340.1115A/85b: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister in Switzerland (Harrison)
90. Repeat to all offices. Refer to paragraphs 20, 21 and 22 of Department’s strictly confidential instruction of March 21, 1939, and to circular telegrams to Bern Nos. 52, of August 26; 55, of August 30; 75, of September 12; and 78, of September 15.
Every precaution must be exercised that loans against promissory notes be made only to destitute persons whose American citizenship has been established. The basic instruction of March 21, 1939 and subsequent interpretative instructions should be consulted carefully and the policy laid down therein scrupulously followed. Officers in the field should endeavor to establish in advance the citizenship of destitute persons requesting loans. Documentary proof should be required and when telegraphing the Department for authorization to make loans for repatriation give full data required by circular telegram 78 of September 15 to Bern and in addition thereto indicate what documentary proof of citizenship has been submitted to you, such as passport, giving the date, number and place issuance thereof, registration record, naming office where registered and when, or other proof. If no documentary proof available give references in United States who may have such proof and date and place of birth as well as length of foreign residence.