852.00/3021: Telegram
The Third Secretary of Embassy in Spain (Wendelin) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 6—10:34 p.m.]
X–128. Rumors of possible use of gas by rebels in air raids on Madrid have led the Government to publish detailed instructions in tonight’s press regarding measures to be adopted by civilian population in such an eventuality. First aid measures in case of tear and arsenic gas attacks are described. The official proclamation states that these precautionary measures are taken in case “the rebels should attempt to frighten the population of Madrid by the use of gas” and concludes “it is certain that the people of Madrid would respond, if the cruelty of the enemy should give occasion for it, with the serenity and high morale with which it has replied to all attacks.”
British Chargé d’Affaires told me this afternoon that he had received a communication from his Government to the effect that European Chancelleries were seriously concerned over possible use of gas by rebels. We have no information whatsoever indicating that gas is being used by either side thus far.