Paris Peace Conf. 723.2515/2
The Secretary of State to President Wilson
My Dear Mr. President: The Tacna-Arica controversy between Chile and Peru is bound to be a vexatious one, and the enclosed telegram4 setting forth a Bolivian solution makes it even more complex because there is a measure of justice and reason in the Bolivian desire for a seaport and for territory separating the rivals, Chile and Peru. I doubt very much, however, whether any influential or considerable number of public men in either country would favor the Bolivian suggestion. Bolivia would have to rely upon the United States to obtain such a cession. The general principle for such settlement is one which we have declared, but to obtain it I fear we would gain the dislike of both Chile and Peru.
Meanwhile we are being asked about an arbitration, what sort we prefer and whether the tribunal should have an American on it. The decision of the tribunal, however just, will be resented by one party at least. The whole situation is charged with trouble which it will be hard to avoid.
[Page 556]My own opinion in regard to this telegram is that, because of your absence from Washington, it would appear to be an inopportune time to send a delegation from Bolivia to the United States, but that, in view of the possibility of questions arising as to the general organization of the world in connection with the Peace Conference, it might be well to send two or three delegates to Paris, who could, while watching the course of events, informally discuss the Arica matter with you. I do not think the question should come before the Peace Conference.
Will you be good enough to tell me your wishes in the matter so that I can advise Mr. Polk?
Faithfully yours,