Italy. In personal conversation with Loraine [1] Ciano [2] left no
doubt of imminent war. Loraine adds that his guess is within a
week. My telegram No. 376 [3]: grounds of detention of Italian
ships will be exercise of contraband control. If ships convoyed
detention will be carried out by force if any interference
attempted.

Reports from Spain indicate growing hostility against England and
Hoare [4] telegraphed his opinion that Spain will follow Italy if
the latter enters the war, owing to Franco's [5] belief in
Mussolini's judgment. Nevertheless strong volume of opinion in
Spain will remain neutral.

BRUCE