837.00/4681

The Chargé in Cuba (Matthews) to the Secretary of State

No. 376

Sir: With reference to the last sentence of the Embassy’s telegram No. 51 of January 19, 10 a.m.,16 I have the honor to report that Dr. Grau San Martin sailed at noon on January 20 for Mexico, on the [Page 107] Ward Line steamer Oriente. A large crowd, composed chiefly of the elements which supported Dr. Grau during his ill-fated regime, thronged the Ward Line docks to see him off. He was likewise given further parting cheers by a similar crowd gathered at La Punta as the Oriente steamed by Morro Castle.

Before sailing, according to Alma Muter, Dr. Grau wrote the following farewell message on board the Oriente: “In saying au revoir to the Cuban people, I repeat that I shall continue with unshakeable faith working for the liberty, the dignity and the progress of our country.”

Dr. Grau’s decision to visit Mexico, where he at present plans to remain for five or six months, was probably due to an invitation from the Mexican Chargé d’Affaires to visit his country. Dr. Reyes Spindola felt that conditions could more easily return to normalcy if Dr. Grau, around whose person agitation might center, were absent from the country. He proposes to suggest that the Mexican Government observe any possible political activities Dr. Grau may engage in while in Mexico. The Mexican Chargé d’Affaires was among those who went to the ship to see Dr. Grau depart.

Respectfully yours,

H. Freeman Matthews
  1. Not printed.