352.1115/2844: Telegram
The Third Secretary of Embassy in Spain ( Wendelin ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 12:55 p.m.]
X–458. Department’s telegram No. 240, January 10, 6 p.m. Americans in Embassy have been reminded again that they are remaining in Madrid contrary to the advice of their Government and upon own responsibility and again urged to leave as means of transportation would be furnished by authorities if necessary. Following only have declared desire to be evacuated:
[Here follows detailed information concerning two women and two children to be evacuated.]
If it should become necessary to close the Embassy Spanish authorities would provide facilities to transport our Spanish employees and families to Valencia if such facilities then available. At present lack of gasoline is greatly restricting road transportation. Finding quarters for employees at Valencia would be extremely difficult as city is very overcrowded. If such action should become imperative question of their maintenance must also be considered.
Situation at Madrid has been quiet for past week with no further bombing of neutral zone or other serious developments. While scarce, food is still obtainable and people in the Embassy are not in any immediate danger of acute shortage.