File No. 652.119/352
The Ambassador in Spain (Willard) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 26, 5.10 a.m.]
950. Embassy’s No. 945, December 23, 12 noon, and 949, December 24, 11 p.m. Situation here may become delicate. King’s wishes as he expressed them to French Ambassador yesterday should be promptly met. In meantime Embassy should have authority, with approval of French Ambassador, to make with Foreign Office reciprocal exchanges of permits to export. Nevertheless, it would be fatal at this juncture to discontinue or to lift embargo, especially on cotton. This is our strongest lever to induce reciprocal action on part of Spain and is just beginning to be felt, and if withdrawn will leave Embassy without influence with present Government. It should be used with care and tact but first [firmness]. Embassy is carefully watching general political effect. I therefore beg Department’s prompt attention and its definite instructions.