124.52/201: Telegram
The Ambassador in Spain (Bowers), Then in France, to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:05 a.m.]
385. Department’s telegram No. 402, October 20, 2 p.m., to Valencia, and Thurston’s No. 802, October 21, 6 p.m. If Government moves to Barcelona we should follow the Government as is customary. If we wish to maintain our attitude of neutrality we cannot afford to permit our policy to be influenced by the British who most emphatically are and have long been hostile to the Government.
Closing of Consulate in Valencia in case of removal of Embassy would be unfortunate since it would (1) be liable to misinterpretation, (2) its presence in Valencia important in maintaining contact with Madrid which is essential, and (3) if British alone do not move our Consul could maintain contact with British Embassy.
Repeated to Valencia.