852.75 National Telephone Co./314: Telegram

The Ambassador in Spain (Weddell) to the Secretary of State

10. Referring to my telegram No. 3, January 8, 8 p.m. After a discussion with Caldwell of the messages from Colonel Behn embodied in the telegram of January 13, 9 p.m., from the Embassy at London68 both Caldwell and myself are in entire agreement with the procedure suggested by Colonel Behn. I therefore venture to suggest that the Department authorize me to transmit to the Minister for Foreign Affairs the following note:69

“Excellency: Referring to Your Excellency’s esteemed communication of January 8, my Government has noted with satisfaction that the Spanish Government has reiterated its declaration that American interests in Spain and especially those affecting the National Telephone Company will enjoy their former status quo and there exists no danger to the legitimate enjoyment by them of that situation.

It is accordingly the understanding of my Government that there is no prohibition on the part of the Spanish Government to the reinstatement of American officers and employees and that American officers and employees may be elected and appointed in the National Telephone Company and those against whom there are no charges or who have been cleared of charges may take over their respective positions. My Government assumes that Americans may also be temporarily appointed or reinstated and occupy their positions pending the clearing of any charges against them as in the case of a very large number of the Spanish employees in the National Telephone Company.

It will be appreciated if you will confirm to me at your early convenience my Government’s understanding of the attitude of your Government.

I avail myself of this opportunity to extend to your Excellency the assurances of my highest consideration.”

Weddell
  1. Also sent by the Chargé in the United Kingdom (Johnson) to the Department as his No. 118, January 13, midnight, not printed.
  2. The Department in telegram No. 12, January 17, 5 p.m., granted the authorization requested (852.75 National Telephone Co./315).