852.00/2976: Telegram
The Ambassador in Spain (Bowers), Then in France, to the Secretary of State
[Received September 3—2:20 p.m.]
91. My telegram No. 89, September 2, 2 p.m. Reply dated September 2 has been received by Argentine Ambassador from Minister for Foreign Affairs a translation of which reads as follows:
“I brought to the attention of the Government Your Excellency’s telegram of August 30 and again reiterating my personal acknowledgment of your kind greeting I inform you that taking into consideration the initiative and proposal of Your Excellency in your name and in the name of your worthy colleagues of the Diplomatic Corps accredited in Madrid, this Government, the genuine and only constitutional representative of the Spanish people, is limiting itself to dominating a military insurrection which has brought about this painful situation and which the Government desires to see ended in the most rapid manner through the most humanitarian means without omitting any effort which is shown by the past and acts which are now taking place.”
The reply seems noncommittal if not a polite refusal. Argentine Ambassador thinks if not clarified Corps should give all correspondence to press and says this could be used as propaganda against Government as I predicted. He calls a meeting 6:30 tonight to discuss the reply and hopes to have Americo Castro, who seems in a vague way to represent the Government here, present to make the interpretation. Talked with French Ambassador who prefers to ask Castro to seek clarification from Madrid and in the meanwhile to withhold correspondence from press. Argentine Ambassador complains press [Page 523] has embarrassed Corps by misinterpretations of its action and purposes. Probably will attend meeting but without instructions will sign no statement for the press.