724.3415/4041: Telegram
The Minister in Bolivia (Des Fortes) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:45 p.m.]
51. Department’s telegram No. 17.22 Message was delivered Foreign Minister this afternoon. He commented that he understood from Finot that the United States as well as Brazil is disposed to support Bolivia’s sine qua non condition. He wishes to know if in case Paraguay should refuse condition whether the United States would not consider it desirable to omit conciliation proceedings and go directly to arbitrate.
Bolivia studying formula and will consult Brazil and United States before making formal reply to Buenos Aires which will be delayed until after the return of the President from a secret trip to Chaco.
The Foreign Minister thanks you for interest and wishes United States Government to know that Bolivia has a sincere desire for peace under honorable conditions.
Brazilian Minister at the request of Bolivian Minister for Foreign Affairs has requested information through Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires regarding press report military occupation by Argentina of several Chaco forts.