852.00/3890: Telegram
The Third Secretary of Embassy in Spain (Wendelin) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received 7 a.m.]
X–354. German and Italian Embassies were taken over yesterday by authorities. At [Italian Embassy?] there were no difficulty and [Page 778] doorman and two nuns found there were permitted to go to another foreign mission for refuge. At German Embassy, however, authorities arrested number of Spanish refugees, and considerable number of others were taken to other diplomatic missions for refuge in diplomatic cars just before authorities occupied premises. This action by diplomatic missions involved was concerted 2 days ago at meeting I was unable to attend because of telephone conversation with Department. British Chargé d’Affaires informed me that he declined to participate in agreement to rescue Spanish refugees in German Embassy and give them asylum in various missions.
Madrid press is full of hostile commentaries regarding this incident alleging that German and Italian Embassies were centers for rebel espionage activities and that former, besides giving asylum to numerous Spanish refugees, enemies of the regime, contained considerable quantities of arms and ammunition.
Because of public hostility aroused against German Embassy I am concerned lest similar attitude be shown toward us after departure of Embassy site becomes known. Departure of telephone company officials and technicians may in particular arouse public resentment. I mentioned this possibility to Minister of State in telephone conversation this evening and he insisted that there was no justification for apprehension. Nevertheless, I think it wise to suggest to him and to Military Governor of Madrid that publicity be given to the fact that American nationals are being evacuated from all sides because of concern for their personal safety, that Embassy staff will remain in Valencia and that political considerations have not in any way influenced this decision of the American Government.
On orders from the Minister of State, Military Governor has just given me written assurance that Embassy and Consulate guards will not be removed or replaced. Despite this assurance from highest authorities, however, the guards are greatly perturbed because of departure of staff fearing that they will be relieved and that their personal safety is endangered. Military Attaché considers it necessary that some American with authority remain in charge of guards to maintain their morale. In view of all above considerations I am considering leaving Colonel Aurelio Ramos, temporarily attached to Embassy staff and an officer of proven loyalty and courage, in charge of Embassy guard. I am most reluctant to do this unless circumstances appear to make it absolutely necessary and shall not take a final decision until latest information today.
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