852.2221/823: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Consul at Seville (Bay)

19. Your despatches Nos. 220 and 223 of April 2 and April 16, 1938,44 regarding American citizens captured by Franco forces while serving with Spanish Government forces. Our position in this regard was set forth in Department’s telegram of November 6, noon.45 In view of the various rumors and reports regarding treatment of prisoners it would be helpful if you could obtain definite statement in this regard from appropriate authorities of General Franco during your trip to Burgos, authorized in Department’s telegram No. 18 of this date,46 supplementing assurances already given by General Queipo de Llano.

Referring to Department’s telegram No. 11 of March 26, 4 p.m. and subsequent inquiries regarding American citizens reported captured by forces of General Franco, it is observed that no information has as yet been furnished by General Queipo in reply to your inquiries and that information contained in your despatch No. 223 was obtained from the British Agent in Burgos. It is suggested, therefore, that inquiry be made of the appropriate authorities at Burgos with a view to obtaining any available information regarding these men. Press item of April 22 from Burgos reported announcement of capture of twelve Americans.

Report result of your action by telegraph and submit full report on this subject by mail.

Hull