837.00/4498: Telegram
The Ambassador in Cuba (Welles) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received December 12—12:53 a.m.]
512. The sub-commission of the opposition parties appointed at last night’s meeting in Grau’s presence and with his full approval, [Page 540] and composed of Doctors Torriente, Mendez Peñate and Dorta Duque called at the Palace at 5 o’clock as arranged. It was immediately apparent that Grau’s attitude had completely changed. He had been in constant conference with Carbo and Guiteras during the afternoon and it is the impression of the opposition leaders that the change is due to the threat of immediate revolt made by them should Grau agree to a national government. Grau refused listen to any appeal or arguments, decried the necessity of recognition by any foreign governments and declared that the only possible solutions were cooperation with his government by the political parties or else its overthrow through [force?].
The opposition leaders consequently in view of this complete reversal of attitude consider all present possibility of a peaceful solution terminated.