DECLASSIFIED Authority State better hz 81 me NART Cate 24 18 Up to now he has proceeded calmly and cooly and in my opinion with discretion and judgment. As heretofore reported he has at no time asked this Legation to request American intervention as has been suggested in conversations between other banana growers; nei the has Mr. Chi ttenden requested this Legation to be more aggresive in what believe has been the tactful manner in which have discussed the strike situation with officials of the Government. As reported to the Department my objective has been to obtain maximum protection, within the Government means, of American lives and property. At the same time have refrained from doing anything or offering suggestions or making criticisms which in any way might add to the Government nervousness.
But on yesterday afternoon Mr. Chittenden calmness seemed to have di sappeared and he came to me with suggestions along these lines: After discussing the Communist background of the strike and the apparent fact that the movement is under the direction of politically minded agitators who in the last analysis are hope ful of taking charge of the Government. an opinion in which concur. Ir. Chittenden then inquired if the United States Government would not look with disfavor upon a Communist form or Government in Central Ame ri ca. The form of Government decided upon by other nations is no business of the United States Government as interpret the policy of my Government, replied to