List of Papers

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

DENMARK

Refusal by the United States to Recognize in a Third Government the Right of Preemption of Danish Interests in Greenland

Date and number Subject Page
1920 May 20 (826) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Foreign Office note stating that British recognition of Danish sovereignty over Greenland is subject to condition that Denmark grant to British Government the right of preemption of Danish interests in Greenland.
(Footnote: British modification of position, Sept. 6, 1920, reserving right to be consulted should Denmark contemplate alienation of Greenland.)
1
June 5 (590) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office that United States is not disposed to recognize in a third government the right of preemption of Danish interests in Greenland.
(Instructions to repeat to Copenhagen.)
1
June 8 (491) From the Chargé in Denmark
Transmission of copy of his memorandum to the Foreign Office containing U. S. refusal to recognize in a third government the right of preemption of Danish interests in Greenland.
2
1921 Aug. 3 To the Danish Minister
Acknowledgment of notification that entire country of Greenland had been brought under Danish administration; and statement that United States would not be disposed to recognize existence in a third government of right of preemption to acquire Danish interests in Greenland.
2
Sept. 29 (330) From the Danish Minister
Information that Denmark has no desire to transfer interests in Greenland and has not given to any government the right of preemption in Greenland.
3
1922 Apr. 27 Memorandum by the Third Assistant Secretary of State
Interview with the Norwegian Minister concerning U. S. refusal to give to the Norwegian Government an interpretation of phrase “extending their political and economic interests,” used in U. S. declaration of Aug. 4, 1916, relative to extension of Danish authority in Greenland.
3
[Page X]

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Adoption of a Plan for the Withdrawal of the Military Government

[Page XI][Page XII][Page XIII][Page XIV][Page XV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 3 (1) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Departure of Military Governor for Washington after futile attempt to obtain agreement with leaders of political parties for withdrawal of Military Government and establishment of Guardia Nacional.
5
Jan. 30 From the Secretary of the Navy
Recommendation that Dominicans be presented with alternative of calling elections or having proclamation of June 14, 1921, withdrawn and Military Government continued until public works are completed and adequate national government is functioning; also that permanent debt financing be established by adoption of 10-million-dollar loan plan, which would extend life of Receivership General of Customs. Statement, dated January 21, by Military Governor of Dominican finances and proposed method of stabilization (text printed).
5
Feb. 10 To the Minister in the Dominican Republic, temporarily in the United States
Instructions to cooperate with Military Governor in seeking agreement with Dominican political leaders for holding elections with view to withdrawal of Military Government and for stabilizing finances by floating loan for redemption of 1918 and 1921 loans; otherwise Military Government must be continued.
10
Mar. 5 (742) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic
Statement of Department’s policy presented to political leaders in conference on February 23 (text printed). Reply of political leaders, February 23 (text printed) refusing to consider statement.
13
Mar. 6 Proclamation by the Military Governor of Santo Domingo
Annulling proclamation of June 14, 1921, and continuing Military Government.
18
Mar. 27 (13) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Information that political leaders will make proposition for holding of elections when finances are in order as result of loan and when national police have been recruited.
19
May 24 From the Assistant Secretary of the Navy
Draft of proposed instructions to Military Governor (text printed) providing for the development of the national police and for the gradual transference to it of civil duties performed by U. S. military forces.
19
June 2 To the Acting Secretary of the Navy
Approval of instructions for Military Governor; advisability of relieving U. S. military forces from police duties in interior of Dominican Republic at earliest practicable date.
21
June 7 (768) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic
Notes on conference of Military Governor and U. S. Minister with Federico Velasquez and Jacinto de Castro, June 3, regarding their projected visit to Washington to reach agreement as to withdrawal of U. S. forces of occupation, holding of elections, organization of native government, etc.
22
June 8 (23) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Departure of Dominican political leaders for Washington.
25
June 20 From Mr. Sumner Welles
Plan of withdrawal proposed by Dominican representative in conference (substance printed) by which Provisional Government will be elected to administer government until President and other officials are duly elected, after which convention of evacuation will be agreed upon. Welles’ objections and substitution of somewhat similar plan whereby Provisional Government would operate under supervision of Military Government.
25
June 30 To the Dominican Representatives
Submission of draft memorandum of plan of withdrawal, dated June 29, as discussed in conference (text printed) providing for a Provisional Government which would amend Constitution preparatory to election of President and negotiate convention of evacuation recognizing the validity of all measures taken by Military Government, the United States reserving right to modify convention for protection of third parties.
28
June 30 From the Dominican Representatives
Necessity for a Dominican reservation should the United States insist upon maintaining their reservation regarding third parties.
31
July 3 To the Dominican Representatives
Observation that Dominican objections to U. S. reservation are not necessary, since modification would be made by Department and not by third parties.
32
July 3 Memorandum of the Plan of June 30, 1922, for the Withdrawal of the Military Government
Provisions for setting up Provisional Government to promulgate legislation to regulate holding of elections, to provide for reorganization of provincial and municipal governments, to make amendments to Constitution, and to negotiate convention of ratification (substance printed) which will recognize validity of all measures taken by Military Government.
33
July 6 To the Appointed Commissioner in the Dominican Republic
Appointment as Commissioner with rank of Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to represent the President in Dominican Republic and report conditions with view to agreement for withdrawal of U. S. forces. Transmission of copy of plan of withdrawal as signed by Dominican representatives, and related papers.
35
July 12 To the Acting Secretary of the Navy
Request that instructions be given Acting Military Governor to suspend sentence of young Dominicans for publishing articles attacking application of land law, and to refrain from taking official cognizance of purely political offenses without concurrence of Department of State, in view of pending negotiations for agreement.
36
July 13 From the Acting Secretary of the Navy
Information that steps have been taken to comply with wishes of Department of State regarding sentence given certain young Dominicans.
37
Aug. 7 (5) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Report on his tour of investigation to various towns; estimate of situation, with conclusion that majority of Dominicans favor Department’s program; recommendations as to personnel of committee to select Provisional Government; desire to publish Department’s plan.
38
Aug. 9 (6) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Objections to certain amendments to plan of withdrawal suggested by Military Governor, on ground that amendments would be regarded by Dominicans as breach of faith and would destroy agreement. Suggestion that certain of the amendments be discussed with committee and be made the subject of an exchange of notes.
39
Aug. 9 (17) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
For Welles: Approval of personnel of committee named for selecting members of Provisional Government; authorization to publish officially Department’s program.
42
Aug. 9 (33) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Objections to Military Governor’s proposed changes, as any variation in principle from Department’s plan would strengthen charges of bad faith on part of Department.
42
Aug. 11 (1) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Approval of position taken; message to Navy Department stating that no changes are to be made in plan except as agreed upon between Welles and Dominican leaders. Navy’s instructions to Military Governor to cooperate.
43
Aug. 12 (8) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Enumeration of certain amendments to Department’s plan suggested in conference with Dominican Commission, to be effected by exchange of notes, subject to sanction by Department of State and commission.
43
Aug. 14 (2) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Approval of modifications of plan.
44
Aug. 18 (10) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Request for authorization to make a certain slight modification of plan, which will win for it support of influential nonpolitical group.
45
Aug. 21 (3) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Authorization to make desired modification in plan.
46
Aug. 29 (13) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic
Agreement providing for the instruction of Dominican officers and recruits to continue during life of Provisional Government under sole jurisdiction of Military Government; commission’s selection of commander in chief of Dominican police at once in order that he may obtain necessary knowledge of position prior to installation of Provisional Government.
46
Aug. 29 (11) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Recommendation that General Receiver’s act of retaining over 5 percent of customs revenues be validated by U. S. Government, in order that Executive order therefor may be included in list for ratification.
47
Aug. 31 (19) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Approval of action of General Receiver of Customs in retaining more than 5 percent of collections.
48
Sept. 2 From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Compilation of Executive orders, etc., to be ratified in proposed convention; approval of list by Welles, the Commission, and Military Governor; enumeration of three clarifying amendments to articles 1 and 2 of convention contained in plan which Commission requests.
49
Sept. 7 (4) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Slight change in wording of one of proposed amendments to article 2, insistence upon addition to amendment of article 1 of reservation of right of diplomatic intervention in appropriate cases in accordance with principles of international law.
50
Sept. 12 (17) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Commission’s proposal of substitute for Department’s reservation added to article 1, by favoring resort to arbitration in case of denial of justice by courts and failure of agreement by diplomatic intervention.
51
Sept. 14 (5) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Further modification of clause in question to effect agreement for arbitration where United States and Dominican Republic only are concerned, since the United States cannot attempt to bind other nations to agreement for arbitration.
52
Sept. 19 (18) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Signing by Commission of final version of plan with complete list of Executive orders, etc. Request for deferred publication until simultaneous publication can be effected.
52
Sept. 20 (19) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Military Governor’s disapproval of plan; his approval, however, of arrangement for Policia officers and recruits to receive training under sole jurisdiction of Military Government during life of Provisional Government.
53
Sept. 21 (19) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic
Plan of withdrawal as amended and signed at Santo Domingo, September 18 (text printed); copy of manifesto addressed by Commission to Dominican people; arrangements for simultaneous publication throughout Republic.
53
Sept. 21 (20) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Dominican anxiety lest U. S. Senate fail to approve convention contained in plan and Department be forced to abandon evacuation. Request for confirmation of understanding that policy of evacuation will not be changed provided Dominican Republic carries out its obligation and its Congress passes law ratifying acts of Military Government.
58
Sept. 25 (8) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Assurance that evacuation will take place as soon as provisions of plan have been complied with by Constitutional Government and conditions warrant.
59
Sept. 26 (21) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Recommendations as to wording of proclamation to be made by Military Governor in regard to setting up of Provisional Government.
59
Sept. 26 (22) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic
Five conditions agreed to by the Commission for the functioning of the Provisional Government (text printed).
60
Sept. 30 (24) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Information that Commission will commence selection of members of Provisional Government on October 2, all friction between members of Commission having been satisfactorily adjusted.
62
Oct. 2 (25) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Refusal of Military Governor to grant request of Commission that marines be prevented from leaving camp during elections. Desire for instructions.
64
Oct. 2 (23) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic
Correspondence between Military Governor and Welles (texts printed) in which latter objected to appointment of member of Military Government as special agent of Dominican Republic to audit accounts for bond issue of 1908, on ground that appointment should be made by Provisional Government.
65
Oct. 2 (26) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Selection of Vicini Burgos as Provisional President.
68
Oct. 4 (11) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Information that Navy Department is being requested to instruct Military Governor to comply with Commission’s request to detain marines in barracks during election period.
68
Oct. 4 (12) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Substance of letter to Secretary of Navy regarding procedure in installation of Provisional Government, it not being necessary for Military Governor to remain in Republic; other officials remaining to give advice, if requested; marines to be concentrated in three cities; advice regarding suspension of newspapers.
69
Oct. 6 (26) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic
Modification of conditions for functioning of Provisional Government whereby is inserted, upon Welles’ recommendation, principle of life tenure of office for Justices of Supreme Court and Judges of Courts of Appeal.
70
Oct. 9 (28) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Commission’s request that one company of cavalry be temporarily retained in Province of Seybo because of existence of banditry. Request that Military Governor be so instructed.
(Footnote: Instructions to this effect to Military Governor, October 12.)
71
Oct. 9 (29) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Belief that Department will not modify its views in regard to keeping marines in barracks during election hours, notwithstanding Military Governor’s protest against instructions to this effect.
72
Oct. 11 (32) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Draft proclamation (text printed) approved by Military Governor, to be issued announcing installation of Provisional Government. Request for approval and authorization to set date of installation.
72
Oct. 17 (13) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Approval of wording of proclamation and authorization to determine date of installation of Provisional Government in accord with Military Governor.
74
Oct. 20 (16) To the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
President Harding’s message of felicitation to Provisional President upon his installation (text printed).
74
Oct. 21 (38) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Passages from inaugural address of Provisional President (text printed) declaring faith in Dominican people and pledging impartiality and justice in administration of office.
74
Oct. 23 (35) From the Commissioner in the Dominican Republic
Departure from Santo Domingo of Military Governor, leaving Acting Military Governor during life of Provisional Government. Welles’ purpose before leaving to obtain formal approval of draft electoral law and his plan to avoid friction by means of conferences between Commission, Acting Military Governor, and U. S. Minister. Outlook as to party realignment for general elections.
75
Oct. 30 Provisional President Burgos to President Harding (tel.)
Desire that Welles’ mission should not terminate before inauguration of Constitutional President.
(Footnote: Similar telegram to Department from Dominican Commissioners.)
77
Nov. 8 President Harding to Provisional President Burgos (tel.)
Assurance that best means of carrying out plan signed by Welles will be considered, in case he is unable to return to Dominican Republic.
(Footnote: Similar telegram sent by Department to Dominican Commissioners.)
77
Nov. 28 (30) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
From Welles: Request that Department be advised whether election law has been promulgated by Provisional Government, and, if not, probable date of such promulgation.
77
Nov. 29 (46) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Expectation that election law will be ready for publication within ten days but will not be promulgated until people have had opportunity to criticize and suggest changes.
78
[Page XVI]

Assent of the United States to a Dominican Government Bond Issue of $10,000,000

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 4 (2) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Apportionment of major portion of proposed $500,000 worth of certificates of indebtedness for salaries in arrears, leaving insufficient funds for completing Santo Domingo-Monte Christi highway. Intention of Military Government to finish highway even by contracting debts.
78
Jan. 7 (1) To the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Instructions to inform Acting Military Governor that United States consented to issuance of certificates of indebtedness with hope that current expenditures would be kept within current revenues and that no commitments would be made which could not be met out of present issue of certificates or current revenues.
78
Jan. 9 (3) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Report that Department’s instructions have been given to Military Governor. Inability of Government to sell certificates.
79
Jan. 16 (4) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Report that Acting Military Governor has been furnished with copy of Department’s letter of December 17, 1921, to the Secretary of the Navy refusing to approve loan of $7,500,000 to Dominican Republic.
79
Jan. 18 To the Secretary of the Navy
Sanction of bond issue for retirement of $500,000 worth of certificates at maturity, in view of assurances of ample revenue for service of all indebtedness.
80
Mar. 25 To the Secretary of the Navy
Consent to issuance by Dominican Government of bonds to amount of 10 million dollars, of which $6,700,000 are to be issued at once, for refunding of loans of 1921 and 1922, for internal debts, etc. Assurances to be included in bonds and conditions to be embodied in contract between Military Governor, acting on behalf of Dominican Republic, and the bankers.
82
Apr. 1 From the Secretary of the Navy
Executive Order No. 735 of Military Government, March 28 (text printed) providing for bond issue of 10 million dollars; details as to form of bonds, terms for retirement, etc. Necessity for statement of assurances, similar to Department’s letter of March 25, to be printed on reverse side of bonds, in order to effect sale. Inquiry if any objections to this procedure.
84
Apr. 1 To the Secretary of the Navy
No objections to procedure suggested for issue of $6,700,000 in bonds by Dominican Republic.
90
[Page XVII]

Efforts by the Santo Domingo Water, Light and Power Company to Sell Its Properties to Dominican Municipalities

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Sept. 29 (20) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Serious financial condition of Santo Domingo Water, Light and Power Co. because of failure of municipalities of Santiago and Puerto Plata to perform agreement to purchase company’s plants. Instructions to advise Government and point out necessity for prompt action.
90
1922 May 9 (21) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Tentative offer of $400,000 bonds by City Council of Santiago for purchase of plant, company to purchase $50,000 additional bonds and to operate plant for one month to insure that everything is in good condition.
91
June 1 (458) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic
Transmission of company’s offer of plan for settlement; request for comments on company’s contention that Military Governor would be justified under concession and law in guaranteeing municipal bonds issued for purchase of plant.
91
June 16 (27) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Military Governor’s view that guaranty by National Government of bond issues of municipalities is inadvisable. Quotation from law on subject which does not specify form of payment.
92
Aug. 18 (469) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic
Company’s conditional acceptance of contract proposed by Santiago for purchase of plant, and willingness to reduce price of property and advance cash to put it in good condition. Instructions to urge equitable settlement by Military Governor.
93
Nov. 14 (42) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Prospective sale of plant to Santiago, estimate as to cost necessary for putting plant in good condition being under way.
94
Dec. 23 (31) To the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Embargo of company’s goods by Santiago; and Government’s notice that it will proceed against properties unless taxes are paid. Company’s claim to exemption from taxation. Instructions to request that no action be taken pending investigation.
94
Dec. 26 (49) From the Minister in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Option of 120 days given by Santiago on concession of Santo Domingo Water, Light and Power Co. to Santo Domingo Brewing Co.
95

Claims by British Subjects for Injuries Suffered at the Hands of Dominican Bandits

[Page XVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Dec. 21 (939) From the British Ambassador
Attention called to injuries alleged to have been sustained by two British subjects at hands of Dominican bandits, and inquiry whether there is any court before which claims can be brought.
95
1922 Mar. 18 To the British Ambassador
Note from Dominican Foreign Office expressing opinion that British subjects are without good grounds in claim and pointing out that claim is cognizable by courts of Dominican Republic.
96
May 3 (330) From the British Ambassador
Attention called to principles laid down in Dominican note that persons living in foreign countries must accept abnormal conditions to which exposed. Inquiry whether the United States subscribes to such principles.
96
July 5 To the British Chargé
Information that British subjects should submit their claims to Procurador Fiscal of Judicial District of San Pedro de Macoris, since claims are against Dominican Republic; and that Department has acted merely as medium of transmission at the express request of British Embassy.
97
Aug. 16 (631) From the British Ambassador
British desire to reserve right to press claim through diplomatic channel if there should be denial of justice in Dominican courts; and trust in U. S. support in view of U. S. de facto control of Dominican administration.
98

ECUADOR

Continued Protests by the United States Against the Retroactive Application of Decrees Fixing the Rate of International Exchange

[Page XIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 6 (2) From the Minister in Ecuador (tel.)
President’s statement that because municipality of Guayaquil is autonomous, he cannot intervene regarding retroactive application of decree fixing rate of international exchange in Amsinck & Co. claim.
99
Feb. 7 (2) To the Minister in Ecuador (tel.)
Instructions to renew representations regarding principle of retroactive application of decree fixing rate of exchange as in effect a repudiation of indebtedness due U. S. citizens.
99
Feb. 10 To Mr. Van Santvoord Merle-Smith
Information that protest has been made to Ecuador against arbitrary exchange rate, applied retroactively to contracts antedating the decree in case of U. S. interests, and particularly in case of Amsinck & Co. claim.
100
Feb. 15 (4) From the Minister in Ecuador (tel.)
President’s reply that statute in question has no retroactive effect in Ecuadoran law, that drafts must be paid at official rate, irrespective of when due, that object of decree is to check speculation; his suggested method of payment.
101
Mar. 1 (6) To the Minister in Ecuador (tel.)
Instructions to present written statement (text printed) reserving right to give diplomatic support to claims of U. S. citizens who shall have suffered financial loss as result of policy of arbitrary and retroactive rate of exchange.
101
Mar. 13 (8) From the Minister in Ecuador (tel.)
Ecuadoran reply reiterating former statements as to retroactive nature of decree, controversies to be decided in courts, and adding diplomatic intervention only justified in case of judicial denial of justice.
102
Apr. 25 (790) From the Consul General at Guayaquil
Report that indebtedness of Guayaquil to Amsinck & Co. of New York has been settled and money deposited in bank to their credit.
102

EGYPT

Recognition by the United States of the Independence of Egypt

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Mar. 16 (194) From the British Ambassador
Notification of British decision to terminate protectorate over Egypt by a declaration recognizing Egypt as an independent sovereign state while preserving for future agreements certain matters in which British interests and obligations are specially involved.
103
Mar. 27 (15) From the Agent and Consul General at Cairo (tel.)
Inquiry whether communications addressed to Egyptian Foreign Minister would be regarded as recognition of Egypt’s sovereignty.
104
Mar. 28 (7) To the Agent and Consul General at Cairo (tel.)
Instructions to avoid giving impression of recognition, and to report what powers have officially recognized Egyptian Government.
104
Apr. 25 To the British Ambassador
U. S. recognition of independence of Egypt, subject to maintenance of U. S. rights as they have hitherto existed.
105
Apr. 25 (9) To the Agent and Consul General at Cairo (tel.)
Instructions to present note (text printed) recognizing independence of Egypt, subject to maintenance of U. S. rights as they have hitherto existed.
105
Apr. 26 President Harding to His Majesty Ahmed Fuad, King of Egypt (tel.)
Message of congratulation and felicitation on occasion of U. S. recognition of independence of Egypt.
106
June 23 (20) To the Agent and Consul General at Cairo (tel.)
Appointment as Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to Egypt. Instructions.
106
[Page XX]

Undertaking by the United States Not to Withdraw From the Mixed Court Arrangement Except After One Year’s Notice

Date and number Subject Page
1922 June 16 (97) From the Agent and Consul General at Cairo
Egyptian note, June 14 (text printed) requesting assurance that United States does not seek privileged position with respect to conditions under which it may withdraw from Mixed Court arrangement and that it will not withdraw without having given notice of its intention one year in advance of its withdrawal.
106
Oct. 24 (50) To the Minister in Egypt
Assurance that United States does not seek a privileged position and will not withdraw from Mixed Court arrangement without having given notice of its intention so to do at least one year in advance. Reference to terms of proclamation of March 27, 1876 (excerpts printed).
108

ETHIOPIA

Request by Great Britain for Cooperation by the United States in Restricting the Importation of Firearms Into Ethiopia

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 25 (136) From the British Ambassador
Efforts of Ras Taffari to import small shipment of U. S. arms; request for U. S. restriction of arms exports to Ethiopia.
110
Mar. 20 To the British Ambassador
U. S. view that conditions do not justify restriction of arms exports to Ethiopia; size of the shipment of arms to Ras Taffari.
111
July 27 (1527) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Foreign Office note of July 26 (text printed) stating British proposal to France and Italy of yearly arms import quota for Ethiopia; proposed inclusion of U. S. arms consignment to Ras Taffari in quota; request for U. S. cooperation in regulation of Ethiopian arms imports.
112
Nov. 7 (707) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Instructions to acquaint Foreign Minister informally with U. S. view that U. S. arms trade with Ethiopia does not produce conditions justifying embargo; U. S. desire to facilitate repression of slave trade; appreciation of British nonobjection to inclusion of U. S. arms consignment in quota.
113
Nov. 7 (37) From the Consul at Aden
Dispatch to Djibouti of U. S. arms consignment for Ethiopia.
116
[Page XXI]

FRANCE

Negotiations to Ensure by Treaty the Rights of the United States in Territories Under French Mandate

syria and the lebanon

Date and number Subject Page
1922 May 19 (159) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
U. S. view that France should take initiative in negotiations for agreement as to Syrian mandate.
117
May 26 (215) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French intention to make proposals regarding Syrian mandate at early date; no indication of French opposition to Palestine mandate.
118
June 30 (2085) From the Ambassador in France
Foreign Office note of June 29 (text printed) requesting U. S. agreement to draft mandate for Syria and the Lebanon and draft convention defining U. S. rights in Syria and the Lebanon (texts printed).
118
July 12 To the French Embassy
U. S. suggestions covering proposed convention and mandate; draft convention (text printed) embodying proposed changes.
127
July 17 (288) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French acceptance of U. S. draft convention with reservation concerning last sentence of article 7; acceptance of U. S. suggestions regarding mandate.
133
July 18 (231) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Gratification at satisfactory understanding regarding convention; comment on modifications of mandate.
133
July 28 To the Consul at Beirut (tel.)
Information of French acceptance of draft convention with reservation of last sentence of article 7 as to date of suspension of capitulatory rights. Instructions to maintain capitulatory and other rights of U. S. citizens, pending further instructions.
(Instructions to repeat to Aleppo and Damascus.)
134

african territories

[Page XXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Apr. 4 (104) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Note for Foreign Minister (text printed) containing U. S. suggestions concerning proposed convention defining U. S. rights in Togoland and the Cameroons.
134
June 30 (2086) From the Ambassador in France
French note of June 28 (text printed) accepting U. S. suggestions concerning mandates for Togoland and the Cameroons and conventions defining U. S. rights in the mandated territories; draft mandates and conventions (texts printed).
138
July 8 To the French Embassy
Further suggestions concerning draft conventions.
146
July 10 (216) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Text of proposed conventions as modified by the United States.
149
July 12 (283) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French acceptance of U. S. draft convention except as to modification of article 7 of the mandates.
150
July 13 (222) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Memorandum for Foreign Office (text printed) stating U. S. objections to article 7 of mandates and proposing modification of conventions.
151
Dec. 8 (2660) From the Ambassador in France
French rejection of U. S. proposals regarding article 7 of mandates; information concerning redrafting of article 7 to agree with text of treaty between United States and Japan regarding Pacific Islands; League of Nations’ approval of the mandates July 20.
152
1923 Feb. 1 (48) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Memorandum for Foreign Office (text printed) conveying U. S. acceptance of article 7 of mandates as redrafted; reservation of U. S. position regarding missionary and educational institutions in A mandates; readiness to proceed to signature of conventions.
153

Representations by the United States on Behalf of American Cable Companies for Permission to Open Offices in France for Dealing Directly With the Public

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Apr. 25 (818) To the Ambassador in France
Instructions to make representations on behalf of U. S. cable companies desiring to open public offices in France; possibility of cessation of privileges to French Cable Co. in United States should reciprocity be refused.
154
July 28 (51) From the Ambassador in France
Continued opposition of French Telegraph Administration to opening of U. S. cable company offices; compromise expected.
156
Sept. 26 (66) To the Ambassador in France
Instructions to urge Foreign Office to expedite decision on cable offices, and to bring alleged discrimination to its attention; continued consideration of termination of French Cable Co. privileges.
157
1922 Sept. 1 (2284) From the Chargé in France
Foreign Office note offering to grant Commercial Cable Co. right to open one office, conditional on settlement of question of German cables.
158
Nov. 1 (463) To the Ambassador in France
Instructions to inform Foreign Office of favorable Netherland action in cable companies’ request to open offices, and to urge similar French action.
158
[Page XXIII]

GERMANY

Efforts of the United States to Assist in the Solution of the Problems of German Reparation

[Page XXIV][Page XXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Aug. 26 From the German Chargé
Appeal for help in financial crisis.
160
Aug. 28 (6) To the Secretary of State, en route to Brazil (tel.)
Report of deadlock in reparations negotiations following French refusal of German offer of foreign securities as pledge of coal and wood deliveries; German refusal to surrender mines and forests as security for 5-month moratorium; request for advice as to U. S. position.
160
Aug. 29 (172) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
German desire for U. S. aid in securing Reparation Commission’s acceptance of German offer to pledge foreign securities.
162
Aug. 30 (32) From the Secretary of State, en route to Brazil (tel.)
Unwillingness to define U. S. position until after Reparation Commission meeting.
163
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the German Ambassador, October 9, 1922
German request that United States exert influence to solve European disarmament and reparations problems; U. S. view that sound settlement of reparations question must precede other adjustments.
163
Oct. 9 (307) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Advice that reparations problem has been discussed with Lamont of J. P. Morgan & Co. and that practicable steps will be discussed with the Ambassador by Morgan.
165
Oct. 13 (397) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Morgan’s refusal to take initiative, maintaining that matter is political and initiative must come from governments; his willingness to serve again on bankers’ commission if reconvened without restrictions.
165
Oct. 14 (400) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
From Boyden: Outline and discussion of Bradbury’s plan for reparation payments in 1923–24 and for stabilization of mark; suggested U. S. action.
165
Oct. 17 (321) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Also to Boyden: Irrelevancy of question of Allied debts to reparations question; necessity of French agreement to appointment of businessmen’s committee to determine Germany’s capacity to pay.
168
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the German Ambassador, October 23, 1922
German desire that U. S. troops not be withdrawn from Rhine. Discussion of U. S. proposal of businessmen’s committee to solve reparations problem.
170
Oct. 23 From the Ambassador in Germany
Suggestion that cancelation of war debts be offered on condition that peoples of England, France, Italy, and Germany agree by plebiscite to a 50-years’ peace and make substantial arms reduction.
171
Oct. 23 (423) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Noncommittal attitude of Foreign Minister toward U. S. views on reparations and Allied war debts.
175
Oct. 24 From the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs, Department of State, temporarily in Germany
Approval of Ambassador Houghton’s suggestion regarding conditional cancelation of war debts.
176
Oct. 27 From the Ambassador in France
Report of conversation of October 22 with Foreign Minister on U. S. views concerning reparations and war debts, the Ambassador maintaining irrelevancy of question of Allied debts to reparations question.
177
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the French Ambassador, November 7, 1922
U. S. unwillingness to discuss war debts at proposed Brussels Conference; renewal of suggestion that reparations problem be referred to international committee of private financiers.
178
Nov. 9 (218) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
From Boy den: Views on Ambassador Houghton’s suggestion concerning debt cancelation. Preference to concentrate on reparations; suggestion that United States issue statement on reparations.
180
Nov. 14 (145) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Impossibility of authorizing suggested statement regarding conditional cancelation of war debts; necessity of settling reparations problem.
181
Nov. 17 From the Ambassador in France
Note to Foreign Minister, November 7 (text printed) confirming conversations of October 22 and 30 regarding U. S. views on war debts and reparations, and proposed bankers’ committee to consider reparations.
182
Nov. 17 (467) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Report that French financial plan will be presented at Brussels Conference; desirability of delaying U. S. statement.
185
Nov. 29 (405) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to report French intentions as to independent action in reparations problem, in view of reported plans for control measures in Ruhr and Rhineland.
185
Dec. 1 (497) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Confirmation of French plan to seize Rhineland forests and railways should Brussels Conference fail; French denial of plans involving Ruhr.
185
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the German Ambassador, December 12, 1922
German observations on reported French intention to occupy Ruhr; conclusion that real object is to dominate German industry.
186
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the French Ambassador, December 14, 1922
U. S. disapproval of contemplated French occupation of Ruhr and suggestion of necessity of determining German capacity to pay by forming unofficial financial committee.
187
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of an Interview with the British Ambassador, December 18, 1922
British suggestion of U. S. action on contemplated French occupation of Ruhr and other reparations problems; U. S. unwillingness to enter discussions.
192
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the French Ambassador, December 21, 1922
French unwillingness to agree to unofficial financial committee on German reparations prior to possible break-down of London Conference.
195
Dec. 22 From Mr. J. P. Morgan
Suggested statement by French Foreign Minister (text printed) that Ruhr occupation and other penalties will not be imposed unless determined as best means of attaining maximum German payment.
196
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the French Ambassador, December 26, 1922
Foreign Minister’s disclaimer of intention to annex German territory, and view that French opinion would demand guaranties if Premiers’ conference should fail; U. S. attitude.
197
Dec. 26 (540) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
From Boyden: Reparation Commission decision that German failure to complete timber deliveries constitutes default.
198
Dec. 28 (544) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
From Boyden: Amendment of Reparation Commission decision regarding German default.
199
Dec. 29 To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Excerpt of speech delivered by the Secretary of State, December 29 (text printed) defining U. S. position on war debts and reparations and proposing commission of financiers to work out reparation plan.
(Instructions to repeat to London, Brussels, Rome, Lausanne, and Berlin.)
199
1923 Jan. 6 To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Necessity for French action on U. S. proposal of financial experts’ commission to consider reparations.
(Instructions to repeat to London, Rome, Berlin, Brussels, and to Berne for Lausanne.)
202
[Page XXVI]

German Proposal for a Pledge of Peace Among the Powers Interested in the Rhine

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the German Ambassador, December 15, 1922
German desire that United States ascertain acceptability of proposal for pledge of peace among powers interested in Rhine.
203
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the French Ambassador, December 18, 1922
Presentation of German proposal of peace pledge.
204
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the German Ambassador, December 19, 1922
Secretary’s suggestion that German proposal for peace pledge be submitted in writing.
205
Undated [Rec’d Dec. 21] From the German Embassy
German proposal that France, Great Britain, Italy, and Germany agree not to resort to war against each other for period of one generation, unless authorized by plebiscite of their own people.
205
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the French Ambassador, December 21, 1922
French attitude toward German proposal of peace pledge; discussion of U. S. position under proposed agreement.
206
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the German Ambassador, December 22, 1922
Improbability of U. S. assumption of responsibility under proposed peace pledge.
207
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the French Ambassador, December 26, 1922
French disapproval of German proposal of peace pledge. Discussion of erroneous French press report of proposed 30-year guaranty of German boundaries.
208
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the German Ambassador, December 28, 1922
Discussion of French attitude toward German proposal of peace pledge.
209
1923 Jan. 2 To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Press announcement by Department (text printed) that French disapproval of German proposal made inadvisable its transmission to Governments concerned.
(Instructions to repeat to London, Berlin, Rome, Lausanne, and Brussels.)
211
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the German Ambassador, January 6, 1923
Disinclination of the Secretary to comment on German and French suggestions regarding proposed peace pledge.
211
[Page XXVII]

Decision by the United States to Reduce Its Army of Occupation in Germany to a Force of One Thousand Men

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Mar. 23 To President Harding
Suggestion that final decision on withdrawal of U. S. troops from Germany be delayed pending consideration of desirability of leaving small force, in view of difficulty of collecting army costs.
211
Mar. 23 From President Harding
Advice that official announcement of withdrawal of troops will not be made; possibility of leaving small force.
213
Mar. 24 From the Unofficial Observer on the Rhineland High Commission (tel.)
Attitude of observer and his associates on commission regarding withdrawal of U. S. troops from the Rhine. German draft cable (text printed) requesting continuation of U. S. occupation and urging official representation on Rhineland Commission.
213
Mar. 29 (63) From the Chargé in Germany (tel.)
German note (text printed) requesting continuation of U. S. occupation and urging official representation on Rhineland Commission.
214
Apr. 1 From President Harding
Decision that U. S. troops will not be completely withdrawn until final determination of program, in light of Allied attitude toward U. S. claim for army costs.
215
Apr. 25 (82) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Hope of Allied Rhineland Commissioners for retention of U. S. troops in Rhineland. Recommendation that sufficient force be retained to control Coblenz.
216
Apr. 26 From President Harding
Opinion that minimum of 1,000 troops should be retained in Rhineland so that withdrawals will not be completed in advance of definite decision.
217
May 22 (103) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
German view that enough U. S. troops should be retained in Rhineland to hold Coblenz.
217
June 3 (79) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Note for German Government (text printed) conveying U. S. decision to retain force of 1,000 troops at Coblenz for time being.
218
[Page XXVIII]

Efforts by the United States to Secure Reimbursement for the Costs of the American Army of Occupation in Germany

[Page XXIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Mar. 9 (71) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
For Boyden: Telegram, March 8, from Ambassador in Great Britain (text printed) regarding agenda of Allied Finance Ministers’ conference of March 8. Instructions to notify conference of U. S. claim for costs of its Army of Occupation.
218
Mar. 14 (119) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
From Boyden: Letter of Allied Finance Ministers, March 11 (text printed) stating that U. S. rights have been protected in arrangement as signed, but that question of rights should be raised directly with Allied Governments.
219
Mar. 20 (90) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Note for French Government (text printed) stating U. S. position in claim for Army costs.
(Instructions to repeat to London, Brussels, and Rome for similar action. The same to the Ambassador in Japan for similar action, without instructions to repeat.)
220
Mar. 20 (91) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to deliver U. S. note on afternoon of March 22 to avoid premature publication in Europe; advice that similar instructions are being sent to London, Brussels, Rome, and Tokyo.
224
Mar. 22 (92) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Note for French Government (text printed) stating U. S. view that its right to receive payment of Army costs is unaffected by status of French account for Army costs as of May 1, 1921.
(Instructions to repeat to London, Brussels, and Rome for similar action. The same to the Ambassador in Japan for similar action, without instructions to repeat.)
224
Mar. 29 (139) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French note of March 28 denying any intention to contest U. S. right to be reimbursed for Army costs; and stating intention to consult other Allied Governments.
225
Apr. 3 (154) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Favorable British attitude toward U. S. claim for Army costs.
225
Apr. 6 (99) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Insistence on recognition of U. S. right to repayment of Army costs on same footing as Allies. Tentative bases for payment of past and current costs satisfactory to the United States.
227
Apr. 8 (13) From the Chargé in Belgium (tel.)
Belgian note (text printed) acknowledging U. S. right to repayment of Army costs and conveying intention to consult other Allied Governments.
228
Apr. 10 (174) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s note (text printed) acknowledging validity of U. S. claim for Army costs and advising of steps toward agreement between Allied and Associated Governments for satisfaction of claim.
228
May 19 (1906) From the Ambassador in France
Note from Foreign Ministry, May 18 (text printed) stating French intention soon to convene Allied representatives to study question of satisfying U. S. claim for Army costs.
229
May 22 (320) From the Ambassador in Italy
Foreign Minister’s note, May 15 (text printed) stating that Italian Government has never contested U. S. right to reimbursement for Army costs, and that question is under discussion among Allied Governments.
230
May 29 (216) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French intention to convene Allied representatives at Paris to examine question of reimbursement of U. S. Army costs.
231
June 4 (175) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to state U. S. gratification at French action; authorization to make informal use of tentative basis for payment as described in telegram of April 6 to Ambassador in Great Britain.
231
June 22 (255) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information that no definite conclusions were reached at first meeting of Allied representatives to discuss question of U. S. Army costs.
231
Nov. 8 From the French, British, and Italian Embassies
Invitation to send representative to discuss question of Army costs with Allied delegates at Paris.
232
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the French, Belgian, and British Ambassadors and the Italian Chargé, November 8, 1922
Discussion of arrangements for repayment of U. S. Army costs. Delay of definite U. S. response to invitation to send representative to Paris.
232
Nov. 22 To the French Embassy
Acceptance of invitation to send representative to Paris to discuss question of Army costs.
(The same to the British and Italian Embassies.)
233

Cessation of American Purchase of German Dyes From the Reparation Commission

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Aug. 16 To President Harding
Résumé of arrangements since 1919 providing for U. S. importation and distribution of German dyes; question of continuation of purchases; Allied agreement to application of proceeds of sales to repayment of U. S. Army costs in Germany.
234
1923 Jan. 3 (3) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
From Boyden: Reparation Commission decision to distribute to Allies dyes formerly taken by Textile Alliance; provision for possible later resumption of U. S. dyestuff orders.
240
[Page XXX]

Agreement, August 10, 1922, Between the United States and Germany for a Mixed Claims Commission

[Page XXXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 22 (30) From the Chargé in Germany (tel.)
German view that commercial negotiations should not depend upon claims settlement; request for U. S. suggestions on composition of a mixed commission to settle claims.
240
Apr. 15 (51) To the Chargé in Germany (tel.)
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) stating that commercial treaty should not delay claims settlement and proposing early establishment of Mixed Claims Commission. Instructions to urge orally desirability of prompt determination of amounts of debts and claims.
241
May 5 (87) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Discussion with Foreign Ministry concerning commercial treaty and claims; Ambassador’s insistence that claims agreement must be reached before conclusion of commercial treaty.
242
June 3 (113) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s letters, June 2 (texts printed) stating German readiness to facilitate claims settlement and giving views on bases of commercial treaty; proposal that Claims Commission be established under chairmanship of an American.
243
June 21 (86) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
U. S. acceptance of German proposal regarding Claims Commission.
246
June 22 (87) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Draft agreement regarding Claims Commission (text printed).
246
June 23 (3055) To the Ambassador in Germany
Instructions to communicate U. S. views on functions of Claims Commission; designation of American chairman to act as umpire.
248
July 17 (141) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Outline of Foreign Office revisions of draft agreement; German expectation of return of property held in United States.
250
July 21 From the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee
Request for views on bill to amend Trading with the Enemy Act, providing for establishment of Claims Commission of U. S. citizens and satisfaction of claims out of detained German and Austrian property.
251
July 29 To the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee
Unfavorable opinion of bill to amend Trading with the Enemy Act, in view of prospective conclusion of agreement with Germany.
252
July 29 (104) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Instructions to present U. S. reply to counterproposals regarding claims agreement, and to urge signature of agreement without alterations in order to forestall Congressional action.
255
Aug. 2 (153) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
German acceptance of form of agreement approved in Department’s telegram no. 104, July 29; German observations on scope of claims.
256
Aug. 5 (105) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Instructions to communicate U. S. assurances regarding scope of claims to be presented and U. S. view that time limit on presentation should be fixed by exchange of notes; arrangements for appointment of U. S. umpire and publication of agreement.
257
Aug. 7 (158) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Foreign Office proposal of alteration in wording of U. S. assurances regarding scope of claims.
259
Aug. 7 (159) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Draft note from Foreign Office (text printed) requesting the President of the United States to appoint an umpire; note to be presented upon signature of claims agreement.
259
Aug. 8 (108) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Refusal to accede to alteration of wording of U. S. assurances regarding scope of claims.
260
Aug. 10 To President Harding
Information concerning signature of agreement and request for approval of press statement containing texts of agreement and German request that President name umpire.
(Footnote: President Harding’s approval.)
261
Undated [Rec’d Aug. 10] From President Harding
Instructions to give emphasis in press statement to German request that President name umpire.
262
Aug. 10 Agreement between the United States of America and Germany
Providing for the submission of claims to a mixed commission.
262
Aug. 10 (III A 2451) The German Chancellor to the American Ambassador
Understanding as to scope of U. S. claims.
264
Aug. 10 (128) The American Ambassador to the German Chancellor
Assurances as to scope of U. S. claims.
265

Revival of the Patent Agreement of February 23, 1909, Between the United States and Germany

Date and number Subject Page
1922 May 6 (61) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Note to Foreign Office (text printed) giving notification under article 289 of Treaty of Versailles, to revive patent agreement of February 23, 1909, the revival to take effect on date of note.
266
May 8 (63) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Information that revival of patent agreement of 1909 involves no negotiations, notice in terms of note telegraphed being sufficient.
267
May 9 (92) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Advice that U. S. notification, dated May 8, had been presented.
267
[Page XXXII]

GREAT BRITAIN

Negotiations to Ensure by Treaty the Rights of the United States in Territories Under British Mandate

palestine

[Page XXXIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 13 From Mr. A. J. Balfour
Desire of British Government to come to some agreement in regard to mandate for Palestine, in order to secure mandate’s immediate approval by Council of the League of Nations.
268
Jan. 27 To Mr. A. J. Balfour
U. S. reasons for desiring treaty reciting mandate in full and containing undertakings for the protection of U. S. rights and interests.
269
Apr. 3 (96) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Note to Lord Curzon (text printed) containing U. S. suggestions concerning mandate and treaty provisions covering capitulatory rights, discrimination, missionaries and religious freedom, and modification of mandate.
271
May 1 (199) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Note from Foreign Office, April 29 (text printed) accepting U. S. treaty proposals, suggesting provisions in treaty and modification of article 28 of mandate to cover capitulatory rights in event of termination of mandate, and requesting U. S. consent to lay correspondence before League Council.
275
May 8 (134) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Note to Foreign Office (text printed) suggesting that alteration of article 8 of mandate would make unnecessary amendment of article 28; refusal of request to lay correspondence before League Council.
276
May 10 (136) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office of U. S. intention to make an announcement, May 11 (text printed) of points agreed upon between the United States and Great Britain.
278
May 17 (1314) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Note from Foreign Office, May 16 (text printed) agreeing to modification of article 8 of mandate and consequent lack of need to modify article 28.
279
May 26 (1916) From the Ambassador in France
Note dated May 18 from the Turkish Diplomatic Mission at Paris (text printed) protesting against any decision as to Palestine mandate prior to conclusion of peace.
280
July 5 (512) From the British Chargé
Draft convention (text printed) regarding mandate for Palestine.
281
July 10 (524) From the British Chargé
Alternative draft of article 14 of the mandate for Palestine (text printed) providing for the appointment, subject to League approval, of a commission to decide existing rights in the Holy Places, etc., in Palestine. Desire that U. S. should not be without representation on commission.
284
July 12 To the British Embassy
Counterdraft of convention (text printed) embodying U. S. modifications of preamble and certain articles to conform with similar conventions respecting mandates; submission of new draft for article 8 of mandate (text printed).
287
July 15 (545) From the British Chargé
Revised final draft of the mandate for Palestine (text printed).
292
July 18 (300) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information concerning League Council action on mandates; growing British sentiment against Palestine mandate.
300
Aug. 3 (335) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Note from Foreign Office, August 2 (excerpt printed) expressing opinion that convention should conform with similar conventions respecting mandates and explaining certain changes in article 8 of mandate approved by League Council.
301
Aug. 8 To the British Chargé
Presumption that final form of draft mandate submitted July 15 is susceptible of modification as result of U. S. observations of July 12.
302
Aug. 18 To the British Ambassador
Acknowledgment of British note concerning measures for the protection of the Holy Places in Palestine.
302
Sept. 5 (680) From the British Ambassador
Advice that counterdraft of convention will be furnished at an early date, but that terms of mandate cannot be reconsidered as mandate has been formally approved by League Council.
303
Oct. 6 To the Vice Consul at Jerusalem (tel.)
Instructions to continue to exercise capitulatory and other rights, pending conclusion of negotiations with British Government relative to terms upon which Palestine mandate is acceptable to United States.
303
Oct. 11 (1748) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Note from Foreign Office, October 2 (text printed) accepting operative clauses of U. S. counterdraft, with slight modifications, and suggesting certain changes in the preamble to provide for specific allusion to national home for Jewish people in Palestine. British counterdraft of convention (text printed).
304
1923 Jan. 20 To the British Embassy
Suggestion that conclusion of convention be delayed until termination of peace negotiations with Turkey at Lausanne.
310
[Page XXXIV]

african territories

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Apr. 4 (97) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Note to Lord Curzon (text printed) containing U. S. suggestions regarding discrimination, missionaries and religious freedom, administrative unions, modification of mandate, and extradition for incorporation into mandates and treaties concerning East Africa, Togoland, and the Cameroons.
310
Undated [Rec’d June 29] From the British Chargé
Draft convention regarding East Africa (text printed), modeled upon Japanese-American treaty in regard to Yap. Draft mandate for East Africa (text printed).
314
July 8 To the British Embassy
Suggested modification of preamble and certain articles of convention for East Africa; also modification of article 8 of mandate. Information that suggestions apply likewise to conventions and mandates for Togoland and the Cameroons.
322
July 10 (199) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Counterdraft of convention concerning East Africa (text printed). Information that text applies mutatis mutandis to mandates for Togoland and the Cameroons.
325
July 17 (554) From the British Chargé
Acceptance of U. S. suggestions concerning operative clauses of convention, preamble wording to be left until League Council issues mandates. Suggestion that article 8 of mandate be made to agree with similar article in Yap treaty.
327
July 18 To the British Chargé
Acceptance of suggested wording of article 8 of mandate, conditional upon insertion in convention of an article on religious freedom and education.
328
Aug. 14 (627) From the British Ambassador
Acceptance of suggested use of word “consents” in convention instead of “concurs.”
330
Sept. 30 (W7965/1110/98) The British Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to the American Ambassador
Hope that United States will not press proposal to insert in convention an article on religious freedom and education; desire that wording of preamble follow that of convention regarding Palestine mandate.
330

Negotiations by American Oil Companies for a Share With Other Foreign Interests in Exploiting the Mesopotamian Oil Fields

[Page XXXV][Page XXXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 11 (99) From the British Ambassador
Article from International Petroleum Reporter of January 25 (text printed) containing information that British Board of Trade holds 25 percent of stock of Turkish Petroleum Co., its investment amounting to £40,000. Denial that British Government owns any stock in company; explanation that 25 percent of stock of company in hands of Alien Property Custodian is to be transferred to French interests under San Remo Agreement.
333
Feb. 27 To the British Ambassador
Desire for further information as to ownership of stock of Turkish Petroleum Co., in view of 1921 report of company showing British Board of Trade’s investments in company up to September 1921 amounted to £40,000. Maintenance of position that San Remo Agreement is not applicable to disposition of economic opportunities in mandated territories.
335
May 3 (343) From the British Ambassador
Explanation that holding of British Board of Trade in Turkish Petroleum Co. is temporary and is for ultimate transfer to French interests.
336
June 24 (185) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Advice that U. S. has no objections to negotiations between U. S. and British interests, provided all U. S. companies desiring to participate shall be included in the arrangements and that validity of claims of Turkish Petroleum Co. shall not be recognized except upon determination satisfactory to the United States.
337
June 27 From the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Telegram to Anglo-Persian Oil Co., June 26 (text printed) conveying information of State Department’s consent to U. S. participation under certain conditions.
338
Aug. 4 (339) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Status of negotiations for U. S. participation in Turkish Petroleum Co., no agreement having been reached.
339
Undated [Rec’d Aug. 16] Memorandum of Negotiations in London between American Oil Interests and the Turkish Petroleum Company
Memorandum dated July 21 (text printed) of an arrangement on proposed future activities of the Turkish Petroleum Co.
340
Aug. 22 To the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Opinion that arrangement contained in memorandum of July 21 would not be contrary to open-door policy provided participation of U. S. companies is fair and no attempt is made to establish a monopoly in favor of Turkish Petroleum Co.
342
Aug. 25 From the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Assurance that companies constituting U. S. group are the only U. S. companies interested in oil development in Mesopotamia.
344
Nov. 26 (24) From the Special Mission at Lausanne (tel.)
Information that Great Britain may seek withdrawal from Mesopotamia in return for concession advantages, especially petroleum concessions. Request for instructions.
345
Nov. 27 (13) To the Special Mission at Lausanne (tel.)
Advice that United States will support U. S. companies in obtaining adequate participation in Mesopotamian development, if Mesopotamia remains under British mandate; that United States will refuse acquiescence in any monopolistic concession in Mosul area resulting from political trade.
346
Dec. 13 From the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Telegram dated December 12 from London representative (text printed) reporting agreement reached for U. S. participation in Turkish Petroleum Co., subject to U. S. acknowledgment that agreement satisfies U. S. claims to participation in oil resources in Mesopotamia and that United States will not question title of Turkish Petroleum Co. Reply to telegram (text printed).
347
Dec. 15 To the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Maintenance of U. S. position as to the invalidity of the Turkish Petroleum Co.’s concession; refusal to support any U. S. group in arrangement to exclusion of any other U. S. concerns.
348
Dec. 22 From the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Exchange of telegrams with London representative (texts printed) concerning U. S. position on invalidity of Turkish Petroleum Co.’s concession and refusal to support any U. S. company or group in preference to or in exclusion of any other U. S. concerns.
349
Dec. 30 To the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Reiteration of U. S. position of neutrality in all questions of title and competing U. S. claims.
351

Discrimination in India Against American Oil Companies

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 24 From the Standard Oil Company of New York
Contention that British Government follows a well-defined policy of discrimination against other than British nationals in granting concessions, this policy having been in force in India and Burma for 38 years. Review of company’s records showing discriminatory acts and regulations of British officials in India and Burma over long period.
352
May 18 (380) From the British Ambassador
Assurance that regulations governing exploitation of oil in India and Burma are being collected for communication to United States as requested. Desire that United States no longer delay repudiating documents printed in Senate document.
356
June 10 To the British Ambassador
Assurance that United States will make announcement concerning spurious documents; but that announcement must be accompanied by statement as to exclusion of U. S. companies from Burma, unless British Government is prepared to give assurance that no exclusion of U. S. nationals is intended.
357
[Page XXXVII]

Opposition of the British Government to the Granting by Portugal of Concessions to American Companies for Landing Cables in the Azores

[Page XXXVIII][Page XXXIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 June 23 (184) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information concerning the active opposition of British Minister at Lisbon to applications of Western Union Telegraph Co. and Commercial Cable Co. for concessions to land and operate cables at Azores. Instructions to communicate to Foreign Office the Department’s keen disappointment at British opposition and inability to reconcile British position with previous statements; also to intimate that prompt withdrawal of opposition may avert impending discussion of subject in Senate and press.
359
June 23 To the Portuguese Minister (tel.)
Department’s knowledge of British opposition to applications of Western Union and Commercial Cable Co. for concessions to land and operate cables at Azores; desire that applications receive favorable and prompt action.
359
June 24 From the Portuguese Minister (tel.)
Advice that substance of Department’s telegram of June 23 has been cabled to Government.
360
June 27 (47) To the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Instructions to request Foreign Office to submit to representative of Commercial Cable Co. form of concession desired and to endeavor to have concession submitted to Cortes for ratification before adjournment.
360
June 29 (264) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Foreign Office declaration that it is fully aware of activities of Minister at Lisbon; intimation that his activities were in accordance with instructions and that British attitude of opposition will be maintained as long as United States refuses to grant license to Western Union to land cable at Miami.
360
July 1 (192) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Refusal to admit any relation between efforts of U. S. companies to obtain concession at Azores and application of Western Union to land cable at Miami, inasmuch as United States is withholding privilege from American company while Great Britain is seeking to interfere with freedom of action of Portuguese Government and is opposing efforts of U. S. companies to obtain facilities in Portuguese territory. U. S. conditions for granting license to land cable at Miami.
361
July 3 (270) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Foreign Office understanding that Western Union has fulfilled U. S. conditions for granting license to land cable at Miami; inquiry as to what further conditions remain unfulfilled; intimation that opposition to concession in Azores would not cease even were Miami permit granted.
362
July 17 (210) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office that granting of license to land cable at Miami awaits Argentine acquiescence in waivers of Western Telegraph Co.; and to convey U. S. feeling that British Government is unwarranted in its opposition to Azores concession.
362
July 18 (301) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Compliance with Department’s instructions regarding representations.
363
Aug. 3 (333) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Report from Kerr, representative of Western Union at Lisbon, of British pressure on Portuguese Government regarding Azores permits and of his belief that Portuguese would welcome pressure from U. S. Government to justify disregarding British pressure.
364
Aug. 5 (66) From the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Press report that Western Union concession was approved August 4 with some amendments.
364
Aug. 5 (67) From the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Information that concession amendment provides that all South American traffic shall pass through St. Vincent in Cape Verde Islands. Request for instructions.
364
Aug. 7 (70) From the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Telegram sent to London (text printed) suggesting that Kerr send someone to Lisbon to represent Western Union interests; and conveying information that Senate has not yet passed concession.
365
Aug. 8 (241) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information that Western Union has been informed of amendment to concession and that Department considers action of British Government in pressing and of Portuguese Government in imposing such restriction is unjustifiable.
365
Aug. 8 (56) To the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Instructions to urge Government not to discriminate against U. S. companies or subject them to injurious restrictions, and to inquire whether report of restrictions is true. Information that Western Union has received no report of amendment and will refuse to accept license containing such restriction.
365
Aug. 9 (348) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Kerr’s statement that restrictions such as reported by Legation at Lisbon would render license useless to his company and that agent at Lisbon has been instructed not to sign contract containing such restrictions.
366
Aug. 10 (72) From the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Amendment to concession (text printed) providing that cables to South America shall proceed to destination by way of Cape Verde Islands. Request for Western Union reactions and Department’s instructions.
366
Aug. 11 (57) To the Minister in Portugal (tel.)
Instructions to render appropriate assistance to Western Union representative at Lisbon who will endeavor to have amendment to concession deleted before action by Senate; to continue efforts in behalf of Commercial Cable Co.; and to inquire of Foreign Office the reason for restrictive terms.
367
Aug. 18 (256) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office that Western Union was authorized August 12 to operate its Miami cable for European business and that license for South American traffic may be granted soon; and to call attention to fact that Government is pressing Portuguese Government to take action which is in violation of International Telegraph Convention and is disregarding essential factor in negotiations for allocation of former German cables.
368
Aug. 19 (1631) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Notes dated July 24 and 25 to Foreign Office (texts printed) making formal representations regarding British opposition. Note from Foreign Office, August 18 (text printed) justifying opposition on ground that competition with U. S. companies would do further financial harm to British company, which had already suffered heavy losses through U. S. refusal to grant license to land cable at Miami.
369
Sept. 15 (106) From the Minister in Portugal
Closing of Parliament, no action having been taken on petition of Western Union for elimination of amendment to concession.
377
Oct. 7 (306) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Telegram from Western Union representative at London (text printed) stating that negotiations at London are in suspense as Embassy has not received requested instructions from Department; intimation also that early action at London might result in withdrawal of British opposition. Department’s inability to believe report of suspension, since Embassy has been fully instructed.
378
Oct. 12 (456) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information that all Department’s instructions have been carried out and that it was not intended to give Western Union representative the impression that negotiations were in suspense.
378
Nov. 17 (1839) From the Ambassador in Great Britain
Note dated October 18 to Foreign Office (text printed) reiterating U. S. position. Note from Foreign Office, November 14 (text printed) suggesting that British and U. S. companies come to a direct agreement under certain conditions; and indicating that British opposition would be withdrawn upon conclusion of such agreement and its confirmation by issue of landing licenses for Azores cables in United States and full and immediate renunciation of All America Cables’ exclusive rights in Colombia.
379
Dec. 6 (746) To the Ambassador in Great Britain
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) explaining at length negotiations concerning license to land cable at Miami and defending U. S. position.
383
[Page XL]

Dispute With the British Government Over Withdrawal of Recognition of American Consular Officers at Newcastle-on-Tyne

[Page XLI]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 July 20 (217) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Request for brief statement of facts from Slater and Brooks, also for comments by himself and consul general.
392
July 26 (312) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Communication to Foreign Office of assumption that withdrawal of recognition will not be proceeded with until investigation is completed. Information that investigation is proceeding.
392
July 29 (321) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Reports, supported by affidavits, completely exonerating Slater and Brooks.
392
Aug. 11 To the British Chargé
Refusal to remove Slater and Brooks voluntarily, U. S. investigations having failed to reveal any evidence to support British allegation. Expression of hope that action will not be taken before evidence substantiating allegations has been submitted and United States has been allowed opportunity to express views thereon.
393
Aug. 30 (268) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to have Slater close office at Newcastle and proceed to Corunna for assignment as consul, Brooks to proceed to Dresden.
394
Sept. 5 From the Consul in Charge at London (tel.)
Circular of February 2 issued by consul general (text printed) urging consular officers to encourage the use of United States Lines by passengers traveling to the United States.
394
Sept. 7 (13742) From the Consul in Charge at London
Reception of delegation of business executives from Newcastle and their protest against the closing of the U. S. consulate at Newcastle.
395
Sept. 15 (291) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Interview with British Ambassador, in which Ambassador expressed hope the Newcastle affair might rest and consulate be reopened.
396
Sept. 18 (292) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to inform Government concerning investigation to be instituted for the United States by Nelson T. Johnson and to request cooperation.
397
Oct. 6 (447) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Johnson: Report, confirmed by Castle, that investigations at London revealed no evidence to substantiate British allegations against Slater and Brooks.
397
Nov. 6 From the Consul General at London (tel.)
From Johnson: Report that investigations at Newcastle revealed nothing to change views expressed in telegram no. 447, October 6.
399
Nov. 8 (348) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) conditioning acceptance of British proposal for dropping charges and reopening consulate at Newcastle upon granting of exequatur to Slater as consul and recognition of Brooks as vice consul at Newcastle and upon a public explanation of action; refusal to accept British proposal concerning identic instructions to consular officers.
400
Dec. 30 (865) To Consular Officers
Instructions concerning confining activities in behalf of U. S. steamship companies to investigating and reporting upon shipping matters and to answering proper inquiries relating thereto.
401
1923 Jan. 2 (1930) From the Chargé in Great Britain
Note from Foreign Office, December 27 (text printed) adhering to original position.
403

Supplementary Extradition Convention Between the United States and Great Britain, May 15, 1922

Date and number Subject Page
1922 May 15 Supplementary Extradition Convention between the United States of America and Great Britain
Enlarging the list of crimes for which extradition may be granted under conventions of 1889, 1900, and 1905.
406

Denunciation by Great Britain of the Treaty and Convention Between the United States and Great Britain for the Abolition of the African Slave Trade

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Apr. 27 (323) From the British Ambassador
Formal notice of denunciation of the treaty and convention for abolition of slave trade, in accordance with British policy to abolish all obsolete instruments.
407
June 5 To the British Ambassador
Acknowledgment of British denunciation of treaty and convention for the abolition of slave trade.
408

GREECE

Attitude of the United States Toward Recognition of the Greek Government

[Page XLII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Mar. 23 (946) From the Chargé in Greece
Endeavors of Prime Minister to discuss U. S. recognition of Constantine government; his disposition to meet practically any U. S. terms and inquiry concerning U. S. conditions for recognition.
409
May 8 (37) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Continuance of policy regarding recognition of Constantine government, in line with that of Allied Powers.
409
May 12 (1030) From the Chargé in Greece
His refusal to grant requests that he meet King Constantine informally and unofficially.
410
Sept. 27 (129) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Abdication of King Constantine in favor of the Crown Prince.
410
Oct. 26 (150) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Plans for court martial of political prisoners charged with responsibility for Asia Minor disaster; protests lodged by British and French; suggestion that United States make informal recommendation for fair trial.
411
Nov. 1 (76) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to indicate informally to Greek authorities that arbitrary court martial of political prisoners would make unfortunate impression in United States.
411
Nov. 2 (158) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Assurances of revolutionary committee that all political prisoners not implicated in Asia Minor disaster would be released and fair trial given others.
411
Nov. 28 (175) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Trial and execution of political prisoners; rupture of diplomatic relations between Great Britain and Greece.
412
Dec. 1 (84) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to indicate informally to Greek authorities the possible serious effect the executions of political prisoners might have on raising of relief funds for Greek refugees in United States.
412
Dec. 11 (183) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Assurances of Greek authorities of the avoidance of any further action which might alienate U. S. public opinion; information that chief political prisoners have already been executed; expression by his colleagues of official disapproval of executions.
413
1923 Jan. 13 To Mr. George B. Christian, Jr., Secretary to President Harding
Transmission of translation of telegram from King of Greece announcing the death of his father, the late King. Suggestion that reply be made informally through Chargé at Athens. Draft instructions to Chargé (text printed).
413
[Page XLIII]

American Relief Activities on Behalf of Greeks Evacuated From Turkish Territory

[Page XLIV][Page XLV][Page XLVI][Page XLVII][Page XLVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Sept. 2 From the Consul General at Smyrna (tel.)
Request for dispatch of cruiser to Smyrna to protect U. S. consulate and nationals, in view of the extremely grave military situation.
414
Sept. 4 From the Consul General at Smyrna (tel.)
Telegram sent to Admiral Bristol (text printed) urging him to mediate with the Angora Government to permit evacuation of Greek forces, in order to prevent the destruction of Smyrna.
414
Sept. 5 To the Consul General at Smyrna (tel.)
Information that Admiral Bristol has been ordered to send destroyers to Smyrna to assist in care of U. S. nationals and property.
415
Sept. 5 (113) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Advice that situation does not justify assumption by United States of role of voluntary mediator and that the Department is inclined to do no more than send destroyers to protect U. S. lives and property.
415
Sept. 6 (168) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
For American Red Cross: Organization of Disaster Relief Committee for Smyrna situation and request for funds.
415
Sept. 8 (116) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Information concerning the communication of appeals to Red Cross and Near East Relief with suggestion that they cooperate in emergency; and their replies, the Red Cross indicating necessity of further consideration and Near East authorizing $25,000 for relief.
416
Sept. 8 (111) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Appeal of Greek authorities for help in evacuating 500,000 refugees from Asia Minor ports. Belief of French and Italian representatives that their transportation to Greece is impracticable.
416
Sept. 8 From the Consul General at Smyrna (tel.)
Information that Turkish forces are expected on the ninth or tenth and request for instructions as to his relations with Kemalist authorities.
417
Sept. 9 To the Consul General at Smyrna (tel.)
Instructions to remain unofficially at post as U. S. consul without exequatur and as delegate of High Commissioner at Constantinople, Vice Consul Imbrie to remain at Angora in similar status.
417
Sept. 9 (171) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Report of alarming situation at Smyrna, with Greek troops in panic and threatening to burn city; departure of Greek fleet and withdrawal of Greek High Commissioner and general headquarters.
418
Sept. 10 (173) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Occupation of Smyrna by Mustafa Kemal. Telegram from Jaquith and Davis, Near East Relief and Red Cross representatives (text printed) concerning food situation at Smyrna.
418
Sept. 11 (63) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to keep Department fully informed concerning developments of situation in Greece. Information that Red Cross and Near East Relief are consulting regarding cooperation in Asia Minor emergency.
419
Sept. 12 (119) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Telegram from Hill of Red Cross (text printed) explaining delay in determining action, and authorizing expenditure of $25,000 for emergency relief work.
419
Sept. 13 (179) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Extreme gravity of condition of refugees at Smyrna and elsewhere, owing to approach of cold weather. British requests that U. S. relief organizations take care of Smyrna and Rodosto situations and Commissioner’s reply that Allies and Greeks should undertake their share of task.
420
Sept. 14 (181) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Information that Smyrna is burning and that U. S. nationals have been evacuated to Athens.
421
Sept. 14 (183) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Telegram from Davis dated September 11 (text printed) reporting interview with commander of Turkish forces concerning possibility of restoring refugees to their homes; commander’s decision that refugees must leave country.
421
Sept. 14 (184) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Telegram from Davis dated September 12 (text printed) reporting desperate refugee situation at Smyrna, inability of authorities to place refugees in camps owing to animosity of troops, lack of food, necessity for evacuation of refugees.
422
Sept. 14 (182) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Telegram from Captain Hepburn at Smyrna (text printed) reporting the destruction of European quarter of Smyrna by fire and complete destruction of U. S. consulate and all its records; evacuation of U. S. nationals and Greek refugees.
422
Sept. 15 (186) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Telegram from Hepburn at Smyrna dated September 14 (text printed) recommending Allied pressure on Greece to accept refugees in Thrace or Macedonia and an immediate decision for the transportation of 300,000 refugees by Allied ships.
423
Sept. 15 (290) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Summary of Admiral Bristol’s reports on Asia Minor situation. Telegram sent to Admiral Bristol (text printed) conveying opinion that government action by Allies is necessary for evacuation of refugees, as situation is beyond scope of private organizations, and suggesting the drawing up of a joint Allied plan for Smyrna emergency.
(Instructions to repeat to Paris and Rome for similar action, and to communicate contents orally to British Foreign Office.)
423
Sept. 18 (190) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Message from Smyrna dated September 15 (text printed) reporting decision of Allied naval officers that refugees must be evacuated and that permission should be secured from Kemal for Greek ships to enter Smyrna harbor for evacuation. Comments on plan for Allied cooperation in emergency.
424
Sept. 19 (133) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Request for confirmation of press reports that U. S. organizations and U. S. destroyers are carrying on the only relief work in Smyrna; also for information concerning available relief stores and provisions for caring for refugees in Greece or Aegean Islands. Instructions to keep Department fully advised as to facilities needed for relief.
426
Sept. 19 (192) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Message from the U. S. S. Edsall at Smyrna dated September 17 (text printed) reporting Turkish proclamation declaring all Greek refugee men between the ages of 18 and 45 prisoners of war and permitting the evacuation of all other refugees up to October 1; conditions in Smyrna and relief measures.
426
Sept. 19 (193) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Message from the U. S. S. Edsall at Smyrna dated September 18 (text printed) reporting Kemal’s refusal to take responsibility for allowing Greek ships to enter Smyrna harbor for evacuation and his reference of question to Turkish Government.
427
Sept. 20 (194) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Efforts to secure British and Italian cooperation in emergency measures. Meeting of Disaster Relief Committee: its decisions to continue emergency relief work at Smyrna and to send relief unit to Rodosto; agreement that U. S. relief activities should be confined to present situation and that Greece and Allies should assume future responsibility for relief of refugees and their final disposition.
427
Sept. 20 (119) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Telegram from Admiral Bristol (text printed) conveying decision of Near East Relief as to the impossibility of sending unit to Greece and opinion that care of refugees after evacuation from Asia Minor is responsibility of Allies and Greece. Recommendation that U. S. relief organizations send assistance to Greece as task of caring for refugees is beyond Greek Government.
429
Sept. 21 (140) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Steps taken by Congress and private organizations for more extended emergency relief work in the Near East, Department’s efforts being concentrated upon relief and repatriation of Americans, centralizing and coordinating relief of private agencies, and keeping agencies informed of Disaster Relief Committee’s activities.
430
Sept. 22 (202) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Brief summary of organization of Disaster Relief Committee and its activities at Smyrna and Rodosto. Discussion of possibility of assisting Greece in care of refugees provided Greece demobilize and place herself on a peace footing.
431
Sept. 22 (66) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Agreement with Admiral Bristol that care of refugees after evacuation from Asia Minor rests primarily upon Greece and the Allies. Instructions, however, to keep Department fully informed as to conditions of refugees after evacuation.
(Instructions to repeat to Constantinople.)
432
Sept. 25 (217) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Conference with Allied colleagues: Discussion of British plans for relief and U. S. relief activities; plans for evacuation of refugees and decision to request extension of time beyond October 1.
433
Sept. 26 (434) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Note from Foreign Office (text printed) expressing opinion that relief for Greek refugees should be conducted by private organizations and conveying information concerning efforts to secure and coordinate help of such private organizations, support given in evacuation of refugees, and provision of funds.
435
Sept. 28 (225) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Arrival of Greek ships at Smyrna for evacuation of 15,000 refugees, permission for vessels to enter harbor having been granted by Turkish authorities. Information that question of projected time limit for evacuation is still pending.
436
Sept. 29 (297) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to inform Government of U. S. interest in British steps taken to assist relief of refugees in Asia Minor. Information concerning extent of U. S. relief in Asia Minor.
(Instructions to repeat his telegram no. 434, September 26, and above to High Commissioner, Constantinople.)
437
Oct. 9 (183) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
President Harding’s statement issued October 8 (text printed) regarding relief work in Asia Minor, the creation of the Near East Emergency Fund to be raised by Nation-wide appeal, and personnel of committee in charge of raising funds.
(Instructions to repeat to Athens.)
438
Oct. 9 (71) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Message from Red Cross (text printed) offering to send mission to Athens to administer relief measures for refugees from Smyrna, provided Greek authorities approve and will afford protection for personnel and storage and transportation facilities for supplies.
(Instructions to repeat to High Commissioner at Constantinople for information.)
439
Oct. 10 (451) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information that British representatives at Constantinople and Athens have been instructed to urge local relief societies to cooperate with U. S. relief organizations.
439
Oct. 11 (260) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Jaquith to Ost: Serious situation of Greek and Armenian orphans at Constantinople. Request that permission be given for the entrance of 5,000 Armenian orphans into the United States. Arrangements for the removal of Greek orphans to Greece.
439
Oct. 11 (140) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Gratitude of Greek authorities and promise of all facilities desired by the Red Cross.
440
Oct. 13 To Mr. C. V. Vickrey of the Near East Relief
Advice that not all Armenian orphans could be brought into the United States under Turkish quota and that entry in excess of quota could not be authorized without Congressional action.
441
Oct. 14 (464) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Admiral Bristol: Plan of Dr. Nansen to secure release of Greek men retained in Asia Minor and permission for them to join families in Greece; Allied Commissioners’ promise of support; Bristol’s statement that U. S. Government would lend support on grounds of humanity but must be consulted, Japanese Commissioner making similar statement. Efforts of Dr. Nansen in behalf of the Russian refugees at Constantinople who must be evacuated.
441
Oct. 21 (208) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Approval of Commissioner’s statement to Dr. Nansen that Government would, on grounds of humanity, support his efforts to secure release of Greek men detained in Asia Minor.
443
Oct. 31 (157) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Arrival of Dr. Hill, Red Cross representative, and his concurrence in Chargé’s explanations to Greek authorities that U. S. relief organizations would assume no responsibilities in connection with refugee problem, giving assistance only, and that they were willing to work in harmony with League of Nations committee but not under its supervision.
443
Nov. 2 (287) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Report on evacuations and on the relief needs of the devastated country.
444
Nov. 25 (577) From the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople
Report of the senior naval officer at Smyrna dated October 20 (text printed) giving a summary of the evacuation of refugees from Smyrna and the agencies by which it was accomplished.
445
Nov. 25 (20) From the Special Mission at Lausanne (tel.)
Venizelos’ request for support of his plea for the release of Greek men retained in Asia Minor. Suggestion from British and Greek sources that U. S. relief tends to keep refugees in continuing condition of helplessness and therefore a loan should be made to Greece.
446
Nov. 28 (15) To the Special Mission at Lausanne (tel.)
Instructions to support Venizelos’ plea on humanitarian grounds. Comments on matter of loan, the Department being unable to see how loan could alter present helpless state of refugees.
446
Dec. 5 (368) From the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Status of relief work among Moslem and non-Moslem populations in Asia Minor.
447
Dec. 22 (392) From the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Report on evacuation of refugees from Samsoun and other Black Sea ports; public announcement that time limit is removed and all Christians may leave Anatolia.
448
1923 Jan. 4 (6) From the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Telegram from Greek Government to its Constantinople representative (text printed) conveying decision of Greek Government not to accept any more refugees. Serious situation which will arise in Anatolia if decision is carried into effect.
449
Jan. 5 (2) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office of U. S. appreciation of King George’s New Year greeting to President Harding (text printed) expressing thanks for U. S. relief work.
449
Jan. 6 (3) To the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Instructions to inform Department whether situation in Greece justifies Greek decision not to admit any more refugees. Mission of Colonel Haskell to endeavor to formulate plan for absorption of refugees into economic life of Greece.
450
Jan. 21 (15) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Resumption by Greece of the evacuation of refugees in Pontus region.
450
Feb. 26 To Senator Henry Cabot Lodge
Information concerning the destruction of the U. S consulate at Smyrna, the service of U. S. sailors in guarding various buildings, etc., and measures for the care and protection of U. S. citizens and U. S. flag.
451

Continued Impressment of American Citizens of Greek Origin Into the Greek Army

[Page XLIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 15 (17) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Failure of Greek Government to carry out promises concerning impressment of U. S. citizens of Greek origin into Greek Army. Request that Department warn all naturalized Greeks against returning to Greece unless naturalized before January 15, 1914.
453
May 2 (1009) From the Chargé in Greece
Contention of Greek Government that the release of men from military service secured by Chargé has been made not as a matter of right but as a favor, as under law all men born in Greece owe military service to Greece. Maintenance of position that no holder of U. S. passport should be forced into Greek Army.
453
June 1 (249) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Cases of actual or attempted impressment of U. S. citizens into Greek Army operating in Asia Minor. Suggestion that representations be made to Greek Government that appropriate instructions be issued to prevent such impressment.
454
Aug. 22 (285) To the Chargé in Greece
Instructions to make representations that appropriate instructions be sent to Greek military commander in Asia Minor to cease impressing U. S. citizens of Ottoman or Greek origin into Greek Army.
454

Objections by the Department of State to a Private Loan to the Unrecognized Government of Greece

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Dec. 29 From Mr. William G. Marvin
Inquiry whether Department would object to notation of loan of 15 million dollars to Greek Government.
455
1922 Jan. 30 To Messrs. Marvin & Pleasants
Advice that Department would not look with favor upon loan to Greek Government, inasmuch as recognition has not been accorded regime functioning in Greece.
456
Mar. 8 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Discussion with Mr. Scofield, member New York law firm, regarding loan of 15 million dollars to Greece; maintenance of Department’s position as expressed to Messrs. Marvin & Pleasants.
456

GUATEMALA

Recognition of the Orellana Government by the United States

[Page L]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 12 (7) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Resolution before Assembly declaring Union nonexistent and Guatemala again an independent republic; elections to be held February 15 to 22.
458
Jan. 22 (9) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Orellana nominated candidate for President by Liberal Party.
458
Jan. 28 (4) To the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to advise authorities informally that U. S. agents will deal with Muñoz, who is performing functions of Guatemalan consulate general at New York, as with his predecessor, making it clear this does not constitute recognition.
458
Feb. 22 (17) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Orellana elected President.
459
Mar. 4 (21) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Inauguration of Orellana as President.
459
Apr. 11 (28) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
General amnesty decreed; all political prisoners freed.
459
Apr. 15 (10) To the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to inform Government of President Harding’s decision to recognize Orellana Government and express gratification at resumption of diplomatic relations.
460

HAITI

Appointment of a High Commissioner by President Harding—The Election of President Borno—The Appointment of a New Financial Adviser

[Page LI]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 11 To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Primary objectives of his mission: (1) reorganization of powers and duties of treaty officials; (2) stabilization of Haitian finances; (3) gradual withdrawal of Forces of Occupation and enlargement and improvement of Haitian Gendarmerie; (4) carrying out of plans for prosperity and economic development of Haiti.
461
Feb. 13 President Harding to President Dartiguenave
Announcement of the appointment of General Russell as High Commissioner in Haiti; explanation as to the objectives of his mission; and request for President’s support.
466
Apr. 10 (13) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Report on political situation: Opposition to President Dartiguenave and his withdrawal as candidate; statement issued to the press by Commissioner, April 8 (text printed) declaring his attitude of neutrality in election.
468
Apr. 11 (38) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Election by Council of State of Louis Borno as President.
470
Apr. 13 (39) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Report that proceedings of Council of State appear to have been entirely legal regarding eligibility of Louis Borno for Presidency.
470
Apr. 17 (35) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Authorization to announce recognition of Borno as President, if satisfied as to regularity and constitutionality of his election.
471
May 12 (40) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Haitian Minister’s representations regarding Borno’s eligibility and Department’s refusal to open question, in view of decision of Haitian Council of State as to Borno’s eligibility.
471
Oct. 12 (88) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Resignation of McIlhenny as Financial Adviser effective October 11.
471
Oct. 14 (91) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Nomination of John S. Hord as Financial Adviser and request for his appointment to be effective from October 14.
471
Nov. 9 (81) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Report of the appointment of Hord as Financial Adviser and his assumption of duties.
472

Contract for a Loan to Haiti From the National City Bank and the National City Company

[Page LII][Page LIII][Page LIV][Page LV][Page LVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 4 (564) From the Chargé in Haiti
Memorandum from the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, December 30, 1921 (text printed) maintaining claim that protocol of October 3, 1919, had lapsed and outlining provisions of a loan law; summary of Lee, Higginson and Co. loan proposition.
472
Jan. 16 (4) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Refusal to consider any suggestion questioning the validity of the protocol of 1919 and insistence that Financial Adviser be authorized to undertake negotiations for loan.
476
Jan. 20 (7) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Note from Haitian Government indicating disposition to authorize Financial Adviser to negotiate for loan of nature of Lee, Higginson proposition, with certain modifications to be carried in loan law as indicated in Haitian memorandum of December 30; and expressing hope that more advantageous loan offer can be found.
476
Jan. 24 (8) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Failure to discover in Haitian note any departure from position in memorandum of December 30 and refusal to sanction any loan negotiated by Financial Adviser not recognizing validity of protocol of 1919. Information concerning forwarding of counterdraft of loan law giving effect to provisions of protocol of 1919.
477
Jan. 31 (13) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Note from Haitian Government, January 31, explaining that the Government purposes only to carry in loan law certain provisions the greater part of which proceed from suggestions made by the United States; and requesting that the United States make known the provisions proper to carry in loan law and lend good offices to secure better loan offer.
477
Feb. 2 (474) To the Chargé in Haiti
Instructions for the General Receiver of Customs concerning the use for the current year of the $175,000 set aside monthly out of customs receipts for service of debts recognized as valid under the protocol of 1919. Revocation of all previous instructions waiving allocation of customs receipts.
478
Mar. 15 (27) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Presentation of credentials to President and interview with Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Finance on loan.
483
Mar. 22 (30) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Evident desire of President and his Ministers to put through loan and necessary new revenue laws. Possibility of deficit in current expenses and desire to use portion of sum set aside for monthly service of debt.
483
Mar. 23 (32) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Conferences with Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Finance on modifications of loan law provisions submitted in Haitian memorandum of December 30.
484
Mar. 24 (31) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Reluctance to alter instructions of February 2 regarding sum set aside for servicing debts, since possibility of deficit can be removed by completion of loan negotiations. Information concerning forwarding of draft of loan law.
486
Mar. 27 (33) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Urgent request that draft of loan law be cabled, in view of willingness of Government to put law through at once; opinion that law should be passed before April 10 election.
487
Mar. 30 (33) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Note for Haitian Government and instructions that reply should recite terms of note and accept them; draft of loan law; comments on modifications of loan law provisions contained in telegram no. 32, March 23.
487
Apr. 1 (2) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Note for Haitian Government (text printed) suggesting that loan negotiation difficulties be settled by loan law (draft-text printed) embodying only provisions necessary to contract loan, and by an exchange of notes on questions of validity of protocol of 1919, method of issuing loan, and disposition of proceeds.
488
Apr. 4 (34) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
McIlhenny to Maumus: Suggestion designed to secure prompt acceptance by bondholders of recapitalization plan for internal bonds.
492
Apr. 26 (46) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Acceptance of U. S. note of April 15 by President-elect, with reservation as to market price, and promise to pass law as drafted by United States upon his assumption of office.
492
May 9 (6) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Instructions to discuss with Haitian authorities and Financial Adviser the Department’s opinion regarding maintenance of service and possible refunding of internal bond issues.
493
May 12 (49) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
President-elect’s request that exterior loan be increased by 2 million dollars more to make provision for public works; High Commissioner’s approval.
494
May 24 (44) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Opinion that notation of a larger exterior loan in order to provide for public works could not be justified without passage of new internal revenue law.
495
June 3 (61) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Note from Minister of Foreign Affairs dated June 3 (text printed) confirming accord with United States for issuance of loan according to suggestions contained in U. S. note of April 15. Comments.
496
June 7 From the Haitian Minister
Belief of Government that best interests of Republic would be served if new bids were received for bond issue.
497
June 16 (49) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Information that Haitian Government is free to invite new bids, since Lee, Higginson and Co. make no request for preferential treatment. Instructions concerning procedure to be followed in inviting new bids.
497
June 17 To the Haitian Minister
Opinion that new bids may properly be received for loan and information that High Commissioner has been instructed to discuss procedure to be followed in inviting new bids.
499
June 28 (41) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Haitian law of June 26 (text printed) providing for loan. Comments.
499
July 18 (56) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Financial plan for presentation to Government providing for (1) invitation for bids on $16,000,000 external bonds of series A; (2) issuance of $5,000,000 internal bonds of series B for cancelation of internal and floating debt; (3) constitution of Claims Commission; (4) recapitalization of internal debt; (5) provisions for gradual retirement of internal bonds.
502
July 24 (86) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Recommendation that question of recapitalization of internal debt be left open until appointment of new Financial Adviser.
505
July 26 (58) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Instructions to present to Government entire financial plan embodied in Department’s telegram no. 56, July 18, as Department believes that recapitalization of internal debt should be proceeded with immediately as suggested in financial plan.
505
Aug. 1 (88) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
President’s desire to issue series B as gold bonds. Suggestion that if such bonds be issued they be registered both as to principal and interest.
506
Aug. 11 (90) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Note from Haitian Government (text printed) confirming authorization for Financial Adviser to solicit offers for $16,000,000 of bonds of series A and conveying specific conditions for loan.
506
Aug. 15 (62) To the Vice Consul in Charge of the Legation in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: U. S. gratification that conditions for loan have been determined upon; request, however, that Government reconsider provisions concerning minimum rate of issue, constitution of Claims Commission, and passage of law authorizing issue of internal bonds; disinclination to insist upon issue of internal bonds in gourdes.
508
Aug. 19 (92) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Note from Haitian Government (text printed) giving assurances concerning minimum rate of issue and constitution of Claims Commission; and explaining necessity for new law to authorize internal bond issue.
509
Aug. 22 (63) To the Vice Consul in Charge of the Legation in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: U. S. gratification that Claims Commission will be constituted; information that Department is prepared to proceed with external bond bids if Haitian Government gives assurance that law authorizing issue of internal bonds will be submitted to Council by September 1.
511
Aug. 26 (95) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Note from Haitian Government (text printed) conveying assurance that law for internal bond issue will be submitted to Council in first session, September 4.
511
Aug. 26 (97) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Note from Haitian Government (text printed) conveying authorization for Financial Adviser to sign contract for $16,000,000 loan, bonds of loan to be put on sale immediately after signature of contract.
512
Aug. 30 (69) To the Vice Consul in Charge of the Legation in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Advisability of forwarding to the Department draft of law for internal bond issue before its presentation to the Council.
512
Sept. 1 (102) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Draft of law for internal bond issue (text printed).
513
Sept. 9 (73) To the Vice Consul in Charge of the Legation in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Suggested modification of article 2 of draft law for internal bond issue to conform with article 5 of treaty and article 6 of protocol.
513
Sept. 15 (106) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Information that Government has noted suggested modification of article 2 of draft law.
(Footnote: Information that law, embodying U. S. modifications, was passed by the Council on September 27.)
514
Sept. 28 (83) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Information concerning bids on loan and award of contract to National City Co.
514
Oct. 5 (42) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Desire that Receiver General of Customs take no further steps to persuade bondholders of National Railroad to accept interest payments in francs instead of dollars, in view of imminent flotation of foreign loan.
514
Oct. 7 From the Financial Adviser to the Government of Haiti
Copy of contract between Government of Haiti and National City Co. and National City Bank providing for purchase by National City Co. of $16,000,000 bonds and providing that National City Bank act as fiscal agent for service of loan.
515
Oct. 7 To the Financial Adviser to the Government of Haiti
Approval of contract; President Harding’s agreement, in accordance with article 8 of treaty of 1915, to issue of $16,000,000 bonds provided for by protocol of 1919.
516
Oct. 28 (131) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Sanction of loan protocol by Haitian Council of State.
516
Nov. 2 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a Conversation with the Haitian Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, on Special Mission in the United States
Mr. De jean’s suggestions for reform in Haiti: (1) that offices of Receiver General and Financial Adviser be combined, and (2) that work performed in the administration by military officers be taken over by civilians.
517
Nov. 10 (105) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Assumption that items mentioned in article 3 of protocol will be paid immediately, in view of ratification of loan contract. Instructions for General Receiver concerning service of Haitian public debt.
517
Nov. 16 To the Haitian Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, on Special Mission in the United States (tel.)
Transmission of telegram from President of Haiti (text printed) informing him that Haiti is under no obligation to pay 1896 or 1910 obligations in gold and that payment will be made in francs at rate of day.
518
Nov. 18 From the Haitian Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, on Special Mission in the United States
Correspondence with National City Co. and their counsel (texts printed) regarding redemption of Haitian loan of 1910 and its possible effect upon Haiti’s ability to discharge existing liens on its revenues in accordance with provisions of article of contract.
518
Nov. 24 To the Haitian Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, on Special Mission in the United States
Letter to National City Co. and National City Bank, November 22 (text printed) expressing opinion as to effect redemption of Haitian 1910 loan would have upon existing liens upon Haitian customs, its discharge making service of the series A bonds of 1922 second charge upon customs revenues.
520
Dec. 1 (150) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Amounts set aside by General Receiver from loan for service of old debts. Request for authority to obtain $300,000 for public works from funds set aside for service of old debts and now made available by realization of loan or from funds made available by loan.
521
Dec. 8 (121) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Authority to obtain $300,000 for public works as suggested.
522
Dec. 29 (165) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Agreement regarding recapitalization of interior bonds and their exchange for series B bonds.
522

Contract for the Transfer of the Charter of the Banque Nationale d’Haiti to the Banque Nationale de la République d’Haiti

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Apr. 6 To the Vice President of the National City Bank
Insistence upon certain alterations in National City Bank agreement with Haiti for transfer of charter of National Bank of Haiti, holding that agreement departs in several material points from principles established by agreement of 1920 between company and Department. Desire also for certain assurances from National Bank of Haiti.
523
Apr. 12 From the Vice President of the National City Bank
Circumstances surrounding negotiation of agreement with Haiti. Agreement with, and enumeration of, Department’s alterations, with slight changes for clarity.
526
Apr. 24 To the Vice President of the National City Bank
Comments upon bank’s desired changes in Department’s alterations of agreement with Haiti.
529
May 12 (8) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Transmission of agreement between Haiti and National City Bank containing alterations and changes approved by Department. Instructions to extend to Voorhies, of National City Bank, proper assistance in obtaining ratification of agreement in its present form.
532
June 10 (66) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
President’s desire for certain slight changes in text of agreement.
534
June 14 (52) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: No objections to proposed changes in bank-transfer contract; authorization, however, to use good offices to have modified proposed amendment to maintain 100 percent reserve against Government deposits, if bank so desires.
(Footnote: Publication of contract of July 18, 1922, for transfer of National Bank of Republic of Haiti to National City Co. of New York.)
534
[Page LVII]

Institution of the Claims Commission in Haiti

[Page LVIII][Page LIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Apr. 13 (5) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Instructions to inform Government that French conditions regarding adjustment of claims might advantageously be agreed upon in an exchange of notes between Haiti and France.
535
June 6 (508) To the Chargé in Haiti
Authorization to state that Department has informed Italian Ambassador of willingness of Financial Adviser in Haiti to receive list of persons acceptable to Italy from which to appoint third member of proposed Claims Commission during consideration of Italian claims.
536
Sept. 22 (38) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Information concerning arrangements for French nominee to proceed to Haiti; communication of names of British and Italian nominees to Financial Adviser with suggestion he make formal recommendation to President of Haiti for their appointment. Department’s desire that commission be constituted at earliest practicable moment.
537
Oct. 11 (118) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
President’s intention to resent French modification of agreement as unjust. Commissioner’s opinion that only French claims occurring prior to September 10, 1913, can be presented to arbitral commission and that expenses of arbitral commission must be borne by Haiti and France.
538
Oct. 16 (92) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Enumeration of points which Department understands proposed exchange of notes between Haiti and France should cover. Instructions to urge immediate exchange of notes and to use good offices to bring about agreement.
539
Oct. 19 (127) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Selection of Haitian member of Claims Commission.
540
Oct. 20 (129) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Enumeration of six points suggested to President as bases of agreement with France. President’s insistence that right of appeal to arbitral commission be limited to claims originating prior to 1913.
540
Oct. 28 (132) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
President’s intimation that a note would be addressed to French Legation agreeing to and covering suggested bases of agreement, with additional clause that right of appeal be denied French claims prior to September 10, 1913. Haiti’s request concerning acceptability of new Minister to France and French refusal to reply until after exchange of notes regarding French claims.
541
Nov. 4 (103) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Instructions to inform Government concerning French acceptance of suggested bases of agreement, with slight modifications; French refusal to make distinction, as regards right of appeal, between claims arising before and after 1913. Suggestion that agreement be signed in Washington to expedite matters.
542
Nov. 6 (104) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Inquiry concerning formal appointment of members of Claims Commission. Opinion that Financial Adviser should be informed of appointments by letter. Instructions to urge appointment of Haitian member.
543
Nov. 8 (135) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
President’s continued objection to right of appeal for claims originating after 1913. French misunderstanding concerning first consideration being given Haitian claims under article 3 of protocol of 1919. Suggestion that Crowder, special representative in Cuba, be requested to obtain consent of a Cuban jurist to sit on commission during consideration of claims other than French, British, and Italian. Information that members of commission have not yet been formally appointed.
544
Nov. 9 (80) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Haitian law of October 30 (text printed) establishing a Claims Commission.
545
Nov. 10 (137) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Official information of appointment of French, British, Italian, Haitian, and U. S. members of Claims Commission.
547
Nov. 11 Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a Conversation with the Counselor of the French Embassy
French appeal for U. S. help in securing exchange of notes with Haiti; and Department’s assurance that efforts are being made in that direction.
548
Nov. 14 (108) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Advisability of meeting French demands concerning right of appeal, in view of importance that France approve submission of French claims to Claims Commission. Information that Crowder is being requested to suggest Cuban jurist.
548
Nov. 16 (140) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
President’s willingness to accept French position on right of appeal, provided British, French, and Italian Governments agree not to appeal Claims Commission’s decisions; otherwise, preference to have all French claims referred to arbitral tribunal; request that Department inform French Government of situation.
549
Nov. 16 (141) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
French note to Haiti containing conditions diametrically opposed to U. S. views. Commissioner’s intention to urge President to transfer negotiations to Washington.
(Footnote: Agreement reached between Haiti and France by exchange of notes in 1923.)
550
Nov. 23 (114) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Nomination of German member of Claims Commission.
551
Nov. 25 (146) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Information that German nominee is member of a firm presenting claim. His acceptance for consideration of other German claims.
551
Dec. 5 (119) To the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
For Russell: Telegram from Crowder (text printed) recommending Cuban jurist.
551
Dec. 9 (158) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Haiti’s elimination of all German claims except those already allowed by Haitian courts.
552
Dec. 14 (160) From the High Commissioner in Haiti (tel.)
Announcement of organization of Claims Commission for liquidation of floating debt and all pecuniary claims against Haiti.
552
Dec. 15 (59) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Note from British Ambassador, December 8 (text printed) regarding acceptance of Haitian bonds in payment of British claims.
552

Reluctance of the Department of State to Sanction the Exercise of Jurisdiction by the Provost Courts in Cases Affecting Haitians

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Aug. 5 (48) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Attacks on President and other Government officials through newspapers, speeches, propaganda; and rumors of plot against their lives. Proclamation issued August 4 by High Commissioner with view to clearing up situation (text printed).
553
Aug. 28 (26) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Approval of action; desire to be consulted in future before any proclamations of political importance are issued.
555
Sept. 6 (60) From the High Commissioner in Haiti
Report that trial of provost cases has been completed and although finding was “guilty,” sentences were remitted and men released by order of President. Remarks on employment of provost courts in past and views on necessity for such courts. Navy Department’s authorization for their use (text printed); proclamation of May 26, 1921 (text printed).
555
Oct. 4 (40) To the High Commissioner in Haiti
Statement of policy as regards employment of provost courts by U. S. forces in occupation of Haiti; suggested prevention of propaganda in press by enactment of adequate laws for punishment of libel and their enforcement through civil courts.
559
[Page LX]

HONDURAS

Incursions of Revolutionary Bands Into Honduras

[Page LXI][Page LXII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 29 (13) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Telegram to U. S. Legation at Managua at President’s request (text printed) regarding preparations of Honduran political refugees on Nicaraguan frontier to invade Honduras, aided by local authorites; his request also for U. S. representations to Nicaragua.
561
Jan. 30 (5) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to make representations and request that every possible effort be made to prevent aid to conspirators against a neighboring country.
561
Jan. 30 (2) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Instructions to make representations and urge that every possible measure be taken to prevent aid to revolutionary activities in Honduras.
562
Jan. 31 (3) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Salvadoran reply that every precaution has been taken together with order for arrest of revolutionaries.
562
Feb. 2 (6) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions concerning proposed investigations by U. S. naval officer of conditions along frontiers in Honduras and Nicaragua.
563
Mar. 2 (41) From the Minister in Honduras
Itinerary of investigation officer, and facilities afforded him.
563
Mar. 9 (10) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Reported depredations on Honduran border towns by armed Honduran political refugees. Instructions to make urgent representations to Nicaragua to stop these activities and reconcentrate leaders.
564
Mar. 13 (8) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Nicaragua’s desire to cooperate, capturing and concentrating certain Honduran emigrados.
564
Mar. 25 (38) From the Minister in Nicaragua
Report by investigating officer that revolutionary movement in Honduras may assume serious proportions, also that local Nicaraguan officials are not actively opposing it.
565
Apr. 4 (39) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Martial law in Honduras. President’s request for U. S. warships, fearing invasion by political refugees from Salvador and Nicaragua.
565
Apr. 6 (17) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Report of flight of interned leaders, Ferrara and Leiva, and indications of movement of armed men around Esperanza.
565
Apr. 6 (40) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of victory of Government forces over Ferrara at Esperanza and elsewhere. Suggestion that Salvador be asked to capture and reconcentrate revolutionists, instead of aiding them as reported.
566
Apr. 7 (14) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Reported arrival of considerable number of Honduran Government forces on border. President’s charge that they have crossed border and attacked Honduran revolutionists in Nicaragua. His demand for explanation.
567
Apr. 8 (15) To the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Assumption that there is no need for U. S. warships, revolutionists having been defeated. Instructions.
567
Apr. 8 (13) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Instructions to express regret that Salvador has permitted Ferrara and Leiva to leave that country, also to urge importance of preventing use of Salvadoran territory to facilitate attacks on Honduras.
567
Apr. 10 (41) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Report of serious political situation in Salvador, Nicaragua, and Honduras and need for warship at Amapala. Fear of further attack by revolutionists from Salvadoran front. Capture of Leiva by Salvadoran forces.
568
Apr. 11 (20) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
President’s response to representations by capturing several revolutionist leaders; his belief that trouble is now ended.
568
May 4 (45) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
President’s request that Department ask Nicaragua to capture Funes, who is threatening Esteli with 300 troops.
569
June 10 (48) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Capture of Ferrara by Salvadoran forces and deportation to Mexico at request of Honduran President.
569
July 19 (24) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Account of depredations directed from Nicaraguan territory as base. Instructions to state it is U. S. expectation that necessary steps be taken to end such revolutionary activities, failure of which will be regarded as indication of unwillingness or inability on part of Nicaragua to perform obligations of a civilized government and as contrary to provisions of treaty of 1907.
(Repeated to Minister in Honduras.)
569
July 20 (57) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
President’s appreciation of prompt action taken with Nicaragua and decision not to sever diplomatic relations without first advising Department. No further trouble expected, situation being under control.
570
July 22 (37) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President’s expression of regret that lack of funds prevents his sending sufficient force to patrol border; assurance that every effort will be made by few troops there to capture revolutionists and especially Funes.
571
Aug. 1 (37) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Representations to Salvador similar to those sent Nicaragua in telegram no. 24, July 19.
571
Aug. 1 (63) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
President’s concern over revolutionary movement against Honduras said to have support of Salvadoran Government, purpose of which is to install pro-Mexican, anti-American conservative government, with like designs as to Salvador. His desire for election in both countries of presidents friendly to United States and Guatemala.
572
Aug. 8 From the Vice Consul at Puerto Cortez (tel.)
Reported capture of San Barbara by revolutionists and threat to capture other places, spreading panic. Inquiry concerning gunboat.
572
Aug. 9 (37) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to express disapproval of one Central American country interfering in political affairs of another, contrary to provisions of treaty of 1907. Probable meeting of Presidents of Honduras, Salvador, and Nicaragua to bring about peaceful relations.
572
Aug. 10 To the Vice Consul at Puerto Cortez (tel.)
Information that U. S. S. Galveston will arrive in two or three days.
573
Aug. 10 (74) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Salvadoran reply expressing surprise at tone of U. S. note and giving assurances of greater efforts to preserve neutrality on Honduran and Guatemalan borders.
573
Aug. 16 (38) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Confirmation of report that Guatemala is shipping arms to Honduras and encouraging revolutionary movements against Salvador. Instructions to renew representations.
574
Aug. 18 (66) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
President’s explanation as to occupation of Alsacia by Guatemalan soldiers and shipment of arms to Honduras; his asseveration of desire to avoid interference in domestic affairs of neighboring countries.
574
Aug. 30 (36) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to call attention to report of another incursion into Honduras by Funes, and to express U. S. expectation of his prompt arrest and trial should he return to Nicaragua, according to provisions of agreement of August 20. Inquiry as to attitude toward conference of three Presidents.
575
Sept. 16 (76) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Government’s overthrow of revolutionary movement headed by Funes, and control of situation. President’s request that the Tacoma remain for few days.
576
[Page LXIII]

HUNGARY

Revival of the Extradition Convention of July 3, 1856, and the Copyright Convention of January 30, 1912, Between the United States and the Former Austro-Hungarian Monarchy

Date and number Subject Page
1922 May 19 (24) To the Minister in Hungary (tel.)
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) regarding U. S. desire to revive extradition convention of July 3, 1856, and copyright convention of January 30, 1912, with former Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, benefits accruing under Treaty of Trianon, and secured by treaty with Hungary August 29, 1921. Instructions to deliver note on day of its date, which will be date of revival of agreements.
577
May 29 (29) From the Minister in Hungary (tel.)
Delivery of note relative to treaties on day of its date, May 27.
578

ITALY

Protests by the Italian Government Against Restrictions Upon Italian Immigration Into the United States

[Page LXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 24 From the Italian Ambassador
Protest against pending legislation restricting immigration by continuing to base national quotas under 3 percent law on census of 1910, which would result in discrimination between peoples of different nationalities, a violation of existing treaties; suggestion that passport be only element for determining nationality of alien and his assignment to quota.
579
Feb. 25 From the Italian Ambassador
Reiteration of points covered in his note of January 24, with an appeal to U. S. justice against computing quota on basis of census of 1910.
580
Apr. 1 To the Italian Ambassador
Opinion that proposed legislation on immigration contravenes no provisions of existing treaties and that restrictions are of general character and not discriminatory against Italy. Information that copies of his notes of January 24 and February 25 have been sent to Congress for consideration of chairmen of immigration committees of both Houses.
581
Apr. 11 From the Italian Ambassador
Renewed protest against placing quota on basis of 1910 census when highest Italian immigration developed between 1910 and 1914; charge of intentional discrimination, quoting Congressional Record in proof, and violation of both spirit and letter of treaty of commerce of 1871. Italy’s offer of cooperation through reciprocal agreement for equitable immigration service on basis of occupational selection.
582
May 18 To the Italian Ambassador
Reiteration of opinion that Immigration Act of May 19, 1921, does not violate treaty of 1871 nor do restrictions imposed appear to be discriminatory against Italy or any other country.
585
Sept. 13 (3464) From the Italian Chargé
Representations against impracticable nature of U. S. immigration law, which does not permit just and sure application; suggestion of amendment to make it workable; citation of cases where injustice has been done would-be immigrants.
585
Oct. 6 To the Italian Chargé
Information that method of determining nationality of alien for quota purposes is stipulated in act of Congress and adherence is mandatory; also that amendments to law will have consideration at appropriate time.
588
Dec. 2 (240) From the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Mussolini’s policy to favor increase of Italian immigration to the United States to aid unemployment in Italy, suggesting selection of emigrants to suit U. S. industrial needs, if necessary. Request for instructions.
589
Dec. 13 (185) To the Chargé in Italy (tel.)
Understanding of importance which Mussolini attaches to subject of Italian immigration to this country; promise to keep Chargé fully informed.
589

JAPAN

Cancelation of the Lansing Ishii Agreement of November 2, 1917

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Mar. 8 Message of President Harding to the Senate
Statement that Lansing-Ishii agreement of 1917 has no binding effect, either with respect to past or future, which is in any sense inconsistent with principles and policies explicitly declared in nine-power treaty; also that four-power treaty does not refer to China, hence does not directly bear on Lansing-Ishii agreement.
591
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, March 23, 1922
Discussion whether Lansing-Ishii notes could be considered dead.
593
May 4 To the Japanese Chargé
Unpublished protocol of understanding recorded at time of exchange of Lansing-Ishii notes (text printed); question whether protocol should be filed in accordance with resolution of Washington Conference (excerpt printed) to make public all agreements in force regarding China; or whether Japan will join United States in terminating Lansing-Ishii agreement.
595
Dec. 27 From the Japanese Embassy
Further explanations by Japan as to its position relative to China; its willingness to cancel Lansing-Ishii correspondence.
597
1923 Jan. 2 To the Japanese Chargé
Agreement that the two Governments consider Lansing-Ishii correspondence as canceled.
598
[Page LXV]

Convention Between the United States and Japan, February 11, 1922, Relating to Certain Pacific Islands Formerly in German Possession

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 11 From the Japanese Ambassador
Japan’s assurances, in connection with signing of convention with the United States, that usual comity will be extended to U. S. nationals and vessels in waters of Pacific islands under Japan’s mandate.
599
Feb. 11 To the Japanese Ambassador
U. S. engagement concerning extension of any commercial treaties applicable to Australia and New Zealand to mandated islands south of Equator; intention to request governments holding mandates to make reports to the United States similar to those required by Allied Governments.
599
Feb. 11 Convention between the United States of America and Japan
Understanding with regard to the rights of two Governments and their respective nationals in Pacific islands formerly German under mandate to Japan, especially the Island of Yap.
600

Ruling by the Department of Labor Holding Illegal the Entry of “Picture Brides” Into the United States

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Undated [Rec’d May 27] From the Japanese Embassy
Inquiry regarding Department of Labor ruling concerning “picture brides.”
604
July 17 To the Japanese Embassy
Decision by Department of Labor that proxy marriages cannot be recognized as valid for purposes of immigration laws and that ruling is applicable to all races and nationalities.
605

LIBERIA

Failure of the Loan Plan of 1921 to Receive the Sanction of the American Congress

[Page LXVI][Page LXVII][Page LXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 4 To President Harding
Memorandum (text printed) enumerating reasons why Congress should without delay make available to Liberia credit of 5 million dollars contemplated in loan plan.
606
Jan. 30 (4) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Message for President (text printed) expressing satisfaction that loan agreement has been approved by Liberian Legislature, adding that matter is pending in U. S. Congress.
611
Feb. 8 (20) From the Minister in Liberia
Transmission by Worley, General Receiver of Customs and Financial Adviser, of 8,500 pounds sterling within 6 days to fiscal agents as interest on Liberian loan; his inquiry as to amount needed for second coupon.
611
Feb. 21 (9) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to inform Government that resolution authorizing proposed loan to Liberia was introduced in Congress February 15.
612
Mar. 9 (32) From the Minister in Liberia
Worley’s confidential report relative to large orders for material and implements placed in England and United States on account of Liberian frontier force. Request for advice as to payment.
612
Mar. 16 (195) From the British Ambassador
Inquiry as to U. S. intentions regarding redemption of 1912 loan, in view of apparent alienation, in favor of new loan, of security already pledged for service of existing loan, interest payments of which are already in arrears.
613
Undated From the British Embassy
Calling attention to irregularity of payment of coupons of 1912 loan, due to Worley’s practice of allowing funds to accumulate in Liberia and failure to make remittances until round sum has accumulated.
614
Mar. 29 (142) To the Minister in Liberia
Instructions to bring to Worley’s attention recent complaints made to Department that he held collections of assigned revenues for unduly long periods, as proved by his recent remittance of 8,500 pounds within 6 days.
614
Apr. 5 To the British Ambassador
U. S. intention to facilitate redemption of bonds of 1912 loan as soon as arrangements can be made under new plan; desire that bondholders shall suffer no inconvenience.
615
Apr. 15 (16) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
From President: Advice that financial crisis confronts Government, limit of its credit with Bank of British West Africa having been reached; inquiry as to when loan plan may be expected to receive Congressional action.
616
Apr. 22 (147) To the Minister in Liberia
Instructions to Worley to investigate and, if report is true, to make representations on part of bondholders of 1912 loan against disbursements on account of frontier force, etc., while arrears of interest on loan remain unpaid.
616
May 12 (14) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to inform Government of passage by House of joint resolution authorizing 5-million-dollar credit to Liberia, and hope that Senate will take prompt action.
617
May 13 (18) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Intention of Liberian Treasurer, approved by Worley, to meet financial crisis by giving as collateral 10,000 pounds of German liquidated-property funds already pledged as security under 1921 loan agreement.
617
May 23 (17) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Request for data regarding financial situation, including floating debt, amount of internal revenues due and collected, etc.
618
May 31 (65) From the Minister in Liberia
Justification of action taken in use of German liquidated-property funds as security for loans. Note dated May 27 from Liberian Treasurer to Manager of Bank of British West Africa (text printed) authorizing transfer of above-mentioned funds.
618
June 5 (18) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to inform Government that Senate Finance Committee reported favorably to Senate on resolution to authorize loan to Liberia.
620
July 13 (23) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Disapproval of action of Minister and Worley in approving arrangement of May 27 with Bank of British West Africa. Instructions to make representations and state U. S. expectation of prompt restoration of funds on receipt of taxes and application of advances made therefrom to current expenses.
620
Aug. 1 (25) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Reasons for action taken in financial crisis.
622
Aug. 17 (26) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Importance of receiving data on financial situation already twice requested, also report on results of representations made to Government.
622
Sept. 7 (107) From the Minister in Liberia
Enumeration of reasons for action taken in financial crisis. Note dated August 25 from Liberian Acting Secretary of State (text printed) calling attention to U. S. inaction in impending financial crisis, U. S. implications and distrust, and impropriety of rebuking Liberian officials. Transmittal of financial information as requested (text printed).
623
Sept. 8 (30) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Imminence of another financial crisis unless expected revenues, not now being received to extent anticipated, materialize by October 1. Request for instructions.
631
Sept. 16 (28) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions, in case intimated crisis develops and bank asks further endorsement of Liberian pledge of German liquidation funds, to cable bank’s proposal to Department and await instructions.
631
Sept. 27 (33) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Information that collection of hut taxes has postponed crisis temporarily. Government’s desire to know status of loan bill.
632
Oct. 7 (30) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to inform Government that action on Liberian loan bill cannot be expected before latter part of December.
632
Dec. 8 (34) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to inform Government that there is no prospect of a U. S. loan and that Liberia should arrange desired financial aid from other sources. Intimation of interest of U. S. private bankers in loan to Liberia.
632
Dec. 14 (40) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Liberia’s inquiry whether failure of loan indicates withdrawal of U. S. diplomatic support and counsel; its inquiry also concerning private bankers mentioned.
633
Dec. 26 (36) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Assurances of U. S. friendly attitude toward Liberia and suggestion of appointment of agent to whom interested bankers may be referred for negotiations as to loan.
633

Steps Taken Toward Completing the Delimitation of the Franco-Liberian Boundary

[Page LXIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Nov. 8 From President King
Request for U. S. good offices with French Government in bringing to early and final settlement question of Franco-Liberian boundary delimitation; request also for competent assistant to aid Commissioner Daves in boundary survey.
634
Nov. 15 To President King
Reply stating that Department will be glad to use good offices with French Government for completing delimitation of boundary, and that matter of designating assistant to Daves will receive attention.
634
Dec. 3 (111) To the Ambassador in France
Instructions to request that work of demarcation on Franco-Liberian boundary be resumed and completed as soon as possible, and that spirit of liberality toward Liberia be observed.
634
1922 Jan. 5 (1109) From the Ambassador in France
French explanation that delay in proceeding with boundary delimitation was due to difficulty of finding competent expert willing to be sent up country; suggestion that Liberia insist upon appointment of French commissioner in order to force hand of French Ministry of Colonies.
635
Jan. 31 (5) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Instructions to suggest that Government urge France through its representative to appoint and send boundary commissioner to join Liberian representative in completing delimitation.
636
Apr. 19 (51) From the Minister in Liberia
Liberian reply, March 31 (text printed) that French Government has not yet been approached in matter of appointing commissioner, as Daves advises that best interests of Republic would not be served by urging immediate resumption of delimitation.
636
Dec. 15 (41) From the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Daves’ contract with Liberia to complete work of delimitation. Request for advice as to position fiscal agents will take should receivership pay expenses of boundary survey from assigned revenues.
637
Dec. 22 (35) To the Minister in Liberia (tel.)
Preparations of Daves to resume work on boundary survey; suggestion that Liberia ascertain directly from fiscal agents their position relative to payment of boundary survey expenses from assigned revenues.
638

MEXICO

Question of the Recognition of the Government of General Obregon by the United States

[Page LXX]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 25 (9) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Information that Department has been advised that Obregon will authorize signature of treaty of amity and commerce immediately after signing of two claims conventions, provided U. S. recognition is extended upon signing of first convention. Instructions to cable developments or proposals, but to avoid committing Department.
639
Feb. 1 (16) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Proposals made by Secretary of State to sign first claims convention, thereby recognizing Obregon government, the second claims convention to be signed immediately thereafter, and that after recognition Obregon will negotiate treaty of amity and commerce provided it contains nothing opposed to fundamental laws of Mexico.
639
Feb. 4 (14) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to inform Secretary of State that proposals cannot be entertained unless rights of U. S. citizens acquired prior to adoption of 1917 Constitution are adequately safeguarded, article 1 of treaty of amity and commerce having been drafted solely with this object in view.
640
Feb. 10 (4970) From the Chargé in Mexico
Note from Secretary of State, February 9 (text printed) reiterating proposals concerning signature of claims conventions and recognition, to be followed by negotiations for treaty of amity and commerce; and setting forth objections of legal and political character to articles 1 and 2 of draft treaty of amity and commerce.
641
Apr. 15 (2044) To the Chargé in Mexico
U. S. willingness to have claims conventions signed first provided it is clearly understood that signing of treaty of amity and commerce, with provisions previously agreed upon and put in draft form, shall follow without delay. Observations, in detail, on Mexican objections to provisions of draft treaty.
646
May 5 (5437) From the Chargé in Mexico
Note from Secretary of State, May 4 (text printed) taking exception to certain interpretations placed upon his previous note; maintaining previous position on treaty of amity and commerce.
652
May 15 (70) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to request elucidation of certain paragraph of Mexican note of May 4, which appears to propose a third convention to be substituted for draft treaty of amity and commerce; also specific information concerning Mexican political and administrative program relative to foreign interests referred to in same note.
660
May 25 (5560) From the Chargé in Mexico
Note from Secretary of State, May 24 (text printed) conveying corrected translation of questioned paragraph, which contains no mention of a third convention; and discussing at length political and administrative program relative to foreign interests which government has been developing.
660
July 12 From the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State
Message to Mexican Embassy, June 22 (text printed) stating the President and Secretary of State would be pleased to talk with Huerta should he come to Washington.
669
July 21 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State, of a Conference between the Secretary of State and the Mexican Secretary of Hacienda, July 18, 1922
Discussion of Mexican Supreme Court decisions in amparo cases; confiscation; bankers’ agreement; agrarian legislation; recognition; treaty of amity and commerce.
670
July 28 To the Chargé in Mexico
Contention that Mexican administrative and political program has not progressed to such binding action as could be regarded as a satisfactory substitute for the binding engagements which the United States desires for the protection of the rights of its citizens in Mexico.
674
Aug. 15 (2185) To the Chargé in Mexico
Press release issued by Department August 10 (text printed) concerning four decisions of Mexican Supreme Court in amparo cases.
680

Attitude of Other Governments Toward Recognition of the Obregon Government

[Page LXXI]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 2 (27) From the Minister in Norway
Norway’s formal recognition on January 14 of Obregon as President of Mexico for business reasons and in view of recognition by Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands.
682
Apr. 3 From the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State
Japanese inquiry as to correctness of press statement of U. S. intention to recognize Mexican Government; reply advising that U. S. position has not changed since Department’s public statement of June 8, 1921.
683
June 7 (58) From the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Arrival in Poland of Mexican Chargé at Paris, where it is expected he will make appeal for recognition of his Government. Request for instructions.
683
June 9 (57) To the Minister in Poland (tel.)
Instructions to state that Department would regret to see Poland abandon its position of waiting for U. S. recognition, and to add that Poland will be promptly notified of any change of U. S. policy.
683
Aug. 7 The Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State, to the Acting Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs
Cuban Chargé’s inquiry concerning U. S. intention to recognize Mexico, adding that Cuba’s policy is same as that of the United States; response that Cuba will be informed in case of change in U. S. policy.
684
Aug. 29 (63) From the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Request that Foreign Minister be reassured that U. S. recognition of Mexico is not imminent, and that Belgium will be notified beforehand according to promise, if, and when, recognition is contemplated.
684
Aug. 31 (48) To the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Instructions to assure Belgium that U. S. recognition of Mexico is not imminent, and that Belgium will be notified when such is contemplated.
685

Agreement Between the Mexican Secretary of Hacienda and the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico, Respecting Mexican Foreign Obligations

Date and number Subject Page
1922 May 16 From the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Advice of Huerta’s intended arrival in New York June 2 to confer with committee; Lamont’s departure from London, accompanied by representatives of British and French sections of committee, to attend conferences with Huerta.
685
July 7 From the Alternate Chairman of the International Committee of Bankers on Mexico
Agreement between Huerta and committee signed June 16 (text printed) formulating plan for service of Mexico’s external obligations and National Railways debt together with certain internal loans.
686
[Page LXXII]

Adjustment and Extension of the Arrangement of 1921 Between the Oil Companies and the Mexican Government Regarding Taxation

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 23 From the Consul in Charge at Mexico City (tel.)
Decree effective February 21, providing that export duties on petroleum may be paid in Mexican gold or bonds of public debt as may be determined.
692
Apr. 29 (5407) From the Chargé in Mexico
Conference in Mexico City between Huerta and committee of oil executives.
693
May 11 From the President of the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey
Account of conferences at Mexico City between Huerta and committee of oil executives, April 24 to May 3: agreement regarding permanent basis for imposition of taxes; inability to agree on plan for further development of Mexican petroleum resources.
693
May 26 From the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State
Information that H. N. Branch, local representative of Mexican Petroleum Co., has received advice that Huerta will be in New York on June 2.
696
July 10 From the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State
Branch’s desire for conference with Secretary in connection with Huerta’s proposal that petroleum companies lend Mexico 25 million dollars in the nature of an advance on petroleum taxes to be redeemed within at least 5 years, concession being offered by way of reduction in taxes.
696
July 11 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State, of a Conversation between the Secretary of State and H. N. Branch, Representing Oil Companies Operating in Mexico
Branch’s restatement and elaboration of Huerta’s proposal; Secretary’s statement that United States does not find itself in a position to recognize existing Mexican regime and consequently cannot approve loan.
697
July 11 From the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State
Branch’s opinion that committee will refuse loan to Mexico.
699
July 22 From the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State
Huerta’s demand on petroleum companies for export taxes for shipments of petroleum from Mexico since January last, which is pledged to payment of interest on Mexican debt. Indications of falling off of production taxes which may increase tax rate.
699
Nov. 7 From the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State
Question of whether export tax on petroleum should be paid in New York without giving petroleum companies benefit of exchange, or paid in Mexican gold in Mexico.
700
[Page LXXIII]

Mexican Charges of American Interference With Oil Legislation

[Page LXXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Oct. 12 (6420) From the Chargé in Mexico
Transmittal of latest draft of proposed organic law on petroleum, as received indirectly from Huerta. Conversation, October 10, with Secretary of State, who stated that Department’s observations and comments on draft might be helpful to Mexican authorities.
700
Oct. 26 (6520) From the Chargé in Mexico
Secretary of State’s request that Chargé furnish him copy of draft organic law on petroleum for comparison with official text; and note, October 21 (text printed) promising to furnish Chargé with copy of law as soon as it is presented to Congress.
701
Oct. 27 From the Chief of the Division of Mexican Affairs, Department of State
Chargé’s letter, dated October 19 (excerpt printed) stating that text of draft law is subject to many changes and that he has requested Secretary of State to furnish final official text; his conversation, October 18, with Secretary of State, who stated that Mexico would welcome honest criticism of proposed law.
702
Nov. 11 (169) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Authorization to state that draft petroleum bill submitted is inadequate in matter of protection of lawfully acquired rights of U. S. citizens.
702
Nov. 17 (122) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Reply of Secretary of State that neither he nor Obregon had any previous knowledge of draft organic law in possession of Chargé; that Obregon had not yet submitted to Chamber of Deputies any project relative to matter in reference; and that dignity and sovereignty of the nation preclude previous censorship of its legislation by foreign governments.
703
Nov. 18 (124) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Publication of correspondence between Chargé and Secretary of State on draft of organic law on petroleum, as a grave international incident; political speeches in Chamber of Deputies in support of Obregon’s stand on what is termed U. S. attempt to censor proposed Mexican legislation.
703
Nov. 20 (171) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to invite attention to U. S. official press statement issued November 18 (text printed) disavowing any intention to interfere with Mexico’s internal affairs and stating that Mexico’s confiscatory policy stands in way of U. S. recognition and international intercourse; understanding that comments on draft bill had been invited.
703
Nov. 21 To Certain Diplomatic Representatives (tel.)
Transmittal of Department’s press statement of November 18 to be used at discretion of representatives, in view of Mexico’s public charge of U. S. interference in internal affairs.
705
Nov. 22 From the First Secretary of the Mexican Embassy
Statement by Mexican Foreign Office (text printed) denying that it had furnished Chargé with petroleum bill or had requested comments thereon, accepting, however, U. S. statement of no intention of trespassing on Mexico’s sovereignty, and calling the case closed.
705
Nov. 25 (2283) To the Chargé in Mexico
Instructions to advise Secretary of State orally that he has no desire to continue discussion, but that it seems necessary to invite attention to his understanding from conversations with Secretary of State on October 10 and 18 that Department’s observations or comment on draft might be helpful to Mexican authorities, and that they would welcome honest criticism.
706
Dec. 6 (6707) From the Chargé in Mexico
Report on interview with Secretary of State in which Chargé called attention to understanding from conversations of October 10 and 18.
707

Continued Protests by the United States Against Agrarian Measures in Mexico

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 27 (13) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Publication of Executive decree regulating issuance and amortization of bonds of public agrarian debt, based on article 7 of law of 1920, and providing that value of expropriated land be fixed at registered tax valuation plus 10 percent.
708
Jan. 30 (11) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to make representations relative to reported provision of decree as to payment for expropriated land.
708
Mar. 6 (1996) To the Chargé in Mexico
Instructions to make representations concerning provisions of Executive decree of February 7 with respect to paragraph 1 of article 27 of the 1917 Constitution.
709

Suit Brought by the Oliver Trading Company Against the Government of Mexico in United States District Court in New York

[Page LXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Oct. 27 To the Governor of the State of New York (tel.)
Advice concerning attachment of property of International Railways of Mexico and official property of Mexican Financial Agency and consulate general in New York, causing the suspension of consulate’s functions, in suit of Oliver Trading Co. instituted in Supreme Court of New York against Mexican Government. Opinion that Mexican consul general should be accorded inviolability, even though he has received no exequatur. Request that law officer of State be directed to take matter up with court with view to release of official property of consulate general.
709
Oct. 27 From the Governor of the State of New York (tel.)
Reply that attachment of property of consulate general has been referred to attorney general, who will ascertain whether Department’s desire can be accomplished.
711
Oct. 27 From the Deputy Attorney General of the State of New York (tel.)
Willingness of Oliver Trading Co. to vacate attachment pertaining to property of Mexican consulate general in New York; and their denial that attachment was of such character as to necessitate suspension of consulate’s functions.
711
Oct. 27 (115) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Publication of Foreign Office statement that if protest to Department against action of Oliver Trading Co. is not effective, consulate in New York will be closed.
711
Oct. 31 Memorandum by Mr. Joseph R. Baker, of the Office of the Solicitor for the Department of State
Conference between Department officials and legal representatives of Obregon Administration and New York bankers dealing in Mexican bonds regarding attachments in suit of Oliver Trading Co. and character of remedial action which may be taken by Department.
712
Oct. 30 Mexican Executive Decree
Suspending commercial relations with the State of New York.
714
Oct. 31 To the Attorney General of the State of New York
Confirmation of telegram to Governor of New York (text printed) requesting that a law officer of the State be directed to appear before Supreme Court in suit of Oliver Trading Co. and present statement upon authority of State Department (text printed) that nonrecognition of Mexican Government does not affect recognition of Mexican State itself.
715
Nov. 4 To the Governor of the State of New York
Advice concerning Mexican request for U. S. good offices in raising order of attachment on property of Financial Agency, International Railways of Mexico, and deposits of Mexican funds. Request that same action be taken as in case of consulate property.
715
Nov. 14 From the Governor of the State of New York
Information that case of Oliver Trading Co. has been removed from State to Federal courts and that further intervention by attorney general will not be necessary.
716
Nov. 20 From the Governor of the State of New York
Assurance that every courtesy will be extended to Faustino Roel, newly appointed consul general of Mexico at New York City, in accordance with Department’s policy.
716
Dec. 14 From the First Secretary of the Mexican Embassy
Information that consul general at New York has been designated to appear before U. S. judges in case of Oliver Trading Co., to confirm Mexican protests that judges have no jurisdiction over case in which Government appears as defendant.
717
[Page LXXVI]

Termination of the Embargo on the Shipment of Arms From the United States to Mexico

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Mar. 3 (32) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Instructions to seek Obregon’s views in regard to terminating or reimposing arms embargo, in view of the repeal of U. S. legislation forming legal basis for arms embargo resolution of 1919 and the necessity for issuance of new proclamation for continuance of embargo.
717
Mar. 6 (32) From the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Obregon’s statement that present peaceful conditions in Mexico do not warrant renewal of arms embargo decree.
718
Mar. 7 (34) To the Chargé in Mexico (tel.)
Public announcement that embargo will not be renewed at this time.
719

MOROCCO

Protest by the United States Against an Exclusive Concession for the Construction and Operation of a Port at Tangier

[Page LXXVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Dec. 22 (123) To the Ambassador in France
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) protesting against exclusive concession granted June 2, 1921, to “Société Internationale pour le Développement de Tanger” for construction and operation of port at Tangier, as derogatory to provisions of Act of Algeciras, which assures to U. S. nationals equal opportunity in all public enterprises in Shereefian Empire.
720
1922 Jan. 19 (1239) From the Ambassador in France
French reply, January 18 (text printed) stating that Tangier port concession was granted pursuant to provisions of treaties in force; that terms of concession would be modified so as to provide for public bidding; and that regime of open door remains in force in Morocco.
721
July 13 (203) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
U. S. attitude toward Tangier port concession as expressed in conversation with French Ambassador on July 10.
(Instructions to repeat to Paris, Madrid, and Tangier.)
723
Sept. 21 (432) To the Chargé in France
Brief review of U. S. position in Tangier port concession and correspondence exchanged; decision to communicate with other powers signatory to Act of Algeciras. Instructions to communicate information to Foreign Office and request French attitude.
723
Oct. 17 (406) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information concerning Spanish and British protests; Spanish Ambassador’s request that United States associate itself with these protests.
731
Oct. 19 (324) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to explain to Spanish Ambassador that bases of positions of Spain and United States are not sufficiently similar to warrant joint representations to France.
731
Oct. 20 (227) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Transmittal of copy of Department’s instructions of September 21 for presentation to Vizier at Tangier with information that negotiations have now been transferred to France. Purport will also be conveyed to diplomatic representatives at Washington of France, Great Britain, Spain, Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and Sweden.
732
Nov. 3 (445) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French reply, dated October 28, referring to Franco-German agreement of 1911, which has been applied for 11 years without protest; also to rights in Morocco relinquished by Germany as reserved to France and Morocco in accord with Versailles Treaty; France’s expectation that U. S. Legation will be instructed to cease opposition to concession.
732
Nov. 3 (357) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information that French reply to Spanish protest states France is unable, or unwilling, to influence Sultan of Morocco to amend plans for adjudication of contract on November 9. Instructions, if similar reply is received to U. S. protest, to call attention to representations and reserve all U. S. rights in premises.
733
Nov. 4 (361) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Instructions to reply to French Government in sense already transmitted, adding that United States obviously cannot instruct agent at Tangier to cease opposition to port concession.
734
Nov. 4 (21) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Information regarding status of negotiations; U. S. refusal to accept French contention that by failing to protest in one or more instances, the United States has waived its right to protest in present instance.
734
Nov. 9 From the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Published announcement of postponement of port adjudication until further notice. British report that port adjudication has been postponed until after Lausanne Conference.
735
Nov. 11 (22) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (tel.)
Postponement attributed by French Government to financial reasons. Instructions.
735
Nov. 11 (370) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information concerning British report that port adjudication has been postponed until after Lausanne Conference.
735
[Page LXXVIII]

Insistence by the United States Upon the Jurisdiction of Its Consular Courts Over American Protégés in Morocco

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 3 (713) To the Ambassador in France
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) recounting circumstances of arrest of U. S. protégé Allal Ben El-Mamoon, and his trial and condemnation by court martial carried out by French authorities in Morocco; conveying Department’s confirmation of representations made by U. S. agent at Tangier, protest against action in violation of treaties, and request for release and surrender of U. S. protégé to U. S. consular authorities in Morocco, since proclamation of martial law cannot in absence of U. S. consent confer upon French military tribunals jurisdiction over U. S. protégés.
736
Feb. 8 (2127) From the Ambassador in France
French note, February 5, 1921 (text printed) declining to comply with U. S. request, on grounds that according to principles of international law an army of occupation must provide its own security, that absence of agreement on part of United States does not prevent application of martial law, that by recognizing French protectorate in Morocco United States has in advance acquiesced in all necessary military measures, and that British and French have agreed in Morocco and in Egypt that capitulatory justice is waived in favor of military jurisdiction.
739
Dec. 29 (129) To the Ambassador in France
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) renewing request for surrender of U. S. protégé to U. S. consular authorities, while maintaining that military jurisdiction should be extended only in cases where safety of army of occupation is endangered and that in recognizing French protectorate United States did not relinquish capitulatory rights.
741
1922 Jan. 24 (206) To the Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier
Receipt of agent’s report that he has declined to render executory against U. S. protégé a judgment forwarded by French Resident General. Department’s preference to refrain from making comment.
745
May 26 (304) To the Ambassador in France
Instructions to express gratification at remission of sentence which remained to be served by U. S. protégé, and to inquire whether France intends to offer amends for his long detention.
745
June 21 (2027) From the Ambassador in France
Report that France does not intend to make amends to U. S. protégé for long detention; that sentence was remitted out of friendship for U. S. Government and does not imply any acquiescence in U. S. point of view.
746
Oct. 17 (457) To the Chargé in France
Note for Foreign Office (text printed) expressing hope that further consideration will be given to U. S. representations regarding violation of U. S. treaty rights with reference to this U. S. protégé and that Government will offer him suitable amends.
746
Dec. 26 (2745) From the Ambassador in France
French reply, December 23, maintaining view that original condemnation of U. S. protégé was in order, that pardon was granted as act of courtesy to U. S. Government, and that no indemnity can be considered.
747
[Page LXXIX]

NICARAGUA

Assistance of the United States Legation in Halting a Revolutionary Outbreak at Managua

Date and number Subject Page
1922 May 21 (31) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Report of revolutionary outbreak at Managua and capture of Loma fortress; Legation’s intervention and offer of protection to President and Cabinet; conference at Legation by representatives of both sides ending in agreement to surrender fortress. Request for approval of action taken.
748
May 23 (21) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Approval of action taken in halting revolutionary outbreak.
749
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the Nicaraguan Minister, May 25, 1922
Nicaraguan Minister’s expression of appreciation of action taken by U. S. Minister in quelling revolution in Nicaragua; Secretary’s expression of approval of action.
749
Aug. 26 (34) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions not to intervene in internal disturbances except in emergency which actually threatens safety of Legation or Legation Guard, without definite instructions from Department; and not to permit use of marine camp as base for Government operations.
750

PANAMA

Proposals for the Negotiation of a New Treaty Between the United States and Panama

Date and number Subject Page
1921 Jan. 7 (775) To the Minister in Panama
Request for available information as to what modifications of agreements now in force are desired by Panama in negotiating for new treaty.
751
Apr. 2 From the Panaman Secretary of Government and Justice on Special Mission
Enumeration of certain difficulties which have arisen in connection with execution of treaty of 1903, as interpreted by U. S. authorities in the Isthmus, to detriment of Panama; desire for new treaty or protocol of understanding as to terms of existing treaty.
751
1922 Sept. 1 To President Harding
Recommendation that Congress be requested to authorize the abrogation of the Taft Agreement, the various Executive orders comprising the agreement having been ratified and confirmed by Canal Act of August 24, 1912.
761
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the Panaman Minister, October 5, 1922
Necessity of Congressional action to abrogate Taft Agreement, after which negotiations can be taken up with Panama for suitable agreement. Minister’s intention to communicate this procedure to his Government, to clear up misunderstanding.
762
[Page LXXX]

POLAND

Attitude of the Department of State Toward the Sale of Polish Land Mortgage Bonds in the United States

Date and number Subject Page
1922 June 16 From the Secretary of Commerce
Memorandum (text printed) with suggested courses of action State Department might take regarding sale of Polish land mortgage bonds in United States.
764
July 24 To the Secretary of Commerce
Opinion that Department would be going outside its sphere of action if it undertook to intervene in transactions such as sale of Polish land mortgage bonds.
765

PORTUGAL

Discourtesy to the Portuguese Flag at Providence, R. I., and Expressions of Regret by the Governor of the State

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the Portuguese Minister, March 9, 1922
Information concerning incident at Providence, R. I., where policeman hauled down Portuguese flag at vice consulate; protest by vice consul and the Mayor’s apology. Suggestion that Governor also convey regret, in view of widespread resentment of Portuguese in country.
767
Mar. 11 To the Governor of Rhode Island
Suggestion that Governor’s aide be sent to Portuguese vice consulate to express regret, in view of widespread comment among Portuguese, notwithstanding explanations and regrets having already been offered by Mayor of Providence.
767
Mar. 30 To the Portuguese Minister
Information that Governor will send his secretary and military aides to express regret.
768
Apr. 4 From the Portuguese Minister
Expression of gratification at Secretary’s intervention, and message of appreciation to Governor of Rhode Island for action taken.
768

RUSSIA

Failure of the Genoa Conference to Attain a General Understanding Between Russia and the Other Powers

[Page LXXXI][Page LXXXII][Page LXXXIII][Page LXXXIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Apr. 11 (1) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Report on opening session of Genoa Conference, and attitude of the various powers toward Russian problem. Boastful character of Chicherin’s speech.
770
Apr. 24 (11) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Possibility of separate treaties with Soviet Russia if conference agreement is blocked; Soviet policy of refusing recognition of former concessions, claiming them under nationalization of property.
771
May 2 To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Instructions to investigate report that Royal Dutch Shell has concluded arrangements with Soviet delegates for concessions in Russia.
772
May 2 (19) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Drafting of Allied note to Soviet representatives providing for recognition only after period of probation, insisting upon payment of pre-war debts, restoration of property, etc. Prospect of Soviet refusal to accept. Rumor of secret negotiations for oil concessions, which would infringe upon Nobel oil properties.
772
May 3 Memorandum by the Economic Adviser of the Department of State
Summary of oil situation in Russia, particularly as affecting Standard Oil-Nobel properties.
773
May 3 (21) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Conviction that oil negotiations are taking place, in spite of British and Soviet denials. Recommendation that occasion be used to express to British Government U. S. faith that bargains with Soviet which infringe U. S. rights will not receive aid or countenance from Government, even when technically not concluded by British officials.
774
May 4 (22) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
British delegate’s denial that Soviet–Dutch Shell agreement has been signed; Soviet delegate’s admission of such negotiations.
775
May 4 To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Instructions to inquire discreetly into matter of oil negotiations; authorization personally and informally to receive Soviet delegate, if approached.
775
May 4 To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain precise terms of reported oil agreement between Soviets and Dutch Shell and its effects on rights of U. S. company. Authorization to make clear expectation that U. S. interests will not be jeopardized.
775
May 4 (20) From the Ambassador in Italy
Meeting of Genoa Conference; note of Associated Powers to Soviet delegates, May 2 (text printed) regarding restoration of Russia, with certain conditions as regards propaganda, recognition of public debts, liability for claims, etc. Refusal of Belgian and French delegates to sign, objecting to vague terms in clause 7 regarding prohibition of transfer to third parties of properties in Russia formerly owned by foreigners.
776
May 5 From the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey
Information regarding agreement for monopoly of sale of all Russian oil by Soviets and Shell group as equal partners, which would infringe Standard Oil rights in arrangement with Nobel group. Request for assistance and recommendation of U. S. protest against Soviet scheme.
786
May 6 (31) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Intention not to see Soviet delegate until after Soviet Government has replied to Allied memorandum. Report that present status seems satisfactory and U. S. interests less endangered than Paris reports indicate.
788
May 6 To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Authorization to state that Department’s position as set forth in its telegram of May 4, 7 p.m., applies also to agreement contemplated in clause 7 of Allied memorandum.
788
May 7 (35) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Report of representations made as instructed. Conversation with Lloyd George who again denied agreement by Dutch Shell, citing danger of rush for private agreements should Genoa Conference fail, which seems probable; proposal of a commission to study and report on reconstruction needs and protection of foreign interests, with agreement not to enter separate deals with Soviets while commission is at work.
789
May 10 (39) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Redrafting of clause 7 of Allied memorandum, found by all to be unsatisfactory. Report on U. S. representations regarding clause 7 made as instructed.
791
May 11 (42) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
European press statement that U. S. policy regarding Soviet Government coincides with that of Allies, interpreted to mean U. S. change of attitude toward Genoa Conference.
791
May 11 (4) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Authorization to state that there has been no change in U. S. attitude toward Soviet regime as set forth in note declining participation in Genoa Conference.
791
May 11 (5) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Authorization to intimate to Allied delegates, in case Genoa negotiations fail, that U. S. Government is always ready to exchange views through diplomatic channels in order to determine future course of action.
792
May 12 From the Ambassador in Italy
Soviet reply, May 11, to note of Allied Powers (text printed) criticizing proposed methods for reconstruction of Russia, stressing need of credit for restoring industry and agriculture, raising objections categorically to clauses of note, and consenting to mixed committee of conference to work out reciprocal plan for solving financial difficulties.
792
May 14 (50) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Informal French proposal (text printed) for U. S. representation on a proposed committee of experts to be chosen by different governments, with authority to call in Russians when it is desired to secure information. Recommendation to accept provided there is no implied obligation to do more than advise.
804
May 14 (51) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Conversation with Lloyd George regarding French proposal, and probability and advantage of U. S. acceptance.
804
May 14 (9) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
U. S. conditional acceptance of French proposal.
805
May 15 (53) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Formal presentation by Italian Foreign Minister of invitation to join proposed commission to meet at The Hague June 15. Reasons for not recommending acceptance, advising, however, that intimation be given that participation will be considered in case conference has definite proposals.
805
May 15 (54) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Conference proposal for commission of experts to meet with like Russian commission at The Hague for further consideration of outstanding differences relating to debts, private property, and credits, observing status quo until questions are settled; invitation to the United States to participate.
806
May 15 (10) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Advice that instructions of May 4, 11 p.m., cannot be acted upon, as invitation is entirely inconsistent with French proposal. Intention to reply to invitation shortly.
807
May 15 (11) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Note to Italian Foreign Minister (text printed) refusing to participate in meeting at The Hague, proposals being considered as lacking in definiteness, in view of Soviets’ memorandum of May 11; willingness, however, to join in arranging for inquiry by experts into economic situation in Russia and necessary remedies.
807
May 16 (12) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Inquiry regarding apparent difference of policy between Poincaré and French delegate at Genoa, views of former concurring with views of U. S. Government.
808
May 16 (56) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Presentation of U. S. conditional reply to French proposals. French delegate’s opinion that French proposals and the Hague proposal are substantially the same. Suggestion for an expression of assent to the continuing of exchange of views.
809
May 16 (57) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
British request for consultation at Washington between British Ambassador and Secretary of State regarding means by which U. S. views may be met.
810
May 17 (58) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Confirmation of misunderstanding between French delegate and Poincaré, explanations being demanded by Paris; French delegate’s assurances that experts are not to have diplomatic or political status or authority to bind their governments.
810
May 17 (13) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Reiteration of position regarding French proposals and the Hague proposal; intention not to continue fruitless discussions or participate in conference which furnishes stage for declarations ill-adjusted to objects sought; conditions under which United States would participate in direct expert inquiry. Instructions to make U. S. attitude clear.
(Instructions to repeat to London, Paris, and Brussels for information.)
811
May 18 (60) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Krassin’s desire for interview, promising confidential communication. Request for instructions.
812
May 18 (14) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
No objections to receiving Krassin unofficially.
813
May 18 (61) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Communication of U. S. position to delegates, leaving no room for misunderstanding.
813
May 19 (64) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Perfunctory ending of Genoa Conference; Soviet delegates rebuked by Lloyd George for their memorandum of May 11.
813
May 22 (77) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Krassin’s expression of Soviet confidence in the United States and desire for U. S. recognition and assistance, giving assurances of restoration or restitution for U. S. private property and most-favored-nation treatment.
813
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of an Interview with the French Ambassador, May 26, 1922
Virtual agreement between U. S. and French positions respecting meeting at The Hague. Ambassador’s suggestion that the two Governments work out concrete plan for expert inquiry and submit it to other governments. Secretary’s desire to give suggestion further consideration.
815
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of an Interview with the French Ambassador, May 27, 1922
Further discussion of French suggestion. Secretary’s statement that it would be unwise for United States to join with French Government or make an independent counterproposal which might be construed as designed to frustrate the Hague enterprise.
816

Pledge by the Western Powers at the Hague Conference and by the United States Not to Countenance Infringements by Their Respective Nationals Upon Private Foreign Rights in Russia

[Page LXXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 June 16 (38) To the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.)
Instructions to keep Government informed regarding negotiations taking place at The Hague, acting merely as diplomatic representative at The Hague.
818
July 13 (64) From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.)
Report on failure of conference due to attitude of Russians on debts and private property; negotiations by private interests for concessions; hope of French delegation to have resolution adopted by non-Russian delegations agreeing not to countenance infringement by their respective nationals upon private foreign rights in Russia.
818
July 14 (65) From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.)
Inquiry by French and Belgian delegations as to how proposed agreement would be viewed by United States; possibility of extending agreement to include property confiscated from U. S. citizens.
820
July 14 (48) To the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.)
Hope that non-Russian delegates are not contemplating inviting United States at this time to participate in agreement. Instructions to make clear that United States considers it would be neither helpful nor desirable to take part in extension of Hague deliberations.
820
July 15 (49) To the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.)
Instructions to give assurance that this Government will not countenance any arrangements with Soviets by U. S. citizens which would jeopardize rights of nationals of other countries, and that same policy is expected of other interested Governments.
(Substance sent to Ambassadors in Belgium, France, and Great Britain for respective Foreign Offices.)
821
July 15 (47) From the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Information concerning Belgian initiative in having proposed agreement inserted in conference report and support received from French, Dutch, and Italian delegates, the British hesitating because of lack of representation of United States and Germany. Belgian Government’s request for U. S. support.
821
July 19 (68) From the Chargé in the Netherlands (tel.)
Delegates’ purpose to pass agreement in conference before its adjournment. Suggestion of psychological effect of a public statement of U. S. attitude.
(Footnote: Department’s release to press July 20 of instructions of July 15 to its Chargé in the Netherlands.)
822
July 27 (1042) From the Chargé in the Netherlands
Resolution adopted in conference (text printed) containing noninfringement clause, deemed to be a deterrent to oil agreements; unfavorable attitude of British delegation.
823
July 27 (52) From the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Memorandum from Foreign Minister (text printed) requesting U. S. approval of conditions set forth in three reports of subcommissions of credits, private property, and debts, as adopted by non-Russian delegations at Conference.
824
Aug. 17 (47) To the Ambassador in Belgium (tel.)
Recognition of importance of principles expressed in reports in question; decision, however, that no further U. S. statement is necessary in view of former declarations and fact that the United States was not party to conference.
825
[Page LXXXVI]

American Proposal to Send an Economic Mission to Russia

[Page LXXXVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 July 14 From the Secretary of Commerce
Inquiry whether Secretary of State is inclined to favor sending technical mission to Russia to study economic situation.
825
July 15 To the Secretary of Commerce
Favorable attitude toward sending of technical mission to Russia.
826
July 24 (102) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Instructions to discuss possibility of sending U. S. commission of experts to study and report on economic conditions in Russia, provided Soviet authorities do not intend to allow an international commission of same nature to enter Russia.
826
July 28 (148) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Opinion, based on discussions with leaders of all shades of opinion, that committee of experts could not supply information of political nature most needed and that U. S. best policy would be to remain inactive for perhaps one year longer.
827
Aug. 1 (150) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Conversation with Krassin and Chicherin, in which they state unofficially that no international committee of investigation would be permitted and that U. S. technical commission would be welcomed.
829
Aug. 29 (173) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Letter from Chicherin, August 28 (text printed) stating officially that Russian Government will allow U. S. businessmen to enter Russia to conduct negotiations relative to concessions, trade, and other economic questions, provided similar Russian commission is permitted to enter the United States.
830
Aug. 29 (115) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Decision not to press matter of investigating committee but to let proposal come from Moscow authorities.
831
Aug. 30 (116) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Instructions to inform Chicherin orally that United States might give favorable consideration to sending commission of experts into Russia; but that United States could not discuss negotiations regarding economic and political matters or permit sending of Soviet trade delegation to United States. Press statement (text printed) regarding sending of economic commission to Russia.
831
Sept. 2 (176) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Interview with Chicherin in which Ambassador presented U. S. refusal to entertain reciprocity suggestion or to consider question of negotiations; Chicherin’s promise to obtain attitude of Soviet authorities should United States give favorable consideration to sending commission of experts to Russia.
832
Sept. 16 (187) From the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Statement presented by Chicherin (text printed) conveying Russian desire for resumption of commercial relations with United States; refusing, however, to admit U. S. committee of experts as long as United States declines to admit Russian committee of experts. Ambassador’s suggestion that United States make public acknowledgment, in view of publicity given statement.
832
Sept. 18 (122) To the Ambassador in Germany (tel.)
Public announcement of termination of matter of economic mission to Russia, in view of Soviet refusal.
834
Dec. 11 (87) From the Special Mission at Lausanne (tel.)
Intimations received indirectly from Chicherin of desire for reopening negotiations for unofficial U. S. commission to Russia to obtain information, etc. Ambassador Child’s opinion that only result would be increased Soviet propaganda and prestige at Lausanne.
834
Dec. 12 (43) To the Special Mission at Lausanne (tel.)
Belief that question of commission to Russia should be carefully avoided at Lausanne.
835

Appeal to President Harding on Behalf of Tikhon, Patriarch of the Russian Church, on Trial Before a Soviet Tribunal

Date and number Subject Page
1922 May 15 From the Russian Ambassador
Letter dated May 12 to President Harding from Archbishop Alexander of Russian Church in America enclosing appeal from church hierarchy on behalf of Tikhon, Patriarch of Russian Church, about to be placed on trial in Moscow charged with resisting requisition of church treasures by Soviets (texts printed).
835
May [17] To President Harding
Transmittal of letter from Archbishop Alexander enclosing appeal, adding that considerable number of such petitions have been received in Department; opinion that nothing can be done by this Government.
839
May 20 From President Harding
Opinion that nothing can be done about church appeal except to acknowledge receipt of petition.
840

Japanese Evacuation of the Mainland of Siberia and the Union of the Far Eastern Republic With Soviet Russia

[Page LXXXVIII][Page LXXXIX][Page XC][Page XCI][Page XCII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 5 From the Chief of the Division of Russian Affairs, Department of State
Visit from the Foreign Minister of Priamur Provisional Government at Vladivostok, who presented credentials and was told that information regarding situation in eastern Siberia would be gladly yet informally received; discussion of alleged Franco-Japanese understanding respecting Siberia and agreement between Japanese military representatives and Semenov.
840
Jan. 26 (13) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s reiteration of declaration made at Washington that Japanese forces would be withdrawn from Vladivostok when stable conditions have been reestablished. Reports from Vladivostok indicating, however, that Japanese military command there intend to complicate conditions so as to make it necessary to retain troops in Siberia and set up governmental authority.
841
Feb. 7 (15) To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Instructions for Caldwell to return to Tokyo as Japanese Secretary and for Thomas to remain at Chita, latter to be informed that Major Faymonville is en route to Chita.
842
Feb. 10 (26) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Caldwell: Enumeration of demands presented January 19 by the Japanese delegates at Dairen; demands unacceptable to Russians since they are essentially the same as those presented in December 1921; suspension of negotiations.
843
Feb. 17 (29) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Vladivostok: Report that Kappel troops forced to retire before superior numbers of Red forces; apparent anxiety in Japanese Army.
844
Mar. 1 From the Chairman of the Special Trade Delegation of the Far Eastern Republic to the United States
Note dated February 10 from Foreign Minister of Far Eastern Republic to Japanese Foreign Minister (text printed) protesting against Japanese activity in territory of Far Eastern Republic inconsistent with alleged policy of territorial integrity, nonintervention, and equal opportunity for all nations; citation of specific acts of hostility.
844
Mar. 1 (35) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Telegram from Thomas at Chita (text printed) transmitting Foreign Minister’s request for U. S. aid in preventing robbery of national possessions and arming of counterrevolutionary groups, made possible by presence of Japanese troops.
847
Mar. 4 (12) From the Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Dissatisfaction in Vladivostok owing to dictatorial ways of President, bankruptcy of Government, and retreat of Army. Watchful attitude of Japanese.
847
Mar. 9 (22) To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Instructions to inform consul at Vladivostok concerning request of Chita Government for U. S. aid and to convey to him U. S. attitude of strict neutrality in all conflicts between Russian factions, limiting his actions to protection of U. S. interests. Instructions also for Thomas to intimate U. S. attitude of strict neutrality informally to Chita authorities.
848
Apr. 4 From the Chairman of the Special Trade Delegation of the Far Eastern Republic to the United States
Present critical situation which has arisen in relations between Far Eastern Republic and Japan; opinion that only immediate withdrawal of Japanese troops can prevent bloodshed and chaos.
848
Apr. 5 (55) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Vladivostok: Report from Japanese publicity bureau of minor conflicts between Chita forces and Japanese troops near Spassk.
849
Apr. 8 (59) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Vladivostok: Unofficial reports of heavy losses on both sides in conflict at Spassk, and arrival of large Japanese reinforcements, indicating engagement on larger scale than indicated by Japanese.
849
Apr. 10 (63) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Reports from Thomas on the Chita Government attitude toward conflict at Spassk and their protest to the Japanese Government.
849
Apr. 20 (66) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Japanese explanation that termination of Dairen negotiations was caused by withdrawal of Chita delegates; conclusion that Chita delegates had been requested by Moscow to await results of Genoa Conference; preparations for sending relief troops to Siberia.
850
Apr. 26 From the Chairman of the Special Trade Delegation of the Far Eastern Republic to the United States
Explanation that Dairen negotiations were terminated by Japanese delegation when Chita delegation demanded that date be set for evacuation of Japanese forces from Siberia. Chargé that Japan is not fulfilling its obligations assumed at Washington Conference but is openly carrying out its policy of seizure of territory and sovereignty over Russian population of Far East.
851
June 7 (237) From the Ambassador in Japan
Telegram dated May 27 from Thomas at Chita (text printed) giving opinion of Foreign Minister that attempt will be made by Japan to control Manchuria, Maritime Province, and Mongolia; proposed cooperation with China to oppose plan by joint control of Chinese Eastern Railway, while permitting Inter-Allied Technical Board to function; need for unofficial U. S. support.
852
June 24 From the Japanese Chargé
Japan’s announcement (text printed) of intention to withdraw Japanese troops from Maritime Province by end of October 1922, taking suitable measures for protection of Japanese subjects.
853
June 27 From the Chief of the Division of Russian Affairs, Department of State
Further report of evacuation interpreted to include mainland portion of Province of Sakhalin but not Island of Sakhalin.
854
June 27 (65) To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Instructions to convey U. S. appreciation of Japan’s announced intentions of evacuation, at same time tactfully to hold to U. S. opposition to continued occupation of Island of Sakhalin. Inquiries as to measures intended for protection of Japanese residents in evacuated territory.
854
July 6 (95) To the Ambassador in Japan
Attention called, for information of Thomas, to U. S policy in Siberia which is generally understood and appreciated by Russians, any attempt by Chita authorities to play one power off against another being futile.
855
July 14 From the Japanese Chargé
Japan’s public statement (text printed) of intention to withdraw troops from districts opposite Island of Sakhalin, and to withdraw from Russian part of Island of Sakhalin as soon as satisfactory settlement of Nikolaievsk affair has been obtained.
855
Sept. 20 (28) From the Vice Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Report of completion of Japanese evacuation of first zone; commencement of evacuation of second zone; and freer movement of Chita troops.
856
Sept. 25 From the Chief of the Division of Russian Affairs, Department of State
Conversation with so-called commercial delegate from Far Eastern Republic regarding deadlock in negotiations at Changchun between Japanese and Far East delegates over question of occupation of Russian portion of Island of Sakhalin. His request that U. S. pressure be brought to bear upon Japanese. Assurances given that U. S. representations have already been made to Japan.
856
Sept. 26 From the Chief of the Division of Russian Affairs, Department of State
Conversation with Japanese Chargé who announces failure of Japanese-Russian negotiations at Changchun, placing responsibility for failure to agree upon Far Eastern Republic.
857
Sept. 27 (155) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Uchida’s statement (text printed) expressing regret at failure of Changchun Conference, of determination of Japan, nevertheless, to continue withdrawal of troops from mainland and under previously stated conditions from Russian portion of Island of Sakhalin, claiming to have no territorial designs whatever.
858
Sept. 28 (30) From the Vice Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Commencement of third period of Japanese evacuation; preparations by local government for mobilization at front.
859
Sept. 28 From the Acting Chairman of the Special Trade Delegation of the Far Eastern Republic to the United States
Charge of anarchy and chaos in Far Eastern Republic created by Japanese; failure of Changchun Conference because Republic could not tolerate continued Japanese occupation; appeal to U. S. Government for support in endeavor to be liberated from foreign invasion.
859
Oct. 4 (373) From the Ambassador in Japan
Announcement, dated September 29, by Japanese War Office (text printed) concerning withdrawal of forces along Amur River and vicinity of Nikolaievsk, bringing to an end occupation of mainland opposite Sakhalin.
861
Oct. 11 (162) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Thomas: Changes in Chita Government on instructions from Moscow. Foreign Minister’s statement that Japanese expressed desire at Changchun to obtain Sakhalin by purchase or exclusive concession, which Russia has refused.
861
Oct. 11 (163) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Vladivostok: Report of slow progress of mobilization; of fighting around Spassk and elsewhere.
862
Oct. 16 (170) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Report from courier sent to Vladivostok (text printed) on tense situation in view of imminence of occupation by Red Army, necessitating arrangements for protection of Americans in case of emergency.
862
Oct. 17 (171) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Vladivostok: General Dietrichs’ appeal for protection of families of his soldiers; severe defeat of his army; his intention to turn over authority to town council and vacate. Steps taken by consular officers for protection of civilians during period between Japanese withdrawal and entry of Reds.
863
Oct. 21 (37) From the Vice Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Assurances of commander of Chita forces that he would protect lives and property of Americans on entry into Vladivostok.
864
Undated [Rec’d Oct. 26] (38) From the Vice Consul at Vladivostok (tel.)
Completion of Japanese evacuation. Red occupation of city, which was received enthusiastically.
864
Oct. 30 From the Japanese Chargé
Notification of completion of Japanese evacuation of Siberian mainland on October 25.
865
Nov. 2 (183) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Vladivostok: Assurances of commander in chief at Vladivostok of desire to facilitate entry of U. S. capital and commercial representatives; and, upon request, to consent to freedom of port for U. S. ships.
865
Nov. 3 From the Chief of the Division of Russian Affairs, Department of State
Conversation with Commercial Delegate of Far Eastern Republic, Skvirsky, who expressed gratitude for U. S. aid in bringing about Japanese evacuation of Siberian mainland; continued anxiety, however, over presence of Japanese forces on frontiers; intimation that Far Eastern Republic may join Russian federation for protection.
866
Nov. 15 From the Vice Consul on Special Detail at Chita (tel.)
Unanimous resolution of popular assembly to dissolve Government, elect revolutionary committee, and apply to Moscow to be taken in as integral part of Soviet Russia.
867
Nov. 19 (200) From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
From Chita: Soviet declaration that Far Eastern Republic is integral part of Soviet Russia, confirming personnel of revolutionary committee and authority of latter over Republic, which will retain such laws as are not opposed to new economic policy of Soviet Government.
867
Dec. 4 From the Acting Chairman of the Special Trade Delegation of the Far Eastern Republic to the United States
Announcement of amalgamation of Far Eastern Republic with Russian Socialist Federated Soviet Republic; expression of hope for closer union between peoples of Russia and the United States.
867
Dec. 4 From the Chief of the Division of Russian Affairs, Department of State
Conversation with Skvirsky concerning organization of Chita committee; effect of change in government on Sinclair Oil concession and Chinese Eastern Railway; status of Skvirsky in United States; continuation of U. S. consuls at Vladivostok and Chita.
868

Recognition by the United States of the Governments of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania

[Page XCIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Apr. 6 (1916) From the Commissioner at Riga
Evidence of political stability of government of three Baltic States functioning under their constitutions through national assemblies. Opinion that continuation of U. S. policy of nonrecognition is unwise from viewpoint of U. S. interests and not helpful as regards restoration of Russia.
869
May 15 (59) To the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Inquiry whether Vilna plebiscite constitutes such solution of Polish-Lithuanian controversy as would justify recognition of Lithuania at same time with Estonia and Latvia.
872
May 16 (70) From the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Report that no plebiscite has been held in Vilna district; that district is administered openly as part of Poland; and that Lithuania is showing increasing tendency to accept status quo and concentrate all forces toward procurement of recognition de jure and Memel.
872
June 30 (271) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Decision of Conference of Ambassadors that Principal Allied Powers would recognize Lithuania de jure, independent of determination of status of Memel.
873
July 25 (98) To the Commissioner at Riga (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Offices of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania on morning of July 28 that United States extends full recognition. Press statement on recognition (text printed). Arrangements as to U. S. diplomatic and consular representation.
873
July 28 (140) From the Consul at Riga (tel.)
Report that Foreign Offices at Riga, Reval, and Kovno have been notified of U. S. recognition.
874
Aug. 24 (2266) From the Chargé in France
Questions which Conference of Ambassadors may eventually have to decide: (1) internationalization of River Niemen, (2) disposition of territory of Memel. Request for instructions.
874
Sept. 25 (437) To the Chargé in France
Instructions to refrain from expression of views regarding territory of Memel and River Niemen, these being questions primarily of European concern; to report, however, discussions and decisions.
875

Termination of the Functions of the Russian Ambassador in the United States

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Apr. 28 From the Russian Ambassador
Intimation that it may be appropriate to terminate his official functions in near future, inasmuch as liquidation and final settlement of business of Russian Government is now practically complete and as his continuance as Ambassador under existing circumstances may give rise to misunderstanding. Arrangements for Mr. Ughet, financial attaché, to act as custodian of Russia property.
875
Apr. 29 To the Russian Ambassador
Belief that change in present situation is desirable; concurrence in suggestions for bringing this about.
876

Liquidation of the Obligations in the United States of the Russian Provisional Government

Date and number Subject Page
1922 May 6 To the Vice President
Bakhmeteff’s statement (text printed) made in connection with debate in Senate regarding U. S. loan to Russia; his assertion that complete accounts are on file with Treasury Department regarding disbursements for liquidation of Russia’s liabilities in the United States; disavowal of charges of improper use of funds or of any connection with church funds or of association with Semenov.
877
May 23 To the Secretary of the Treasury
Understanding that liquidation of Russian liabilities has been brought to successful conclusion through joint efforts of State and Treasury Departments in cooperation with Bakhmeteff. Request for confirmation of above and any additional helpful information from Treasury records, in view of public discussion of subject.
879
June 2 From the Secretary of the Treasury
Confirmation of understanding of Secretary of State and additional information from Treasury’s records showing contracts settled by payment, cancelation, and other means, without loss to U. S. contractors, notwithstanding liabilities in excess of amount of loan. Attention called to various published reports which cover subject of U. S. loan to Russia, its disbursements, and liquidation.
880
[Page XCIV]

SALVADOR

Negotiations for a Loan in the United States

[Page XCV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Jan. 31 (4) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Instructions, when loan contract between Salvador, National City Bank, and National City Co. has been signed, to acknowledge Salvador’s note of October 20, 1921, and state that U. S. Government is prepared to carry out stipulations, reserving liberty of action with regard to any diplomatic representations deemed advisable concerning conduct of office of Collector General of Customs.
885
Feb. 28 (7) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Instructions to proceed with reply to Salvador, loan contract and purchase contract having been signed February 11.
885
Mar. 8 (12) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Report of modifications made by Council of Ministers in loan contract providing that all employees except Collector General and assistant shall be Salvadorans.
886
May 5 (19) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Refusal of National City Co. to accept counterproposal of Salvador, being contrary to stipulated terms of contract. Instructions to use good offices in securing new proposal in harmony with exchange of notes.
886
June 12 From the President of the National City Co.
Company’s refusal to accept modifications in loan contract proposed by Salvador.
887
June 26 (56) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Signing of a loan contract June 24 in New York between Keilhauer representing Salvador and Minor C. Keith.
887
July 8 (62) From the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Inquiry whether Department approves terms of loan contract as signed by Keith and Keilhauer on June 24, which is soon to be presented to Salvadoran Congress.
888
July 15 (31) To the Minister in Salvador (tel.)
Department’s understanding as to note of assurances concerning Keilhauer-Keith contract Foreign Minister is prepared to send (text printed). U. S. reply (text printed) quoting Salvadoran note of assurances and reserving liberty of action with regard to future diplomatic representations.
888
Aug. 17 (362) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Efforts of Keith and Blair and Co. to persuade British holders of 1908 and 1915 Salvadoran bonds to agree to loan contract between Salvador and Keith. Request for authorization to state that Department approves contract.
889
Aug. 22 (262) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Authorization to inform trustee of bondholders that Department would favor adjustment of Salvador’s existing debt under terms of Keith contract.
889
Dec. 8 From Messrs. Lansing and Woolsey
Submission, for approval, of fiscal agency contract signed December 1 between Salvador and Keith and New York bankers, to supersede loan contract of June 24, being essentially same plan, as result of consent of Lisman and Co. to underwrite bonds; also a new purchasing agreement; contracts to be submitted to National Assembly and to be followed by exchange of notes between two Governments.
890
Dec. 28 (120) From the Chargé in Salvador (tel.)
Government’s acceptance of terms of Keith and New York bankers, thereby concluding loan negotiations.
891
Dec. 30 (53) To the Chargé in Salvador (tel.)
Instructions to refrain from discussing loan with Government officials as Department is still considering advisability of acquiescing in new provisions of December contract and has not vet committed itself to further exchange of notes.
891
1923 Jan. 3 [2?] (3) From the Chargé in Salvador (tel.)
Issue of Executive decree naming Metropolitan Trust Co. of New York as fiscal agent of loan in accordance with provisions of contract of June 24.
891
Jan. 9 (2) To the Chargé in Salvador (tel.)
Information that bankers have been advised that Department has no objections to their proceeding under loan contract of June 24.
892

SIAM

Interpretation of the Treaty of December 16, 1920, As Not Conferring Upon American Citizens the Right to Own Land in Siam

[Page XCVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1921 Oct. 28 (167) From the Chargé in Siam
Inquiry whether it is Department’s understanding that, under provisions of treaty of December 16, 1920, between United States and Siam, U. S. citizens and corporations have right to own land in Siam. Transmission of editorial from Bangkok Times expressing opinion that title to all land owned by Americans lapsed to Siamese State upon coming into force of treaty. Suggestion that present may be opportune time for exchange of notes to assure right of U. S. citizens to own land in Siam under article 1 of treaty.
893
Oct. 29 (169) From the Chargé in Siam
Informal correspondence with Foreign Office concerning assumption of full jurisdiction by Foreign Office in cases of land-ownership difficulties.
895
Nov. 17 (181) From the Chargé in Siam
Inquiry as to extent to which presumption of most-favored-nation treatment, implied in treaty of 1856, has been carried on by provisions of new treaty.
897
Nov. 26 (191) From the Chargé in Siam
Foreign Minister’s inquiry as to rights and obligations of Siamese subjects under American jurisdiction in respect of land titles and interests.
899
1922 Jan. 11 (28) To the Chargé in Siam
Opinion that exchange of notes is not appropriate, since treaty of 1920 does not confer upon U. S. citizens future right to own land in Siam, neither does it sanction disturbance of interests actually vested prior to treaty. Instructions, should Siam take initiative in matter, to call attention to difference in laws of different States as regards acquiring of lands by aliens, and to state that assurances would be welcomed.
900
Jan. 18 (4) To the Chargé in Siam (tel.)
Instructions to avoid any issue on subject of land ownership in Siam, save as the due protection of U. S. interests may require. Confidential information that subject was avoided in formulating treaty because of certain pending questions created by recent alien land laws adopted in various States.
902
Feb. 27 (26) From the Minister in Siam
Request for explicit instructions as to right of Siamese subjects resident in the United States to assume mortgage rights over Federal lands, since Siamese view is taken that provisions of treaty are reciprocal and that U. S. position will determine corresponding status of U. S. residents in Siam in respect of land title and interests.
902
Mar. 10 (36) From the Minister in Siam
Outline of circumstances surrounding question of land ownership in Siam; renewal of request for instructions. Correspondence with Foreign Minister on subject (excerpts printed).
903
June 23 (53) To the Minister in Siam
Instructions to avoid raising questions under treaty unless and until concrete instances of injury to or discrimination against U. S. rights or interests are brought to his attention, or unless otherwise instructed. Information that article 1 of treaty was carefully drafted in order to define accurately rights United States was prepared to accord Siamese resident in United States; that it has been consistent U. S. policy not to conclude treaties relating to land ownership by aliens.
906

Extradition Treaty Between the United States and Siam, December 30, 1922

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Dec. 30 Treaty between the United States of America and Siam
For the extradition of fugitives from justice.
907

SPAIN

Acknowledgment and Thanks by President Harding to the King of Spain for the Protection of American Interests in Enemy Countries

[Page XCVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1920 May 28 To the Ambassador in Spain
Instructions to express to Government to which accredited the appreciation of United States for protection afforded U. S. interests in Germany, Austria, and Hungary by Spanish authorities, tendering thanks also to diplomatic and consular officers.
(Copies sent to Commissioners at Berlin, Budapest, and Vienna.)
914
1922 Jan. 21 (18) To the Ambassador in Spain
Letter from President Harding to King Alfonso XIII, January 13 (text printed) expressing appreciation of services rendered by Spanish officials in protection of U. S. interests in late war, such services now made unnecessary by resumption of diplomatic relations between the United States and Germany, Austria, and Hungary.
914
June 15 (37–03) From the Spanish Ambassador
Letter from King Alfonso XIII to President Harding, May 16 (text printed) expressing gratification at appreciation of services rendered by Spanish officials in mission of protecting U. S. interests.
915

Denouncement by Spain of the Reciprocity Agreement of August 1, 1906, Between the United States and Spain

Date and number Subject Page
1922 Nov. 5 (40–04) From the Spanish Ambassador
Denunciation by Spain, as of November 5, 1922, of commercial agreement of August 1, 1906, between Spain and the United States in exercise of powers conferred by article 3 of that agreement, which will, therefore, terminate November 5, 1923.
916
Nov. 14 (380) From the Ambassador in Spain
Note from Foreign Minister, November 5 (text printed) announcing, in accordance with Spanish tariff law of April 22, 1922, the denunciation, on one year’s notice, of commercial agreement of August 1, 1906, and expressing desire for negotiating new agreement.
917
Nov. 16 To the Spanish Ambassador
Acknowledgment of notice of denunciation of commercial agreement of 1906.
918

TURKEY

Refusal by the United States to Commit Itself to Measures for the Protection of Minorities in Turkey

[Page XCVIII][Page XCIX][Page C][Page CI][Page CII]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 May 15 (367) From the British Ambassador
Reports of renewal of deportations of Christian minorities in Asia Minor; proposal that United States, France, Italy, and Great Britain depute officers to proceed to Anatolia to conduct an appropriate investigation.
919
May 18 (70) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Recommendation that the United States decline invitation to be represented on proposed commission of investigation.
920
May 19 (382) From the British Embassy
Proposal that U. S. representative at Athens be instructed to join British colleague in requesting permission to dispatch officers to regions in Greek occupation, in view of danger there of retaliatory measures against Turkish outrages.
921
May 20 To President Harding
Further inquiry as to attitude concerning U. S. participation in proposed inquiry into atrocities in Anatolia.
921
May 20 From President Harding
Willingness to trust Secretary’s judgment, if Secretary is convinced that United States may participate in commission of inquiry without regrets. Opinion that consent to participate should carry hint that it is not consistent with U. S. policy to call upon armed forces to minister to all troubled spots in world.
922
May 25 To President Harding
Impossibility of giving assurances that there will be no occasion for regret should United States join inquiry. Observation that British proposal may be taken as being limited solely to inquiry, hence U. S. participation could be strictly limited to inquiry with understanding it constitutes no commitment to employment of armed forces. Enumeration of consequences which might attend U. S. refusal or U. S. consent.
922
May 27 To President Harding
View that refusal to exercise restraining influence by participation in investigation may lead to expulsion of Christian missionaries and educators in Asia Minor and thus make disagreeable impression here and abroad as to U. S. position.
926
June 3 To the British Ambassador
Willingness to designate officer to take part in proposed inquiry with understanding that proposed action is limited to inquiry and that United States assumes no further obligation and enters into no commitment. Suggestion for instituting inquiries concurrently in Greek and Turkish territory and for full report.
927
June 3 (75) From the Chargé in Greece (tel.)
Greek desire for U. S. participation on commission to investigate Asia Minor atrocities.
928
Undated [Rec’d June 6] From the British Embassy
Appreciation of U. S. decision to participate in inquiry; French and Italian cooperation; steps to be taken as soon as U. S. instructions have been sent to Constantinople and Athens.
928
June 16 (172) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Confidential information that J. G. Harbord and H. T. Allen have been selected as representatives on commissions of inquiry in Anatolia.
929
July 19 (561) From the British Chargé
Suggestion, in deference to French opinion, that investigation be entrusted to neutral agency; willingness of International Red Cross to undertake inquiry; request for approval and for appropriate instructions to U. S. representatives at Athens and Constantinople.
929
July 20 To President Harding
Information that because of French reluctance no action was taken to carry through investigation. Request for authorization to accept British revised suggestion that International Red Cross select commissioners for investigation in Anatolia, and to instruct U. S. representatives at Athens and Constantinople to cooperate in extending informal assistance.
930
July 21 From President Harding
Hearty approval of revised proposal of British Government and of arrangements for U. S. representatives to cooperate with Allied colleagues in facilitating work of International Red Cross.
930
July 24 To President Harding
Resolution adopted by General Conference of Methodist Episcopal Church, South (text printed) requesting steps be taken by Government to stop persecutions in Near East. Draft reply to Bishop Cannon transmitted for President’s approval.
931
July 24 From President Harding
Approval of proposed reply to Bishop Cannon; comment on the mildness of its tone. Impossibility of sending armed force into Asia Minor.
931
July 25 To Bishop James Cannon, Jr., of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South
Information that Department is seeking in every practical way to ameliorate conditions in Asia Minor, but that it is not justified in attempting to pacify Near East by forcible means.
932
July 26 To the British Chargé
Willingness to accept offer of International Red Cross and to extend to commissions selected by that body cooperation of U. S. officials in Athens and Constantinople.
932
Aug. 3 (600) From the British Chargé
Agreement of International Red Cross to undertake inquiry provided necessary expenses shall be paid in advance by governments interested, 1,000 pounds to be contributed by each government. Inquiry whether conditions are agreeable to United States.
933
Aug. 8 To the British Chargé
Willingness to advance to International Red Cross for purpose of investigation in Anatolia required sum of 1,000 pounds and otherwise to cooperate in facilitating investigation.
934
Aug. 14 (625) From the British Ambassador
Information that International Red Cross has agreed to dispatch to Anatolia and Thrace missions of investigation and to report to four Governments concerned, and will be glad to receive 1,000 pounds toward expenses.
934
Aug. 23 To the British Ambassador
Advice that U. S. Legation at Berne has been authorized to advance to International Red Cross equivalent of 1,000 pounds as contribution toward expenses of commissions.
935
Sept. 14 (455) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Turkish note, August 31 (text printed) protesting against atrocities committed by Greeks during retreat in Asia Minor; and High Commissioner’s reply, September 8 (text printed) urging adoption of humanitarian attitude in occupation of districts taken from Greeks and abstention from reprisals, pointing out opportunity of new regime thus to secure world confidence.
935
Sept. 22 The Right Reverend Alfred, Harding, Protestant Episcopal Bishop of Washington, to President Harding (tel.)
Information that Committee of Episcopal Church to Cooperate with Near East Relief has been instructed to create public sentiment in favor of any government effort, diplomatic, naval, or military, which may make toward establishment of peace in Near East.
938
Sept. 30 (165) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Approval of reply of September 8 to Turkish note; and instructions to lose no opportunity to urge necessity of protection of Christian minorities and abstention from reprisals.
938
Oct. 2 To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Telegram received from Bishop Cannon at Paris (text printed) appealing for intervention in Near East in behalf of Christians. Department’s reply (text printed) stating that every effort has been made short of armed force and calling attention to fact that there has been no action by Congress authorizing war in Near East.
(Instructions to repeat to Embassies at London and Rome, High Commission at Constantinople, and Legation at Athens.)
939
Oct. 10 From the Representative of the Greek Government
Protest against order of Kemalists for deportation of male Christian population into interior of Asia Minor; belief that committees should be constituted by International Red Cross, League of Nations, and other organizations to follow fate of deported people.
940
Oct. 20 From the International Committee of the Red Cross
Information that permission has not yet been received from Angora to conduct mission.
941
Oct. 21 To the Representative of the Greek Government
Advice concerning relief measures already in operation to meet emergency in Near East; and special fund raised by nation-wide appeal for further promotion of relief work under direction of American committee.
942
Oct. 24 (211) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Instructions to report on Christian populations of Constantinople, their exodus, safety, possible Turkish guaranties; on number of Christian minorities in Anatolia and Eastern Thrace; on representations to Turkey as result of Smyrna disaster; on British threat to bombard Turks at Smyrna.
943
Oct. 27 (286) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Report that no further representations have been made, in view of signature of armistice and the consequent removal of danger of Turkish aggression.
944
Oct. 28 (289) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Categorical reply to Department’s inquiries of October 24.
945
Nov. 1 (350) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Excerpt from address of Secretary of State delivered at Boston, October 30 (text printed) referring to Near Eastern situation, U. S. measures of relief, and results obtained; and justifying U. S. policy of nonintervention.
(Instructions to repeat to Constantinople, London, and Rome.)
947
Nov. 4 (301) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Reports received by American, French, and Italian High Commissioners indicating intention of Turkish authorities to evacuate entire Christian population of Eastern Anatolia. U. S. Commissioner’s presentation of strong representations against expulsion. Suggestion to Allied High Commissioners that joint note of protest be presented to Turkish Government.
949
Nov. 7 (310) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Uncertainty whether action of Angora Government is to be construed as permission for Greeks and Armenians to leave or order of departure; preparations of entire Greek and Armenian population to depart. Instructions to destroyers in Black Sea ports (text printed) to observe policy of detachment regarding evacuation of non-American refugees.
950
Nov. 7 (245) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Approval of action taken. Instructions to telegraph text in case Allied High Commissioners make written representations, and advise whether order to evacuate Christians is confirmed.
951
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the British Ambassador, November 10
Ambassador’s request for U. S. support of ultimatum to Turks, in view of U. S. position taken at peace conference regarding Turkish matters; admission that ultimatum would amount to threat of war; Secretary’s dissent, disavowing U. S. association with European imperial aspirations; his offer to take up question with the President.
952
Undated Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a Conversation with the British Ambassador, November 13
Ambassador’s attitude that threat of war would deter Turks; Secretary’s objection to threat unless it can be carried out, pointing out impracticable nature of war with Turkey; U. S. desire rather to use diplomatic pressure to secure protection of Christians in Turkey.
955
Nov. 15 (326) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Aide-memoire of November 4 and note verbale of November 8 presented to Hamid Bey (texts printed) regarding intention of Government to evacuate Christian population from Anatolia, quoting note verbale of November 6 from Allied Commissioners appealing for cancelation or postponement so that question may be discussed at peace conference. Hamid Bey’s reply denying order of expulsion, permission to leave having been misconstrued as command.
958
Nov. 19 (338) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Certainty that Nationalist Government wishes to get rid of entire Greek and Armenian population of Anatolia and Constantinople and would like to have this a fait accompli or well under way before Lausanne Conference. Report on refugee situation.
961
Nov. 21 (391) To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Telegram, dated November 18, from U. S. consul at Aleppo (text printed) stating Turks are obliging all Christians to abandon property and leave Turkey or become Moslem; his request for intervention. Instructions to inquire whether France has received like report from Syria, and to repeat his reply to American Mission at Lausanne.
962
Nov. 22 (481) From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
Information that similar reports are being received from Syria. France’s intention to use diplomacy, looking to Lausanne Conference to alleviate situation.
962
Nov. 22 From the British Ambassador
Estimate that quarter of million people are to be evacuated from Black Sea ports; request that U. S. representative at Constantinople be instructed to press for extension of time limit for departure.
963
Nov. 26 (360) From the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Greek High Commissioner’s request for U. S. intervention with Nationalist Government to secure extension of time, freedom of port for Greek ships, and protection by U. S. destroyers. Partial compliance with request, in belief that U. S. help should not be withheld. Request for instructions.
964
Nov. 29 (275) To the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Instructions to use good offices to facilitate granting of permission for Christians to depart without time limit, and to secure Turkish protection of those desiring to remain. Further instructions regarding use of destroyers insofar as consistent with instructions of Navy Department.
965
Dec. 13 To the British Ambassador
Information regarding instructions to Special Mission at Lausanne Conference to secure from Turkish delegates assurances concerning Christian minorities; and instructions to High Commissioner at Constantinople to use good offices in facilitating departure of Christians and obtaining adequate protection for those remaining in Turkey. Suggestion that comprehensive plan of relief be adopted.
965
[Page CIII]

Negotiations by the Ottoman-American Development Company (Chester Project) and Other American Interests for Concessions in Turkey

[Page CIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Feb. 8 From Rear Admiral C. M. Chester
Request for interview regarding claim of Ottoman-American Exploration Co. in view of new developments and British activity. Intention of Arthur Chester to negotiate with Angora Government, at its request, for consummation of Chester project.
966
Feb. 18 To Rear Admiral C. M. Chester
Advice that Secretary is absent and that further interview seems hardly necessary; suggestion that any new aspects of matter may be taken up with Near Eastern Division or Foreign Trade Adviser’s Office.
967
Mar. 15 (134) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Letter, dated March 8, from R. H. McDowell of Foundation Co., N. Y. (text printed) regarding proposed contract for railway concession through Asia Minor, including mineral rights in contiguous area. Memoranda (texts printed) of negotiations between McDowell and Turkish Minister of Public Works regarding contract for concession.
967
Mar. 29 Memorandum by the Economic Adviser of the Department of State
Interview with K. E. Clayton-Kennedy, Canadian, who wishes to complete Chester project for railway and oil concession pending in Turkey since 1909; his request for Department’s record of claim. Refusal of request and suggestions.
971
May 2 To George W. Goethals & Co.
Statement, in reply to request, that there is no complete history in Department of Chester project; request, in view of voluminous correspondence on subject and private character of negotiations, to be advised of exact nature of data desired.
973
July 6 (201) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople
Information obtained from various U. S. promoters seeking concessions in Turkey. Approval of rendering proper assistance to U. S. interests, although full diplomatic support cannot be accorded concessions granted by unrecognized authorities. Foreign activities and claims in Turkey. Instructions.
973
Oct. 2 (1602) The Office of Naval Intelligence, Navy Department, to the Naval Station at Constantinople (tel.)
From Admiral Chester: Announcement that Kennedy has no authority to act on Chester project and is repudiated by all stockholders; that Ottoman Co. is represented in Turkey by Arthur Chester.
976
Oct. 5 (242) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Kennedy to Goethals: Conclusion of agreement with Government on greatly improved terms and to date back to 1909, requiring guaranty deposit; request that sum be placed with Guaranty Trust of N. Y. at once.
976
Oct. 7 (247) From the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Urgent request that question of Kennedy’s status in relation to Ottoman-American Development Co. be cleared up; information that Kennedy has power of attorney giving him full authority to act for company.
977
Oct. 20 (207) To the High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Telegram, dated October 14, from Goethals (text printed) refusing to repudiate Kennedy, and confirming his authority to act. His indication that deposit which Kennedy requires will be made. No instructions in view of disagreement between Goethals and Arthur Chester on one hand and Admiral Chester on other.
977
Oct. 26 From Major General George W. Goethals
Facts relating to organization of Ottoman-American Development Co., submitted in response to Department’s inquiry whether it is American corporation, officered and controlled by American interests.
978
Dec. 5 (370) From the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Road building and mining rights which are contemplated in Chester concession; progress of negotiations. Inquiry concerning Admiral Chester’s competency to speak for company, and regarding rumor that Kennedy is, or has been, in British secret service.
979
Dec. 7 (282) To the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Message from Goethals (text printed) stating that Kennedy and Chester are accredited agents of the Ottoman-American Development Co., a company officered and controlled by Americans and owning all rights to the Chester project. Information concerning provisions of voting trust agreement signed by Goethals, Barnard, and Rousseau. Authorization to give proper support.
980
Dec. 7 From the Vice Consul in Charge at Angora
Vice Consul’s refusal to support Kennedy on ground he is not U. S. citizen; arrest and deportation of Kennedy by Turkish authorities who believe him to be backed by British interests. Request for information as to status of Ottoman-American Development Co., since Kennedy incident has created unpleasant impression.
981
Dec. 9 (285) To the Acting High Commissioner at Constantinople (tel.)
Goethals to Kennedy: Information that interests at this end are working harmoniously; inquiry whether any assistance can be rendered; expression of hope that Kennedy and Chester will cooperate closely.
983

URUGUAY

Uruguayan Proposal That the Formation of a League of American Nations Be Discussed at the Fifth Pan American Conference

[Page CV]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Aug. 2 (54) To the Chargé in Peru (tel.)
Interviews with Uruguayan Minister and Peruvian Ambassador in which Secretary stated he had no objection to inclusion of topic proposed by Uruguay in the agenda for the Pan American Conference; his opinion that a loose association without commitments would be better than a hard and fast organization, which might compromise independence.
(Instructions to repeat to Quito and La Paz for information. Sent also to other Latin-American countries and to France to be repeated to all missions in Europe.)
984
Sept. 2 (31) From the Chargé in Uruguay (tel.)
Refutation by Uruguay of rumor that Uruguay considered submitting question of Pan American League to League of Nations. Suggestion that Uruguay be informed in general terms of U. S. attitude on question of Pan American League.
985
Sept. 6 (16) To the Chargé in Uruguay (tel.)
Instructions to communicate orally to Foreign Minister exact attitude of Department as expressed in circular telegram of August 5, if deemed expedient.
986

VENEZUELA

Treaty of Extradition and Additional Article Between the United States and Venezuela, Signed January 19 and 21, 1922

[Page CVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1916 Apr. 18 (183) To the Minister in Venezuela
Inquiry whether laws of Venezuela prohibit capital punishment and if so whether Government would be disposed to insist upon inclusion in extradition treaty of a provision that cognizance be taken of her law.
987
July 8 (714) From the Minister in Venezuela
Information that article 22 of Venezuelan Constitution prohibits capital punishment. Foreign Minister’s assurance that Government would have no objection to signing extradition treaty provided it excluded penalty of death in its provisions; suggested language for such provision in treaty. Minister’s hope that Department may favor conclusion of commercial and general treaty, which might include subject of extradition.
987
Aug. 14 (209) To the Minister in Venezuela
Opinion extradition treaty should be treated separately and apart from question of commercial treaty. Instructions to state that, in view of sovereignty of several States, Federal assurances cannot be given regarding question of penalties; and to present counterproposal (text printed) that contracting parties reserve right to decline extradition for crimes punishable by death except upon State’s assurance that death penalty will not be inflicted.
989
1920 May [5] (39) From the Minister in Venezuela (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s willingness to sign treaty of extradition incorporating as article 19 the Department’s counterproposal; otherwise draft treaty to be identical with Venezuelan treaty with Bolivia.
990
May 18 (550) To the Minister in Venezuela
Objections to making treaty between Venezuela and Bolivia a model for proposed extradition treaty with United States; suggestion of formulation of treaty on terms similar to U. S. treaty with Honduras or Paraguay.
990
1921 June 18 (17) From the Minister in Venezuela (tel.)
Request for full powers to sign treaty, Foreign Minister having accepted as basis of negotiation with slight modification treaty between the United States and Honduras with inclusion of article as suggested in Department’s telegram of August 14, 1916.
993
Sept. 24 (21) From the Minister in Venezuela (tel.)
Acceptance of draft treaty with added stipulation concerning imprisonment for life, which is also prohibited by Constitution. Request for reply by telegraph.
993
1922 Jan. 23 (2634) From the Chargé in Venezuela
Signature and forwarding of extradition treaty and additional clause providing for arbitration in case of differences as to interpretation.
993
Jan. 19 and 21 Treaty and Additional Article between the United States of America and Venezuela
For the extradition of the accused as well as those who have been sentenced.
995

YUGOSLAVIA

Acquiescence by the Department of State in a Loan by American Bankers to the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes

[Page CVII][Page CVIII][Page CIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1922 Apr. 21 (7) From the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Practical conclusion of loan of 100 million dollars by Blair and Co. of New York to Yugoslav Government, 30 million dollars of which is to be used for redemption of dinar paper currency, remainder for railway construction.
1002
May 1 (11) To the Chargé in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Inquiry whether any part of 30 million dollars will be used to pay Yugoslavia’s debt to foreign governments or their nationals, also what plan is contemplated for redemption of dinar currency.
1002
May 4 (12) From the Chargé in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Opinion of Acting Minister of Finance that interest in arrears on U. S. loans, as well as amounts due U. S. citizens, would be paid from 30 million-dollar advance; and that plan is to buy dinars on exchange and turn them over to National Bank to be annulled or loaned against collateral when currency is needed.
1003
May 12 (15) From the Chargé in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Prime Minister’s inquiry whether permission of U. S. Government had been given to Blair and Co. or Foundation Co. to conclude loan, he having been informed that this was necessary.
1003
May 13 (12) To the Chargé in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Request for definite report regarding amount and purposes of loan proposed, in view of conflicting statements. Instructions to inquire intentions of Government in regard to settlement or refunding of its debt to the United States, which must be considered in connection with application for new loan.
1004
May 13 (13) To the Chargé in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Intimation that Department is awaiting information from Chargé before replying to inquiries from several banking firms whether there is any objection to Yugoslav loan. Instructions to make clear to Prime Minister the Department’s attitude of strict impartiality with respect to competing U. S. firms.
1005
May 15 (14) To the Chargé in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Reply to banking firms that, in absence of understanding between World War Foreign Debt Commission and Yugoslavia with regard to refunding of its debt to the United States, proposed loan is not viewed with favor.
1005
May 16 Memorandum by the Foreign Trade Adviser, Department of State
Department’s refusal to view favorably the request of Blair and Co. to be permitted to make contract with Yugoslavia, subject to reaching of understanding between two Governments in matter of debt.
1005
May 16 (16) From the Chargé in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Information concerning offers of various firms, the amount of the loan and its purposes. Assurances that cash loan installment of 25 million dollars will be used for railroad construction, for payment of debt to Standard Oil and interest due on Yugoslavia’s indebtedness to United States, for redemption of dinar currency and construction of Government buildings.
1006
May 23 (20) From the Chargé in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Yugoslavia’s instructions to its Minister at Washington to make proposals to World War Foreign Debt Commission for refunding and settlement of Yugoslav indebtedness to the United States. Finance Minister’s assurance that proceeds of loan will not be used to repay governments other than the United States and that no loan agreement will be signed before permission is received from Department.
1008
May 24 (18) To the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Enumeration of formal official assurances given by Yugoslavia, as understood by Department, which, if correct, will result in favorable attitude of U. S. Government toward loan. Instructions to cable confirmation.
1008
May 27 (25) From the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Finance Minister’s explanation that offer to pay interest on indebtedness to the United States out of loan proceeds was result of misunderstanding and that it is not possible.
1009
May 28 (26) From the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Memorandum by Minister of Finance (text printed) confirming all assurances except that in regard to interest on indebtedness to United States.
1009
June 1 (20) To the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Explanation that payment of interest on indebtedness to the United States was not made a condition for loan, question of debt being left without prejudice for World War Foreign Debt Commission. Objections to proposed application of loan; instructions to ascertain to what ends other than railway construction and Standard Oil payments proceeds are to be devoted.
1010
June 4 (22) To the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Statement by Blair and Co. that Yugoslav Government has accepted their bid. Department’s reluctance to believe that loan agreement has been signed in view of Yugoslav assurances that such would not be the case until after Department’s views had been expressed.
1012
June 5 (27) From the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Letters from Minister of Finance (texts printed) itemizing objects of loan and giving assurances that purpose is to assist economic revival, increase production, and remove effects of war destruction, and that indebtedness to U. S. Government is left without prejudice for World War Foreign Debt Commission.
1013
June 6 (28) From the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Additional statement by Minister of Finance (text printed) regarding object of loan, calling attention to necessity for Government buildings.
1014
June 8 (23) To the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Request for definite written statement as to proposed expenditures. Instructions to express regret that loan contract has been signed in advance of statement that Department offers no objections.
1015
June 11 (29) From the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
Letters from Minister of Finance (texts printed) giving approximate figures for proposed expenditures from proceeds of loan.
1016
June 13 (25) To the Minister in the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (tel.)
No objection to proposed loan of 25 million dollars on terms stated in Minister’s telegram of June 11; any additional sums to require separate consideration.
1017
June 15 To Messrs. Blair & Co.
Advice that Department has no objection to loan of 25 million dollars, in view of Yugoslav assurances as to its object. Understanding as to arrangements for control of railway, taxes, etc., and specific statement that Department assumes no responsibility in matter.
1018
July 13 (319) From the Yugoslav Minister
Request for U. S. approval of amendment to appropriations, substituting repair and construction of highways, hospitals, and school buildings instead of applying sum to exchange stabilization, Government buildings, and repaying debt advances made by National Bank.
1018
July 14 To the Yugoslav Minister
No objections to change in proposed application of certain portion of loan proceeds.
1019