340.1115A/692: Telegram
The Consul at Malta (Henry) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:55 p.m.]
11. Department’s telegram No. 3, May 24, 7 p.m.65 Am publishing notice advising American citizens to leave Malta but expect little result as probably less than 10 are in a position to leave unless the Department finances them and there is much apprehension of travel at this time. American citizens here probably number less than a hundred with few exceptions of Maltese birth or extraction and have close ties here. So far four are known to be considering return to the United States.
Via Italy appears to be the only practicable route from Malta to the United States at the present time and should Italy enter war departure would probably be impossible for some time. My family intend to remain. I assume American passports may be validated for any vessel leaving Malta for a non-European port.
Local government prepared and tense. Special services to be held in all churches tomorrow.