Office of the Historian

871.001 Carol II/9–1947: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Portugal 1

secret
Washington, October 9, 1947—6 p. m.

755. In conversation with Asst Sec Armour and Ambassador Pawley in Rio, Aug 24, 1947, ex-King Carol stated urgent desire depart Brazil because (1) climate seriously detrimental wife’s2 health and own (2) cost of living there too great for his remaining resources.

Carol expressed preference proceed Portugal. Characterized as malicious slander suggestion that he would permit self to be used by Sovs as tool against son Michael. Said he had reluctantly left Michael in Rumania because both felt it latter’s duty to “keep flag flying” and he believed subsequent events had justified this decision since Michael is virtually only remaining obstacle to complete Sov domination of country. Carol categorically denied any dealings with Sovs. Stated assurance that if permitted proceed Portugal he planned live quietly somewhere in the country and had no intention entering into politics in any way.

While Carol obviously entitled expect no special consideration etc from Am Reps (urtel 753, Sept 193) impossible disregard his political potentialities and consequently info his movements and intentions sufficient import warrant Embassy attention.

Lovett
  1. This telegram was repeated to Bucharest as 611, to London as 4355, and to Rio de Janeiro as 1157.↩
  2. Ex-King Carol married Magda Lupescu in July 1947.↩
  3. Not printed.↩