Editorial Note

Telegram 31, January 27, 2 p. m., from Jidda, reported that King Ibn Saud, at Dhahran on January 26, requested Minister Childs to transmit to President Truman his plea concerning the necessity for the United States to aid his country in constructing a railroad. Without such assistance, the King stated, he would be unable to adequately develop his country, which would continue to be a barren desert (890F.77/1–2747).

Acting Secretary of State Acheson, by memorandum of February 7, transmitted the text of the King’s message to President Truman. The President, in a marginal notation, approved the Department’s request for authority to acknowledge the message and to inform the King that careful consideration would be given to the project. The Department sent appropriate instructions to Minister Childs in telegram 43, February 13, to Jidda (890.F77/2–747).