462.00 R 29/246a: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France (Wallace)

[Paraphrase]

1124. For Boyden from Davis.

Ascertain status of Uruguayan claims filed with the Reparation Commission arising from ex-German ships which Uruguay seized, held and employed during the war and since. As we have advised, [Page 536] latter’s representative here urgently desirous that position of Uruguay should receive some support or countenance from American Government. It is difficult to refuse this request in view of Uruguay’s employment of the vessels during war period in friendly cooperation with Allied aims, including particularly plans of United States and Great Britain. However, United States could hardly with propriety openly support claim and it seems that utmost we can do is to exhibit some interest as to situation of claims and rely upon this exhibition of interest to exert an influence which will be not unhelpful.

Colby