352.1115/2358: Telegram
The Third Secretary of Embassy in Spain (Wendelin) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received November 24—3:45 p.m.]
X–346. Present indications are that about 30 people will decide to leave with staff. All Americans in the Embassy have been requested to make known their decision by 5 p.m. today. We are still endeavoring, however, to get in touch with all of remaining American nationals outside of the Embassy. I have been trying to get in touch with Minister of State at Valencia all day and hope to do so this afternoon. I shall inform him of Department’s decision and reasons therefor in accordance with instructions your telegram No. 201, November 23, 11 a.m.5 At the same time I shall request him to communicate same to General Miaja, President of Madrid Defense Council, whom I shall also inform personally if permitted. I am requesting written assurances from authorities that Embassy and Consulate guards will not be removed or replaced. In order to prevent delay I shall request Minister of State to send automobiles at once sufficient to transport maximum estimated number of persons likely to leave, at the same time requesting that truck be sent to transport heavy baggage. Consulate at Valencia is being kept currently informed and will maintain communication with Spanish authorities there.