852.00/3042: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul at Bilbao (Chapman)
Your September 5, 10:00 p.m. This Government desires in every feasible way to aid in humanitarian acts and undertakings. But of [Page 527] course in so doing it must scrupulously keep within the limits of its policy of noninterference in Spanish internal affairs.
Please advise me first whether Del Rio is undertaking a mission in accordance with a definite agreement between the authorized officials of the Spanish Government and the insurgents for the exchange of prisoners. If so will he carry with him credentials in the nature of a safe conduct which would be satisfactory to and recognized by both the Spanish Government and the insurgents.
In view of the supreme importance of strict adherence to our policy of noninterference there must be a definite understanding with the insurgent forces that this Government delegate is aboard the Kane for the purpose indicated and that the vessel will not be halted or interfered with in any way by the insurgent forces on this voyage.
Telegraph fully on above points in order that the Department may reach a prompt decision. Also give us your views in the light of the foregoing and those of Commander of the Kane.