837.61351/9–2144: Telegram
The Ambassador in Cuba (Braden) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:18 p.m.]
840. In conversation with Grau and Belt43 this noon, I outlined status of sugar negotiations, emphasizing our willingness, as confidentially described to President-elect by Wilson and me on September 7, to go only as high as $2.75 [2.75 cents], on price. I furthermore suggested that negotiations be recessed, with the joint statement by both missions that, in view of difficulties encountered, each wished to consult with their respective governments before resuming negotiations, which, I added, should be after October 10.
Grau made no comment on price but entirely concurred as to wisdom of deferring negotiations until after his inauguration and in my presence instructed Belt to inform Seiglie accordingly and to suggest that latter return to Habana to discuss the situation.
- Guillermo Belt, Cuban Minister without Portfolio.↩