File No. 763.72/11575
The Ambassador in Spain ( Willard) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 29, 10.12 a.m.]
1875. Embassy’s 1864, September 23, 7 p.m. Minister for Foreign Affairs stated yesterday to Portuguese Minister for Foreign Affairs that Spanish Government would hardly take action concerning seizure of German boat or boats before reassembling of Cortes probably October 15. Nevertheless it is general belief of Allied diplomats here, in which Embassy concurs, that such seizure will be made only after secret ultimatum [understanding between?] Spanish Government and German Ambassador. However, if they are accepted [continued?], Allied successes may influence Spain to more positive stand toward Germany, although it is thought latter is constantly holding out inducement to Spain that she will be called upon to intervene between belligerents.