Messersmith, G.S., Mexico City. To Sumner Welles, Washington., 1942 September 17

Gen. [Stanley D.] Embick and Adm. [Alfred W.] Johnson arrived last Sunday together with Mexican members of Joint Mexican - U.S. Defense Commission; had long talk with them Monday A.M.; gave supper party in Embassy for 300 guests, including high ranking Mexican Army and Navy officials, members of the Commission and members of Mexican Cabinet; Gen. Lazaro Cárdenas sent his regrets; no significance should be attached to his absence as he rarely attends social affairs; giving small dinner party on Friday evening to which he has promised to come, along with President Avila Camacho, Gen. Salvador Sanchez, Chief of Presidential Staff, Ezequiel Padilla, and ranking officers of Mexican Army having to do with the Commission; will give these men opportunity for talking to Gen. Embick and Adm. Johnson; splendid parade yesterday, showing to advantage use made of motorized equipment and planes provided by U.S.; marchers showed wonderful spirit and discipline.