701.6266A/7–2444: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant)
5917. Kirk at Rome reports that no oral assurances of safe conduct Mere given (ReEmbtel 5838 July 24, 5 p.m.95) except those implicit in statement that these officials would be repatriated. Monsignor McGeough, American member of Vatican Secretariat of State, accompanied Axis officials to Taormina where they are now held. (ReEmbtel 5767 July 21, 5 p.m.95)
Department perceives no objection to British plan to endeavor to exchange these Axis officials for British official group still in Germany but reserves decision until informed more in detail of British plan of action so that our reply (ReDeptel 5694 July 20, 11 p.m.95) to German Government may be coordinated.