890F.515/5: Telegram
The Chargé in Saudi Arabia ( Shullaw ) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 17—12:53 p.m.]
16. My 12, February 10, 11 p.m. On February 13 a British warship brought 100,000 sovereigns to Jidda for the Saudi Government. This amount is equivalent to roughly 5 million rials and is expected to tide Government over difficult period. Wikeley believes further gold shipment must be requested in about 2 months.
[Page 859]Supply situation with India no longer able to export forces Saudi Government to turn to Middle East Supply Corporation. Crops in the interior will be harvested in 3 months and should help meet needs since rains have given hopes for good yield.
Repeated to Cairo.