837.24/858

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Cuba ( Braden )

No. 209

Sir: On April 13 the Cuban Ambassador in Washington addressed a note to the Department in which, among other subjects, he conveyed his Government’s acceptance of an offer made previously by the War Department to supply the Cuban Government with coast defense artillery.

This matter has received the attentive consideration of the authorities of the War Department who have now informed this Department that there are available for transfer to the Cuban Government, under the provisions of the Lend-Lease Act, eight 8ʺ guns and carriages together with the necessary fire-control equipment. This artillery and equipment can be delivered to the Cuban authorities at an American port at the following prices and within three to four months after the receipt of an official request from the Cuban Government:

8 guns at $17,000 $136,000
4 Fire-control units at $6,000 24,000
Estimated disassembling and cost of transporting to Port of 8 guns & carriages and 4 sets of fire-control equipment. (Guns & Carriages—$28,000, & Fire-control Equipment—$3,000) 31,000
Total $191,000

No munitions are included. The War Department states, however, that a reasonable amount could be supplied under conditions similar to those governing the delivery of the guns.

You are authorized in your discretion to convey this information to the Cuban authorities for their consideration.

Very truly yours,

For the Secretary of State:
Sumner Welles