882.20/432: Telegram
The Minister in Liberia (Walton) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 15—2:05 p.m.]
14. In an aide-mémoire handed me by Secretary of State with respect to previous conversations between President and the American Minister anent conflicting claims in the colonial sphere, reference is made to the visit on Secretary of State by the French Chargé d’Affaires who during an informal discussion spoke of an alliance between France and Great Britain in the event of war over their West African possessions, and inquired what would be Liberia’s actual military defense if attacked by Germany. The French representative informally suggested that Liberia, through the United States, secure from French and British assurances of necessary defensive assistance.
The Liberian Government feels justified in its apprehension because of threatening war clouds, insistent demands by European powers for a repartitioning of Africa and other disturbing factors, and would welcome the establishment by the United States of air and naval bases within its borders. It is cognizant of large scale precautionary measures which the British have undertaken in Sierra Leone.
The Liberian Government would appreciate any suggestion the United States Government may deem proper to give as to the advisable course to follow in the circumstances.