814.00/1035: Telegram
The Minister in Guatemala (Whitehouse) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 29—3:12 a.m.]
128. Have just had another interview with Orellana …
Prior to this discussion I had told him I considered four points of great importance:
- First, that there should be forgetfulness of recent events.
- Second, that no one involved in them should be a member of the Provisional Government.
- Third, that elections should be held as soon as possible.
- Fourth, that the Provisional President should not meddle in the elections.
[Paraphrase.] First. It resulted in talk about his own patriotism.
Second. He did not answer.
Third. He agreed at once that they should be held before March 1
Fourth. He inquired, rather surprised, if I wanted free elections, to which I naturally replied that I did.
[Page 190]Since he can force his nominee through the Assembly, unless I openly oppose it, it is urgent that I know what will satisfy you, and what importance you attach to my second point because I hear rumors that he desires to become Minister of War. I think that the moral benefit of our stand to Central America will be lost if we content ourselves with a sham. According to my best information your stand has met with general approval with the exception of some … involved.
In view of the meeting of the Assembly on Tuesday, December 30, please answer immediately. [End paraphrase.]