Messersmith, G.S., Havana. To Alexander W. Weddell, Madrid.
Date
1941-03-18
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Acknowledges letter of Feb. 20 with its enclosures; cannot verify authenticity of letters enclosed, but from their nature and the addressees would suppose they were written by [Orestes] Ferrara; Ferrara never friendly to U.S. in spite of generous treatment there; brilliant and resourceful, he is frequently imprudent; Italian by birth, his present sympathies are with Italy and Spain, rather than with his adopted country, Cuba; no longer an influence in Cuban politics, he was only a nuisance in Cuba; he was given job in Spain to get him out of country; doubts he will represent Cuba in any capacity for long; character of his activities in Spain are known in proper quarters in Cuba; recent note from Spanish Government to Cuban Government demanding "explanations"; Cuban reply will simply recite facts and show that statements in Spanish note are without foundation; it will make no direct reference to Falange activities in Cuba; Cuba considers decree prohibiting Falange political and propaganda activities an internal affair and will not discuss it with Spain; if Spain continues to pursue matter, it can lead to break in relations; impetus for Spanish move comes from German Government; timed to coincide with reception of Spanish note, German Chargé in Cuba called on Minister of State with long list of representations alleging discrimination and made threats as to what would happen if German interests were not given better treatment; Cuban Chargé in Madrid [Florencio ?] Guerra, may be transferred; a capable young man, he is too impetuous for post in Madrid; Cuba asked Spanish Government to recall Spanish Consul General, [Genaro] Riestra, and in turn Spanish Government has declared some Cuban Vice Consul in Spain persona non grata and asked for his recall; confidential information in this letter from official sources and is given for Weddell's personal background only; any knowledge of its being passed on might disturb channels of communication.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.