611.41D31/38
The Secretary of State to the Irish Minister (MacWhite)
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your not$ of November 21, 1935, in which you indicate that the Government of the Irish Free State is anxious to enter into negotiations looking to the conclusion of a trade agreement between the two Governments.
In reply, I can assure you that this Government is desirous of concluding such an agreement which will prove of mutual benefit to both Governments. At the present time, however, the program which this Government is carrying in its negotiation of trade agreements with other countries is such a heavy one that the present does not seem to be the most auspicious time to secure fruitful results from any discussions which might be entered into.
I shall not fail to keep in mind the express desire of your Government in this connection and shall keep the matter under consideration with the thought that the successful conclusion of an agreement would lead to the further increase of the already close and cordial relations which exist between the Government of the Irish Free State and this Government.
Accept [etc.]