723.2515/807: Telegram
The Ambassador in Chile (Collier) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:45 p.m.]
2. Department’s telegram 2, Jan. 13, 4 p.m. Absence of President of Chile prevented my seeing him and Minister for Foreign [Page 449] Affairs until to-day. Have conferred with both. Chile will accept invitation as phrased by you and realizes that acceptance creates a moral obligation to make every effort to settle dispute.
In case representatives of two countries cannot effectuate settlement arbitration will be acceptable, it being understood that this relates to “unfulfilled provisions of the treaty” as stated by you in your invitation. It is recognized violations of treaty may properly be considered by arbitrator but Chile takes the view that while violations might justify imposition of penalty they cannot be considered as rendering treaty void. I do not understand that they make this a condition of their acceptance but rather a statement of their understanding of its meaning. Both the President and Minister for Foreign Affairs desire me to express their hearty appreciation proposed invitation and their sincere desire to settle the matter in accord with principles of law and justice.