852.2221/1249: Telegram
The Ambassador in Spain (Bowers), Then in France, to the Secretary of State
[Received November 3—11:03 a.m.]
551. Your B–464, November 1. There has never been a release of prisoners except through an exchange since war began and am positive impossible now. Pressure by Italians on Franco for exchange of Italian prisoners makes acceptance improbable. However, I shall, if under these circumstances so directed, act on your B–464.
I respectfully suggest what I think a more promising plan. Since Del Vayo in a personal letter to me said that he would do anything to aid in getting the Americans out and home I suggest I ask him personally, not officially, to submit to me as acting intermediary selected by both sides a proposal for exchange of the Americans for an equal number of Italians. If this follows the submission of plan proposed in your B–464 after its rejection our part in the proposal for exchange coming from Government would be suspected. If I arrange for Government to submit the proposal suggest that this be tried on Rialp first.
The recent “release” of some British prisoners was arranged only through exchange for Italians.
If authorized I can thus arrange for the proposal to “come from one side or the other” and assure you this plan is infinitely more promising than the other. Will take no action until I get your reactions and instructions.
2. If Bay learns anything about Haber and Blair please inform me as I have inquiries.