Papers relating to the foreign relations of the United States, 1929, Volume III

868.76/18: Telegram

The Chargé in Greece (Goold) to the Secretary of State

[Extract]

Athens, May 28, 1929—5 p.m.
[Received May 28—3:42 p.m.]

40. My 38, May 21, 1 p.m.³² This morning’s papers announcing signature of the contract yesterday, I saw the Minister of Communications who confirmed it. Upon my expressing my regret that Durham had not been given an opportunity to make his explanations before the committee, Minister replied that nothing that Durham could have said could have influenced the result.

I believe that considerations other than technical have been decisive. Mr. Venizelos by the mere expression of his wish could have secured the necessary hearing for Mr. Durham. It may be that he wants to give this contract to a British firm by way of showing that he is not actuated by anti-British sentiment as he has often been lately accused of being.

. . . . . . .

Goold

32. Not printed.