852.2221/1307: Telegram
The Ambassador in Spain (Bowers), Then in France, to the Secretary of State
[Received November 24—10:10 a.m.]
559. Your number B–471, November 19, 3 p.m. International Red Cross representative importuned by Italians for exchange of their prisoners, volunteers [suggestion?] that they approach De Rialp with suggestion of exchange for Americans. Meanwhile other nations certain to seek exchange of their nationals for Italians and unless we show equal interest we may find ourselves without any one to exchange. I would not urge this on you but for the positive conviction that it would be a serious mistake for us not to act. There is no possibility of securing any release except on basis of exchange.