840.51 Frozen Credits/9345: Telegram
The Ambassador in Chile (Bowers) to the Secretary of State
[Received 8:50 p.m.]
240. Your telegram 122, February 3, 9 p.m. Days ago we heard that large sums had been withdrawn by Germans and Japanese, and I instantly discussed the matter with the Foreign Minister, and so reported. Subsequent investigation by Economic Division here reveals that the story was a gross exaggeration. Apparently very little if any has been withdrawn since the rupture. Meanwhile on three separate occasions I have pointed out to the Minister the vital need for immediate action by the secret committee working out the plans and he, in complete accord, has urged this strongly. All this reported to Washington.… I have repeatedly done what I am instructed to [Page 892] do “unless I perceive good reason to the contrary”, and shall continue on every occasion to do, and have made it clear that the views expressed by me are the views of my Government.