723.2515/2412 supp.: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul at Arica (Von Tresckow)
For Lassiter. Ambassador Cruchaga called this afternoon to submit concrete proposal for settlement which emanates from conference held yesterday in Santiago.27 I told him that only way to gain time for consideration of any new proposals was through modification of Edwards’ attitude in Arica; if Edwards persisted in demanding immediate decision, a new situation would be created which might be exceedingly unfavorable to continuance of negotiations here. Ambassador said that present state of public opinion in Chile made it impossible to obtain instructions to Edwards directing him to agree to a postponement, and that likewise it would be impossible for Edwards to make motion for postponement. On other hand Cruchaga feels that under present circumstances Edwards might think passive attitude on his part to be feasible; that is to say, a postponement or adjournment of further proceedings in the plebiscitary territory might be brought about on your motion or on that of Freyre with Edwards either not voting or voting contra. I have reason for believing that Edwards will be urged at once not to oppose any move for maintenance of status quo in plebiscitary proceedings, provided way to do this can be found that does not ask any affirmative action by Edwards.
I suggest that you talk this matter over with the Chilean Commissioner before tomorrow’s meeting and see if arrangement for further [Page 475] adjournment can not be effected. Here is situation: From Chilean point of view Edwards can not afford to have it said that he has agreed to a postponement; it is not necessary to ask him to do so; all that he is required to do is for him to cease for the time being to force issue on plebiscite; and he can even vote against a motion for postponement or adjournment in order to keep his own record straight.
As I pointed out in my earlier message to you today, your resolution should not be introduced until and unless issue is crowded to that point by Edwards and no other course is left open to you. I am counting upon you to exercise utmost discretion, introducing your resolution only through absolute necessity. A great deal may depend upon a few days’ delay.