852.00/2462: Telegram
The Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Tangier (Blake) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 7—11:10 a.m.]
16. General Franco has sent ultimatum threatening occupation of Tangier Zone within 48 hours from last night unless Spanish war sloop Tofino in harbor departs from port, alleging that sloop is being used for communicating military information and directing movement of Government fleet. He also demands disarmament of Spanish colony which he alleges is armed.
[Page 471]Spanish representative has just requested my intervention which I have refused on grounds that the United States Government is not a party to the Tangier Convention and that the international neutrality of Tangier is under the supervision of the Committee of Control. If, however, emergencies arose in which my good offices were solicited by all parties concerned I would with the consent of my Government render any assistance possible in the interest of the protection of civil population of Tangier.