Office of the Historian

833.34/5–1346

The Ambassador in Uruguay (Dawson) to the Secretary of State

secret
Montevideo, May 13, 1946—noon.
[Received 12:05 p.m.]

287. Embtel 284, May 10.7 In informal conversation yesterday President8 mentioned purchase of Canadian frigate saying he hoped our Government perceived no objection. He even intimated that if we objected, matter would be reconsidered. However, he made it clear he considers purchase very advantageous and would be keenly disappointed if deal fell through.

While President did not ask me to consult Department, I should appreciate its views in case he reverts to matter.

Naval Attaché9 reports Uruguayan Navy strongly desires prompt purchase Canadian vessel in question and turned to Canada only after applying unsuccessfully to US.10

Dawson
  1. Not printed.↩
  2. Juan José Amezaga.↩
  3. Capt. Forrest Tucker.↩
  4. In telegram 192, May 17, 1946, to Montevideo, the Department indicated acquiescence in this purchase (833.34/5–1346).↩