Messersmith, G.S., Buenos Aires. To William B. Pawley, Rio de Janeiro., 1946 August 06

Was ill with stomach ailment most of July, but much improved now; was able even while confined to keep in touch with major aspects of mission; is convinced President and Cabinet have made major decisions: (1) Acts of Mexico City and San Francisco must be ratified by Congress, (2) matter of enemy property and enemy aliens must be settled so as to achieve adequate compliance with inter-American commitments; Argentina has already complied adequately in matter of enemy institutions; if planned action with respect to ratification and energy property and enemy aliens is carried through successfully, sees no obstacle to resuming normal relations with Argentina and going ahead with plans for Rio meeting to discuss defense pact; believes pact essential for hemisphere defense; hopes meeting can be held by Nov. 15, but better to wait a few months until Argentina has fulfilled her commitments than to hold meeting without Argentina.