865.30/73: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Spain (Hayes)
135. 1. Department has not yet received views of Joint Chiefs of Staff concerning recommendation made in your no. 17 of January 4. We are pressing for urgent reply.15
2. Department considers it desirable and appropriate, even in the absence of the views of the military, to refuse the loading on February 11 and 12 of the Campos, Campero and Gerona (your 61, 102 and 135 of January 10, 13, and 16, respectively16). We do not feel that any explanation should be given to the Spaniards for this action at this time. Please have Smith advise the Spaniards that these particular loadings cannot be approved. If Smith or anyone in the Embassy is asked for reasons, they can simply say that they have received no further instructions. If Jordana asks your assistance, you should take the line suggested in your no. 17 of January 4.
3. With respect to the Campilo loading, nominated in your 76 of January 11,17 no formal approval can as yet be given. We are awaiting approval by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the Swiss request for laying down additional bunkers at Lisbon, which we hope to obtain momentarily.