File No. 763.72114A/105a
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Spain ( Willard)
1434. Request Spanish Government to inquire whether Austro-Hungarian Government will be disposed to nominate delegates to hold a conference at Berne with American delegates for the purpose of concluding a reciprocal agreement covering matters pertaining to the maintenance, treatment, and exchange of prisoners of war of the two countries. If Austro-Hungarian Government accepts, United States Government proposes that conference be held immediately at the conclusion of the conference between American and German delegates which meets at Berne September 23. Request that inquiry and reply be made by telegraph.