837.00/4492: Telegram
The Ambassador in Cuba (Welles) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received 2:05 p.m.]
509. My 508, December 10, noon. The leaders of the Unión Nacionalista, A.B.C. and Marianista Parties met with Grau last night. I am advised that after very ample discussion an agreement in principle was reached both on the program to be carried out by the provisional government and as to the manner in which the provisional government should be formed. An entirely conciliatory spirit existed throughout. A subcommittee of the opposition has been appointed to meet with Grau this afternoon at 5 o’clock. At this meeting, details will be fixed including the exact date upon which Grau will retire from the Presidency. Tonight a full meeting will again be held to determine upon the names of the individuals to be selected for the new concentration government as well as the members to compose the Council of State. Batista is in full accord with the agreement and has given assurance that he will support the new national government.
Should the conferences this afternoon and tonight be successful it is highly probable that the agreement will be completed in final form tomorrow and be made public shortly afterwards. While the public has knowledge of the fact that the negotiations are proceeding favorably the nature of the agreement has as yet been kept confidential.