
Declaration of Counselor that German proposals were unacceptable; French desire to consult other Allies before making reply.
51
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the Belgian Ambassador, April 28, 1921
Declaration of Ambassador that German proposals were unacceptable and that Belgium stood by Paris proposals as only basis of settlement.
53
Apr 28 (464) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
German memorandum (text printed) correcting English translation of clause 1 of memorandum of April 24 relative to reparation and making explanations.
53
Apr 28 (296) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Reparation Commission’s note verbale to German Reparation delegation at Paris (text printed) fixing the amount of the German reparation debt.
54
Apr. 29 To the Belgian Ambassador
Transmittal of German memorandum correcting memorandum of April 24 with respect to reparations.
(The same to British, Italian, and Japanese Ambassadors.)
54
May 2 (808) To the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Memorandum for Foreign Minister (text printed) expressing U. S. inability to reach conclusion that proposals afford basis for discussion acceptable to Allies and urging Germany to make immediate and direct proposals to Allies.
54
May 3 (476) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s comment on U. S. reply as apparently bringing to an end U. S. intervention.
55
May 5 (484) From the Commissioner at Berlin (tel.)
German memorandum, May 4 (text printed) expressing regret over U. S. reply and explaining impossibility of making immediate and direct proposals to Allies.
55
May 5 Resolution of the Supreme Council of the Allied Powers, London
Decision to proceed to occupation of Ruhr Valley by May 12 and to take other necessary military and naval measures, unless Germany declares its resolve to fulfill its treaty obligations.
56
May 11 (359) From the British Ambassador
Germany’s unconditional acceptance of Allied terms (text printed).
57
[Page XIII]

Assent of the Conference of Ambassadors to the Construction of a Dirigible in Germany for the United States

[Page XIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 July 8 (2744) From the Chargé in France
Protocol of agreement between Principal Allied and Associated Powers and Germany, June 30 (text printed) regarding compensation for destroyed zeppelins.
58
Sept. 12 (536) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions informally to obtain assurances of British support, in meeting of Conference of Ambassadors, of U. S. claim to fair share of reparation in kind, namely, for construction by Germany of certain type of dirigible.
(Instructions to repeat, mutatis mutandis, to Rome.)
60
Sept. 19 (761) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Foreign Office reply that formal request for assurances should be made regarding U. S. claim to award of German dirigible.
61
Sept. 20 (552) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Authorization to make formal request for assurances.
61
Oct. 6 (803) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
British note, October 4 (text printed) explaining reparation plan regarding airships and stating objections to U. S. claim.
62
Oct. 13 (590) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) urging justice of U. S. claim, stating that aeronautical material does not come within jurisdiction of Reparation Commission and value thereof is not to be credited to Germany on reparation account. Request for reconsideration.
(Instructions to repeat to Paris for information and to Boyden for action.)
64
Oct. 15 (826) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Postponement of action on U. S. claim pending conclusion of negotiations between London and Washington. Intimation of support of claim provided it will not delay abolition of Inter-Allied Aeronautic Commission of Control and that agreement is reached with Japanese.
66
Oct. 21 (607) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Understanding with British Ambassador as to U. S. support of early termination of Aeronautic Commission of Control; construction of dirigible would be under supervision of U. S. naval officials.
67
Oct. 26 (851) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Foreign Office note, October 24 (excerpt printed) giving assurances concerning U. S. wish for acquisition of military airship from Germany.
68
Dec. 13 (681) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Report from France that British Ambassador there has not received instructions to support U. S. request for dirigible to be built in Germany. Instructions to call attention to fact.
(Instructions to repeat to Paris.)
68
Dec. 16 (685) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Adoption of resolution by Conference of Ambassadors consenting to U. S. request for construction in Germany of dirigible, subject to amendment and understanding.
69
Dec. 23 (560) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to notify Conference of Ambassadors of designation of Naval attaché at Paris as representative in all matters dealing with construction of airship; information that conditions and specifications are being sent him direct.
(Instructions to inform Berlin.)
70

GREAT BRITAIN

Protest by the British Ambassador against American Allegations of Unfair British Competition for Control of Important Sources of Petroleum

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Apr. 20 (292) From the British Ambassador
Denial of allegations of unfair British competition for control of petroleum sources contained in letter of U. S. Secretary of Interior as printed in Congressional Record.
71
Nov. 15 (863) From the British Ambassador
Denial of authenticity of documents purporting to be extracts from British official proclamation of 1884 and of agreement of 1885 with Burma Oil Co., excluding U. S. firms from doing business in Burma. Request for public acknowledgment that statement of Secretary of State based on these documents and printed as Senate document, was erroneous.
77
Dec. 10 To the British Ambassador
U. S. request for further information before making desired public statement.
78

Refusal by the United States to Admit British Claims on Behalf of the Turkish Petroleum Company

[Page XV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Mar. 1 (160) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
British note, February 28 (text printed) reciting history of Turkish Petroleum Co.’s claim to oil concession in Mesopotamia; allocation of German interest to France by San Remo agreement in return for facilities by which oil may reach Mediterranean; citing of similar U. S. oil deals in Palestine and Mexico and policy in Philippines.
80
Apr. 2 From the Consul General at Berlin
Report that no concession was ever granted to Turkish Petroleum Co., British claim resting solely on letter of Grand Vizier, June 1914, agreeing to grant concession, which was never consummated.
85
Nov. 4 (233) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Transmittal of note for Foreign Office on Turkish Petroleum Co.’s claim, with instructions to mail copies to representatives at Berlin, Berne, and Constantinople, for information, to Paris and Rome for presentation to French and Italian Foreign Offices. Instructions to make inquiry regarding report that Anglo-Persian Oil Co. will be chief participant in Turkish Petroleum Co.
86
Nov. 22 To the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Information that as soon as permission for prospecting in Mesopotamia has been granted, Standard Oil and other applicants will be notified.
87
Dec. 7 (749) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Note to Foreign Office, November 17 (text printed) making assertion that no concession was ever granted to Turkish Petroleum Co. and requesting arbitration of validity of claim; representations against British monopolistic policy and refusal of equal commercial opportunity; assertion that U. S. interests in Palestine and elsewhere are in a different category.
88
Dec. 28 (816) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Foreign Office note, December 20 (text printed) explaining that reply will be expedited, adding that it will require time and careful consideration.
93

Restrictions upon the Activities of the Standard Oil Company in Palestine

[Page XVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Aug. 12 From the Vice President of the Standard Oil Company of New York
Request that representations be made to Great Britain in order that Standard Oil be permitted to make geological survey of their petroleum concessions in Palestine. Urgency of action in view of long delay.
94
Aug. 22 (492) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to make oral representations, after conferring with Standard Oil representative, requesting that company be permitted to make geological survey in areas covered by their rights. U. S. approval of equal opportunity for geologists of any nationality traveling in Mesopotamia so long as legal status quo is preserved, pending establishment of permanent Government.
95
Sept. 10 (742) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Further discussion with Colonial Office of Standard Oil request for privilege of exploration in Palestine; British statement that reply could only be given to formal request; British disinclination to create precedent in matter of recognizing rights acquired before the war.
96
Sept. 13 (538) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Authorization to make formal request without implying that company waives any of its rights or that U. S. position relative to economic opportunity in mandate territory will be modified.
97
Oct. 20 From the Consul at Jerusalem (tel.)
Reference of permission for prospecting from London to Jerusalem for recommendation; and return with favorable reply.
97
Oct. 28 (596) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Formal request sent to Foreign Office, September 15, and reply, October 26 (texts printed) according informal permission for geological research with understanding that exploitation cannot be granted until mandate for Palestine is settled, and on condition that report will be made to local Government of result of investigations and that company will comply with Government’s instructions.
97
Nov. 17 From Mr. H. E. Cole, of the Standard Oil Company of New York
Unwillingness of company to agree to conditions imposed by Palestine and/or British Government.
100
Nov. 26 (661) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to state that Department sees no reason for conditions imposed and that geological examination could be made without prejudice to question of date for development.
101
Dec. 1 (724) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Note to Foreign Office (text printed) making representations according to instructions in telegram no. 661.
102
Dec. 30 (824) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Foreign Office note, December 28 (text printed) offering explanations and assurances regarding conditions required for geological survey in Palestine.
103

Negotiations to Ensure the Recognition of the Rights of the United States in Territories under Mandate

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Aug. 2 (634) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
British note, August 1 (text printed) inquiring for U. S. statement of objections or criticisms regarding Asiatic mandates, for presentation to League of Nations.
106
Aug. 4 (448) To the Ambassador un Great Britain (tel.)
Memorandum of U. S. views (text printed) relative to draft A and B mandates for certain enemy territory and U. S. right to participation in measures for disposition thereof, submitting certain modifications in text.
106
Dec. 23 (811) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
British note, December 22 (text printed) offering guaranty to U. S. citizens of same rights and privileges in mandated territories in Africa as enjoyed by League members and offering to consult U. S. Government before modifying mandates.
110
Dec. 30 (831) From the Chargé in Great Britain
British note, December 29 (text printed) offering guaranty to U. S. citizens of same rights and privileges in mandated territories of Middle East as enjoyed by League members and offering to consult with U. S. Government before modifying mandates.
115

Assertion of American Capitulatory Rights in Palestine

[Page XVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 24 (72) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
British note, January 19 (text printed) citing trial and conviction for forgery of U. S. citizen by Jaffa court, there being no indication that he was foreign citizen; hope that no objection will be raised to rehearing in court composed of majority of British judges.
119
Feb. 1 (73) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Inability to accede to British request; representations for the recognition of U. S. consular jurisdiction in Palestine pending entry into force of treaty of peace with Turkey and the mandate for Palestine; reservation for later consideration of status of capitulations after coming into force of treaty of peace.
119
Mar. 4 (4287) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
British note, Mar. 2 (text printed) acceding to U. S. wishes in matter of recognition of U. S. consular jurisdiction in Palestine pending coming into force of treaty of peace with Turkey, when extraterritorial rights enjoyed by foreigners will cease to exist.
120
Apr. 11 (1290) To the Chargé in Great Britain
Gratification over concession to U. S. request, but indisposition to concur in British view that regime of capitulations in Palestine will terminate when treaty and mandate become effective.
121
Aug. 17 (706) From the Consul at Jerusalem
Case of A. Chaikin, arrested in military zone by military police and tried and sentenced without revealing U. S. citizenship. View of Civil Governor that Chaikin was not subject to U. S. jurisdiction because of circumstances of arrest and trial.
122
1922 Jan. 17 To the Consul at Jerusalem
Refusal to accept view of Civil Government that Chaikin was not subject to U. S. consular jurisdiction because he was apprehended in military zone and because he failed to claim exemption as U. S. citizen.
123

Refusal by the Department of State to Question the Right of the British Government to Exclude Certain American Citizens from the British Isles

Date and number Subject Page
1920 Dec. 15 From Certain Members of the United States Senate
Request that the U. S. Government protest against British refusal to visa passports of U. S. citizens chosen by American Commission on Conditions in Ireland to visit England and Ireland to investigate conditions in Ireland.
123
1921 Jan. 11 To Senator G. W. Norris
Refusal to question right of British Government to exclude American citizens from British Isles.
(The same to other Senators signatory to letter of December 15, 1920.)
125
[Page XVIII]

British Rejection of the Proposal to Exempt American Coastwise Shipping from the Panama Canal Tolls

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Sept. 19 From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Discussions with Curzon on exemption of U. S. coastwise traffic from Panama Canal tolls; Canada’s refusal of suggested modification of treaty of 1901 to put Canada on same basis as United States; suggestion that passage of Senate bill on eve of Disarmament Conference be averted.
127
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the British Ambassador, September 20, 1921
British request that subject of Panama Canal tolls be on agenda of Disarmament Conference; U. S. opinion that matter should be settled diplomatically by United States and Great Britain.
129
Sept. 29 From President Harding
Opinion that question of Panama Canal tolls is matter for negotiation between United States and Great Britain and has no place as an international problem before Disarmament Conference.
130
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the British Ambassador, October 17, 1921
British refusal to recede from position and statement that it represented interests of other nations in making its claim; U. S. refusal to admit British had any standing to make claim on behalf of any other power.
131

Termination, Except as to Article VI, of the Treaty of October 2, 1886, between the United States and the King of Tonga

Date and number Subject Page
1915 May 29 To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Instructions to give notice of U. S. intention to abrogate article 10 of treaty of October 2, 1886, with King of Tonga.
132
Undated [Rec’d Sept. 3] (2005) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
British inquiry whether U. S. desire is for termination of treaty as a whole, since no provision exists for abrogation of separate articles except in respect to article 6.
133
1916 Mar. 23 To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Instructions to explain U. S. policy of seeking to abrogate only such portions of treaties with foreign nations, by protocol or exchange of notes, as are inconsistent with provisions of Seamen’s Act; hence proposed omission by agreement of article 10 of treaty with Tonga.
133
1921 Jan. 10 (4037) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
British note, July 28, 1919 (text printed) giving notice on behalf of King of Tonga of denunciation of treaty of October 2, 1886, inasmuch as provision is made only for entire abrogation, except in respect to article 6.
135
Feb. 18 (1196) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) acknowledging receipt of notice of abrogation of treaty of 1886 except as to article 6.
136
[Page XIX]

GREECE

Question of the Recognition of the Government of King Constantine

[Page XX]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 7 (1) To the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to state that no instructions have been received regarding recognition of King Constantine; postponement of decision until official notice of assumption of office has been received.
138
Jan. 15 (5) To the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Greek Chargé’s written notice of Constantine’s return to throne. U. S. requirement of formal announcement signed by Constantine addressed to U. S. President as necessary before reply can be made.
138
Jan. 16 (510) From the Minister in Greece
Observations on the constitutional and legal basis of the restored monarchy and the constitutional and legal interpretation given by party of Venizelos to events which led to removal of Constantine from the throne in 1917.
139
Jan. 18 (6) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Greek explanation of failure to formally announce accession of Constantine as due to fact he never ceased to be King; recommendation for U. S. insistence upon explicit acknowledgment of legitimacy of former régime by admission that Constantine succeeds to throne made vacant by Alexander’s death.
145
Jan. 21 (71) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
British and French objections to recognizing Constantine.
145
Feb. 4 (13) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
British recognition conditional upon Constantine’s acknowledgment that he is successor to Alexander. Inquiry whether formal announcement to Washington has been made.
146
Feb. 9 (13) To the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Information that formal notification of accession has been mailed but not yet received.
146
Feb. 25 (25) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Presentation of U. S. demands relative to imposition of new taxes by Greek administration of Smyrna and interference with business of Standard Oil Co. there; Government’s assurances of intention to honor international agreements of Alexander’s régime; impression of insincerity of present Government.
147
Mar. 2 From the Greek Chargé
Letter from King Constantine to President Wilson, December 10, 1920 (text printed) announcing his resumption of royal duties and his desire for friendly relations.
147
Mar. 16 (33) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Greek note (excerpt printed) engaging to recognize all obligations resulting from treaties, agreements, etc., concluded with foreign powers when royal authority was exercised by son of King, virtually declaring reign of Alexander illegal.
148
Apr. 29 (64) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Rescinding of vote of Chamber of Deputies which declared null and void all legislation enacted by Alexander government. Necessity for forcing Constantine to acknowledge its legitimacy.
149
Oct. 21 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
British view that Constantine Government is weakening; their proposed changes in diplomatic representation at Athens; and intimation that U. S. recognition of Constantine by sending Minister would be unwelcome to British.
149
Dec. 14 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Statement by French Ambassador that France would deplore U. S. recognition of King Constantine by appointing a Minister to Greece and suggestion that England’s policy of sending Chargé d’Affaires to Greece be adopted.
150

Termination of the Treaty of 1837 between the United States and Greece

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Mar. 9 Memorandum by the Acting Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs, Department of State
Lapsing, January 26, 1921, by denunciation, of Treaty of Commerce and Navigation of December 22, 1837, between the United States and Greece. Unratified agreement (text printed) so as to continue treaty in force modifying article XVII one year or more after denunciation. Recommendation that matter remain pending until question of recognition of Constantine government be decided.
151
Apr. 29 (494) From the Greek Chargé
Inquiry, for purposes of reciprocity, whether the United States is applying rates of differential tariff on goods coming from Greece, in conformity with treaty.
152
Apr. 30 To the Greek Chargé
Information that Greek goods are accorded most-favored-nation treatment.
152
May 28 (102) From the Consul General at Athens
Greek Royal decree (text printed) ratifying agreement amending article XVII of the treaty of 1837 between the United States and Greece.
153

Attempt by the Greek Authorities at Smyrna to Levy Taxes in Derogation of American Rights in Turkey

[Page XXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1920 Aug. 13 (449) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
From Smyrna: Superseding of Ottoman officials by Greeks and transfer of Government according to terms of Treaty of Sevres; relations between new authorities and foreign representatives to be carried on through Greek High Commission.
154
Sept. 3 (204) From the Vice Consul at Smyrna
Greek intention to abrogate system of capitulations at Smyrna. Opinion that these treaties are bilateral agreements and cannot be nullified by a unilateral declaration.
154
1921 Jan. 24 (28) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Refusal of Standard Oil Co. to pay consumption tax levied by Greece, resulting in forcible interference with company’s business. Reference of matter to High Commissioners. Letter to consul general at Smyrna (text printed) instructing him to protest to Greek authorities and to advise company against payment pending reference of matter to U. S. Government.
155
Jan. 28 From the Vice President of the Standard Oil Company of New York
Inquiry as to Department’s attitude toward levy of taxes on Standard Oil Co. in Smyrna and what results can be expected.
157
Feb. 19 (13) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Information that U. S. Minister at Athens has been instructed to make representations against imposition of taxes other than Turkish tariff and against interference with Standard Oil Co.’s business in Smyrna.
(Instructions to inform consul general at Smyrna.)
158
Feb. 24 From the High Commissioner at Constantinople, temporarily at Alexandria (tel.)
Negotiations with Greek High Commissioner, resulting in free pursuit of company’s business pending diplomatic settlement of tax question. Recommendation that subject be taken up with Allies and urging resumption of 11 percent tax.
158
Mar. 2 (292) From the Consul General at Smyrna
Discussion between American and Greek High Commissioners as to right of Greece to levy taxes other than under capitulations at maximum of 11 percent.
160
July 23 From the Consul General at Smyrna
Protest against imports levied on merchandise arriving in Smyrna from other ports of Ottoman Empire where import duty has already been paid.
162
July 29 To the Consul General at Smyrna (tel.)
Approval of action in protesting against double import tax; instructions to keep Department informed.
163
Aug. 3 (340) From the Consul General at Smyrna
Greek High Commissioner’s reasons for insisting that double duty is imperative.
163

Exemption prom Service in the Greek Army of American Citizens of Greek Origin Who Had Served in the American Army

[Page XXII][Page XXIII][Page XXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1919 Nov. 18 (861) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Official notification that U. S. citizens of Greek origin and all other Greeks who have served in U. S. Army will be exempt from further service in Greek Army.
164
1920 Jan. 14 (3) To the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Inquiry whether similar treatment will be accorded naturalized U. S. citizens of Greek origin who were exempted from service in U. S. Army for satisfactory reasons.
165
Mar. 13 (25) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Greek regulations in regard to military service required of Greeks returning to Greece.
165
Oct. 15 (220) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Difficulties of two classes of Americans now in Greece and desiring to return home, namely, children born of Greek parents prior to their naturalization and adults acquiring U. S. citizenship since January 15, 1914, without consent of Greek Government. Seizure of passports of latter and requiring of Greek passports for return to America.
166
Nov. 11 (246) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Inquiry whether U. S. consulates in Greece are authorized to visa Greek passports without extra charge in cases where U. S. passports have been seized.
166
Nov. 29 (90) To the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Refusal to permit U. S. consuls to visa Greek passports held by Americans. Instructions to make representations against such treatment and to demand that U. S. passports be returned to Legation.
167
Dec. 22 (272) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Greek promise to discontinue practice of seizing U. S. passports, refusal to concede U. S. citizenship to Greeks who in violation of law 120 of 1914 have become naturalized without consent of Greek Government.
167
Dec. 23 (274) From the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s expression of willingness to waive strict application of regulation and desire to come to understanding regarding status of former Greek subjects naturalized in America since Greek law of 1914, citing conflict in laws of two nations.
168
1921 Jan. 8 (3) To the Minister in Greece (tel.)
Information of receipt of draft of naturalization treaty from Greek Minister and preparation of counter-draft in reply.
169
Mar. 17 (36) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Partial removal of difficulties in securing visas of naturalized Greeks desiring to return to America; failure of Government to return to Legation the U. S. passports seized, notwithstanding protests.
169
Apr. 6 (50) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Continued exemption of classes never demobilized since World War; Government’s reservation of right to consider new classes called as new mobilization for new war.
169
Apr. 7 (34) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to renew request for return of U. S. passports seized by Greek authorities.
170
Apr. 11 (36) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Inquiries concerning Chargé’s telegram no. 50 and instructions to ascertain specific classes to which exemption assurances apply.
170
May 12 (71) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Exemption of men belonging to classes in Greek Army numbered 1916 to 1921, inclusive, who have served in U. S. Army during the war; nonexemption of others under new mobilization.
170
June 7 (82) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Greek practice, despite assurances to the contrary, of continuing to seize U. S. passports and to enforce military service of naturalized U. S. citizens who are exempt, also of U. S. citizens of Turkish origin. Recommendation that Government be warned.
171
June 17 (89) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Ruling that men arrested in Greece for evading military service, where foreign naturalization is claimed, will be taken to consulate of their adopted country for examination of papers.
172
June 18 (54) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to request that holders of U. S. passports be taken to nearest consulate for examination of papers and that passports already taken up be returned. Refusal to admit right to impress into Greek Army U. S. naturalized citizens of Greek or other origin.
172
July 18 (353) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Representations to Greek High Commissioner regarding impressment into Greek Army of numbers of naturalized Americans of Ottoman–Greek origin; suggestion that matter be brought to attention of authorities at Athens; request for release of three Americans, whose citizenship has been confirmed.
173
Aug. 9 (121) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Request to Greek Government for release from Army of all classes naturalized U .S. citizens who have served in U. S. Army, in view of contradictory views as to Asia Minor campaign.
174
Aug. 24 (126) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Refusal to release naturalized U. S. citizens not listed in classes 1916 to 1921. Opinion that Department should take firm stand.
174
Sept. 14 (463) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Conceding by Minister of War of right of naturalized U. S. citizens to release; difficulties in locating individuals causing delayed action.
175
Oct. 5 (79) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Information that Chargé at Athens is being instructed to endeavor to obtain release of three U. S. citizens mentioned in despatch no. 353.
175
Oct. 28 (76) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to request immediate release of Nicholas Kauris and to state that compliance with requests in Department’s telegram no. 54 is awaited.
176
Nov. 7 (147) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Consent of Foreign Office to exempt naturalized U. S. citizens of Greek origin from military service in Greek Army if they have served in U. S. Army, subject to approval of military authorities.
176
Dec. 16 (155) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Arrangement whereby U. S. citizens in Greek Army will be given temporary leave during which time they may apply to Greek Government for consent to U. S. nationality, thus carrying out letter of Greek law.
176
1922 Jan. 7 (3) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to bring Greek offer informally to attention of interested Americans but to avoid officially advising them to apply for release from Greek allegiance.
177

GUATEMALA

Overthrow of President Herrera

[Page XXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Mar. 17 (168) From the Minister in Guatemala
Inauguration of President Carlos Herrera; rumored uprisings of lawless classes, antagonism toward foreigners; demonstration against appointment of chief of staff, Ubico; his resignation.
178
July 13 (211) From the Minister in Guatemala
Contest between Democratic and Unionista Parties for poetical control, former winning support of Army in near-revolution. Resignation of Secretary of War.
179
July 28 (220) From the Minister in Guatemala
Further rumors of overthrowing Government.
181
Dec. 6 (47) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Revolution beginning at midnight and ending by morning in overthrow of Government, imprisonment of President and Cabinet, and establishment of provisional government headed by Army officers.
182
Dec. 7 (48) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Calling of Congress to elect new President.
182
Dec. 7 (260) From the Minister in Guatemala
Report on political conditions in Guatemala incident to revolution.
182
Dec. 8 (51) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to convey to new Government U. S. expectation that there will be no political executions and that prisoners will receive humane treatment.
185
Dec. 9 (50) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
New administration’s pledges of humane treatment to prisoners and intimation of no political executions.
185
Dec. 12 (52) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to remind Provisional Government of responsibility which rests upon it for safety of certain members of former Cabinet now held prisoner.
185
Dec. 16 (54) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Improvement in situation, all but one of Cabinet and certain other prisoners having been released.
185
Dec. 26 (60) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Disposition of diplomatic corps not to recognize Provisional Government but to abide final action of the United States. Release of last remaining Cabinet member held prisoner.
186
Dec. 27 (61) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Military character of new Government. Suggestion for U. S. recognition provided assurances are given of political amnesty, of reduction of Army and its conversion to police force, of dismantling of fortifications, and of employing U. S. financial agent.
186

HAITI

Discord over the Execution of the Treaty of September 16, 1915

[Page XXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1920 Sept. 29 (350) To the Minister in Haiti
Instructions to inform President Dartiguenave of U. S. desire for appointment of mixed commission to study educational system of Haiti and to make report with recommendations for improvement.
188
1921 Jan. 27 (9) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Repetition of instructions to report modifications recommended by Minister and treaty officials regarding laws passed by Haitian legislature in violation of agreement of August 24, 1918.
190
Feb. 12 (13) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Modification of laws advised by Minister and treaty officials; opinion that article 5 of Constitution should be amended to give foreign residents same rights as Haitians regarding ownership of real property.
190
Mar. 24 From the Haitian Minister
Message from President Dartiguenave to President Harding, March 4 (text printed) appealing for proper execution of treaty of 1915 to bring peace and prosperity to Haiti, calling attention to evils of military occupation and lack of cooperation on part of treaty officials.
191
Apr. 12 (481) From the Minister in Haiti
Haitian reply, March 6 (text printed) declining to adhere to U. S. proposal for mixed commission to reform educational system, affirming that organization is patterned after French system and needs only financial aid from the United States.
196
Apr. 26 (398) To the Minister in Haiti
Letter from President Harding to President Dartiguenave, April 12 (text printed) giving assurance of U. S. desire to cooperate with Haiti in every way practical for advancement and welfare of its people and for proper execution of treaty.
198
July 2 From the Haitian Minister
Haitian note (text printed) citing Constitutional regulations regarding legislative elections and requesting U. S. cooperation not only in guaranteeing order but in supporting candidates favored by present administration.
199
Sept. 2 To the Haitian Minister
Reply to Haitian Government (text printed) giving assurance of cooperation in maintaining order during elections but remising to consent to elections not expressing free will of Haitian people.
200
Sept. 3 (431) To the Minister in Haiti
Transmittal of copy of Department’s reply to Haitian Minister’s note of July 2; reasons why no truly free elections can be held; authorization to inform President that there will be no objection to his abstaining from calling an election and to permitting his successor to be elected by Council of State.
201
Oct. 5 (71) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
President’s adoption of U. S. suggestion and decision to hold no legislative elections in January, President to be elected by Council of State.
203
Oct. 17 To the Secretary of the Navy
Request that General Richards, Paymaster of U. S. Marine Corps, whose duties take him to Haiti, make confidential report on political situation in Haiti.
(Footnote: Information that Gen. Richards has been instructed as desired.)
203
Nov. 21 (80) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
General Richards’ report on political situation in Haiti (text printed), including cause of anti-American sentiment, success of certain reforms, why others have failed, and views as to future policy.
203

Measures to Relieve the Finances of Haiti

[Page XXVII][Page XXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 14 (446) From the Minister in Haiti
Haitian note, December 16, 1920 (text printed) regarding project for payment of six months’ interest on consolidated interior debt. Inquiry as to U. S. opinion.
205
Jan. 15 (6) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Deficit for October, November, and December due to falling off in customs receipts. Consensus of opinion that only solution is temporarily to waive the setting aside of $175,000 monthly for service of public debt.
206
Jan. 17 To the French Ambassador
Information to show that provision was made for payment to Paris bank of coupons of Haitian 5-percent loan of 1910, and that Haiti did not take advantage of fall in French bond market because of alleged failure to pay.
207
Jan. 25 (7) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to inform Receiver General that Department has no objection to temporary reduction of monthly segregation of $175,000 by amount sufficient to meet budgetary need of Government. Inquiry as to January revenue.
208
Feb. 10 (384) To the Minister in Haiti
Department’s opinion that present financial condition of Haiti does not warrant resuming payment of interior debt at this time.
208
Feb. 11 (11) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Amount of customs receipts for January.
209
Feb. 17 From the French Ambassador
Explanations of delay in remitting payment of Haitian coupon of 1910 by Paris bank; suggestion that notice be given when future coupons will be paid.
209
May 5 (26) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
McIlhenny to Maumus: Suggestion that amount set aside to repay the United States for food advances be used to meet in part budgetary payments for May.
210
July 7 (519) From the Minister in Haiti
Letter from Acting Financial Adviser to Financial Adviser, temporarily in the United States (text printed), outlining policy which he proposes to follow with respect to payment of Haitian Government expenses for July, planning to give Gendarmerie preference with Sanitary Service next.
210
Aug. 5 (44) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions for Acting Financial Adviser regarding proposed suspension of Government salaries. Hope for new loan accompanied by enactment of adequate internal revenue laws in Haiti.
212
Aug. 10 (56) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Haitian expectation that the United States will take measures so that there will be no hindrance to payment of July expenses. Inquiries by Acting Financial Adviser whether President and officials shall have precedence over Gendarmerie in payment of salaries.
213
Aug. 17 (49) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Approval of settlement outlined, except that payment of President and officials shall have precedence over Sanitation and Public Works.
214
Oct. 18 (57) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Note for President (text printed) calling attention to tentative offers of loans by certain American bankers, explaining” terms and conditions; reasons why loan is necessary for Haiti and why Financial Adviser is proper person to conduct loan negotiations under Minister of Finance and with U. S. aid.
214
Nov. 10 (76) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Haitian memorandum enumerating objections to U. S. proposal, claiming that protocol of October 3, 1919, has lapsed and new protocol is necessary, etc.
217
Nov. 14 (60) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Supplemental note for President (text printed) citing further loan offer from Lee, Higginson and Co.; summary of offer; recommendation for acceptance.
217
Nov. 18 (61) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to present categorical reply to Haitian objections and to urge desirability of early decision on loan matter.
220
Dec. 6 (87) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
President’s promise to give immediate decision.
221
Dec. 20 (72) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Citing of Haitian inability to pay note of Banque Nationale at maturity as additional compelling reason for Haiti’s taking advantage of one of loan offers.
222
Dec. 28 (92) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Haitian disposition to accept Lee, Higginson offer provided certain modifications of protocol of October 3, 1919, are embodied in loan law.
222
Dec. 29 (73) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Importance of authorization for acceptance of one of loan offers prior to January 1 to avoid Banque Nationale note being protested.
223
Dec. 29 (93) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Haitian statement of ability to pay note due Banque Nationale by means of statutory loan held by bank and funds held through transaction signed at Washington, July 10, 1916.
223
Dec. 31 (74) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to state it is imperative that Financial Adviser be authorized to accept most favorable loan offer for Haiti without delay.
223
1922 Jan. 14 (4) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Information that statement by Minister of Finance that Government is in position to pay note due Banque Nationale is not considered a true statement. Explanation.
224

Efforts to Constitute the Haitian Claims Commission

[Page XXIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 July 29 To the British Ambassador
Request to be advised respecting the selection of British subject to serve as third member of Haitian Claims Commission during consideration of British claims, in order to constitute commission at early date.
224
July 29 To the French Ambassador
Request to be advised regarding designation of French subject to serve as third member of Haitian Claims Commission during consideration of French claims, in order to constitute commission at early date.
226
Aug. 8 (424) To the Minister in Haiti
Substance of note for Haiti (text printed) advising as to steps taken to constitute Claims Commission provided for in protocol of October 3, 1919; desire that Minister of Finance make his nomination promptly.
228
Aug. 27 From the French Chargé
Designation of M. René Delage to represent France on Claims Commission; inquiries as to date of arrival and salary.
229
Sept. 8 (537) From the Minister in Haiti
Haitian reply, Sept. 7 (excerpt printed) maintaining that protocol of October 3, 1919, is based upon loan of 40 millions and objecting to constitution of Claims Commission prior to making of loan.
229
Sept. 15 To the French Chargé
Information concerning salary and allowances of French commissioner and promise to communicate date of assumption of duties as soon as ascertained.
230
Dec. 3 (892) From the British Ambassador
Suggestion that Haitian Government be urged promptly to appoint member in order that Claims Commission may be constituted and matter settled before next hot season.
231
Dec. 21 To the British Ambassador
Information that negotiations are under way for flotation of loan to Haiti by private bankers, which will presumably result in immediate formation of Claims Commission.
231
1922 Jan. 13 (2) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Haiti’s suggestion to French Minister that each Government be charged with payment of arbiter named by it. France’s refusal to pay expenses of its arbiter.
232
Jan. 24 (7) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to state that Haitian suggestion to French Minister is not acceptable to U. S. Government and to advise French Minister of instruction.
232

Liquidation of German Property Sequestered During the War

[Page XXX]
Date and number Subject Page
1920 Aug. 7 (402) From the Minister in Haiti
Project of law for the organization in Haiti of an office of compensation, approved by Legation; subsequent addition of articles 14 and 15 (text printed) apparently not in accordance with treaty of peace; request that law be not promulgated pending instructions from Department.
233
1921 Jan. 25 (379) To the Minister in Haiti
Interpretation of treaty of peace indicating that articles 14 and 15 of the project of law fail to accord therewith; refusal, therefore, to approve law if said articles are included.
234
June 25 (31) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Instructions to obtain information regarding sequestered property, in view of interest of Americans in adjustment of accounts with concerns under sequestration in Haiti.
236
July 5 (39) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Synopsis of project of law (text printed) suspending liquidation of sequestered German property. Proposed modification thereof, so that claims of Allied creditors may be settled from proceeds of liquidation; Haitian insistence that Allied creditors should look to German firms for settlement.
237
July 12 (34) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Request for certain specific information regarding sequestration of property.
238
July 20 (44) From the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Information that according to project of law American or Allied creditors must look to German firms for settlement of their claims after unliquidated property shall have been returned to them; compliance of Haitian Government with treaty provisions.
239
July 29 (43) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Suggestion that settlement of U. S. claims could be made, consistently with treaty provisions, out of property held by Haiti under sequestration.
240
Aug. 13 (47) To the Minister in Haiti (tel.)
Acquiescence of British and French representatives in provisions of proposed Haitian law authorizing return of certain sequestered property to German firms. Request for report on status of claims.
240
Sept. 3 (534) From the Minister in Haiti
Revised project of law for liquidation of German property (text printed) as modified by Minister in agreement with Foreign Minister. Its enactment and promulgation.
240

HONDURAS

Termination of the Services of the American Financial Adviser

[Page XXXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Apr. 18 (98) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Notification to Young, American Financial Adviser, that his work will be discontinued April 30, ostensibly for purpose of economy.
244
Apr. 20 (14) To the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to make representations (substance printed) to President regarding decision to discontinue work of economic reform begun by Young.
245
Apr. 27 (114) From the Chargé in Honduras
Confidential information from brother of President, Honduran Minister to Washington, that as budget recommended by Young had been passed by Congress and Committee of Public Credit appointed, Young’s services were no longer required.
245
May 14 (125) From the Chargé in Honduras
Departure of Honduran Minister for Washington; his thorough knowledge of financial problems and ability to discuss them with Department; recommendation that no protest be made against ending of Young’s contract, which though renewed expires July 31. President’s appreciation of his services.
246
Aug. 26 (114) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Termination of Young’s contract; his intention to report to Department September 15.
247
Aug. 27 (192) From the Chargé in Honduras
Estimate of Young’s services in economic reforms and grateful appreciation of President.
247

HUNGARY

Treaty between the United States and Hungary Establishing Friendly Relations, Signed August 29, 1921

[Page XXXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Apr. 16 From the Commissioner at Budapest
Anxiety on part of Hungarian officials because Hungary has not been specifically mentioned in press telegrams relative to possibility of peace being declared by United States with countries of Central Europe.
249
July 9 (291) To the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Transmission of message from Mr. John Pelenyi to the Hungarian Foreign Minister (text printed) conveying U. S. willingness to come to agreement with Hungary, reserving, however, all U. S. rights and privileges accuring by virtue of Trianon Treaty.
249
July 9 (292) To the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Instructions to state that no treaty can be concluded that does not secure to the United States the rights, advantages, and interests stipulated in the peace resolution of July 2.
250
July 18 (305) From the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Willingness of Hungary to accept stipulations recited in U. S. peace resolution either by declaration of National Assembly or by special treaty or by both.
250
July 23 (306) To the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Instructions to advise that National Assembly make declaration at once accepting stipulations recited in U. S. peace resolution and that appropriate agreement be signed, without reservations, upon ratification of which diplomatic relations may be established and additional agreements may be negotiated.
251
July 27 (307) From the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s proposal to draft resolution but desire to include phrase to preserve such advantages as accrue to Hungary in Trianon Treaty.
252
July 28 (310) To the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Instructions to state U. S. objections to inserting any reservations in proposed resolution, Hungary, having ratified Trianon Treaty, being entitled to all rights accruing therefrom.
252
Aug. 1 (308) From the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Request that text of proposed treaty be telegraphed giving alternate wordings in order of preference. Hungarian aim to subject the United States to same limitations and obligations as signatories to Trianon Treaty.
253
Aug. 12 (311) From the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Resolution of National Assembly (text printed) accepting U. S. peace resolution without reservation. Authorization for negotiations of separate treaty on basis of joint note and Trianon Treaty.
253
Aug. 17 (315) To the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Information that text of proposed treaty has been sent together with full power and authority for Commissioner to sign. Instructions.
254
Aug. 29 Treaty between the United States and Hungary
Establishing friendly relations, also ratification by President Harding containing Senate reservations.
255
Dec. 17 (355) From the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Hungarian request for approval of Count Laszlo Szechenyi as Minister to the United States.
259
Dec. 20 (354) To the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Instructions to request provisional recognition as Chargé d’ Affaires pending arrival of letters of credence as Chargé d’Affaires pro tempore. Further instructions regarding personnel and Legation property.
260
Dec. 23 (355) To the Commissioner at Budapest (tel.)
Acceptance of Szechenyi as Hungarian Minister to the United States.
260
Dec. 30 (1) From the Chargé in Hungary (tel.)
His provisional recognition by Hungary as Chargé d’Affaires.
261
1922 Jan. 24 (5) From the Chargé in Hungary (tel.)
Erroneous reference to “Republic of Hungary” in Department’s letter of credence.
261
Feb. 2 To the Chargé in Hungary
New letter of credence amended so as to refer to Hungary as “Kingdom of Hungary.”
261
Mar. 10 (532) To the Chargé in Hungary
Receipt of report stating Spanish representatives have been instructed to turn over U. S. property held in safekeeping during war. Transmittal of copies of letters to Madrid expressing thanks and appreciation to Spanish officials for good offices.
262

JAPAN

Correspondence between the United States and the Allied Governments Relating to the Island of Yap

[Page XXXIII][Page XXXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1920 Nov. 9 (1136) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Contention raised during Communications Conference that Island of Yap was included in islands north of Equator placed under mandate to Japan by Supreme Council decision of May 7, 1919. Instructions to inform Foreign Minister concerning U. S. understanding that Yap was not included in Supreme Council decision, its disposition having been reserved for future consideration at President Wilson’s request.
(Sent also to diplomatic representatives in France, Italy, and Japan.)
263
Nov. 17 (1629) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
British reply, November 16 (text printed) stating that all the former German islands north of the Equator were included in the mandate to Japan by the Supreme Council, May 7, 1919, and asserting that minutes of that meeting contain no record of President Wilson’s reservations concerning Yap.
263
Nov. 19 (598) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Japanese memorandum (text printed) giving Japan’s understanding as to decision of Supreme Council and refusing to consent to any proposition which would exclude Yap from territory committed to Japan’s charge.
264
Dec. 4 (1199) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) reviewing reservations made by President Wilson and Mr. Lansing with respect to Yap at various discussions of Supreme Council and Council of Foreign Ministers and reiterating refusal to agree that Yap was included in decision of May 7 or in any other agreement of Supreme Council.
265
Dec. 6 (1674) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) calling attention to certain additional considerations as contained in telegram no. 1199 to Great Britain.
268
Dec. 6 (442) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) calling attention to additional considerations as contained in telegram no. 1199 to Great Britain.
268
Dec. 6 (1982) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French note (text printed) maintaining view that mandate conferred upon Japan covers Yap as well as other islands north of Equator, and that President Wilson’s desire to exclude Yap from mandate was not reiterated in meeting of May 2 when decision was made.
269
Dec. 11 (1692) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office that United States can perceive no reason for French conclusion that the United States concurred in awarding Yap as mandate to Japan because subject was not discussed at meeting of May 2.
270
Dec. 28 (255) From the Ambassador in Italy
Italian note, December 24 (text printed) giving assurance of Government’s interest in equitable solution of question of Yap mandate.
270
1921 Jan. 7 (18) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
British note, January 5 (text printed) advising that question of cable rights on Yap be brought by the United States before Communications Conference or settled by direct negotiations with Japan.
271
Feb. 19 (124) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French note, February 18 (text printed) suggesting settlement of question by resumption of conversations between United States and Japan.
271
Feb. 27 (80) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Japanese reply, February 26 (text printed) to U. S. note on status of Yap, and argument in support of position taken.
272
Mar. 17 Memorandum by Mr. Norman H. Davis of a Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador
Discussion of the disposition and operation of ex-German cables in Pacific and status of Island of Yap.
276
Apr. 2 (61) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) presenting argument to sustain U. S. position that there can be no valid disposition of overseas possessions of Germany without U. S. consent, which has not been authorized in case of Yap. President Wilson’s statement of March 3.
(Similar note to Great Britain, France, and Italy.)
279
Apr. 9 (241) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French note, April 7 (text printed) stating that reply cannot be given to U. S. note on status of Yap until understanding has been reached by interested powers at Supreme Council meeting.
283
Undated Memorandum of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the British Ambassador, April 12, 1921
Discussion of intimation that British reply to U. S. note on status of Yap would probably be claim that British were bound by agreement of 1916 with Japan to favor award of islands in north Pacific to Japan.
284
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 29] From the Italian Embassy
Italy’s desire that perfect equality of rights of all will be recognized in the exercise of mandates.
287

Negotiations for a Treaty between the United States and Japan Relating to Certain Pacific Islands Formerly in German Possession

[Page XXXV][Page XXXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Undated Memorandum of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the Japanese Ambassador, June 3, 1921
Discussion of the Yap question: the general principles involved; the disposition of ex-German cables; future rights to cables, radio stations, and all methods of communication; and administration of island. Suggestion that memorandum of proposals for discussion be drawn up by Ambassador.
287
Undated Memorandum of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the Japanese Ambassador, June 18, 1921
Presentation of Japanese tentative draft memoranda of proposals as basis for settlement; exclusion therefrom of any mention of radio and Secretary’s insistence that Yap be available to all nations alike for communication whether by cable or otherwise.
290
Undated [Rec’d June 18] From the Japanese Embassy
Tentative agreement to get the United States free access to the Island of Yap on equality with Japan or any other nation as regards landing and operation of cables.
291
Undated [Rec’d June 18] From the Japanese Embassy
Tentative proposals for the disposal of existing cables to Japan, Netherlands and United States, and arrangements for their operation; and an agreement that U. S. and Netherland cables at Yap be free from taxation or control of local authorities.
291
Undated Memorandum of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the Japanese Ambassador, August 19, 1921
Discussion of U. S. memorandum (text printed) proposing certain rights, privileges, and exemptions for United States or its nationals in Yap; and suggesting convention with Allied Powers for allocation of cables, with provisions for administration, extradition, and expropriation of property.
292
Sept. 8 From the Japanese Embassy
Acceptance of U. S. proposals concerning rights, privileges, etc.; suggestion that convention be concluded, with understanding that no further objection to Japanese mandate will be raised. Objection to inclusion of provisions for expropriation and extradition in proposed treaty with Allies, the latter being covered by existing extradition treaty between Japan and United States.
295
Sept. 15 To the Japanese Embassy
Proposals, for the inclusion in the convention, of provisions for application of existing extradition conventions to Yap; expropriation; missionaries, with inclusion of section of article 8 of the British B mandate for East Africa referring to schools; agreement that treaties in force between United States and Japan apply to mandated islands and that citizens and vessels of United States Should have free access to all waters of mandated territories. Request for annual report similar to that made to League of Nations.
297
Sept. 22 From the Japanese Embassy
Suggestion that convention contain also portion of article 8 of British B mandate for East Africa regarding right of control for maintenance of public order, etc.; interpretation of U. S. proposal as to free access to all waters of mandated territories.
299
Sept. 28 To the Japanese Ambassador
Suggestion that second and third paragraphs of article 8 of British B mandate for East Africa be incorporated in convention. Concurrence with Japanese construction of provision granting free access to all waters of mandated islands; suggested exchange of note’s for classification.
300
Oct. 17 From the Japanese Embassy
Concurrence in most of U. S. proposals. Objections to (1) the application to mandatory territories of all existing treaties to which mandatories are parties and recognition of rights of foreign nationals and vessels to have free access to all waters of territories; (2) submission to United States of duplicate of annual report to League.
301
Oct. 18 To the Japanese Embassy
Reiteration of desire that treaties in force between, the United States and Japan should apply to islands in question and that U.S. citizens and vessels should have free access to waters of mandated territory. View that Japan’s relations with other countries have no bearing upon U. S.-Japanese treaty obligations.
302
Undated [Rec’d Dec. 2] From the Japanese Embassy
Proposal to invite British Delegation at Disarmament Conference to discuss points of difference between Japan and the United States regarding mandate of Yap.
304
Dec. 5 To the Japanese Ambassador
Disapproval of proposal to discuss points of difference with British Delegation; assurances regarding extension of any existing U. S. or Japanese treaties to mandated islands south of Equator; insistence upon receiving duplicate report on mandate.
305
Dec. 12 From the Japanese Ambassador
Satisfactory adjustment of Yap question, Japan consenting to apply to Japanese mandated islands north of Equator all existing commercial treaties.
306

Agreement between the United States and Japan for the Provisional Operation of the Naba-Yap-Guam Cables

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Sept. 15 From the Japanese Ambassador
Proposals for making provisional use of the Naba-Yap-Guam cables for communication between United States and Japan, pending repair of Tokyo-Bonin cable.
307
Sept. 28 To the Japanese Ambassador
Counter-proposal for provisional use of Naba-Yap-Guam cables.
308
Oct. 6 To the Japanese Ambassador
Willingness to eliminate proposal concerning Yap-Menado cable, upon definite understanding as to resumption of Yap-Menado service and continuation of negotiations for settlement of Yap question.
309
Oct. 12 From the Japanese Embassy
Confirmation of U. S. understanding.
310
Dec. 24 (3600) Executive Order
Providing for provisional use of Naba-Yap-Guam cables during Washington Conference under conditions specified.
310
1922 Jan. 30 To the Japanese Ambassador
Agreement that Guam end of Naba-Yap-Guam cables be operated temporarily by U. S. company and Yap and Naba ends by Japan. Details as to rates, for the account of five Associated Powers.
312
[Page XXXVII]

Interest of the United States in a renewal of the Anglo-Japanese Alliance

Date and number Subject Page
1921 June 22 (353) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Statement given out by Department (text printed) denying cognizance of progress of negotiations for removal of Anglo-Japanese Alliance, or of any assurances against inclusion of anything inimical to U. S. rights.
(Sent also to the Chargé in Japan.)
313
Undated Memorandum of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the British Ambassador, June 23, 1921
Re renewal of Alliance: Secretary’s statement of U. S. open-door policy in East, advocating integrity of China and of Russia, calling attention to advisability of British and Japanese cooperation in interest of world peace as against Japanese antagonism to America.
314
Undated Memorandum of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the Japanese Ambassador, June 30, 1921
Discussion of public statement to be used by Ambassador (text printed) giving Japan’s aims under Alliance and denying that it is intended as instrument of hostility to the United States or that it encourages aggressive designs by Japan against China.
316
July 12 (243) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Foreign Office statement (text printed) quoting addition to notification of July 8, 1920, addressed to League of Nations, whereby Japan and Great Britain agree that if Alliance continues after 1921, it must be in form not inconsistent with Covenant of League, and that terms of latter shall prevail.
319

Conversations at Washington Regarding Alleged Discriminations against Japanese Nationals in the United States

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 3 From the Japanese Embassy
Protest against California alien land law of 1920, reiterating objections to California land law of 1913 and stating those objections apply to new law of 1920. Desire for successful outcome of discussions in progress between United States and Japanese Ambassadors at Washington.
319
Jan. 7 (419) To the Chargé in Japan
Transmittal of Japanese memorandum of protest, intended to be formal statement for record and not to affect conversations in progress between Ambassadors of two countries.
320
Jan. 8 (11) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Japan’s desire for copy of memorandum of protest; possibility that Ambassador may have exceeded his instructions.
321
Jan. 18 To the Japanese Embassy
Reply to Japanese protest reaffirming position taken by United States in 1913–1914.
321
Jan. 25 From the Ambassador in Japan, on Detail in the Department of State
Report on informal discussion with Japanese Ambassador covering questions of Japanese immigration to the United States and alleged discrimination against Japanese aliens resident in California; recommendations.
323
[Page XXXVIII]

Termination of Acquiescence by the United States in Japanese Passport Regulations for the South Manchuria Railway Zone

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 3 (3) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office of U. S. intention to discontinue after January 15 temporary acquiescence in Japanese passport control on railways in China under Japanese supervision, U. S. consuls to be instructed accordingly.
(Substance sent to Ambassador in Great Britain for information of Foreign Office.)
349
Jan. 3 (1) To the Minister in China (tel.)
Instructions to notify consuls of U. S. withdrawal of temporary acquiescence in “Japanese passport control of railways under Japanese supervision and to inform Japanese Minister of action, stating U. S. contention that Japanese authorities have not been granted right to scrutinize U. S. passports in Chinese territory. Instructions to inform British colleague of action taken.
350
Jan. 6 (8) From the Minister in China (tel.)
Notification of U. S. withdrawal of acquiescence sent to Japanese Minister and instructions sent to consuls (texts printed). Inquiry whether instructions include Shantung and Antung Railway.
351
Jan. 8 (10) To the Minister in China (tel.)
Inclusion of Shantung and Antung Railways in instructions for withdrawal of acquiescence.
351
Jan. 12 (22) From the Minister in China (tel.)
Draft of proposed note for Japanese Minister (text printed) explaining that discontinuance of acquiescence in passport regulations applies equally to Mukden-Antung and Shantung Railways outside leased territory.
352
Jan. 19 (4089) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
British note, January 13 (text printed) stating that representative in China has been informed of U. S. action.
352
Jan. 20 (32) To the Minister in China (tel.)
Approval of Minister’s note as suggested in telegram no. 22. Instructions to repeat to Tokyo advising of Department’s approval.
353
Jan. 28 (4134) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Statement of Japanese Minister at London that from February 1, 1921, passport regulations will be withdrawn for all foreigners in the South Manchuria Railway zone, exclusive of the leased territory.
353
Apr. 28 (168) From the Minister in China (tel.)
Information that passports are being required only for entering and leaving Leased Territory; also that Americans are not questioned on Shantung Railway outside Leased Territory.
354
[Page XXXIX]

Fatal Shooting of Lieutenant Warren H. Langdon, U. S. Navy, by a Japanese Sentry at Vladivostok, January 8, 1921

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 10 (4) From the Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Expression of regret by Japanese consul general re shooting of Lieutenant Langdon. Consul’s disassociation from appeals of consular corps to Japanese Army for protection of foreigners in suburbs of city.
354
Jan. 13 From the Japanese Ambassador
Expression of condolences over death of Langdon and information that Japanese sentry involved in case is now under trial by court-martial.
355
Jan. 13 (11) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) conveying U. S. expectation of prompt and suitable reparation in death of Langdon and calling attention to number of like cases of interference with Americans in portions of Siberia where Japanese troops are stationed.
(Instructions to repeat to Vladivostok and to Admiral Gleaves.)
355
Jan. 15 (12) From the Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Details of fatal shooting as contained in statements of Langdon and the Japanese sentry.
356
Jan. 17 To the Japanese Ambassador
Confidence in Japan’s intention to take appropriate measures regarding death of American officer; reservation to U. S. Government of all its rights in matter.
357
Jan. 17 (27) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Report that Captain of U. S. S. Albany has been halted on two occasions by Japanese sentries and threatened with bayonets, and that other such incidents have occurred since shooting of Langdon.
358
Jan. 24 (20) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Instructions for consul at Vladivostok (text printed) to state and publish U. S. view that Japan has no authority to undertake mandate or to assume control over other nationals in Siberia. Approval of consul’s disassociating himself from appeal of consuls for Japanese protection of foreigners.
358
Jan. 25 (38) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Note from Foreign Minister (text printed) giving assurances of a prompt and thorough investigation into affair and expressing the hope of a satisfactory settlement.
359
Feb. 9 (28) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Instructions to explain orally that it is expected that sentry will be punished and proper reparation made for Langdon’s death and that effective steps will be taken to prevent similar occurrences in future in order to preserve friendly U. S.-Japanese relations.
359
Feb. 21 (74) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Japanese note (text printed) stating that sentry was acquitted because his action was due to inaccurate orders; measures which have been taken against his superior officers; further apologies and assurances for future.
360
[Page XL]

LIBERIA

Signature at Washington of the Loan Plan for the Reorganization of Liberian Finances

[Page XLI]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 8 (1) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
President King authorized by Legislature to proceed to United States as head of Commission, sailing about January 21.
363
Apr. 1 Memorandum by the Third Assistant Secretary of State
Interview with President King: probable delay in negotiation of loan due to U.S. Senate investigations and the necessity for submitting question of loan to Congress.
363
May 27 From President King
Request for an early decision on loan, as duties of Government at home require his presence.
365
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the British Ambassador, June 29, 1921
Status of Liberian loan negotiations and U. S. attitude toward negotiation of loan abroad while matter is pending in United States.
365
Aug. 10 (121) To the Minister in Liberia
Instructions to contradict false rumor regarding reasons for delay and to make known contents of letter of Secretary of State to President Harding (text printed) reviewing course of negotiations, explaining status, and recommending loan.
366
Sept. 16 (699) From the British Ambassador
Request for information as to progress of Liberian loan negotiations.
369
Sept. 29 To the British Ambassador
Information that on July 29 Congress was requested to consider Liberian loan and that Administration continues to give loan its full support.
369
Oct. 27 To President King
Request that Liberian Commission come to Department on October 28 to sign redrafted loan plan and supplementary depositary agreement.
370
Oct. 28 Agreement between the United States of America and Liberia
Provisions for the reorganization and rehabilitation of Liberian finances, together with a supplementary depositary agreement.
370
Nov. 8 To President King
Information that balance of credit established in Liberia’s favor in U. S. Treasury in 1918 has been withdrawn, in view of execution of financial agreement of October 28 establishing new credit subject to action of Congress.
389
Nov. 9 To President King
Understanding as to loan-plan provisions re Liberian budget for current administrative purposes; sanction of budget for first year.
390
Nov. 9 Memorandum of an Interview between the Assistant Secretary of State and President King, November 8, 1921
Letters left by President King concerning further advances from Bank of British West Africa, Franco-Liberian boundary, and appointment of Minister to United States; discussion of appointment of a purchasing agent in United States, possibility of a loan from private bankers, and designation of Mr. Bundy as Financial Commissioner.
390
Nov. 14 (28) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Information of Liberian Commission’s intended departure for Liberia on November 15.
392
Dec. 15 To the Minister in Liberia
Instructions to deliver to Liberian Secretary of State canceled obligation of Liberian Government of $2,500,000, held by U. S. Treasury, against which no advances had been made, and to obtain therefor a receipt.
392

MEXICO

Question of the Recognition of the Government of General Obregon by the United States: Proposed Treaty of Amity and Commerce; Objection by the Obregon Government to Concluding a Treaty before Receiving Recognition

[Page XLII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Apr. 7 (3779) From the Chargé in Mexico
Declarations by General Obregon, April 2, of the purposes of his Government (text printed).
394
May 21 From the Secretary to President Harding
President Harding’s approval of the draft treaty of amity and commerce between United States and Mexico (text printed).
397
June 3 (3929) From the Chargé in Mexico
Interview with General Obregon: presentation of draft treaty of amity and commerce and discussion of its provisions and its signature.
404
June 6 (83) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Request for information on definite action for protection of rights of American citizens in Mexico being considered by Executive, Congress, and Supreme Court.
406
June 8 (85) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Public statement issued June 7 (text printed) of U. S. position in negotiations for treaty of amity and commerce as a requisite to recognition of Obregon Government.
406
June 10 (3949) From the Chargé in Mexico
Memoranda from Foreign Office received June 4 (texts printed) setting forth reasons for recognition of Obregon Government and objections to signing treaty of amity and commerce prior to recognition of Government.
408
June 10 (134) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Report on definite actions being considered by the Mexican Government for the protection of American interests.
415
June 10 (89) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to furnish the Mexican Government with a copy of U. S. public statement of June 7 as a reply to the memoranda of the Mexican Foreign Office received June 4.
416
June 11 General Obregon to President Harding
Statements of policy in regard to interests of American citizens in Mexico; objections to signature of treaty of amity and commerce as being contrary to laws of Mexico.
416
July 21 To the Chargé in Mexico
Reply of President Harding to General Obregon (text printed) giving reasons for having more definite understanding in regard to protection of American interests in Mexico and expressing desire to send special envoy to Mexico to negotiate treaty.
419
Aug. 6 From the Chargé in Mexico
Presentation to General Obregon of President Harding’s letter of July 21.
423
Aug. 18 General Obregon to President Harding
Information that various countries have been invited to appoint mixed claims commissions to appraise damages caused to foreigners in Mexico and that Mexican Congress and Supreme Court are deliberating on nonretroactivity and nonconfiscatory character of article 27 of the Constitution.
424
Sept. 1 From the Chargé in Mexico
Recent nonretroactive decision of Mexican Supreme Court no precedent, since no decision of that Court can be considered as establishing a precedent. Recommendation that signing of treaty of amity and commerce be pressed.
425
Nov. 19 From President Harding
Statement of unchanged policy in regard to complete understanding before resumption of relations with Mexico.
426

Attitude of Other Governments toward Recognition of the Obregon Government

[Page XLIII][Page XLIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 7 (3574) From the Chargé in Mexico
Denial by German Minister in Mexico of recognition of Obregon Government. Pressure by Mexico.
427
Jan. 10 (7) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Recognition by Ecuador.
427
Jan. 27 (29) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Mexican press report of recognition by Italy.
428
Feb. 18 (3676) From the Chargé in Mexico
Uncertainty of Italian Minister regarding status of Italian recognition.
428
Mar. 19 (3749) From the Chargé in Mexico
Rumor of French recognition.
428
Mar. 19 (2297) From the Minister in Venezuela
Withholding of recognition by Venezuela until action by United States.
429
Mar. 23 (39) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
French denial that recognition has been extended.
430
May 27 (3908) From the Chargé in Mexico
Mexican press report of Uruguayan recognition.
430
May 27 From the Under Secretary of State
Decision of British Government to withhold recognition until action by United States, in spite of pressure by Mexico.
430
May 28 (181) From the Commissioner at Vienna
Foreign Office note, May 23 (text printed) announcing Austrian recognition of Obregon Government.
431
June 4 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
British request for copy of draft treaty with Mexico; inexpediency of communicating text for fear of endangering progress of negotiations.
431
June 10 (70) From the Representative on Special Mission in Cuba (tel.)
President’s inquiry regarding Cuban recognition of Obregon Government.
432
June 11 (117) To the Minister in Cuba (tel.)
For Crowder: Desire that Cuban recognition be coincident with that by United States.
433
Undated Memorandum of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and the British Ambassador, June 23, 1921
Appreciation of British Ambassador for copy of draft treaty; his assurance of cooperation.
433
June 23 (146) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Polish request for information regarding U. S. recognition of Obregon Government, in view of Mexican overture.
434
June 24 (3995) From the Chargé in Mexico
Publication in Mexico of letter of Queen of Holland, April 29 (text printed) apparently recognizing Obregon Government.
434
June 27 (150) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Instructions to advise Poland of delay in U. S. recognition.
435
July 23 (4111) From the Chargé in Mexico
Mexican press reports attempting to establish fact that Spain, Japan, and France have recognized Government; apparent recognition by Peru.
435
Aug. 8 (4171) From the Chargé in Mexico
Recognition by Germany.
436
Aug. 18 (4216) From the Chargé in Mexico
Recognition by Sweden.
436
Oct. 28 (47) From the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Imminence of Belgian recognition.
437
Oct. 31 (46) To the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Instructions to apprise Belgium of British, French, and U. S. recognition policy, pointing out desirability of Belgian cooperation.
437
Nov. 4 (48) From the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Belgian assurance of cooperation with three powers, with suggestion for simultaneous action.
438
Nov. 9 (47) To the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.) Concurrence in Belgian suggestion for simultaneous action. 438

Project of a Petroleum Law to Give Effect to Article 27 of the Mexican Constitution

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Sept. 2 (4279) From the Chargé in Mexico
Draft of proposed petroleum law (text printed) prepared in conformity with article 27 of Mexican Constitution.
439
Nov. 19 (1858) To the Chargé in Mexico
U. S. objection to petroleum bill as being confiscatory of rights of American citizens acquired prior to May 1, 1917; instructions to inform Foreign Office.
444

Direct Arrangement between the Oil Companies and the Mexican Authorities Regarding Taxes on the Production and Exportation of Oil

[Page XLV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 June 2 From the Association of Producers of Petroleum in Mexico
Objections to Mexican decree increasing export duties on petroleum.
447
June 8 (128) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Publication of decree and reasons for increase.
447
June 19 From Mr. C. J. Wrightsman (tel.)
Protest of Independent American Oil Producers against U. S. interference with Mexican export-tax policy in view of tariff legislation pending in U. S. Congress.
448
June 30 From the Consul at Tampico (tel.)
Suspension of oil shipments with resulting unrest and unemployment; advisability of taking precautions for protection of American lives and property.
448
July 2 From the Secretary of the Navy
Orders for departure of Sacramento for Tampico.
448
July 7 From Mr. Frederic N. Watriss
Information concerning policies of American companies in Mexico under new tax decree.
449
July 8 To the Chairman of the Pan-American Federation of Labor
Assurance that presence of U. S. warship in Mexican waters is for protection of Americans and not in connection with labor difficulties.
450
July 8 (154) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Communication from Foreign Minister (text printed) inquiring as to object of visit of warship.
450
July 8 (101) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Reason for presence of warships and orders for their departure in view of abatement of fears for safety of Americans.
450
July 9 (104) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office of reason for visit of warship.
451
Aug. 3 To Mr. Frederic N. Watriss
Inquiry whether American oil companies would undertake direct negotiations with present Mexican regime for adjustment of taxes.
451
Aug. 5 From Mr. Frederic N. Watriss
Willingness of American companies to negotiate directly; advantages of invitation coming from Mexico.
451
Aug. 6 (115) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain if Mexican Government will negotiate directly with American companies, in hope of removing another possible cause of friction.
452
Aug. 9 (166) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Foreign Office note (text printed) agreeing to confer with representatives of companies.
453
Aug. 18 From the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Letter from five American companies (text printed) naming committee to negotiate, enumerating objectives, requesting Department to endeavor to obtain suspension of decree during negotiations, and inquiring as to possible Mexican request for loan.
453
Aug. 19 (117) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Membership of committee; desirability of suspension of decree pending negotiations.
456
Aug. 20 To the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Apprisal of efforts for suspension of decree and opinion that loan negotiations should be separate from tax question.
456
Aug. 21 (167) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Information that contact has been made between committee and appropriate department.
457
Sept. 8 (4301) From the Chargé in Mexico
Confidential report of committee, September 3 (text printed) announcing conclusion of agreement adjusting production tax and suspending decree for stated period.
457
Dec. 14 (4687) From the Chargé in Mexico
Opinion that time is opportune for endeavoring to alter method for payment of export taxes; press report of difficulties encountered in present plan.
459
[Page XLVI]

Decision by the Mexican Supreme Court on the “Amparo” Case of the Texas Company of Mexico

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Aug. 6 (4165) From the Chargé in Mexico
Press report that Supreme Court will soon render decisions in amparo cases instituted by American oil companies to determine constitutionality of Executive decrees and retroactivity of article 27 of Constitution.
461
Sept. 14 (4317) From the Chargé in Mexico
Status of decision in amparo case of Texas Co.; facts in the case.
462
Sept. 27 (4352) From the Chargé in Mexico
Decision of Supreme Court in Texas Co. case (text printed) confirming validity of Executive decrees and stating that article 27 of Constitution is not retroactive as regards rights legitimately acquired prior to May 1, 1917.
463
Oct. 13 (134) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Specific inquiries regarding decision in Texas Co. case.
472
Oct. 19 (194) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Reply to specific inquiries.
472

Protest by the United States Against Agrarian Legislation in Mexico

[Page XLVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1920 Nov. 26 (3496) From the Chargé in Mexico
Draft of agrarian law to be submitted to Congress providing for expropriation of land for redistribution.
473
1921 Jan. 15 (1501) To the Chargé in Mexico
Instructions to apprise authorities of injustice to American citizens of indemnification provisions of proposed agrarian law.
474
Jan. 19 (3601) From the Chargé in Mexico
Law of December 28, 1920 (excerpt printed) prescribing procedure in making land grants pending enactment of general law; provisions regarding indemnification.
474
Feb. 21 (1524) To the Chargé in Mexico
Instructions to make informal representations regarding indemnification provisions of law of December 28.
476
Mar. 2 Report of the Consul in Chargé at Mexico, D. F.
Explanation of practical operation of agrarian laws, stressing unfair provisions concerning expropriation and indemnification.
477
Mar. 21 (3753) From the Chargé in Mexico
Bill proposed in State of San Luis Potosi for expropriation of large land-holdings, with statistics disclosing high percentage of land now held by few.
477
Mar. 30 (1552) To the Chargé in Mexico
Instructions to informally advise authorities of apparent inadequacy of compensation provisions of law of December 28.
479
Apr. 20 (54) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to make informal protest regarding bill proposed in San Luis Potosi as being confiscatory of rights of American citizens and contrary to Mexican Constitution.
479
May 14 (3878) From the Chargé in Mexico
Draft of agrarian bill as submitted to Congress (text printed); opposition of certain factions and possibility of restricted application, if enacted.
480
May 14 (65) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Report that bill has been enacted in San Luis Potosi. Instructions to renew informal protests.
490
May 28 (73) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Objections to proposed national bill. Instructions to make strong informal protests against passage in present form.
491
Aug. 6 (1708) To the Chargé in Mexico
Instructions to make informal representations concerning agrarian law as passed by State of Durango, stressing illegality of confiscatory provisions.
491
Sept. 12 (179) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Failure of Foreign Office to acknowledge receipt of representations concerning Durango and other laws.
492
Sept. 19 (128) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to renew representations and request early reply.
492
Dec. 1 (4628) From the Chargé in Mexico
Foreign Office reply in regard to Durango law, declaring inability of Executive to intervene in internal affairs of States.
493

Ineffectual Discussions between the Obregon Government and the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico

[Page XLVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Mar. 28 From the Acting Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Admission of Belgian representative to International Committee of Bankers on Mexico.
493
June 27 From the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Draft of letter to Mexican Government (text printed) accepting invitation to visit Mexico on behalf of Committee for purpose of assisting Mexico in adjustment of external obligations, with special attention to protection of property rights of foreigners, jeopardized by Mexican Constitution.
494
June 29 To the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Approval of proposed reply to Mexican Government.
496
Sept. 2 From the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Intention to notify Mexican authorities of his preparations to visit Mexico latter part of month.
496
Sept. 8 From the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Letter to Mexican Government (text printed) accepting invitation and giving approximate date of departure.
497
Sept. 13 From the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Possible subjects of conversation with Mexican officials, covering questions of external obligations and prospects for new loan for reorganization purposes.
498
Sept. 23 From the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Draft of letter to oil producers (text printed) explaining impracticability of Mexican proposition for purchase of Mexican Government bonds by oil companies for use in payment of taxes.
499
Oct. 8 (4400) From the Chargé in Mexico
Arrival of alternate chairman of Committee of Bankers, and his expression of desire to help Mexico.
501
Oct. 21 (196) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Failure of negotiations, due to Mexican Government’s insistence on carrying out bond-purchase clause of agreement; possibility of future resumption of negotiations.
502
Dec. 5 From the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Inability of oil companies to carry out bond-purchase clause of agreement and request for extension of agreement. Possibility of further negotiations between Committee of Bankers and Mexico.
502
Dec. 23 From the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Information that Mexico has extended the agreement with the oil companies, pending further negotiations.
503
Dec. 27 (215) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Departure for New York of Mexican representative with full powers to resume financial discussions.
504

Proposals Looking toward the Establishment of a Mixed Claims Commission

[Page XLIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 July 13 From the Mexican Embassy
Invitation to the United States to enter into an agreement providing for the appointment of a mixed claims commission for the settlement of claims of U. S. citizens.
504
Oct. 8 (190) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s inquiry concerning U. S. intention to reply to invitation to enter into an agreement relative to a mixed claims commission.
505
Oct. 11 (132) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Information that Department is studying decision of Mexican Supreme Court in the amparo case of the Texas Co. and will forward instructions shortly regarding Mexican invitation.
505
Nov. 21 (4592) From the Chargé in Mexico
Memorandum from Foreign Minister (text printed) transmitting drafts of a special and a general convention providing for mixed claims commissions (texts printed).
506

Proposals for Regulating the Distribution of the Waters of the Colorado River

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Aug. 2 To the Secretary of the Interior
No objections, from standpoint of international relations, to Senate and House bills providing for arrangement between certain Western States respecting the disposition and utilization of the waters of the Colorado River.
515
Oct. 15 From the Mexican Embassy
Comments on meeting held at Los Angeles, March 17 by League of Southwestern States, etc., and on act of Congress of August 19. Representations that Mexico be duly represented in any undertakings or arrangements concerning the distribution and utilization of the waters of the Colorado River.
516
Oct. 24 From the Mexican Embassy
Reported conference to be held at Washington or in the West October 27; request that Mexico be allowed to participate.
518
Oct, 24 Memorandum by the Acting Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State
Assurances conveyed to the Mexican Embassy that more particulars will be furnished regarding contemplated conference.
519
Oct. 31 From the First Secretary of the Mexican Embassy
Request for information concerning conference reported to take place in Washington October 22.
519
Nov. 9 To the First Secretary of the Mexican Embassy
Information concerning the unofficial character of the meeting at Los Angeles, March 17; probability that reported meeting of October 27 was the hearings to be held in California to consider the report prepared under the act of May 18; constitution of a commission under the act of August 19.
520
Dec. 5 (4648) From the Chargé in Mexico
Appointment of Mexican representatives to attend conferences in California.
521
[Page L]

Relaxation of Regulations Governing Travel between the United States and Mexico for Residents in a Forty-Mile Zone on Either Side of the Frontier

Date and number Subject Page
1921 May 19 (67) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to take up matter of abolishing passport requirements for residents in 40-mile zone on either side of border, so that persons may enter American border zone without passports or border cards, provided they are otherwise admissible.
522
May 26 (107) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Foreign Office agreement to plan; however, instructions intended to put plan into operation contain provision that documentary evidence as to residence must be produced.
523
May 28 (74) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to request consent to plan as originally presented, eliminating all documentation.
523
June 11 (137) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Mexican proposal that plan be modified so that persons unknown to immigration officers will be required to produce proof of residence.
524
June 28 (95) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Executive order (excerpt printed) providing for the relaxation of regulations governing travel between the United States and Mexico for residents in the 40-mile border zone.
524
July 28 (4129) From the Chargé in Mexico
Note of Mexican Foreign Office, July 27 (text printed), transmitting Executive decree of July 4 (text printed) providing for the relaxation of regulations governing travel between the United States and Mexico for residents in the 40-mile border zone.
525

NETHERLANDS

Continued Negotiations for American Participation in Exploiting the Oil Fields of the Dutch East Indies

[Page LI][Page LII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 31 (440) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Favorable attitude of Netherland Government toward U. S. participation in Djambi oil concessions in Netherland Indies; failure of Sinclair Corp. to reach agreement with Bataafsche Co.
528
Feb. 2 (193) From the Netherland Chargé
Information, in view of U. S. reciprocity policy, that seven mining concessions were granted to Standard Oil Co. in 1920.
530
Mar. 8 (20) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
From Johnston. Opportunity for American capital to share in Siak concessions; possibility of splitting Djambi concession. Request that American interests be advised without delay.
531
Mar. 9 (13) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Information that Sinclair has formulated terms of offer relative to Djambi concessions; instructions to keep Department informed.
531
Mar. 14 To the Netherland Chargé
Assertion that present Standard Oil concessions were acquired not from Netherland Government, but by purchases from third parties of prospecting licenses granted prior to May 1, 1913.
531
Mar. 23 (30) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Note from the Minister of Colonies (excerpt printed), summarizing conversations with Sinclair officials but withholding opinion regarding U. S. participation in Djambi concession until action by Parliament.
533
Mar. 31 (18) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Instructions to supply further information regarding Siak and Djambi concessions and to inform Johnston that American companies have been advised.
533
Apr. 2 (37) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Conflicting reports concerning possible splitting of Djambi concession; feasibility of cooperation between American firms. Scanty information regarding Siak concession.
534
Apr. 12 (21) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Statement of U. S. views with instructions to present them to Government, urging delay in action on oil bill until conference with Standard Oil representative and consideration of his new offer.
534
Apr. 18 (45) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Inquiry as to attitude to be taken should present negotiations prove unsuccessful. Suggestion.
535
Apr. 22 (25) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Opinion that exclusion of U. S. oil interests from Djambi concession would discourage entrance of American capital in other lines of Dutch industry.
536
Apr. 25 (49) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Note to Foreign Minister (text printed) based upon instructions contained in telegram no. 21.
536
Apr. 25 (528) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Notes to Foreign Minister (texts printed) opposing Bataafsche monopoly, stressing importance of principle of reciprocity, and Warning against discouraging prospective American capital in other fields. Doubtful value of oil fields other than Djambi and advisability of concentrating efforts upon latter.
538
Apr. 29 (53) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Defeat in Second Chamber of amendment for division of Djambi fields. Expediency of American companies applying immediately for other concessions.
540
May 5 (31) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.) Approval of Minister’s action in not opposing bill publicly. 541
May 11 (58) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s explanation of legislation in regard to Djambi fields and suggestion that other fields be exploited.
541
May 27 (36) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Instructions to present note to Foreign Office (text printed) making representations against legislation as compromising principle of equal opportunity.
542
June 23 (79) From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.)
Foreign Office reply justifying actions.
545
July 1 (90) From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.)
Final passage of Djambi bill.
545
July 13 (630) From the Chargé in the Netherlands
Information concerning Japanese inquiry in regard to participation in oil concessions.
546

Amendment of the Philippine Petroleum Act of August 31, 1920, to Anticipate Objections by the Netherlands and Great Britain

[Page LIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1920 Dec. 20 (287) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Inquiry from Minister of Colonies regarding Philippine oil legislation.
547
Dec. 31 (613) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Provisions of Philippine Petroleum Act excluding aliens from participation in oil development; manner of passage; U. S. efforts for amendment to include reciprocal provisions.
547
1921 Jan. 4 (418) From the Minister in the Netherlands
Explanation to Minister of Colonies of manner of passage and of proposed modification.
548
Feb. 3 (5627–93) From the Assistant Secretary of War
Steps toward desired modification.
549
Apr. 9 To the Secretary of War
Request for information regarding progress of amendment, in view of British and Dutch interest.
549
Apr. 19 (46) From the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Request for information regarding progress of amendment, especially in view of Djambi negotiations.
550
Apr. 26 (27) To the Minister in the Netherlands (tel.)
Recent amendment to petroleum law; authorization to state that further efforts will be made to cause it to harmonize with U. S. reciprocity policy.
550
May 11 To the Secretary of War
Steps toward further modification of law.
551
Aug. 4 To the Secretary of War
British memorandum (excerpt printed) objecting to Philippine petroleum restrictions; and U. S. reply (excerpt printed) clarifying position, with assurances that further amendments will be approved.
551
Oct. 11 From the Secretary of War
Transmittal of copy of letter and draft of proposed bill sent to new Governor General of Philippines with view to expediting petroleum legislation.
552
1922 Feb. 21 From the Secretary of War
Information that Legislature has passed amended petroleum law.
553

NICARAGUA

Incursions by Revolutionary Bands into Nicaragua

[Page LIV][Page LV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Aug. 22 (39) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report of rumors of revolution and invasion from Honduras, headed by Nicaraguans recently employed by Honduran Government, of preparations for invasion from Costa Rican border; dispatch of Nicaraguan forces to each frontier. Recommendations for U. S. warship and for notes of warning to Honduras and Costa Rica.
554
Aug. 23 (30) To the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Instructions to investigate truth of report indicating invasion of Nicaragua was countenanced by Honduras and express hope Honduras will take steps to prevent any further violations of her neutrality.
554
Aug. 23 (39) To the Chargé in Costa Rim (tel.)
Instructions to verify reported preparations for invasion of Nicaragua from Costa Rica and to report whether Costa Rica is taking measures to prevent violation of her neutrality.
555
Aug. 25 (119) From the Chargé in Costa Rica (tel.)
Opinion that Costa Rica is respecting her neutrality.
555
Aug. 25 (113) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Report that expedition of Nicaraguan outlaws from Salvador have landed in Nicaragua, headed by Nicaraguans who have never been in employ of Honduras. General opinion Salvador backing expedition with view to blocking progress of Central American Union.
556
Aug. 27 (26) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Request for opinion regarding report that revolutionary movement against Nicaragua is being backed by Salvador with assistance of Honduran emigrados.
556
Aug. 30 (41) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Opinion that Salvadoran President desires peace; evidence to show complicity of Honduras in Araujo revolution; suggestion of conference of Minister and Presidents of Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua in interest of peace.
556
Aug. 31 From the Vice Consul in Charge at Bluefields (tel.)
Suggestion by Nicaraguan officials that U. S. warship be sent to protect U. S. interests.
557
Sept. 2 To the Vice Consul in Charge at Bluefields (tel.)
Dispatch of U.S.S. Asheville to Bluefields, due to arrive September 3.
558
Sept. 2 (144) From the Vice Consul in Charge at Bluefields
Report of unsettled political situation on coast and official approval of presence of U. S. warship.
558
Sept. 3 (28) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Inadvisability of proposed conference with three Presidents pending result of meetings of National Constituent Assembly in Tegucigalpa.
559
Sept. 7 (145) From the Vice Consul in Charge at Bluefields
Visit of Captain of the Asheville to Governor, who reports improvement in situation.
559
Oct. 4 (45) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Steps taken by President to quell new uprising, his belief that Honduras is not taking necessary measures to prevent recurrence of invasion of Nicaragua.
560
Oct. 24 (48) From the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Decision of Nicaragua to maintain permanent force in threatened area in belief that Honduran Minister of War and Nicaraguan liberals are working for overthrow of Government of Nicaragua. Suggestion of U. S. representation.
560
Oct. 26 (442) To the Chargé in Honduras
Instructions to ascertain from sources not connected with Government of Honduras whether invasions of Nicaragua have been organized in Honduras and whether authorities of Honduras have furnished arms and ammunition.
561
Oct. 26 (398) To the Chargé in Nicaragua
Instructions to ascertain from sources not connected with Government of Nicaragua the extent and importance of invasions from Honduras, also facts showing participation of officials of other Central American Governments and sources of equipment.
561
Oct. 26 (14) To the Minister in Salvador
Instructions to make discreet inquiries preferably of well informed persons in La Union whether revolutionists in Nicaragua have obtained organized assistance from Salvador.
562
Nov. 22 (43) To the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Proposal that one officer of Legation guard at Managua, with small escort, journey through troubled area to ascertain true situation. Instructions to request official approval.
562
Nov. 26 (127) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
President’s willingness to extend every facility to officer and escort provided they have not character of armed force.
563
Nov. 26 (83) From the Minister in Salvador
Investigation at La Union and elsewhere, which fails to disclose any assistance passing to revolutionists.
563
Dec. 2 (128) From the Chargé in Honduras (tel.)
Honduran special mission to Nicaragua to convey assurances that every effort will be made to prevent disturbances on frontier.
564
Dec. 9 (41) To the Chargé in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to telegraph American Legation, Tegucigalpa, when officer is ready to start an investigating tour, in order to secure facilities promised by Honduras.
564

Sale of Munitions by the United States to the Government of Nicaragua

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Aug. 24 (C–21) From the Nicaraguan Minister
Proposal that the United States supply Nicaragua with certain arms and ammunition from stocks left on hand by the war, in view of invasions from neighboring republics and U. S. guaranty against armed intervention, during period of U. S. supervision of financial affairs of Republic.
564
Aug. 27 To the Secretary of War
Transmittal of Nicaraguan proposal and request for opinion whether munitions can be supplied by this Government.
566
Sept. 6 (ASW 400.703) From the Secretary of War
Availability of equipment for sale to Nicaragua, with possible exception of rifles, upon understanding that sale is sanctioned by Department of State.
566
Oct. 4 From the Nicaraguan Minister
Request for larger quantity of armament than at first asked for, proposed terms of payment, and inquiry as to quality and price. Suggestion of early conclusion of transaction in time for shipment on vessel sailing October 17.
567
Oct. 7 To the Secretary of War
Transmittal of copy of Nicaraguan note of October 4, attention being called to urgent need for these arms and ammunition.
567
Oct. 14 (OCS 1159) From the Secretary of War
Approval of sale to Nicaragua of surplus munitions. Opinions as to undesirability as general policy, of selling arms to other governments. Inquiry as to State Department opinion.
568
Oct. 22 To the Secretary of War
Opinion that each request for armament should be considered separately and according to its merits. Explanation that sale to Nicaragua is particularly desirable because of U. S. interest in maintenance of stable government there.
(Footnote: Record of shipment of arms and ammunition to Nicaragua on November 8, 1921.)
569
Nov. 29 (18) To the Minister in Salvador
Explanation of U. S. sale of certain arms and ammunition to Nicaragua.
569
[Page LVI]

NORWAY

Arbitration Agreement, Signed June 30, 1921, between the United States and Norway for the Settlement of Claims Arising out of the Requisitioning of Norwegian Ships

[Page LVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1919 June 3 From the Norwegian Minister
Government’s approval and guaranty as to finality of contract for settlement of 27 claims of Norwegian subjects, represented by Norges Rederforbund, in connection with certain property and rights requisitioned by United States.
571
Dec. 2 From the Norwegian Minister
Claim by Norwegian Government on behalf of Christiania group of Norwegian shipowners for certain sum as indemnification for damage and loss by violation of existing treaty stipulations in appropriating 15 ships under construction in the United States.
572
1920 May 27 From the Norwegian Minister
Representations regarding delay in settlement of claims, causing hardship to Norwegian shipowners and request that matter be laid before the President.
575
Nov. 1 (1691) From the Minister in Norway
Report that the King has been pressed into sending telegram to U. S. President requesting good offices to hasten settlement of claims.
576
Nov. 15 (70) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Norway’s approval of method of arbitration in general; suggestion, however, of prompter solution, namely, U. S. offer of definite sum in settlement of claims in view of urgency of case.
576
Dec. 29 To the Norwegian Minister
Information concerning efforts of Department to secure cooperation of Shipping Board in obtaining proposition acceptable to Norwegian citizens.
577
1921 Feb. 14 From the Norwegian Minister
Norway’s willingness to accept lump sum named as indemnity if paid within one month, otherwise affair must be settled by arbitration, choice of three courses of procedure being offered, Norway reserving right to invoke anti-requisition clause of treaty.
578
Apr. 1 To the Norwegian Minister
Refusal to agree that requisition was breach of treaty; comments and suggestions regarding Norwegian proposals; conclusion that claims should be referred to Permanent Court at the Hague for arbitration, subsequent to special agreement under article II of treaty of 1908.
580
Apr. 28 From the Norwegian Minister
Norway’s acceptance of U. S. plan for settlement of claims and authorization for negotiations as to special agreement for arbitration.
582
May 28 To the Norwegian Minister
Draft of arbitration agreement (text printed) as submitted for Norway’s approval.
583
June 3 From the Norwegian Minister
Norway’s acceptance of terms of agreement with certain alterations proposed; citation of precedents in arbitral form and procedure.
586
June 11 To the Norwegian Minister
Need for understanding that question of treaty violation will not be raised. Observations and objections to certain points in proposed alteration of draft agreement; substitutes proposed.
590
June 16 From the Norwegian Minister
Formal assurance that question of treaty violation will not be raised in agreement. Further suggestion for change in language of draft, though without insistence thereupon.
593
June 29 To the Norwegian Minister
Objections to further change in language of draft, citing of precedent in substantiation of U.S. position; proposed date for signing of agreement by both parties.
595
June 30 Agreement between the United States and Norway
Arbitration agreement for the settlement of claims arising out of the requisitioning of Norwegian ships.
596

PANAMA

Reappointment of the Fiscal Agent, and the Vindication of His Legal Powers by the Department of State

[Page LVIII][Page LIX][Page LX]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 18 (4) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Substance of message from Fiscal Agent (text printed) concerning refusal of President and Cabinet to approve increase of his salary to $15,000 and his intention to resign.
600
Jan. 27 (4) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Expression of regret at inability of President and Fiscal Agent to agree on salary; willingness to submit name of successor.
600
Jan. 28 (7) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Summary of message from Fiscal Agent (text printed) announcing arrangement for him to remain under present contract until March 1. Information of President’s intention to transfer Government funds on deposit with International Banking Corp. to National Bank on July 1.
601
Jan. 28 (5) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Message from International Banking Corp. to National City Co. (text printed) concerning Panaman President’s intention to transfer Government deposits to National Bank, and requesting that Department be urged to intervene. Instructions to verify and advise Department.
601
Feb. 2 (10) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
President’s order for transfer of depositary, July 1, without consulting Fiscal Agent or Secretary of Treasury. Better equipment of International Banking Corp. and its freedom from political influence.
602
Feb. 11 (11) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
President’s decree of January 18, transferring road funds to National Bank and providing for their withdrawal by checks signed jointly by President and treasurer of road commission; further provisions that bidding companies must have articles of incorporation registered in Panama and that umpire in disputes be Panaman. Request for authority to protest.
602
Feb. 11 (8) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Recommendation of John S. Hord as successor to present Fiscal Agent.
603
Feb. 11 (9) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Instructions to express U.S. gratification at improved state of Panaman finances as result of cooperation of Fiscal Agent, and supposition that naming of his successor is desired by President.
604
Feb. 15 (14) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s statement that Panama intends to appoint Panaman as Fiscal Agent, interpreting law 30 of 1918 as authorizing same, and that Panamans are now capable of handling their own finances.
605
Feb. 15 (10) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Instructions to call attention to importance of Fiscal Agent’s services, to make protest against implied discrimination against bidding on road construction by U.S. firms, and to request that execution of decree be stayed pending arrival of new Fiscal Agent.
605
Feb. 16 (17) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Amended decree providing that checks on road funds bear joint signature of president of road commission and Fiscal Agent, ignoring Secretary of Treasury. Resignation of latter.
606
Feb. 18 (19) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Resolution of road commission that 45 days would be given foreign bidding company in which to register its articles of incorporation, etc., in Panama after its bid might be provisionally accepted.
606
Feb. 18 (11) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Instructions to inquire whether President proposes to appoint new Fiscal Agent in disregard of U. S. recommendations.
606
Feb. 18 (20) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Panaman reply that law 30 intended preference to Panaman Fiscal Agent and that group of young Panamans has been trained for this duty. Recommendation for emphatic action by Department.
607
Feb. 21 (22) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
President’s contention that it is unconstitutional to appoint a foreigner to assume powers of Fiscal Agent, finally proposing arbitration of matter.
607
Feb. 23 (24) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
President’s intention to refuse to appoint American as Fiscal Agent. Recommendations.
608
Feb. 24 (13) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Repetition of recommendation of Mr. Hord as Fiscal Agent.
608
Mar. 16 (29) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Instructions to press for appointment of American Fiscal Agent with all insistence consistent with courtesy, and report.
610
Mar. 28 (78) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Panaman offer of $12,000 salary to Fiscal Agent Ruan, which he refused.
610
Mar. 29 (794) To the Minister in Panama
Instructions to recommend postponing transfer Government funds to National Bank pending its reorganization, which should introduce up-to-date methods and sever bank management from political influence.
610
Mar. 31 (81) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
President’s consent to appoint Ruan as Fiscal Agent for another term of two years at salary of $12,000 with $3,000 additional allowance for expenses, contract to contain slight changes.
611
Apr. 4 (32) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Hope that new contract will promptly be signed and that changes therein will not materially alter services of Fiscal Agent.
611
Apr. 8 (86) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
New contract with Fiscal Agent approved and endorsed by President. Slight changes therein.
612
May 14 (46) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Instructions to suggest that transfer to National Bank of Government funds be postponed for another year, in interest of Panaman finances.
612
May 16 (103) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
President’s assurances that in transferring funds public sentiment would be complied with, and that road funds would be largely left with International Banking Corp. and other local banks.
612
May 18 (107) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
President’s persistence in using National Bank as Government depositary; approval by directorate and signing of contract for four years.
613
June 1 (804) To the Minister in Panama
Expression of satisfaction at President’s statement that road funds will continue to be deposited with International Banking Corp.
613
June 23 (116) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
From Fiscal Agent: Proposed contract between Government and International Banking Corp.; Secretary of Treasury’s request that Government deposits be subject to his sole order. Request for intervention, in view of law 30 providing that Fiscal Agent shall legalize by counter-signature all warrants of Secretary of Treasury.
614
June 25 (54) To the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Instructions to state that Department expects provisions of law 30 to be maintained and contract with American Fiscal Agent to be carried out.
614
June 25 (117) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Contract returned to International Banking Corp. with President’s approval and with letter from Secretary of Treasury directing that Government deposits be subject to his sole signature.
615
Sept. 20 (3101) From the Minister in Panama
Resignation of Chief Engineer of Central Commission of Roads because of President’s interference and attempted domination of his work.
615

Acquisition by the United States of Lands on Las Minas Bay and the Island of Taboga

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 24 (39) From the Panaman Chargé
Notification to Panama December 20, 1920 (text printed) of taking over of 125 hectares of land in Las Minas Bay region for defense of Panama Canal, in accordance with treaty. Panaman protest against this as act of force without consent of Panama.
616
Feb. 8 (67) From the Panaman Chargé
Panaman desire for reestablishment of Mixed Commission to settle indemnity for occupation by Canal authorities of property on Taboga Island and Las Minas Bay region, and for other unsettled claims.
618
Feb. 12 To the Panaman Chargé
Assurances that arrangements are being perfected for harmonious execution of stipulations of treaty of 1903 in connection with transfer of lands.
619
Feb. 16 To the Panaman Chargé
Assurance that application for reestablishment of Mixed Commission will be given due consideration and reply made.
619
June 6 (238) From the Panaman Chargé
Inquiry as to progress made for reestablishment of Mixed Commission created by Canal Zone.
620
June 24 To the Panaman Chargé
Reply that expense of Mixed Commission is not warranted by value of private property taken over. Opinion that claims can be settled expeditiously through diplomatic channels.
620
Aug. 26 (372) From the Panaman Chargé
Request for good offices with War Department for securing direct settlement between Canal authorities and Taboga islanders regarding questions pending, Panama reserving right to ask for Mixed Commission if deemed necessary.
621
Sept. 21 To the Panaman Chargé
Information that instructions have been sent by War Department to Governor of Panama Canal to enter direct negotiations with residents of Taboga Islands who have claims against the United States.
622
[Page LXI]

PARAGUAY

Representations by the United States in Favor of the Revival of the Asunción Port Concession

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 6 (2) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Proposed construction and operation of river port at Asunción under existing concession. Inquiry regarding Paraguay’s attitude and Minister’s views as to advisability of Department’s informal assistance from standpoint of U. S. commercial interests.
623
Jan. 19 (738) From the Minister in Paraguay
President favorable to new grant to port company, old concession having been revoked by decree because of default. Minister’s recommendation that project receive informal assistance of Department.
623
May 14 (18) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Instructions to present Dr. Baque, attorney of Asuncion Port Concession Corp., and recommend that concession be granted his company in view of written assurances submitted to Department.
625
June 8 (806) From the Minister in Paraguay
Report that instructions in telegram no. 18 have been carried out, and that Department will be advised of any developments.
626
Dec. 2 (41) From the Chargé in Paraguay (tel.)
Impossibility of reinstating former concession; President’s support of new contract to be presented to Congress in April; terms thereof, which are designed to overcome difficulties of former concession.
627

Discrepancies between the English and Spanish Texts of the Extradition Treaty of March 26, 1913, between the United States and Paraguay

[Page LXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 13 (3) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Request for provisional arrest and detention of William H. Bricker with view to extradition on charge of perjury.
627
May 9 (794) From the Minister in Paraguay
Report that Dr. Bricker left Asunción in custody of U. S. and local officers en route to the United States, extradition being granted for charges other than perjury, latter not designated as extraditable offense under extradition treaty between United States and Paraguay.
628
July 11 (183) To the Chargé in Paraguay
Instructions to report upon what Minister based his opinion that perjury is not extraditable offense according to treaty between the United States and Paraguay.
628
Sept. 23 (890) From the Chargé in Paraguay
Examination of extradition treaty and official interpretation that “false testimony” as used by one is same as “perjury” of the other text.
629
Oct. 28 (929) From the Chargé in Paraguay
Letter from Dr. Eusebio Ayala (text printed) signifying difference in meaning of two terms and that “perjury” is not punishable in Parguayan code. His suggestion that treaty be changed to omit enumeration of offenses.
629
Dec. 9 (194) To the Chargé in Paraguay
Inadvisability at this time of attempting to remedy discrepancy in language of texts which could only be done by new treaty which would have to be submitted to U. S. Senate.
631

PERSIA

Persian Overtures Looking toward the Appointment of American Advisers to the Persian Government

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 6 (3) From the Minister in Persia (tel.)
U. S. opportunity to participate in economic development of Persia and prevent collapse of Government upon evacuation by British; pressing need for military officers to command Persian forces.
633
June 21 (35) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Persian desire for U. S. agricultural and financial advisers; intimation of readiness to grant concessions for oil, railroads, etc., in return for loans. Advisability of understanding with British on subject.
634
Sept. 6 (436) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Memorandum by Counselor of Embassy (text printed) of conversation with newly appointed Persian Minister to Washington on repudiation of Anglo-Persian Agreement, Russian rivalry in Persia, U. S. loans to Persia, U. S. Financial Adviser, and establishment of National Bank.
635
Sept. 8 (54) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Dismissal of British Financial Adviser to Persian Government and his assistants.
637
Sept. 15 (57) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Shah’s expression of desire for Americans to take place of British financial advisers.
638
Nov. 10 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Persian Minister’s urgent request that Financial Adviser be sent at once to assist in arrangement for paying off army. British refusal of loan.
638
Nov. 29 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State
Explanations to Persian Minister regarding inexpediency of appointing U. S. Financial Adviser before arrival of U. S. Minister in Persia to investigate conditions. U. S. desire to act for permanent benefit of both countries.
639
[Page LXIII]

Persian Efforts to Interest American Oil Companies in the Exploitation of Northern Persia

[Page LXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 17 (176) To the Minister in Persia
Lack of interest in concessions at present on part of U. S. oil companies. Instructions to report developments regarding concessions and Anglo-Persian Agreement, also regarding financial situation.
640
Jan. 21 (10735) From the Consul General at London
Organization of North-Persian Oils, Ltd., taking over Russian oil interests in northern Persia, apparently bringing northern provinces within orbit of Anglo-Persian operations.
641
May 14 (23) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Desirability of U. S. exploitation of northern Persia and recommendation that U. S. oil representative be sent to compete with Anglo-Persian Oil Co., in view of Persia’s willingness to grant concessions to Americans.
643
Sept. 4 (52) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
British Minister’s instructions to protest against Russian oil concessions being transferred to U. S. concern, same concessions also being sought by French interests.
643
Sept. 21 (59) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Persia’s denial of ever having recognized Russian concession, making void British claims.
644
Oct. 7 (750) From the British Ambassador
Representations against Persia’s irregular offer of Russian oil concessions to Americans, said concessions having been taken over in proper form by British firm.
644
Oct. 14 (62) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
British Chargé’s instructions to emphasize protest.
644
Oct. 15 To the British Ambassador
U. S. understanding that certain alleged Russian concessions in Persia have never been approved by National Assembly, as required by law. Representations against British attempt at control of oil interests in Persia to exclusion of Americans.
645
Oct. 24 (748) From the Chargé in Persia
Decree of the Persian Council of Ministers, July 27, 1918 (text printed) abrogating all concessions, treaties, and agreements which had been taken from Persia by Russia.
646
Nov. 16 (758) From the Chargé in Persia
Discussion in the Medjliss concerning the illegality of the Khochtaria petroleum concession in northern Persia.
647
Nov. 22 (761) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Passage of bill by Persian Medjliss, granting Standard Oil Co. a 50-years concession for oil exploitation in 5 provinces of northern Persia. Recommendation that company’s representative be sent immediately.
648
Nov. 23 (763) From the Chargé in Persia
Bill granting concession to Standard Oil (text printed); attention being called to share accruing to Government.
648
Nov. 26 (73) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Russian protest against concession to Standard Oil; British and French statement that act is unfriendly. Undertone of anxiety in Persia as to Russia’s next move.
649
Dec. 3 (771) From the Chargé in Persia
Note from British Chargé in Persia to Persian Prime Minister, November 25 (text printed) protesting against concession to Standard Oil.
650
Dec. 9 (78) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Arrival of Sinclair Oil Co.’s representative to negotiate for northern oils, apparently unaware of concession to Standard Oil. Necessity that appearance of rivalry be avoided.
651
Dec. 13 (44) To the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor discreetly to prevent any local appearance of rivalry between U. S. companies.
652
Dec. 20 (48) To the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Instructions to observe strict impartiality as regards two companies. Understanding that active negotiations are to be carried on with Standard Oil.
652
Dec. 20 (989) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Unconfirmed report that Anglo-Persian and Standard Oil representatives have met in London and arrived at informal agreement to operate oil concession jointly.
652
Dec. 22 (83) From the Chargé in Persia (tel.)
Delayed action caused by further negotiations by rival claims to concessions.
653
Dec. 22 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Conversation between British Embassy representatives and Under Secretary and Assistant Secretary regarding Persian initiative in oil negotiations with U. S. companies and equality of opportunity. Under Secretary’s added note on discussion of pooling of interests of Anglo-Persian Oil and Standard Oil in Persia.
653
Dec. 31 (965) From the British Ambassador
Understanding, in above-mentioned interview, that no definite step would be taken by either Government in connection with northern Persia concessions without first informing the other.
654

PERU

Appointment of an Administrator of Customs by the Government Peru

[Page LXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 June 7 (45) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Offer of New York bankers to finance contract of Foundation Co. for construction work in Peru on condition that Department of State nominate Administrator of Customs. President Leguia’s acceptance and desire for immediate nomination.
656
Aug. 24 (63) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
President’s repeated inquiry for Department’s reply regarding nomination of customs administrator.
656
Sept. 7 (44) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Nomination of Dr. W. W. Cumberland for post of Administrator of Customs of Peru. His qualifications.
657
Sept. 20 (70) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Duties and salary of administrator.
657
Sept. 22 (48) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Dr. Cumberland’s acceptance of proposition. Inquiry regarding power to sign contract.
658
Sept. 23 From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Report that instructions for Peruvian Ambassador to sign contract are being cabled.
658
Oct. 7 (50) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Instructions to discreetly suggest immediate closing of contract, draft of which has been prepared by Dr. Cumberland and important features cabled to Peru.
658
Oct. 31 From the Administrator of Customs for Peru
Copy of contract between Peru and Dr. Cumberland (text printed) authorizing appointment of Cumberland as Administrator of Customs of Peru.
658

Withdrawal of the Peruvian Gold Guarantee Deposits from the National City Bank of New York

Date and number Subject Page
1921 May 4 (35) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Rumor that Peru’s gold reserve fund in New York bank is to be transferred to London, bringing profit to Peru by exchange.
663
May 4 (37) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
President’s opinion that business needs of country oblige him to make the transfer.
663
June 14 (639) From the Ambassador in Peru
Ambassador’s good offices in negotiations between President and head of branch of National City Bank regarding loan to Peru. Failure to agree as to security on loan. President’s explanation to Anglo-South American Bank.
663
July 5 (650) From the Ambassador in Peru
Report that no loan was obtained from Anglo-South American Bank. President’s order that gold reserve be converted into sterling, exchange to pounds being made by Bank of England; Peru realizing large sum from transaction for needed Government expenses.
666

Representations by the United States on Behalf of the All America Cables, Incorporated

[Page LXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Mar. 30 (17) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Report that Peru is about to close contract with Marconi Co. for developing and operating Peruvian wireless service, and that All America Cables was deterred by cost problem.
666
Mar. 31 (18) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Instructions to make representations regarding monopolistic character of Marconi contract to exclusion of U. S. companies and to state that it would invade legal rights of All America Cables, which expects to take up its wireless rights within 6 months specified.
667
Mar. 31 (20) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
President’s avowal of preference for American control of telegraph and postal service, which is in urgent need of reform; his impatience at delayed action of All America Cables.
667
Apr. 1 (21) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
President’s statement (text printed) complaining of All America Cables indecision. His promise to delay signature to to Marconi contract for a time, and to see that provision be inserted insuring against monopoly.
668
Apr. 4 (21) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Instructions to make further representations regarding concession to Marconi, urging desirability of having national and international radio service in Peru operated by All America Cables or an associated company.
669
Apr. 6 (23) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
President’s understanding that All America Cables could not undertake land telegraph and postal business. Recommendation that offer by Americans should include these with wireless.
670
May 1 (34) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
President’s approval of Marconi contract; his explanations regarding action.
670

Protocol between the United States and Peru, May 21, 1921, Providing for the Arbitration of the Landreau Claim

[Page LXVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1920 Jan. 10 Memorandum by Mr. Hallett Johnson of the Division of Latin American Affairs, Department of State
Origin and history of Landreau claim against Government of Peru; various efforts to settle claim.
671
May 6 (1) To the Ambassador in Peru
Instructions to signify desirability of settlement of Landreau claim by special arbitral commission rather than by the Hague Tribunal as suggested. Submission of new protocol of arbitration.
673
Dec. 30 (141) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s objections to protocol and his proposed amendments thereto.
675
1921 Feb. 7 (34) To the Ambassador in Peru
Amended protocol, substantially in accordance with Peruvian suggestion with certain added stipulations, for submission to Government.
676
Mar. 16 (14) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Acceptance of protocol of arbitration of Landreau claim with slight substitution in phraseology.
(Footnote: Department’s instructions to Ambassador to sign.)
677
Apr. 9 (27) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Inquiry whether there is objection to arbitral commission sitting in country of third member, or president of board.
678
Apr. 16 (23) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Agreement with proposed amendment that commission sit in country of president of board.
678
May 24 (635) From the Ambassador in Peru
Protocol between the United States and Peru (text printed) providing for arbitration of Landreau claim against Peru, with amendments incorporated.
678
June 20 (33) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Appointment of Barton Smith as U. S. Commissioner in Landreau arbitration. Instructions to inform Peru and request name of Peruvian Commissioner.
682
June 21 (50) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Appointment of Carlos Prevost as Peruvian Commissioner in Landreau arbitration.
682
July 8 (383) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to seek information regarding availability of British subject possessing proper qualifications for position of third commissioner in Landreau arbitration.
(Instructions to repeat, mutatis mutandis, to Copenhagen and The Hague.)
683
Aug. 9 (460) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information that Viscount Robert B. Finlay has been suggested as agreeable to both countries. Instructions to ascertain whether available.
683
Aug. 16 (681) From the Chargé in Cheat Britain (tel.)
Lord Finlay’s letter (text printed) expressing willingness to accept duties as third commissioner in Landreau arbitration.
683
Aug. 18 (484) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to notify Lord Finlay that U. S. and Peruvian Commissioners have selected him as third commissioner and that details as to arbitration will be communicated later.
684

POLAND

Regulation of Private Remittances from the United States

[Page LXVIII][Page LXIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Feb. 4 (26) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Departure of Polish Vice Minister of Finance for Paris to sign agreement with Guaranty Trust Co. of New York regarding remittances to Poland. Request for information for guidance.
685
Feb. 25 (42) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Instructions to explain U. S. policy not to oppose contract but to reserve liberty of action should undesirable developments occur. Explanation of contract provisions.
685
Feb. 28 From the Polish Minister
Notification that Minister of Finance has ratified contract.
686
Mar. 15 From the Assistant Vice President of the Guaranty Trust Company of New York Agreement between Poland and Guaranty Trust Co. of New York (text printed) for facilitating remittance of funds from the United States to Poland. 686
Apr. 23 (86) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Probability that Guaranty Trust Co. will monopolize business of remittances, to disadvantage of other U. S. banks.
694
Apr. 30 (102) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Inquiry whether U. S. banks, if they subject themselves to regulations of March 23, 1920, will be permitted legally to join syndicate of paying banks in Poland.
694
May 7 (103) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Informal assurances that U. S. banks are free to join syndicate under same conditions as Polish banks.
694
May 27 From the Secretary of Commerce
Advantages of Polish exchange agreement with Guaranty Trust Co., whose object is to secure that Polish remittances from the United States to relatives in Poland can be used for dollar purchases in the United States.
695
June 24 (150) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Finance Minister’s proposal to issue order requiring remittances to Poland, with exception of U. S. money orders, to be made on Government forms; step obviously intended to create monopoly for Guaranty Trust Co.
695
June 25 (846) From the Minister in Poland
Note verbale, May 9, sent to Foreign Minister (text printed) requesting assurances that U. S. banks will not be compelled to liquidate but may join syndicate of paying banks in Poland; reply, June 24 (text printed) that when matter arises it will be given consideration in spirit of reciprocity.
696
July 6 (156) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Approval of Government forms for remittances provided equitable treatment is granted U. S. banks willing to do business in Poland under law of March 23, 1920.
697
Aug. 6 (1116) To the Minister in Poland
Instructions to make representations regarding unsatisfactory negotiations for equitable treatment of U. S. banks and to state that, if monopolistic tendency of Guaranty Trust Co. persists, U. S. attitude toward contract may be subject to reconsideration. Instructions to protest to company’s representative also.
698
Aug. 31 (199) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Request for authorization to change representations eliminating reference to Guaranty contract, in order to obviate encouragement to Minister of Finance who apparently seeks to wreck contract.
699
Sept. 6 (186) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Authorization to make representations as suggested.
699
Sept. 9 (940) From the Minister in Poland
Note sent Foreign Minister in regard to participation of U. S. banks in syndicate, stating Department may be obliged to reconsider its entire attitude toward question of remittances.
700

RUSSIA

Continued Japanese Occupation of Russian Territory

protests by the united states and by the par eastern republic-negotiations at dairen for an understanding between japan and the par eastern republic

[Page LXX]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 27 (41) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Premier Hara’s statement in Diet regarding necessity for temporary retention of Japanese troops in Vladivostok and vicinity for protection of Japanese residents. Minister of War’s statement that dean of consular corps in Vladivostok had requested Japanese forces to preserve order.
701
Mar. 23 (106) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
War Office bulletin announcing that troops will be stationed in Nikolaievsk and other areas, introducing civil administration temporarily to maintain peace and order.
701
Mar. 29 (117) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Information that Japanese troops on mainland will be detached from force based on Russian half of Sakhalin Island, troops on latter not to be increased.
702
May 31 To the Japanese Embassy
Protest against Japanese increasing encroachment upon Russian political and administrative rights, in direct opposition to understanding of 1918 with the United States.
702
June 18 To the Japanese Embassy
Reports from various sources regarding Japan’s encouragement of Semenov’s activities in Trans-Baikal, of Japan’s initiative in establishing League to Combat Communism, also of its elaborate preparation for complete occupation of Sakhalin.
705
July 8 From the Japanese Embassy
Allegations as to Japanese policy in Siberia in reply to U. S. protests, holding that stationing of troops at certain points is necessary for protection of Japanese residents and property; assurances that military occupation of Russian Sakhalin will end upon satisfactory settlement of massacre question.
707
July 14 From the Japanese Embassy
Reply to memorandum of June 18, categorically denying all points about which representations were made and assuring of Japan’s interest in early stabilization of situation in eastern Siberia.
710
July 15 (266) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Official report of questions and answers in House of Commons on July 6, regarding movement of Japanese troops in certain portions of eastern Siberia (text printed).
712
Aug. 7 (265) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Report that Japan is now ready to negotiate with Far Eastern Republic and that form of negotiations depends upon U. S. interest in situation.
713
Aug. 8 (266) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Japan’s informal statement that it cannot withdraw from Vladivostok until it has satisfactory guarantees of safety for Japanese subjects and interests.
713
Aug. 22 From the Japanese Ambassador
Memorandum (text printed) citing Japan’s negotiations with newly organized Far Eastern Republic for the removal of menace to Japanese residents, etc., and stating that Japanese troops will be withdrawn from Maritime Province upon the successful conclusion of the negotiations.
713
Aug. 31 From the Consul at Harbin (tel.)
Arrival in Harbin of representatives of Far Eastern Republic en route to Dairen for conference with Japanese.
715
Sept. 15 (299) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Press reports on anticipated difficulties in reaching final agreement due to Japan’s unwillingness to deal with Chita as an independent country. Telegram from consul at Dairen, Sept. 14 (text printed) suggesting dispatch of representatives to Washington Conference as only means of preventing administrative or territorial concessions to Japan.
715
Dec. 11 (416) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Official statement (text printed) of intention to carry out partial relief of troops at Vladivostok, postponed in view of negotiations at Dairen. Assurances of intentions to withdraw troops in event of assurances of general security in Siberia.
716
Dec. 20 From Mr. A. Yazikoff
Appeal of National Assembly of Far Eastern Republic to all nations (text printed) protesting against Japanese aggression and against discussion at Washington Conference of questions in which Republic is vitally interested without privilege of participation.
717
Dec. 24 (433) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Caldwell: Statement by Foreign Minister, Chita, of Japanese demands, grown more insistent since opening of Washington Conference.
719

Restoration of White Russian Control in Vladivostok

[Page LXXI][Page LXXII][Page LXXIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Mar. 29 (114) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Vladivostok: Preparations of Chita government representative for flight from Vladivostok. Subordination of local government to Chita; compliance with instructions to avoid actions which might be construed as recognition.
720
Apr. 1 (122) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Vladivostok: Coup d’état; disarming of militia by Japanese; special session of Parliament; bewilderment as to source of attempt to overthrow government.
721
Apr. 1 (123) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
War Office information that fighting was started by Kappel troops to overthrow Vladivostok government and that both factions were disarmed by Japanese.
721
May 26 (186) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Vladivostok: Surrender of Nikolsk militia to Kappel commander, simultaneous with dispatch of Japanese forces to Anuchino; request by Maritime Province authorities for Japanese protection.
721
May 26 (187) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Vladivostok: Control of Vladivostok by Kappel troops; proclaiming of provisional Priamur government by non-Socialist organizations.
722
May 27 (188) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
War Office denial of having sent troops to Anuchino, admitting, however, that in case new government is established in Maritime Province, Japan will not permit its forceful overthrow; opinion that Semenov is back of movement.
722
May 27 (189) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From Vladivostok: Report that Japanese disarmed police barracks where late ministers gathered; insecure situation with few casualties.
723
June 1 From the Acting President of the Technical Board (tel.)
Negotiations between Kappel leaders and Chita government which will lead to understanding, thus eliminating Semenov. Rumors of Japanese loan to Chinese Eastern Railway.
723
June 2 (192) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Official confirmation of report of arrival of Japanese troops at Anuchino at time of disorders at Nikolsk; sailing of Semenov for Vladivostok with officers, arms, and ammunition.
724
June 4 (194) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Vladivostok: Arrival of Semenov on Japanese steamer, preceded by considerable force; resolution of consular corps forwarded to local authorities urging that he be instructed not to land in Maritime Province.
724
June 6 (213) From the Minister in China (tel.)
Protest of Mission of Far Eastern Republic in Peking against recent Japanese coup in Vladivostok, holding Allied intervention responsible, and expressing hope that the United States will effect early withdrawal of Japanese troops from , Russia.
725
June 7 (196) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Vladivostok: Semenov’s interview With local authorities aboard ship, his promise not to interfere with local affairs; his desire to go beyond Iman to fight Bolsheviki in southern Maritime Province; Japanese refusal of support to armed forces in southern Maritime Province.
725
June 7 (197) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
War Office perturbation over U. S. view that Japan has acted in unneutral way in regard to Semenov. Assurances to the contrary.
726
June 9 (194) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Discrediting of report that large part of General Wrangel’s troops will be sent to Siberia by Japanese to reenforce anti-Bolshevik forces; intention to return only small number natives to Vladivostok.
726
June 10 (471) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Publication of note from Chicherin to British, French, and Italian Governments stating that Bolshevik regime at Vladivostok was overthrown under protection of Japanese who desire to conquer Siberia, that French are assisting, and that British exhibit hostile activity toward Soviet Government. British refusal to accept note.
727
June 12 (200) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Vladivostok: Semenov’s request that consular corps mediate with local authorities in his demand for recognition as head of government. Report that Japanese merchants are negotiating for delivery in Japan of Vladivostok stores. Cossack army’s request that Semenov depart.
727
June 20 (212) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Vladivostok: Semenov’s ultimatum demanding money, stores, and permission to leave for Hailar. Permission for him to go to Posiet Bay provided he agrees to keep quiet.
728
June 29 (222) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
From Vladivostok: Semenov’s departure for Grodekovo.
728
July 11 From the Consul at Harbin (tel.)
Opinion that China should be urged not to permit transportation of Semenov’s troops through Manchuria to Trans-Baikal.
728
July 13 (196) To the Chargé in China (tel.)
Instructions to urge upon Chinese authorities desirability of preventing transportation of Semenov’s forces through Manchuria to Trans-Baikal.
729
July 15 (1395) From the Chargé in China
China’s assurances that Semenov’s forces will not be transported over Chinese Eastern Railway.
729
Aug. 26 To the Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Inquiries whether Vladivostok acknowledges authority of Far Eastern Republic, other questions regarding its government.
730
Aug. 27 (95) From the Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Reply that Vladivostok considers itself independent, having revolted against Chita; Chita still controls remainder of Maritime Province; further information as to local government.
730
Sept. 1 To the Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Inquiry concerning deposed Vladivostok government now functioning in Maritime Province, and instructions to send detailed history of Siberian governments.
730
Sept. 3 (96) From the Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Reply to inquiries regarding Vladivostok government and regarding its relations with Moscow and Chita governments.
731
Sept. 8 To the Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Department referred to former Vladivostok government in its telegram of September 1, while reply evidently refers to present government.
731
Sept. 10 (97) From the Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Reply to telegram of September 1 regarding former Vladivostok government.
731
Dec. 14 (421) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Vladivostok: Confirmation of report that Habarovsk has been taken by so-called White Partisans and that revolts are spreading.
732

Desire of the Far Eastern Republic to Estabilsh Relations with the United States

[Page LXXIV][Page LXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Mar. 29 (975) From the Minister in China
Note from Yourin, head of mission of Far Eastern Republic in China, March 26 (text printed) expressing desire of Republic for friendly relations with the United States, for exchange of representatives, and for reciprocal trade privileges.
732
Undated [Rec’d Apr. 1] From Mr. Alexander M. Krasnoshchekov (tel.)
Desire of Far Eastern Republic to send to the United States special commission, mostly peasants, accompanied by an attaché of Foreign Office.
734
Apr. 6 (66) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Mission of Maj. W. J. Davis to Far Eastern Republic to obtain information as to military, economic, and political conditions. His instructions as to duties and specific information.
735
Undated [Rec’d Apr.12] From Mr. Alexander M. Krasnoshchekov (tel.)
Declaration of Constituent Assembly of Far Eastern Republic to all nations (text printed) regarding organization, extent, and policies of Republic; also memorandum to the United States (text printed) urging end to Japanese occupation and recognition of Far Eastern Republic.
736
Apr. 14 (68) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Decision to send James F. Abbott, commercial attaché at Tokyo, and Maj. Davis on mission to Far Eastern Republic for purpose of gathering information. Further instructions.
(Instructions to repeat to Harbin, Vladivostok, and Peking for information.)
741
Apr. 23 (74) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Information that mission of Davis and Abbott to Far Eastern Republic is not occasion for furtherance of business interests.
(Instructions to repeat to Vladivostok.)
742
Apr. 27 From Mr. Ignatius Yourin
Appeal for closer relationship between the United States and Far Eastern Republic, latter looking to America for industrialization of its natural resources, which is impossible without participation of foreign capital.
742
May 24 (182) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Arrival of Abbott and Davis in Chita.
744
June 19 (211) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Abbott’s telegram from Chita stating town is quiet and that Ungern’s forces were defeated by Red Army near Verkhneudinsk.
745
July 9 (237) From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Telegram from Davis and Abbott at Harbin: Favorable report of situation at Chita; Foreign Minister’s desire that America announce terms of participation in Siberian intervention and withdrawal of troops, since failure to do so indicates approval of activities of its ally Japan.
745
Sept. 9 (149) To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Instructions for Consul Caldwell to go to Chita on special duty, for informal association with local authorities and for friendly observation. Further instructions.
745
Sept. 23 (313) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From the consul at Dairen: Yourin’s inquiry whether there is any objection to sending trade mission from Chita to the United States.
746
Sept. 27 (164) To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Instructions for Peking (text printed) to express unofficially to Yourin advisability of Chita authorities not interfering with Caldwell’s mission; and reply to inquiry regarding trade mission from Chita to United States.
747
Oct. 4 (343) From the Minister in China (tel.)
General belief that U. S. failure to receive commercial mission and nonrepresentation at Washington Conference will drive Far Eastern Republic into agreement with Japan resulting in cession of Northern Sakhalin.
747
Oct. 4 (173) To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Information that informal assistance, but not official recognition, will be extended to individuals sent by Far Eastern Republic.
(Instructions to repeat to Peking.)
748
Nov. 4 (369) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Arrival of Caldwell at Chita, November 2.
748
Nov. 10 (379) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Summary of telegram from Caldwell: Conversation with Foreign Minister at Chita concerning pending agreements and Japanese concessions at conference at Dairen.
748
Nov. 14 (384) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Caldwell at Chita: Assurances to Foreign Minister regarding U. S. attitude toward pending concession to Sinclair Oil Corp. in Russian Sakhalin, and disavowal of agreement between President Harding and Japanese Minister giving Japan free hand in Far Eastern Republic.
749
Nov. 15 (196) To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
For Caldwell: Approval of assurances given Foreign Minister; reference to press announcement of U. S. policy in Russia, September 19; denial of any agreement between the President and Japanese Minister.
750
Dec. 8 Memorandum by the Acting Chief of the Division of Russian Affairs, Department of State
Informal discussion between Russian Division and special trade delegation from Far Eastern Republic regarding recognition, withdrawal of Japanese troops, Mongolian question, operation of Chinese Eastern Railway, and Dairen Conference in which Japan proposed a treaty consisting of 17 points and 3 secret articles.
750

Continued Refusal by the United States to Recognize the Governments in the Baltic Provinces

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 15 To the French Ambassador
Reference to U. S. unchanged attitude toward Russian dismemberment, as outlined in note of August 10, 1920, to Italian Ambassador, as fitting reply to request for concerted action with Allies in recognition of Latvia and Georgia.
752
Jan. 27 From Mr. Jonas Vileisis
Renewal of request for recognition of the independence of the Government of Lithuania.
753
May 7 (61) To the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Instructions to report opinion as to probability of Bolshevik effort to absorb Baltic States, and of its success as affecting possible U. S. recognition of Estonia and Latvia.
755
May 9 (407) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Absence of indications that Bolsheviks will attempt to conquer Baltic States through military measures; recommendation for de jure recognition and establishment of bases for future trade.
755
July 1 From the Russian Ambassador
Aide Memoire on problems of Baltic States, protesting any dismemberment of Russia during its temporary disability, and advocating establishment of practical relations between the Powers and small nationalities as provisional measure until Russia is reunited.
755
[Page LXXVI]

American attitude of reserve toward trade relations with Soviet Russia

[Page LXXVII][Page LXXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Mar. 15 From the President of the American Federation of Labor
Request for information for dissemination relative to situation in Soviet Russia, in view of propaganda claiming great purchasing power of Soviet Government and great demand for foreign goods, caused by blockade. Resolution of A. F. of L. Convention at Montreal, June 1920, condemning policies of Soviet Government (text printed).
760
Mar. 16 From the Secretary of Commerce
Possible effect of British-Soviet trade agreement upon Bolshevik gold. Opinion that United States should change its policy toward such gold.
762
Mar. 16 (216) From the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.)
Signing of trade agreement between Soviet Russia and British Board of Trade.
763
Undated [Rec’d Mar. 21] From the Soviet Representative in Estonia to the Congress of the United States and President Harding (tel.) Formal proposal of All Russian Executive Committee (text printed) for opening trade relations between Russia and the United States. 763
Mar. 25 From the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury
Policy of Treasury to refuse gold of doubtful title but to accept gold certified by responsible party as not of Bolshevik origin, also to accept gold coinage bearing mint mark of friendly nation. Request for views on questions relative to gold origin.
764
Mar. 25 To the Consul at Reval (tel.)
Statement for Litvinov (text printed) signifying U. S. desire to have evidence of security of life, guaranties of private property, sanctity of contract, and rights of free labor as proper bases for considering trade relations with Russia.
768
Mar. 27 From the Consul at Reval (tel.)
Litvinov’s inquiry whether Department’s statement of March 25 is official reply to Moscow proposal. Consul’s request for instructions as to propriety of communicating further with Litvinov.
768
Apr. 2 To the Consul at Reval (tel.)
Authorization to receive Litvinov’s communications informally and without comment.
769
Apr. 5 To the President of the American Federation of Labor
Reply in detail concerning Russia’s inability to furnish exports and lack of purchasing power for imports, with no likelihood of alleviation as long as present political and economic system continues; statistics in evidence of negligible volume of trade with Russia and its steady degeneration despite fact that restrictions have been removed.
769
Apr. 9 To the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury
Department can give no assurance that title to Soviet gold will not be subject to attack internationally or otherwise; no necessity for inquiring into origin of gold which bears official coinage stamp of friendly nation or gold bearing official German or Mexican mint stamp.
774
Apr. 13 To the United States Shipping Board
Inability to advise that Shipping Board vessels be permitted to enter Soviet ports.
775
July 14 (584) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Judgment in test case confirming ownership of gold by Soviet Government where Imperial rubles have been deposited in Bank of England. To complete test, actual gold to be sent to United States by Bank of England as agent.
776
Aug. 11 From the Under Secretary of the Treasury
Advice that New York assay office has rejected deposit of Imperial gold rubles of Soviet origin tendered by J. P. Morgan and Co., consigned to them by Bank of England.
777
Aug. 15 From the Rumanian Legation
Reservations as to final distribution of some of the gold which reaches the United States from Russia, alleging it to be part of Rumanian gold sent to Moscow in 1916 for safekeeping.
777
Aug. 27 To the Chairman of the United States Shipping Board
Summary of Department’s views with reference to question of Shipping Board vessels entering Soviet ports, reached after further consideration.
778
Aug. 30 (447) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Comments on American penetration in Caucasus and South Russia. Special report by Assistant Trade Commissioner at Constantinople (text printed) regarding H. M. Day’s contract with trade union of Azerbaidjan, Georgia, and Armenia for opening up business; his hope to interest U. S. concerns and to receive support of Government.
778
Nov. 1 (85) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Inquiries as to details of Day’s contract and request for copy thereof; warning against promise of U. S. support, in view of unsettled political conditions in Caucasus.
783
Nov. 2 From the Consul General at London (tel.)
Soviet delegate’s desire to present text of Russian decree relative to Russian debts and to discuss commercial propositions. Request for instructions whether or not to receive them.
784
Nov. 3 (630) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions for consul general (text printed) to receive Soviet delegate informally and without commitments; reference to U. S. policy to seek practical means for relief of distress of Russian people.
785
Dec. 1 To the Secretary of Commerce
Memorandum proposing cooperation with Germany as middleman in Russian-American trade. Request for views.
785
Dec. 6 From the Secretary of Commerce
Failure to agree with program of encouraging Germany as intermediary for future U. S. trade with Russia and reasons therefor.
787
Dec. 15 (977) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Request of Ber and Krassin for opportunity to visit Washington, asserting Soviet intention to propose constructive policy to meet requirements of foreign countries as basis for cooperation.
788
Dec. 21 (691) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Necessity for complete information as to nature of proposed basis for cooperation before Krassin’s visit can be considered.
789
Dec. 27 To the Secretary of Commerce
Information that Department’s memorandum of December 1 assumed understanding of advantages of direct trade with Russia and dealt only with attitude to be adopted toward indirect trade which will inevitably exist in greater or less volume.
790

Release of American Citizens Held Prisoners in Russia

[Page LXXIX][Page LXXX]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 11 (3) From the Minister in Czechoslovakia (tel.)
Czechoslovak willingness to aid in repatriation of Americans in Russia through Red Cross representative or by exchange of some Russians held prisoner in Czechoslovakia.
790
Jan. 26 (8) To the Minister in Czechoslovakia (tel.)
Appreciation of offer of assistance; unwisdom of selecting individual prisoners to be repatriated, U. S. claim being based on broad ground of principle.
791
Feb. 26 (6) From, the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Soviets failure to reply to Dr. Nansen’s requests on behalf of American prisoners, indication of Soviets determination to secure recognition before dealing with foreign powers.
792
Mar. 29 (10) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Dr. Nansen’s inquiry whether U S. Government is willing to negotiate direct with Soviets, as they desire.
792
Mar. 30 (27) From the Minister in Czechoslovakia (tel.)
Soviets attitude that the United States must treat with them direct and that Americans are held more or less as hostages.
792
Apr. 5 (13) To the Minister of Norway (tel.)
Instructions to inform Dr. Nansen that his further efforts toward repatriation would be appreciated.
793
Apr. 12 (12) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Dr. Nansen’s telegram to Chicherin, April 7 (text printed) negotiating for agreement regarding release of Americans in Russia; and reply, April 9 (text printed) stating Soviets await direct U. S. negotiations in the matter.
793
May 5 (16) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Dr. Nansen’s suggestion that Secretary of State either address message to him declining direct negotiations with Soviets or communicate with Litvinov through U. S. consul at Reval.
794
May 10 (19) To the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Message for Dr. Nansen (text printed) urging his further efforts for release of Americans and stating that their safe delivery must precede any communication of any nature between U. S. Government and Soviets. Desire for his opinion concerning publication of message.
794
May 12 (19) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Dr. Nansen’s approval of message and of its publication. Probability of his sending text to Soviets.
795
May 19 (21) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Message from Moscow to Dr. Nansen, May 15 (text printed) inquiring whether detention of Americans is the only hindrance to resumption of trade and de facto relations between Russia and the United States.
795
May 20 (20) To the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Reply which Dr. Nansen should make to Moscow, maintaining former U. S. attitude.
795
June 21 (444) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Letter from two American prisoners in Moscow, revealing inhuman treatment received and urging U. S. measures for release of Americans.
796
June 23 (71) To the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Instructions to repeat his telegram no. 444 to Embassy at London and Legation at Christiania. Request for opinion whether effective pressure for release of Americans can be exercised by Baltic States.
796
June 23 (28) To the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Instructions to advise Dr. Nansen of substance of Riga’s telegram no. 444 and to inquire whether any progress has been made toward release of Americans in Russia.
797
June 23 (356) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Request for opinion concerning possibility of bringing effective pressure through British Government upon Bolsheviks to secure release of Americans; instructions to recall good offices of U. S. consul at Moscow and American Red Cross in protecting British subjects in 1918.
797
June 24 (446) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Opinion that pressure of Baltic Provinces would be ineffective. Suggestion that release of U. S. citizens be demanded, and failing prompt compliance, that embargo be placed on shipments to Russia.
797
July 1 (31) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Dr. Nansen’s report that no replies have been received from Litvinov; his suggestion that extreme measures be taken to prevent U. S. goods going to Russia.
798
July 15 (33) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Gorky’s appeal to the United States for bread and medicines for starving Russians, substance of which sent to Dr. Nansen; Dr. Nansen’s reply that American prisoners in Russia must be released before help can be expected from the United States.
798
July 16 (589) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
British desire to assist in release of Americans in Russia, and delivery of instructions to that effect to trade commission just leaving for Moscow.
799
July 16 (34) From the Minister in Norway (tel.)
Telegram from Chicherin to Dr. Nansen, July 10 (text printed) stating that nothing can be added to previous communications regarding interned Americans.
799
July 25 To the Consul at Reval (tel.)
Message for Litvinov (text printed) demanding release of American prisoners in Russia and stressing impossibility of countenancing measures for relief in Russia while Americans are detained.
800
July 26 From the Consul at Reval (tel.)
Delivery of Department’s message of July 25 to Soviet authorities.
800
Aug. 8 From the Vice Consul in Charge at Reval (tel.)
Telegram from Litvinov in Moscow (text printed) announcing release of American prisoners.
800
Aug. 10 From the Consul at Reval (tel.)
Arrival at Reval of six American citizens released from Russian prison.
801
Aug. 18 (490) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Chicherin’s notice that American citizens may leave Russia after presenting satisfactory proof of citizenship to Anglo-American Division, Commission Foreign Affairs.
801
Aug. 20 (491) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Signature of agreement granting facilities for Americans to leave Russia.
802
Aug. 22 (97) To the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Hoover to Miller: Possibility of further detention of Americans on technical grounds. Instructions to remind Litvinov of advantage to Bolsheviks in permitting their release under present famine conditions.
802

Deportation of Undesirable Russians from the United States

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 12 (2) To the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Arrangements for transit through Latvia of 24 aliens sailing from New York. Report results and opinion whether similar arrangements may again be made.
802
Jan. 15 (303) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Friendly attitude of Latvians to transit of aliens; necessity, however, for agreement and for making arrangements before any further transportation may be effected.
803
Jan. 19 (304) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Specific conditions for further deportations via Latvia.
803
Feb. 7 (11) To the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Information that Department of Labor will follow specific conditions in further deportations. Notice of deportation of 50 persons routed to Riga via Libau.
804
[Page LXXXI]

American Relief Activities in Soviet Russia

appeal from maxim gorky for aid to famine sufferers—agreement between the american relief administration and the soviet authorities—appropriations by the united states for famine relief

[Page LXXXII][Page LXXXIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 July 15 (1869) From the Minister in Norway
Telegram to Dr. Narisen from Maxim Gorky (text printed) containing appeals for bread and medicines for Russians suffering from crop failures and epidemics. Dr. Nansen’s reply (text printed).
804
July 22 From the Chairman of the American Relief Administration
Transmittal of draft message to Gorky offering assistance to starving and sick people of Russia, more particularly the children.
806
July 23 From the Assistant Director, American Relief Administration
Hoover’s telegram to London Office of ARA for Gorky (text printed) offering relief to starving and sick people of Russia, more particularly the children, on condition of immediate release of American prisoners in Russia and of adequate provision for administration of relief.
806
July 25 (224) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Appeal for help for sufferers in Volga region and for authorization to send destroyer with relief workers to southern Russian ports.
808
July 26 (64) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Information that Hoover’s organization is in charge of relief measures and that they are dependent upon release of U. S. prisoners.
808
Aug. 1 From the Chairman of the American Relief Administration
Copy of telegram from London Office of ARA transmitting reply from Gorky, July 31 (text printed) quoting Soviet Government’s acceptance of proposal and desire to settle precise conditions at once; copy of telegram to London Office of ARA for Brown (text printed) instructing him to proceed to Riga to open discussions regarding Russian relief, assuming that U. S. prisoners have been delivered out of Russia.
809
Aug. 2 From the Soviet Commissar for Foreign Affairs (tel.)
Circular note to all governments welcoming the offers of assistance from foreign organizations and individuals and expressing the hope that governments will present no obstacles.
810
Aug. 10 (477) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Arrival of Brown and Litvinov. Negotiations to be limited to release of other Americans; Litvinov’s authority to act for Soviets to be ascertained.
812
Aug. 22 (492) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Departure of first party of ARA personnel for Moscow. Inquiry whether they may retain American passports.
812
Aug. 23 (96) To the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Instructions to amend ARA party’s passports to include Russia and object of visit, and to permit them to carry passports into Soviet Russia.
813
Aug. 23 (1166) From the Commissioner at Riga
Agreement between ARA and Soviet authorities in Russia (text printed) for extending aid to Russians, subject to certain conditions.
813
Aug. 23 (700) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Resolution of Supreme Council for organization of International Commission for Russian Relief (text printed). British desire for U. S. representation thereon. First act to be investigation of situation in Russia.
818
Aug. 25 (503) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to Brown to proceed to Paris as unofficial observer at meetings of International Commission for Russian Relief, in order to report its purposes and plans. U. S. desire to avoid governmental participation in Russian relief.
818
Sept. 1 (531) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
From Brown: Report on meetings of International Commission for Russian Relief; decision to send investigating committee to Russia; recommendations to Red Cross and private charities to cooperate with commission. Reservation of ARA freedom to act, but offer of cooperation; request for instructions.
819
Sept. 2 (407) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
For Brown: U. S. decision not to take part in proceedings of international commission; opinion that American relief should be administered through private agency of ARA
821
Sept. 14 (58) To Diplomatic and Consular Officers
Announcement of American organizations comprising European Relief Council and their policy regarding Russian relief work. Appointment of Colonel Haskell as director of Russian relief. Private character of relief work.
821
Dec. 24 (3601) Executive Order
Establishing measures for purchase of commodities for Russian relief.
822
Dec. 27 From the Chief of the Division of Russian Affairs, Department of State
The Russian Ambassador’s appreciation of Russian relief measures recently passed by Congress.
823
1922 Jan. 7 From the Secretary of the Treasury
Decision in Cabinet meeting, with approval of the President, to accept certain Bolshevik gold on account of relief supplies, as exceptional measure and without setting precedent. Assumption that Department of State will offer no objections.
823
Jan. 10 To the Secretary of the Treasury
Approval of acceptance of gold as exception and for humanitarian purposes with understanding that it does not set precedent.
824
Jan. 13 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Russian Affairs, Department of State
Telegram from Secretary of Navy to High Commissioner at Constantinople, January 12 (text printed) giving orders to afford facilities, including use of vessels, to representatives of ARA.
825
Jan. 16 (3) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Concurrence in orders for naval cooperation with ARA in Black Sea. Further explanations and instructions regarding U. S. policy toward Russia.
826
Jan. 17 (6) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Activities of naval forces in assisting ARA work in Black Sea.
827
Jan. 24 (3623) Executive Order
Authorizing transfer of medical supplies to Russia.
827

Refusal by the Government of the United States to Incur Responsibility for the Relief of Refugees from South Russia

[Page LXXXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 14 From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Report that French Government intends to withdraw all support to Russian refugees by February 1.
828
Jan. 20 From the French Ambassador
Appeal for aid in caring for Russian refugees from the Crimea either through financial cooperation or through procuring shelter for them.
829
Jan. 25 (68) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Confirmation of High Commissioner’s report concerning French policy toward refugees; French feeling that Allies and United States should collaborate in making Russian Relief Committee an effective organ for dealing with problem.
830
Feb. 1 (41) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
French appropriation of available assets of Wrangel government, including vessels and supplies, to help cover expenses of caring for refugees, thus causing friction with Russians.
831
Feb. 8 To the Chairman of the American Red Cross
Desirability of working out a comprehensive and constructive program of international cooperation for care of Russian refugees. Suggestion that matter be presented to League of Red Cross Societies.
831
Feb. 25 To the French Ambassador
Belief that problem of caring for Russian refugees is an international one and that matter should be referred to League of Red Cross Societies. Information that United States has no appropriation available for this relief work. Inquiry as to report of French use of assets of Wrangel government.
833
Apr. 15 (133) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
French difficulties in repatriating Wrangel refugees.
836
Apr. 28 (P. 409) From the Yugoslav Minister
Repetition of former appeal for aid to Russian refugees in Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes; further urgent request for help also for refugees on Island of Lemnos and Gallipoli Peninsula.
837
May 4 To the Yugoslav Minister
Inability of United States to comply with his request for aid for Russian refugees in Yugoslavia, etc. Hoover’s suggestion that appeal be made to American Central Committee for Russian Relief.
839
May 24 (76) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Inquiry whether aid can be given Russian refugees in Greece who are ill and desperately in need.
(Footnote: Transmittal of above appeal to American Central Committee for Russian Relief and American Red Cross.)
840
Oct. 3 From the Assistant to the Chairman of the American Red Cross
Red Cross decision to continue relief for Russian refugees at Constantinople for limited time, with understanding that some form of international action will be taken for the solution of the problem.
840

Agreement between the Soviet Government of Georgia and the Near East Relief

Date and number Subject Page
1921 May 10 (191) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Certificate from the Soviet Government of Georgia to Near East Relief (text printed) granting certain facilities and assistance in relief work.
841

SALVADOR

Negotiations for a Loan in the United States and for the Establishment of a Bank of Emission

[Page LXXXV][Page LXXXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 May 18 (24) From the Chargé in Salvador (tel.)
Salvador’s negotiations for a loan through Bloom Brothers, New York, to be guaranteed by customs receipts and control of customshouses.
843
May 18 (51) From the Chargé in Salvador
Details of proposed loan through Bloom Brothers and plans for establishment of bank through same agents.
843
June 9 (25) From the Chargé in Salvador (tel.)
Salvador’s negotiations for loan through Mr. Keith C. Minor, to be guaranteed by customs receipts and control of customshouses. Appointment of Mr. René Keilhauer as Keith’s representative in Salvador.
844
June 14 To the French Ambassador
Acknowledgment of French note making representations concerning the proposed use of Salvador’s customs as security for new loan, claiming prior right of French firm to duties on coffee exports under 1919 loan.
844
June 25 (26) From the Chargé in Salvador (tel.)
Signature of concession to Keilhauer for establishment of bank of emission and approval of 60-day option to Keilhauer for $16,000,000 loan to be guaranteed by customs receipts, customshouses to be controlled by two controllers one to be named by bankers and other by Salvador.
845
July 29 (36) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Imminence of financial crisis. Disapproval of dual control of customshouses as stipulated in Keilhauer option.
845
Aug. 11 (23) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to obtain 1-month’s extension of Keilhauer option, pending Keilhauer’s discussions with bankers.
846
Aug. 13 (37) From, the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
President’s agreement to extend time for remainder of loan, if Keilhauer agrees to immediate loan of 3 millions on terms of option.
846
Aug. 23 (25) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Bankers’ approval of Salvador’s efforts to obtain small temporary loan from other sources. Instructions to endeavor to obtain 2-months’ extension of option contract for larger loan.
846
Aug. 26 (38) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
President’s conditional agreement to 2-months’ extension. Loan negotiations of San Francisco group of bankers.
847
Aug. 30 (27) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to obtain 4-months’ extension of Keilhauer bank contract, establishment of bank being dependent upon loan negotiations.
848
Aug. 30 (40) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
President’s request for opinion on acceptance of loan offer of Mexican Government.
848
Sept. 1 (42) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Disapproval of terms of San Francisco group’s project as too oppressive. Suggestion of immediate small loan from New York group to convince President of serious intent of group.
848
Sept. 3 (29) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Authorization to inform President of U. S. disapproval of terms of San Francisco group’s project. Information of $250,000 loan for Salvador through Keith.
849
Sept. 7 (44) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Signature of contract for temporary loan of $250,000 secured by 41 percent import duties. Extension of loan and bank options for 5 months.
849
Oct. 15 (33) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
U. S. desire for certain modifications in loan contract and approval of bankers’ plan for exchange of notes of assurance between Salvador and the United States.
850
Oct. 18 To the French Ambassador
Presumption that in arrangements for $250,000 loan to Salvador, prior liens upon customs revenue have been recognized and respected.
851
Oct. 21 (58) From the Minister in Salvador
Note of Foreign Office, October 20 (text printed) containing assurances concerning loan.
(Footnote: Letter from Keilhauer to Salvadoran Minister of Finance, October 18 (text printed) transmitting draft note of assurances which the bankers desire the Foreign Minister to address to the American Minister.)
851
Oct. 25 (53) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Departure of Keilhauer for United States with powers from Salvador to sign loan contract.
854
Nov. 23 (58) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Request of National Park Bank, New York, for information concerning power of Salvador Minister of Finance to sign Government contracts.
854
Nov. 29 (39) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Instructions that request of National Park Bank is matter upon which no official opinion should be expressed. Permission to furnish bank with names of lawyers in Salvador.
855
Dec. 9 To the British Embassy
U. S. understanding as to intentions of promoters of Salvadoran loan concerning debt of Salvador Railway Co. and holders of bonds of 1908 and 1915.
855

SIAM

Treaty and Protocol between the United States and Siam, December 16, 1920, Revising Existing Treaties

[Page LXXXVII][Page LXXXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1920 Feb. 24 To President Wilson
Request for President’s approval of negotiations with Siam looking toward the surrender of U. S. extraterritorial privileges in Siam and the revision of the commercial treaty between the United States and Siam.
(Footnote: The President’s marginal notation signifying approval.)
857
Mar. 6 To the Siamese Minister
U. S. proposal that evocation from Siamese courts shall last for five years after codes are promulgated and put in force, it being understood that Siam will meet any U. S. objections to said codes.
860
Mar. 6 From the Siamese Minister
Request for confirmation of former statement that Department is prepared to grant to Siam fiscal autonomy, at same time desiring certain privileges for U. S. citizens in Siam.
861
Apr. 17 From the Siamese Minister
Request that U. S. proposal be modified by eliminating five-year period and providing for absolute surrender of consular and diplomatic jurisdiction upon promulgation of codes. Further comment.
862
Apr. 17 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Siamese Minister’s inquiry whether the United States will abandon restrictions on amount of tariff duties which Siam may levy and collect, offering most-favored-nation advantages in return.
864
May 4 To the Siamese Minister
Confirmation of former acceptance in principle of right of Siam to levy customs tariffs, with understanding that equal privileges be afforded U. S. imports and exports with those of any other country.
864
May 15 To the Siamese Minister
The President’s refusal to eliminate five-year period and provide for absolute surrender of jurisdiction upon promulgation of codes.
865
June 3 To the Siamese Minister
Draft clause (text printed) to be included in treaty of commerce and navigation with Siam, accepting principle of tariff autonomy on part of Siam.
865
July 30 To the Siamese Minister
Submission of draft treaty of commerce and navigation for consideration.
866
Dec. 6 From the Siamese Minister
Siam’s instructions to its Minister to conclude and sign proposed treaty; his desire that treaty with protocol and exchange of letters be prepared for signature.
866
Dec. 16 Treaty and Protocol between the United States and Siam
Treaty of friendship, commerce, and navigation revising former treaties and including protocol regarding elimination of extraterritoriality, the United States preserving right to evocation for period of 5 years.
867
Dec. 16 From the Siamese Minister
Understanding as to interpretation of article 1 of treaty.
876
Dec. 16 To the Siamese Minister
Acknowledgment of understanding as to interpretation of article 1 of treaty.
877
1921 Mar. 9 Chief of the Division of Far Eastern Affairs to the Under Secretary of State
Transmittal of copies of treaty, protocol, and exchange of letters, with summary of terms thereof; suggestion that some measures be taken to facilitate ratification now pending in Senate.
877
May 12 To the Minister in Siam
Transmittal of the President’s instrument of ratification and authorization to effect exchange of ratifications at Bangkok. Instructions to see that Siamese ratification includes both treaty and protocol.
879

American Interest in the Exploitation of Petroleum in Siam

engagement of an american geologist by the government of siam—american representations upholding the principle of the open door in siam

Date and number Subject Page
1921 May 19 To the Siamese Minister
Letter from Secretary of Interior (text printed) containing advice, as requested by Siamese Government, regarding development of oil resources of Siam and recommending certain geologists as qualified to explore region and advise Government of Siam.
880
July 15 (14) From the Second Secretary of the Legation in Siam
Notification of discovery of oil in northern Siam and plans for exploitation by Commissioner-General of State Railways and for distribution of concessions among foreign companies.
882
Sept. 30 (149) From the Minister in Siam
British protest against appointment of American to post of Geological Adviser; evidence of British vested rights throughout Siam and predominating influence in affairs of Government, in derogation of open-door policy.
883
Nov. 22 (16) To the Chargé in Siam (tel.)
Instructions to make representations upholding principle of open door in Siam.
885
Dec. 1 (198) From the Chargé in Siam
Apparent failure of British protest. Performance of duties as Geological Adviser by Mr. Wallace Lee without change in his status of independent responsibility to Commissioner General of Railways.
886
Dec. 6 (200) From the Chargé in Siam
Efforts of Standard Oil to secure oil concessions in Siam, and Legation’s activities indirectly to secure equality of opportunity for Americans.
887
1922 Jan. 11 (3) From the Chargé in Siam (tel.)
British renewal of representations, disclaiming desire to interfere in internal administration but requesting that British expert should cooperate in survey of Siam’s petroleum resources. Siam’s refusal of request.
888
Jan. 28 (6) To the Chargé in Siam (tel.)
Instructions to make no further representations and to avoid private controversy.
889
[Page LXXXIX]

TURKEY

Protection of American Interests against Taxation Not Authorized by Treaty

[Page XC]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Feb. 2 (36) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Note to British High Commissioner, January 29 (text printed) making representations regarding the restoration of the 11 percent ad valorem duty and protesting against the present customs taxes, including consumption taxes, as illegal, detrimental to U. S. interests, and discriminating against U. S. trade. Proposal of increase in ad valorem duty to 15 percent.
(Similar notes to French and Italian High Commissioners.)
890
Feb. 26 (68) From the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople
Notes from Allied High Commissioners maintaining that consumption taxes must be continued in addition to the re-establishment of the ad valorem tax.
892
May 18 (217) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Arguments by Advisory Trade Commission for return to 11 percent ad valorem plus consumption taxes, for presentation to U. S. Government. U. S. Commissioner’s categorical reiteration of objections, accusing Allies of efforts to foster trade for their nationals only, and advising that U. S. representations be made in Paris, London, and Rome.
893
June 7 (190) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Recommendation for pressure upon Allies to bring about cooperation with the United States for regulation of trade with Turkey. Evidence that Allies take advantage of military occupation to obtain commercial privileges.
895
June 21 (203) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Turkey’s willingness to revert to pre-war system of taxation if ad valorem rate is raised to 15 percent to meet urgent needs of Treasury. Opportune moment for bringing pressure to bear in London, Paris, and Rome.
897
July 2 (212) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Impasse in situation due to reimposed customs taxes on foodstuffs, which will affect U. S. business interests. Citation of excessive tax on alcohol.
898
July 6 (341) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Summary of situation as regards taxes; further efforts to secure return to ad valorem system with increase to 15 percent as temporary measure until peace treaty has been signed and permanent tariff system adopted for Turkey.
898
July 24 (221) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Turkey’s willingness to return to ad valorem system as provisional measure if rate is increased to 15 percent and the 4 percent increase is allowed exclusively to Government and not paid on Ottoman public debt. Opinion that proposition should be accepted as purely provisional measure. Advantages of proposed measure.
901
July 26 (381) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Turkish note, July 11, transmitted through Swedish Legation (text printed) proposing to revert to 11 percent ad valorem taxes as temporary measure until restoration of peace, under condition that 4 percent increase be allowed. Note sent to Allied High Commissioners (text printed) urging acceptance of Turkish proposal. Comments.
902
Aug. 18 (232) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Urgent request for instructions regarding taxation plan set forth in telegram no. 221, in view of report that 11 percent ad valorem system plus consumption taxes will be put into effect September 1.
906
Sept. 1 (78) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Consideration of Commissioner’s telegram no. 221 in connection with requests of British, French, and Italian Embassies for Department’s assent to increased Miri duties; necessity for consent of Capitulatory Powers before any change in duties can become effective.
906
Sept. 9 (247) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Allies’ attempt to transfer negotiations to Washington hoping to confuse main issue by negotiations regarding Miri duties, thus appealing to popular sentiment in the United States. Further explanations regarding character of taxes and appeal for support of his policies which are in interest of U. S. trade.
907
Sept. 14 (82) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Instructions to insist on integral application of pre-war regime and make no commitments without Department’s advice.
908
Sept. 23 (469) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Note from Allied High Commissioners, August 22 , (text printed) advancing considerations in favor of consumption taxes as well as reestablishment of 11 percent ad valorem duties. Reply, September 15 (text printed) advising that Turkish proposal would be essentially a provisional measure pending restoration of peace, and repeating U. S. objections to consumption taxes.
908
Nov. 15 (93) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
U. S. adherence to pre-war regime regarding taxes; gratification of settlement of Miri question. Instructions to refuse to agree to consumption duties should authorities seek to collect them.
913
Nov. 21 (272) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Urgent request for authorization to accept application to U. S. citizens of municipal taxes for period of armistice without prejudice to future rights, in view of return to ad valorem system and present cooperation of Allied colleagues.
914
Nov. 30 (572) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Identic note sent to Allied High Commissioners (text printed) calling attention to discrimination against U. S. goods as demonstrated by figures taken from report of Provisional Committee of Control.
915
Dec. 9 (96) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
U. S. consent to the application to U. S. citizens of municipal taxes as temporary measure without prejudice to rights and without establishing precedent, said taxes to be applied equally to all foreigners.
916
[Page XCI]

Revival of the Chester Project for Concessions in Turkey

Date and number Subject Page
1920 June 10 Memorandum by the Assistant Foreign Trade Adviser, Department of State
Interview with Admiral Chester regarding project for certain oil concessions in Turkey planned by development company in 1911 or 1912, which he proposes to claim after conclusion of peace in Turkey.
917
1921 Feb. 8 Memorandum by the Acting Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs, Department of State
Visit of Admiral Chester seeking good will of Department in project of railroad from Mediterranean to oil fields of Mesopotamia; the Secretary’s assurances of interest in development, pointing out, however, difficult conditions now existing.
918
Apr. 2 From the Assistant Secretary of the Navy
Chester’s desire to be appointed naval attaché at Constantinople; comment that this would give him semi-official standing in eyes of other Governments in connection with his oil project.
919
Apr. 12 To the Assistant Secretary of the Navy
Disapproval of appointing naval attaché for sole purpose of securing concession for private concern; inopportune time for securing a concession.
919
Apr. 18 Memorandum by the Acting Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs, Department of State
Interview between the Secretary and Admiral Chester and son regarding Department’s support of oil project in Turkey. Inadvisability of furnishing letters of recommendation in view of Department’s objections to certain monopolistic oil concessions proposed by Great Britain in its own mandate area.
920
May 13 From the Ottoman-American Exploration Company, Inc.
Letter introducing Admiral Chester as representative of corporation for conducting negotiations for concessions in Asia Minor. Request for U. S. cooperation in accordance with Congressional act providing appropriations for arranging survey for oil in foreign lands.
921
May 24 Memorandum by the Acting Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs, Department of Slate
Interview between the Secretary and Admiral Chester, latter claiming rights to concession based on old project negotiated prior to Franco-Turkish Agreement.
921
June 10 Memorandum by the Acting Chief of the Division of Near Eastern Affairs, Department of State
Explanations made to vice president of Ottoman-American Exploration Co. regarding impossibility of obtaining concessions from Turkish Government at this time and assurances of proper support when conditions warrant.
922
[Page XCII]

Efforts on Behalf of the Armenians

unwillingness of president wilson to attempt mediation between the turks and the armenians—relations of the near east relief with the bolshevik authorities in armenia

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 4 From the President of the Assembly of the League of Nations
Request for advice as to what action the U. S. Government has taken in carrying out President’s promise to act as mediator between Armenians and Turks.
924
Jan. 18 (4) To the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
For the President of the Assembly of the League of Nations: President Wilson’s reply that he will instruct his representative for mediation to proceed on mission if Principal Allied Powers will agree to make a public engagement not to violate the territorial integrity of Russia.
(Instructions to mail to London, Paris, and Rome for information.)
924
Undated [Rec’d Jan. 30] From the Secretary General of the League of Nations (tel.)
Telegram from Acting President of League Council (text printed) stating views expressed in President Wilson’s note concerning Armenia will be submitted to Council and note has been brought to attention of representatives of Principal Allied Powers.
927
Feb. 9 (42) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Letter from Director General of Caucasus Branch, Near East Relief, to Commissaire of Alexandropol Local Soviet, January 4 (text printed) summarizing reasons for withdrawal of relief work from Bolshevik territory, and informing him of the sending of commission to Tiflis to reach understanding with Bolsheviks, which will determine future policy of NER.
927
Apr. 8 (129) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Occupation of Erivan by Soviet forces, which apparently means overthrow of Vratzian anti-Bolshevik Government in Armenia.
930
Apr. 19 (90) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Telegram from Italian Minister in Armenia to Foreign Office (text printed) reporting message from commander of Russian forces in Caucasus assuring Americans that supplies for Armenia will be forwarded in their entirety to their destination.
930
June 15 (297) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Mandate from Socialist Soviet Republic of Armenia to Near East Relief (text printed) giving them certain privileges for their work in that area.
930
[Page XCIII]

VENEZUELA

Protection of American Petroleum Interests

Date and number Subject Page
1920 Apr. 5 (1955) From the Minister in Venezuela
Representations to President Gómez against proposal to restrict size of areas granted for oil exploration and exploitation and to prohibit foreign concessions. The President’s acquiescence in Minister’s views.
932
May 27 (556) To the Minister in Venezuela
Instructions to render all proper assistance to representatives of Sinclair Exploration Co. of New York in their efforts to obtain oil concession in Venezuela.
933
June 11 (45) From the Minister in Venezuela (tel.)
Decision of Supreme Court annuling contract of Colon Development Co.; similar action expected soon against others for noncompliance in fulfillment of their obligations under contract. Expectation of certain U. S. companies to secure contracts covering these properties.
934
June 14 (2053) From the Minister in Venezuela
Report of warm official reception of Sinclair representative and prospects of early conclusion of contract with Venezuela for exploration of petroleum, etc.
934
June 24 (23) To the Minister in Venezuela (tel.)
Claim of Carib Syndicate, New York corporation, to one-fourth ownership of Colon Development Co. and, by assignment from original concessionaire, of vendors’ rights reserved on sale to Colon Co. Instructions to inform Foreign Office of desire that vendors’ rights will be recognized in the disposition of properties covered by the concession in compliance with decision of Supreme Court.
935
1921 May 6 (628) To the Minister in Venezuela
Correspondence between Department and Chairman of Carib Syndicate (texts printed) regarding equitable interest of Carib Syndicate in rights forfeited by Colon Co. Instructions.
936
May 27 (2372) From the Minister in Venezuela
New bill presented to Congress designed to change objectionable features of petroleum law of 1920 to suit requirements and suggestions of U. S. petroleum development companies.
938
July 23 (2425) From the Minister in Venezuela
Transmittal of copy of new petroleum law of 1921 embodying modifications and reforms suggested by U.S. companies; steps taken by latter to conform to its terms.
939
Sept. 21 (2511) From the Minister in Venezuela
Custom of U.S. citizens and representatives of financial and commercial companies to adjust differences with Government through good offices of Legation, in spite of existing laws which deny to foreigners recourse to diplomatic channels in claims against Government.
940
[Page XCIV]

Treaty between the United States and Venezuela for the Advancement of Peace

Date and number Subject Page
1914 Mar. 21 Treaty between the United States of America and Venezuela
For the advancement of peace.
941
1915 Feb. 7 Protocol between the United States of America and Venezuela
Interpreting article III of the treaty of March 21, 1914, between the United States and Venezuela.
943

YUGOSLAVIA

Termination of Official Relations between the United States and the Kingdom of Montenegro

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan.(?)11 From the Yugoslav Minister
Request that U. S. representatives in former Kingdom of Montenegro be recalled and recognition of Montenegrin representatives in the United States be withdrawn, in view of decree of Montenegrin National Assembly to depose its King and unite with Yugoslavia.
945
Jan. 21 To the Montenegrin Consul General in Charge of the Legation
Revocation of letters patent issued to him as honorary consul general of Montenegro at New York, in view of present status of his country; expression of appreciation of his services.
946
Feb. 8 (16) To Diplomatic and Consular Officers
Notification that recognition of Montenegrin representatives is no longer necessary, in view of present status of Montenegro; revocation of letters patent to honorary consul general at New York.
947
Apr. 15 (49) From the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Montenegro
Protest on behalf of Royal Government of Montenegro against severance of diplomatic relations.
947
July 15 To the Italian Chargé
Information concerning relations between United States and Montenegro.
949

Cancelation of the Exequatur of the Yugoslav Consul General at New York

[Page XCV]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 June 10 To the Yugoslav Chargé
Suggestion that Yugoslav consul general at New York be relieved because of improper use of his official position.
949
June 16 (279) From the Yugoslav Chargé
Attempt to justify consul general’s actions.
950
June 27 To the Yugoslav Chargé
Information that charges against consul general have been proved and that he is no longer persona grata to this Government. Transmittal of canceled exequatur and suggestion that another person be appointed.
952
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the Yugoslav Chargé, July 21, 1921
Chargé’s explanation that former Chargé had acted without instructions in the matter of the removal of the consul general at New York; desire for continued friendly relations, of which the. Secretary gives assurances.
953