882.20/440: Telegram
The Minister in Liberia (Walton) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 12—2:50 p.m.]
21. I have been requested by the Liberian Government to inform the Department that today Secretary Simpson separately held informal discussions with representatives of the British and French Governments with a view to ascertaining to what extent the two powers would [apparent omission] Liberia in the event of the war. In this connection the Chargés d’Affaires are transmitting telegrams to their respective Foreign Offices.
The Liberian Government is taking precautionary measures against internal attack and has requested me to inquire if the United States Government is in a position to supply it with reserve arms and ammunition. German nationals are holding secret meetings. Firestone representatives have expressed apprehension lest German nationals, because of Liberia’s strategic geographical position on the west coast, may [attempt?] to take over Government radio station and lighthouse should there be hostilities.