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Memorandum by the Deputy Director of the Office of American Republic Affairs (Bonsal) to the Under Secretary of State (Stettinius)

Mr. Stettinius: The Cuban Ambassador has just informed me that he spoke to President Batista regarding the molasses-alcohol situation at about 1 p.m. today. The Ambassador apparently described the situation in extremely vigorous terms. In fact, it is understood that the President is going to call in the Prime Minister this afternoon in order to go over the situation with him.

I have arranged to discuss the matter this afternoon with Señor López Castro, who until his recent severe illness headed the Cuban delegation and who is returning to Cuba tomorrow. I believe that López Castro’s influence with the President will be very helpful.

Philip W. Bonsal