852.115/73: Telegram
The Consul General at Barcelona (Perkins) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 6, 1936—2 p.m.]
Following essential part decree August 27th published in Catalan language only in official bulletin of Generalidad of Cataluna September 4th:
All holding of gold coins and ingots absolutely prohibited in Cataluna. All persons holding gold in these forms shall deliver it to Treasury of Generalidad or to their banks for transmittal to Treasury, against official receipts which shall state equivalent in paper pesetas at rate of 277.25 for 100 gold pesetas. Banks holding gold of their own shall likewise deposit it with Treasury. Safe deposit boxes shall be opened in presence of appropriate authorities to determine whether they contain any gold.
After telephone conversation Madrid Embassy contemplate sending protest in event seizure gold belonging American citizens, reserving rights of our Government to make claims since it is American property and should not be requisitioned. Please instruct direct as well as through Madrid Embassy.