711.52/452: Telegram
The British Prime Minister (Churchill) to President Roosevelt 93
649. When considering what turned out to be an unauthorized proposal from the Duke of Alba, you have agreed that 51 tons of wolfram might go to Germany in monthly installments of 17 tons between now and the end of June.
The only difference outstanding between our two countries and the Spaniards is that we should like to accept Jordana’s final offer of 60 tons between now and the end of June in rising monthly installments of 15, 20, and 25 tons, the remaining 240 tons to be sent in monthly installments of 40 tons each between July and December.
The period between now and the end of June is the most important, and the difference between us is 9 tons on the 3 months. We ought not, for the sake of this trifle, to run the risk of the Spanish sending into Germany nearly a thousand tons of wolfram which is waiting at the frontier, as well as losing all the other points in which we are greatly interested. I trust that you will personally consider this point.
- This paraphrased copy of message was transmitted by the White House to Secretary Hull on April 18 for preparation of a reply.↩