811B.01/500: Telegram
The Ambassador in Spain (Hayes) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 6—9:23 a.m.]
3250. My 3249, November 5, 7 p.m. I am satisfied that the Spanish Government is thoroughly frightened at our reaction to the Laurel telegram, and that it is within our ability not only to turn this incident against the Axis but to obtain new and important concessions from Spain while it is in its present chastened mood. I believe also, however, that if we should carry the matter too far and use it in a way that will further embarrass Jordana personally, he will resign as he threatens.
Meanwhile, I know of no one else in Spain who would be as constructively friendly as Jordana. The Laurel incident is the only act of his to which we might take strong exception. On the other hand, the positive gains he has brought about in Spain’s relations with us, some of which he listed in our conversation today, are authentic and have been achieved in the face of great difficulties. I am convinced of his sincere desire to continue to bring Spain closer to United States.
By assuming personal responsibility for the incident, Jordana may be shielding subordinate. I have, to my own satisfaction, reduced authorship of the telegram to either Jordana himself or to the Political Director referred to in my 3116, October 26, 4 p.m. I have learned that other departments of the Foreign Ministers [Ministry?], which ordinarily would have been consulted in such a matter, were not consulted.
In preparing any statement for publication, I should be careful not to embarrass Jordana personally. I believe it is in our interest that he remain in office, and I am confident that if he survives this crisis, we can move rapidly toward obtaining additional valuable concessions from Spain along both economic and political lines.
If the Department has any request to make of Jordana in connection with the incident, please let me know promptly.