119.2/3005a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in the United Kingdom (Atherton)
242. In order to assure the continuance of telegraphic communications with Ethiopia this Government contemplates installing a radio sending and receiving set at the Legation at Addis Ababa. In order to relay messages to Washington it would be necessary to station an American war vessel in nearby waters. Please ascertain whether the British authorities would have any objection to the presence at Aden of an American cruiser which is the smallest vessel having radio equipment capable of communication with Washington. If you consider it desirable you may add that this vessel might also be used in case of emergency to assist in the evacuation of American nationals from Ethiopia.