352.1115/4799: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Counselor of Embassy in Spain (Thurston)
433. Your 913, March 22, 7 p.m. Please inform Department of new location, which it is assumed will not be far from Barcelona.35 American citizens in Barcelona should then be notified that Embassy and Consulate General offices are established there.
With reference to suggested evacuation of American nationals by naval vessel, it is not believed that this would be desirable at the present time in view of your statement that only a few would be likely to avail themselves of such an opportunity to leave. If at any time, however, you feel that an emergency situation is developing you should so report and arrangements will be made immediately with Navy Department to send naval vessel or vessels to Barcelona or whatever other point you may suggest. Department is informed vessels at Villefranche can reach Barcelona in an emergency in about 12 hours.