340.1115A/612: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy (Phillips) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 16—10:24 a.m.]
360. Department’s telegram No. 117, May 15, 3 a.m. Our Consuls apparently find it exceedingly difficult to formulate estimates desired. Based on incomplete returns from all Consulates except Naples estimate in first category is 500 and in second category 1000. Should free transportation be furnished the latter number would of course be greatly increased by indigent naturalized citizens.
The question of students especially in the Rome district is complicated due to their unwillingness in many cases to interrupt their courses.
[Page 93]I am today requesting all Consulates to send out notices stating that they have been directed by the Embassy to call the attention of American citizens to the advisability of returning to the United States at the earliest possible moment. This follows circular instructions which I sent May 14.