File No. 819.74/3.

The Secretary of State to the American Minister.

[Telegram.—Paraphrase.]

[Quotes the Joint Board’s recommendation (see ante, telegram from the Acting Secretary of the Navy, December 13) and proceeds:]

Your Legation has been frequently assured by the Government of Panama—of its own volition and without mention of any treaty provision that might be relevant—that it would not conclude any negotiation for any form of telegraphic communication on the Isthmus without securing the assent of this Government. You will discuss this matter with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and report.

Knox.