701.6711/103½
The Secretary of State to the Counselor for the Department of State (Lansing)
My Dear Mr. Lansing: The President has not indicated his wishes in the matter of the Turkish Ambassador’s interview. I have suggested to him over the phone that in ordinary times it would seem a reason for immediate recall, but at this time it was wise to make some allowances rather than run the risk of making the situation more acute over there.
We cannot well overlook the matter, and it occurs to me that it might be well to write him a letter saying that we regret exceedingly to note from the tone of his letter that he feels justified in violating the well-established rules universally observed among diplomats—and that he has unfortunately allowed himself to be irritated by a very inconsiderable portion of the press of the United States—for it is impossible that he should have been able to read many of the large number of papers published in this country. That this Government is recognizing the tension caused by the acute situation in Europe and is not disposed to deal as strictly with his breach of etiquette as would seem proper in ordinary times and that if he feels that he can render his country service by remaining here he will express in due form his regret at his public utterances, and give assurance of his intention to conform to those requirements which are necessary if diplomatic intercourse is to be conducted in that friendly spirit which the amicable relations of the countries make proper.
I simply suggest the above for the consideration of yourself and the President, in case the latter thinks that something ought to be said at this time.
Yours very truly,