File No. 837.00/636.

[Untitled]

[Telegram.—Extract.—Paraphrase.]

The following rejoinder from President Gómez to the President: [Telegram of President Gómez of May 27.]

This Government has taken pains to make absolutely clear its position and the absolutely evident distinction, on the one hand, between “intervention” and political acts under our treaty rights which are not now contemplated, and, on the other hand, preparedness to land marines and the landing of marines if necessary in sporadic cases to prevent or suppress jeopardy to American life or property. Part of President Gómez’s last message evidently seeks to read a singular misinterpretation into this Government’s clear expressions. This Government does not undertake first to consult the Cuban Government if a crisis arises requiring a temporary landing somewhere to protect life and property on the broad principles of international practice. You will clearly explain all this orally to President Gómez.

Knox.