File No. 652.119/2230
The Ambassador in France ( Sharp ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 2.01 p.m.]
5953. War Trade Board [from McFadden]:
No. 621. The following is the text of official communication received to-day from General Dawes:
Colonel Corbusier has been directed this date to immediately cancel all contracts for animals both in Spain and Portugal, and that all purchases of animals would be stopped as soon as possible in accordance with terms of contracts. Total number of animals received from Spain to date as reported is 11,590. It is estimated that no more than 4,000 animals will be received after contracts are canceled. Signed, Rogers, Quartermaster General, Army.
In connection with foregoing we are informed by Senator Hollis that no definite promise as regards compensation was given by him to the Spanish Government other than his personal assurance of a recommendation to the War Trade Board to release 20,000 tons of sulphate of ammonia on a basis of securing the release from Spain of 50,000 animals for shipment to France. It is therefore our understanding that it is optional with you as to whether or not you wish to release the sulphate of ammonia to Spain. McFadden.