852.48/1533: Telegram
The Ambassador in Spain (Hayes) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 14, 1943—1:42 p.m.]
1268. The following telegram has been sent to Algiers.
14. May 13, midnight. For Murphy. Your 834, May 9, 4 p.m. to Department. Full amount of $500,000 requested by French here and referred to in my 107, April 30, 7 p.m., is needed for refugee relief and it is desired by them that funds granted for support of loyal French institutions in Spain be in addition to this.
With regard to merits of request for funds for latter purpose I consider it important that North African representation be in position to carry on support of these institutions which occupy significant place in life of French community in Spain and which are important centers for education and dissemination of French culture. Otherwise it will be most difficult to keep them out of hands of Vichy Government who strongly desire to retain control.