852.2221/1508: Telegram

The Ambassador in Spain (Bowers), Then in France, to the Secretary of State

589. My telegram No. 586, February 28, 1 p.m. Del Vayo telegraphs from Madrid:

“The Spanish Government is pleased to give Your Excellency the fullest assurances and facilities for the realization of the exchange referred to in your telegram of today. We shall have the prisoners at the disposition of an American ship which should come to get them at Alicante, requesting that you advise us beforehand of its arrival.”

Since exchange proposition comes from De Rialp no doubt on suggestion of Italian Embassy assurances regarding ship can be secured from Burgos. Would like to see these Americans out and hope boat can be sent from Villefranche. International Red Cross notified and asks to be informed when boat will arrive.

Bowers