Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.2011-06-152011-06-151942-06-031508-00http://udspace.udel.edu/handle/19716/7471Received Welles' telegram with instructions to request permission from Mexican Government for U.S. to use existing airfields in Yucatan to protect merchant shipping in Yucatan Channel; called on Foreign Minister [Ezequiel] Padilla immediately and presented request; after conferring with President he gave Mexican answer, which was forwarded to Welles by telegram; answer may be disappointing, but Mexicans have good arguments; they desire so far as possible to defend their own territory; it is essential for morale of Mexican people; they agreed, however to grant use of the airfields for one month; Chief of Staff [Tomás] Sanchez [Hernandez] reported Mexico has about 300 trained aviators and an already agreed upon delivery of aircraft and military equipment, so that with only a little additional training, they should be able to carry on the operation themselves; hopes Welles will explain situation to Army and Navy people at top so that they can issue necessary instructions; both houses of Mexican Congress voted unanimously for declaration of war.Typed Letter Copy, 4 p.en-USMessersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.OtherMSS 109