740.0011 E.W./2–445: Telegram

The Ambassador in Chile (Bowers) to the Secretary of State

169. Fernández called me this evening much concerned over a United Press cable quoting the Herald Tribune as saying Roosevelt has sent telegrams to the six American Republics that have not declared war asking them to do so and saying that unless they do they will not have seat at the peace table. He asks me to ascertain positively if this is true. He reiterates his suggestion that desired action can probably be brought about through action at Mexican Conference and thereby save the countries involved from internal criticism and attack for this late action. He urges it would be most advantageous to have action taken as result of a discussion among all-American nations in Mexico rather than have it appear, as our enemies would say, “this was Yankee pressure”. Please reply promptly.

Bowers