800.85/830: Telegram
The Ambassador in Colombia ( Lane ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:29 p.m.]
459. Department’s telegram number 114 of January 28, 2 p.m., and my telegram 321 of February 19, 4 p.m.,81 regarding former Italian tankers. The Minister of Finance82 and the Coffee Federation83 continue to inquire regarding the status of this matter.
The bill of sale enclosed with my despatch number 1330 of December 30, 194284 incorporated the changes desired by the War Shipping Administration as stated in the Department’s telegram 1156 of November 2, 6 [4] p.m.84 Since we have had possession of the vessels for over 7 months and since the Colombian Government and the Federation have cooperated to the fullest possible extent, progressing failure to settle this case is becoming increasingly embarrassing. In view of the circumstances surrounding this transaction, and especially in view of this definite contribution of Colombia, a non-belligerent, to our war effort, I am strongly of the opinion that we are in no position to take a legalistic stand. I therefore request telegraphic authority to sign the bill of sale enclosed with my above-cited despatch.