391.1164/134: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Iran (Engert)

61. The substance of your 110, May 17, 8 p.m. has been communicated to the Board and discussed with Boyce.99 It would not appear advisable at this juncture to seek interpretations of the Cabinet decision from the Iranian authorities. It is desired that you consult the Board representatives and telegraph opinion whether the decision precludes the sale of part of the school properties to the government and part to individuals; also whether the lack of foreign exchange for the purchase means dollars only or foreign exchange of any kind. The Board could utilize sterling in several countries having sterling-linked currencies.

It is assumed that the representatives are reporting fully to the Board but it would be helpful to receive brief observations and recommendations by telegraph.

It does not appear from the face of the decision that forced sales would be involved since there is no time limit and no requirement to sell at all in the absence of offers satisfactory to the Board.

Hull
  1. Arthur C. Boyce of the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions.