868.51/1620: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister in Greece (MacVeagh)
308. Your 355, December 9, 3 p.m. Please inform the Prime Minister that his appeal for financial assistance has been laid before the President, who has given it his most sympathetic consideration. The President now asks that you inform General Metaxas that in view of the clear intent of Congress, as expressed in existing legislation, it is impracticable to act favorably on the Prime Minister’s appeal at this time.
However, financial assistance to Greece is being extended in substantial amounts through the American Red Cross and other organizations and this aid will doubtless continue and increase. Moreover, the Prime Minister may be assured that special consideration will continue to be given to facilitating the acquirement by Greece of military supplies in this country.