852.115/31: Telegram
The Third Secretary of Embassy in Spain (Wendelin) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:30 p.m.]
X–66. My telegram No. X–33 of August 5, 8 p.m. I saw Minister of State, Minister of Police and asked when we might expect reply to the Embassy note regarding protection of American property and full payment for such property requisitioned for war purposes or otherwise. Señor Barcia said Ministry of State awaiting reply from Minister of Industry and Commerce on remarks attributed to him and that moreover his Ministry is swamped with similar urgent communications. He promised formal reply soon and stated that of course the Spanish Government would pay for property requisitioned by it or by agencies under it. He added, however, that where property may have been seized or stolen by irresponsible persons proper legal steps would be taken to apprehend property.
Referring to my telegram No. X–51 of August 12, 9 p.m., no further claims for requisitioned American property have been presented. Thus far property and residences of American[s] protected by Embassy certificates have been respected.