711F.1914/12–1147: Telegram
The Ambassador in Panama (Hines) to the Secretary of State
urgent
niact
723. Accompanied by General Hale,69 I called on President this morning to thank him for cooperation shown in signing agreement. He is extremely anxious that reply to note transmitted in Embtel 710, December 670 be received by time Assembly convenes tomorrow since he feels certain that, if couched in favorable terms, it would make certain ratification by that body.
Confirming today’s conversation with Newbegin I most strongly urge I be authorized immediately to reaffirm in writing the verbal assurances previously given Panama. Even if we only state that Department will make appropriate recommendations to Congress, such assurance if made at this time would have powerful effect on Assembly and on critical political situation now brewing.
The opposition is presently organizing behind Alfaro who recently told Jimenez that, if he did not get promise from US of economic assistance before signing agreement, he could whistle for it after. This is the impression we must combat at once.
Furthermore, I believe that our promise to return Paitilla and other parcels to Panama, which involves no drawn-out negotiations, should be presented as a “must” to the present Congress if we are not to be exposed to accusations of bad faith.