832.00 Revolutions/252: Telegram

The Chargé in Brazil (Thurston) to the Secretary of State

62. My July 12, 9 a.m. The Minister of Foreign Affairs orally protested to me last night against the entrance into Santos, despite official warning by radio, of the American steamer the Angeles, and requested that American vessel be notified not to enter that port.

The Spanish Minister has inquired whether we are disposed to protest against the closing of Santos. I replied that we probably would not protest if the port is effectively blockaded. In answer to my oral and informal inquiry on this point the Foreign Office has very carefully avoided expressing an opinion, but stated orally it would do so if formally approached. I have asked the Consulate at Santos to report whether the port is effectively blockaded.

A circular just received from the Foreign Office states that vessels anchored in Santos at the time of the publication of the decree closing the port may freely leave. Only two American vessels, the Angeles and the Delsud, are known to be in Santos, both of which entered in spite of warnings, the former after official publication of the decree, the latter before, although it had been published in the press.

Shall I endeavor to effect clearance? Have you any instructions?

Thurston