835.00/1–1846: Telegram

The Chargé in Argentina ( Cabot ) to the Secretary of State

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194. General reaction so far to release of 13 German telegrams seems unbelievably favorable. Only criticism so far heard in Democratic circles is that it is not enough. General opinion is that it has seriously compromised Perón by pointing out links of present Peronista newspapers with former German propaganda organs (I was, of course, careful in my press conference to avoid all mention of Perón and of internal politics except for my references to German interference in latter). In Democratic circles there is great expectancy of and anxiety for further releases. By sheer coincidence release was perfectly timed. Press coverage excellent in afternoon papers also. Everybody seems to be talking about it in all social classes.

Sauri17 is reportedly furious at my exposure of his demanding 600 tons of newsprint for Peronista journals. Gossip has it that Cooke18 is rewriting tonight’s speech; that Govt is seriously concerned, even though it does not consider itself directly involved; that Cardinal is angry but Catholic circles pleased. Epoca in long weak article tonight does not question accuracy even to my statements regarding its staff.

Democracia is [in] headline covering entire front page accuses me of shielding Nazi newspapers, mentioning La Razon and Clarin, and of being angry because no longer able to control newsprint.

[Page 188]

Representatives of Audi, Gaceta of Tucuman and Capital of Rosario have called on me in injured innocence. To latter I have pointed out last lines of my quoted remarks in La Prensa.

I believe that one reason for success of my press conference was that the whole attack appeared directed at Nazi influences rather than Argentine Govt or Perón and that it would be well to ‘bear this in mind in planning future releases.

Cabot
  1. Col. Joaquin I. Sauri, Minister of Industry and Commerce.
  2. Juan Cooke, Argentine Minister for Foreign Affairs.